How to worship when you are wounded
source:RWMT
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Job's story is in the Bible for one question. Will I worship God if
everything goes wrong in my life?
Everybody goes through wounding experiences in life – even
those of us in ministry. Whether these wounds are physical,
spiritual, emotional, or relational, they're either in your life now
or they're coming. So what do we do when we're wounded?
Worship. It's the only antidote to our pain.
Job is a great example of this. He lost everything – his wealth,
family, friends, and health – in a 24-hour period. In one day, Job
goes from a hero to a zero. Throughout the book of Job we see a
man who is deeply wounded: physically, emotionally, and
relationally. Yet the book also tells the story of how Job
worshiped God instead of becoming bitter.
How do you do that? How do you connect with God during a crisis
in your life? Many of you had a crisis this week. Others have been
carrying around wounds your entire life and haven't been able to
get rid of them. To worship in the midst of this pain, you need to:
1. Grieve. Tell God exactly how you feel. You need to unload all
of your feelings. When you share your feelings with God, when
you trust him with your pain, you're worshiping – even when
those feelings are negative.
Job expressed his pain to God. Job 1:20 (CEV) says: "Job stood
up, he tore his robe in grief, shaved his head, and he fell to the
ground and worshiped." In the ancient Middle East, that's what
people did when they wanted to express frustration, anger, or
deep grief – they tore their clothes.
God did not make our bodies to handle negative emotions. God
never designed them that way. When we swallow our emotions,
our stomach keeps score.
So the first thing you do when you experience pain in life is
confess it. Tell God you don't like what happened – it stinks! Don't
worry. God can handle it.
2. Praise God. After you grieve, praise God in spite of your
circumstances. Don't thank God for your problems, but thank him
in the midst of your problems.
Job's story is in the Bible for one question. Will I worship God if
everything goes wrong in my life? Would you? It's easy to
worship God when everything's going your way. It's easy to be a
fair weather believer.
But what happens when everything goes badly in your life?
Would you still trust God? That's the ultimate test of faith. You're
going to be tested. That's guaranteed. At some point in your life,
everything is going to fall apart.
Yet there's a lot you can praise God for even when life is bleak. I
used to think life was mountains and valleys – highs and lows. But
the longer I live, the more I realize that's not reality. There's
never a time in your life when everything is perfect. And there's
never a time in your life when everything is bad. Actually, life is
more like two rails on a railroad track. One of them is the good
things in your life and the other one of them is the bad. You get
both all the time.
Job chose to thank God in spite of his pain – and so can you.
3. Ask God for wisdom and strength. When we're wounded, more
than anything else we need wisdom and strength – to know what
to do and to get the power to do it. Throughout his story, Job
depended on God for wisdom and strength.
You don't think straight when you are wounded. You start thinking
goofy thoughts, such as retaliating and getting revenge. You need
wisdom. The Bible says this: "True wisdom and real power
belong to God. From him we learn how to live and also what to
live for." (Job 12:13 MSG)
You also need strength – the power to do the right thing. Psalm
37:39 says, "The Lord saves good people and he is their strength
in times of trouble." (NCV)
I don't know what kind of problem you're going through right
now, but I do know that God is waiting to strengthen you. When
you become a follower of Jesus Christ, you have the exact same
problems before you became a follower of Jesus. You're not
exempt! But now you have God's wisdom and strength available
to you – so ask him for it!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you haven't learned how to share your pain, you'll never get
well. You'll hurt the rest of
your life.
Rick Warren
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Gather with others for support. God doesn't want you to
worship by yourself. You were never meant to handle all your
pain – and all of your wounds – alone. If you haven't learned how
to share your pain, you'll never get well. You'll hurt the rest of
your life.
Here's the problem: When we're wounded, it is human nature to
withdraw. When we get hurt, we put up barriers. We put up
boundaries. We put up walls. We pull back into a shell. We lock
ourselves into self-imposed prisons. That's just stupid. You're
never going to get well until you learn to open up again.
That's why even pastors need to be in a small group – a group of
others in ministry and a group in your church. A recent survey
said that 25 percent of Americans say they have no close friends
to depend on. If you don't need a small group, you will. You're
going to need people who are committed to you that when
everything drops out of your life, they'll still be there.
5. Keep on going. Did you know that keeping on keeping on is
actually an act of worship? In Job 2, Job's wife suggested that he
"curse God and die." She suggests her husband end his pain on
the spot by killing himself. But Job refuses. Instead he says,
Though he [God] slay me yet will I trust him."
That is the ultimate statement of faith. When all looked doomed,
Job trusted God and kept going.
What gave Job that kind of depth? In Job 19:25, Job says, "I know
that my redeemer lives and that in the end he will stand upon the
earth." Job expected a coming savior, a redeemer.
Any pain you have is relatively short compared to eternity. One
day, if you've put your trust in God and in his redeemer, then
you'll live with him forever in eternity. And there will be no more
pain there, and no more suffering, and no more sorrow. So hang
on by not looking at the here and now but by remembering what
God has planned for you in eternity.
Those of us in ministry are not exempt from pain. Whether you're
experiencing pain because of unfair criticism, exhaustion, or
even a problem you caused yourself, or if there is pain from your
past that you've never dealt with, please don't ignore it. Don't let
it rob your ministry and block the worship you should be giving
God. Deal with it today. Grieve for the pain that's in your life.
Praise God in the midst of the pain. Ask God for wisdom and
strength. Gather with others for support. And keep on keeping on.
Remember, your redeemer lives!
source: RWMT
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
A Broken Spirit for God
A Broken Spirit for God
Chip Ingram
source: crosswalk
Moses saw the suffering of his people and felt compelled to intervene.
David heard the taunts of a giant and was stirred to action. Esther
was informed of a plot to exterminate her people and took a huge risk.
Nehemiah heard a report about the condition of Jerusalem and his
broken heart drove him to prayer and action.
Do you see a common theme? All of these examples of faith began with a
huge need that broke someone's heart and moved that person to action.
The Bible is full of examples of this dynamic. God's people, stirred
with compassion or overwhelmed with desperation, repeatedly come to
him with an enormous problem. They see that all is not right, and they
can't be content to do nothing. Though they all lived in a world where
people say ?it's not my problem,? they couldn't live with that
attitude. The heart God had put within them had to act.
That's what it takes to make a difference in this world. Even in the
Walk Thru the Bible network of instructors, I can think of person
after person whose broken spirit became a catalyst for a powerful move
of God.
One of my favorite examples is a church begun years ago in Cairo's
large community of garbage collectors. Our regional director for the
Middle East and his father were instrumental in its founding. For
years it met in an obscure cave. It still meets there, but the cave is
no longer obscure; the side of the mountain has been carved out and
the open-air seating accommodates about 5,000 people. That community
of garbage collectors has been radically transformed because some
Christians saw a need and made significant sacrifices to fulfill it.
Keys to a Broken Spirit
It's easy to become desensitized to others' needs, especially in the
society we live in. On one hand, our culture emphasizes comfort and
success and offers plenty of opportunities to insulate ourselves from
the hurts of this world. We easily become self-focused. On the other
hand, global media technology gives us a constant stream of images of
the destitute, whether they live in our inner city or in a country
twelve time zones away. We see so many needs that we become
desensitized to all of them.
There are three keys to developing a broken spirit, and we can see
them all in the prayer of a man whose heart grieved for his homeland.
Nehemiah heard how the captives who had returned to Jerusalem from
Babylon were living in a devastated, vulnerable city. His response to
what he heard fulfilled God's purposes and left us with a great
example of how God inspires His people to action.
A broken spirit begins with a restored view of God. Nehemiah had been
living in a foreign land among foreign gods, but he addressed his
prayer to the ?God of heaven, the great and awesome God? who keeps His
covenants. A broken spirit knows how high and holy God is and doesn't
try to make Him a self-help genie. Like Isaiah before him, who saw God
and was filled with awe, Nehemiah bowed low because he understood the
greatness of the One he served.
Not only does a broken spirit involve a high view of God, it involves
an accurate view of ourselves. In his grief, Nehemiah felt compelled
to confess the sins of the nation. Even though he was a godly man, he
repented on behalf of himself and his people as a whole.
When we get near to God, we realize we're not doing nearly as well as
we thought. We have mixed motives and self-centered plans, and most of
what we think and do is tainted with impurity. We're also reminded
that the world was here a long time before us and will continue to be
a long time after we're gone, and God's kingdom isn't hinging on our
ability to step in and save the day.
That goal of a broken spirit isn't to feel terrible about ourselves.
We're significant and valuable in God's eyes, and He invites us to be
an integral part of His plan. But while an accurate view of ourselves
shouldn't make us feel horrible, it should also keep us from thinking
too highly of our role. We're reminded that we need the grace God
gives us.
The third aspect of a broken spirit is a renewed commitment to fulfill
God's agenda rather than our own. Nehemiah appealed to God's
promises-the covenant He had made with Israel long ago in Deuteronomy.
His request is filled with references to God's plan, God's agenda,
God's power, and the reputation of God's name.
After Nehemiah had prayed with a broken spirit-for four months,
according to some clues later in the book-God used him as part of the
solution. That's almost always the way it works. Nearly every great
movement of God or project that has brought about relief of human need
and the fulfillment of God's will has begun with one man or woman who
cared deeply enough to hear God's voice and then stepped out to do
something. God works through broken spirits.
Broken Spirit, Powerful God
Do you want your life to have an impact? Do you want to be a person
God strongly supports? God must work in us before He works through us,
and one of the ways He works through us is to let our hearts be broken
over the things we see. He uses our compassions to drive us into deep
levels of prayer and to stir us into action for His purposes and in
His power.
If you are willing to stand in the gap like Nehemiah did-to let your
heart be moved by the will of God-ask God to show you a need and to
give you a vision for how to meet that need. Ask Him to reveal where
in His kingdom He is calling you to build. And ask Him for a broken
spirit and a bold faith that will invite His power and purposes into
your life.
Chip Ingram
source: crosswalk
Moses saw the suffering of his people and felt compelled to intervene.
David heard the taunts of a giant and was stirred to action. Esther
was informed of a plot to exterminate her people and took a huge risk.
Nehemiah heard a report about the condition of Jerusalem and his
broken heart drove him to prayer and action.
Do you see a common theme? All of these examples of faith began with a
huge need that broke someone's heart and moved that person to action.
The Bible is full of examples of this dynamic. God's people, stirred
with compassion or overwhelmed with desperation, repeatedly come to
him with an enormous problem. They see that all is not right, and they
can't be content to do nothing. Though they all lived in a world where
people say ?it's not my problem,? they couldn't live with that
attitude. The heart God had put within them had to act.
That's what it takes to make a difference in this world. Even in the
Walk Thru the Bible network of instructors, I can think of person
after person whose broken spirit became a catalyst for a powerful move
of God.
One of my favorite examples is a church begun years ago in Cairo's
large community of garbage collectors. Our regional director for the
Middle East and his father were instrumental in its founding. For
years it met in an obscure cave. It still meets there, but the cave is
no longer obscure; the side of the mountain has been carved out and
the open-air seating accommodates about 5,000 people. That community
of garbage collectors has been radically transformed because some
Christians saw a need and made significant sacrifices to fulfill it.
Keys to a Broken Spirit
It's easy to become desensitized to others' needs, especially in the
society we live in. On one hand, our culture emphasizes comfort and
success and offers plenty of opportunities to insulate ourselves from
the hurts of this world. We easily become self-focused. On the other
hand, global media technology gives us a constant stream of images of
the destitute, whether they live in our inner city or in a country
twelve time zones away. We see so many needs that we become
desensitized to all of them.
There are three keys to developing a broken spirit, and we can see
them all in the prayer of a man whose heart grieved for his homeland.
Nehemiah heard how the captives who had returned to Jerusalem from
Babylon were living in a devastated, vulnerable city. His response to
what he heard fulfilled God's purposes and left us with a great
example of how God inspires His people to action.
A broken spirit begins with a restored view of God. Nehemiah had been
living in a foreign land among foreign gods, but he addressed his
prayer to the ?God of heaven, the great and awesome God? who keeps His
covenants. A broken spirit knows how high and holy God is and doesn't
try to make Him a self-help genie. Like Isaiah before him, who saw God
and was filled with awe, Nehemiah bowed low because he understood the
greatness of the One he served.
Not only does a broken spirit involve a high view of God, it involves
an accurate view of ourselves. In his grief, Nehemiah felt compelled
to confess the sins of the nation. Even though he was a godly man, he
repented on behalf of himself and his people as a whole.
When we get near to God, we realize we're not doing nearly as well as
we thought. We have mixed motives and self-centered plans, and most of
what we think and do is tainted with impurity. We're also reminded
that the world was here a long time before us and will continue to be
a long time after we're gone, and God's kingdom isn't hinging on our
ability to step in and save the day.
That goal of a broken spirit isn't to feel terrible about ourselves.
We're significant and valuable in God's eyes, and He invites us to be
an integral part of His plan. But while an accurate view of ourselves
shouldn't make us feel horrible, it should also keep us from thinking
too highly of our role. We're reminded that we need the grace God
gives us.
The third aspect of a broken spirit is a renewed commitment to fulfill
God's agenda rather than our own. Nehemiah appealed to God's
promises-the covenant He had made with Israel long ago in Deuteronomy.
His request is filled with references to God's plan, God's agenda,
God's power, and the reputation of God's name.
After Nehemiah had prayed with a broken spirit-for four months,
according to some clues later in the book-God used him as part of the
solution. That's almost always the way it works. Nearly every great
movement of God or project that has brought about relief of human need
and the fulfillment of God's will has begun with one man or woman who
cared deeply enough to hear God's voice and then stepped out to do
something. God works through broken spirits.
Broken Spirit, Powerful God
Do you want your life to have an impact? Do you want to be a person
God strongly supports? God must work in us before He works through us,
and one of the ways He works through us is to let our hearts be broken
over the things we see. He uses our compassions to drive us into deep
levels of prayer and to stir us into action for His purposes and in
His power.
If you are willing to stand in the gap like Nehemiah did-to let your
heart be moved by the will of God-ask God to show you a need and to
give you a vision for how to meet that need. Ask Him to reveal where
in His kingdom He is calling you to build. And ask Him for a broken
spirit and a bold faith that will invite His power and purposes into
your life.
"A Cup of Christmas COCOA"
Encouragement for Today
source: crosswalk
"A Cup of Christmas COCOA"
Tracie Miles, Proverbs 31 Ministries Speaker
Key Verse:
Matthew 2: 11, "On coming to the house, they saw the child with his
mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened
their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense
and of myrrh. (NIV)
Devotion:
One of the things I adore about the holiday season is hot cocoa. Who
doesn't feel warm and snuggly while sipping on a steaming cup of cocoa
with marshmallows or whip cream piled on top? The word 'COCOA' can
be used to help us remember the important aspects of Christmas,
reminding us of the happiness and warmth we can enjoy being a part of
God's family.
C – CHRIST
Matthew 1:18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His
mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came
together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus Christ is the reason for the season. Remember to spend as much
time searching for God's truth, as you do searching for that perfect
gift. Christ IS Christmas – there is no Christmas without Christ.
During this season, share the gift that Christ has given you with
someone else.
O – ORNAMENTS
1 Peter 3:3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such
as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes.
Instead it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a
gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. Do
you spend more time fretting over whether or not your house could be
featured in the holiday edition of Southern Living, than whether or
not your inner spirit is adorned with God's love and compassion for
those in need? Put a stronger focus on blessing others this holiday
season.
C – CHEERFULLY CELEBRATE THE SEASON
Proverbs 15:13 A happy heart makes a face look cheerful. But a sad
heart produces a broken spirit. As the gift list grows, the budget
drains, and the calendar fills, it is easy to get discouraged. And
although Christmas is meant to be a joyous season, many people also
struggle during the holidays with depression and discouragement.
Despite the reasons that you might feel discouraged during this time
of year, focus on how much you are loved as a dear and precious child
of God. The holidays are merely a season, but God's love and
compassion for His children is permanent. Now that is something to
celebrate!
O – OVERJOYED not OVERWHELMED
Matthew 2:10 –12 The shepherds saw the star, and they were overjoyed –
they were overcome with delight, awe, motivation, encouragement, love
for God – they were overwhelmed with the gift of life. Think of a time
when you were overjoyed- the birth of a child, a graduation, a
wedding, a beautiful sunrise, sparkling white beaches, a baptism.
Your feeling of happiness was likely so overwhelming, that tears
filled your eyes, you had a lump in your throat, or your heart was
beating rapidly. For many Christmas-a-holics, we are overjoyed when we
kick off the holiday season, but overwhelmed by the middle of the
month! Try to find ways to remind yourself each day of December to be
thankful for the birth of our Savior and overwhelmed by the blessings
that have been bestowed upon you, rather than being overwhelmed with
your holiday to-do lists or personal issues.
A – ABUNDANCE
Jude :2 ..mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
Whenever I think of Christmas morning, from my childhood to the
present, the word ABUNDANCE comes to mind. As soon as the sun rises
on December 25th, until it sets in the evening, we are bombarded with
an abundance of presents, candy, baked goods, fruit, and other
delectable foods. But these things are temporary. What we really
yearn for is the abundant life promised to us in God's word. Our true
heart's desire is for mercy, peace and love, not just on Christmas
day, but every day throughout each year.
The next time you are in the mood for a hot cup of steaming cocoa, I
pray that you will be reminded of this devotion. As the warmth of
the cocoa trickles down your throat, allow the warmth of God's love to
pour into your heart, and then pour that love out abundantly onto
others.
My Prayer For Today:
Dear Lord, thank You for giving us the gift of your son, so that we
could have eternal life with You. Please help us not to get so caught
up in the earthly celebrations of Christmas that we forget to
celebrate Christ. Grant us joy and peace this season and into the
future. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Additional Resources:
The Adventure of Christmas by Lisa Whelchel
The P31 Woman Magazine
Listen to Today's Radio Show
Application Steps:
Determine how you will honor Christ this Christmas and make your
schedule accordingly.
Reflection Points:
Do I spend more time and effort on decorating my home, or my heart?
Is my family focused on seasonal abundance, or spiritual abundance?
What can I do to help my family and others remember Christ as the
center of this season?
Power Verses:
Hebrews 4:16, "So let us boldly approach the throne of grace. Then we
will receive mercy. We will find grace to help us when we need it."
(NIV)
Psalm 136:2, "Give thanks to the God of gods, His love endures forever." (NIV)
Number 6:25-26, "The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious
to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." (NIV)
source: crosswalk
"A Cup of Christmas COCOA"
Tracie Miles, Proverbs 31 Ministries Speaker
Key Verse:
Matthew 2: 11, "On coming to the house, they saw the child with his
mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened
their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense
and of myrrh. (NIV)
Devotion:
One of the things I adore about the holiday season is hot cocoa. Who
doesn't feel warm and snuggly while sipping on a steaming cup of cocoa
with marshmallows or whip cream piled on top? The word 'COCOA' can
be used to help us remember the important aspects of Christmas,
reminding us of the happiness and warmth we can enjoy being a part of
God's family.
C – CHRIST
Matthew 1:18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His
mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came
together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus Christ is the reason for the season. Remember to spend as much
time searching for God's truth, as you do searching for that perfect
gift. Christ IS Christmas – there is no Christmas without Christ.
During this season, share the gift that Christ has given you with
someone else.
O – ORNAMENTS
1 Peter 3:3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such
as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes.
Instead it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a
gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. Do
you spend more time fretting over whether or not your house could be
featured in the holiday edition of Southern Living, than whether or
not your inner spirit is adorned with God's love and compassion for
those in need? Put a stronger focus on blessing others this holiday
season.
C – CHEERFULLY CELEBRATE THE SEASON
Proverbs 15:13 A happy heart makes a face look cheerful. But a sad
heart produces a broken spirit. As the gift list grows, the budget
drains, and the calendar fills, it is easy to get discouraged. And
although Christmas is meant to be a joyous season, many people also
struggle during the holidays with depression and discouragement.
Despite the reasons that you might feel discouraged during this time
of year, focus on how much you are loved as a dear and precious child
of God. The holidays are merely a season, but God's love and
compassion for His children is permanent. Now that is something to
celebrate!
O – OVERJOYED not OVERWHELMED
Matthew 2:10 –12 The shepherds saw the star, and they were overjoyed –
they were overcome with delight, awe, motivation, encouragement, love
for God – they were overwhelmed with the gift of life. Think of a time
when you were overjoyed- the birth of a child, a graduation, a
wedding, a beautiful sunrise, sparkling white beaches, a baptism.
Your feeling of happiness was likely so overwhelming, that tears
filled your eyes, you had a lump in your throat, or your heart was
beating rapidly. For many Christmas-a-holics, we are overjoyed when we
kick off the holiday season, but overwhelmed by the middle of the
month! Try to find ways to remind yourself each day of December to be
thankful for the birth of our Savior and overwhelmed by the blessings
that have been bestowed upon you, rather than being overwhelmed with
your holiday to-do lists or personal issues.
A – ABUNDANCE
Jude :2 ..mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
Whenever I think of Christmas morning, from my childhood to the
present, the word ABUNDANCE comes to mind. As soon as the sun rises
on December 25th, until it sets in the evening, we are bombarded with
an abundance of presents, candy, baked goods, fruit, and other
delectable foods. But these things are temporary. What we really
yearn for is the abundant life promised to us in God's word. Our true
heart's desire is for mercy, peace and love, not just on Christmas
day, but every day throughout each year.
The next time you are in the mood for a hot cup of steaming cocoa, I
pray that you will be reminded of this devotion. As the warmth of
the cocoa trickles down your throat, allow the warmth of God's love to
pour into your heart, and then pour that love out abundantly onto
others.
My Prayer For Today:
Dear Lord, thank You for giving us the gift of your son, so that we
could have eternal life with You. Please help us not to get so caught
up in the earthly celebrations of Christmas that we forget to
celebrate Christ. Grant us joy and peace this season and into the
future. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Additional Resources:
The Adventure of Christmas by Lisa Whelchel
The P31 Woman Magazine
Listen to Today's Radio Show
Application Steps:
Determine how you will honor Christ this Christmas and make your
schedule accordingly.
Reflection Points:
Do I spend more time and effort on decorating my home, or my heart?
Is my family focused on seasonal abundance, or spiritual abundance?
What can I do to help my family and others remember Christ as the
center of this season?
Power Verses:
Hebrews 4:16, "So let us boldly approach the throne of grace. Then we
will receive mercy. We will find grace to help us when we need it."
(NIV)
Psalm 136:2, "Give thanks to the God of gods, His love endures forever." (NIV)
Number 6:25-26, "The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious
to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." (NIV)
Live Your Dreams Now
source: crosswalk
Live Your Dreams Now
Whitney Hopler
Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer
Editor's Note: The following is a report on the practical
applications of Shannon and Michael Primicerio's
soon-to-be-released book, Life. Now.: Overcoming the 10
obstacles that Derail Your Dreams, (Bethany House, 2007).
What dreams lie dormant in your heart? Whatever you wish you
could pursue someday isn't really out of your reach right now. If
you start making deliberate choices to pursue your dreams –
without waiting for your circumstances to change – you don't
have to wait to see your dreams begin to come true.
So don't wait for someday. Overcome obstacles standing in the
way and start living your dreams now! Here's how:
* Overcome fear. Know that, although it's natural to feel fear
about taking the risks necessary to pursue your dreams, giving
into your fear will stop your progress. Realize that God will give
you all the power you need to do whatever He is calling you to
do. Rely on Him for help, knowing that He never fails. Don't worry
about what other people think of your dreams, since doing so will
allow them to control your dreams. Feel free to seek counsel from
a few trustworthy people who are close to you, but dismiss critics
who don't have your best interests at heart. Ask God to give you
the courage to do what He wants you to do, no matter what others
think. Make whatever changes you need to make to stop playing
it safe and living in a rut. Move, change jobs, find a new church,
or do anything else to get you unstuck and on the road toward
where you want to go. Meet with a trusted friend, family member,
or pastor to honestly express your dreams and fears, and ask that
person to pray for you. Check back in with this person regularly as
you make progress toward fulfilling your dreams.
* Stop trying to earn other people's approval. Ask God to help you
be comfortable with the unique person He has made you to be.
Then be yourself, rather than the person others think you should
be. Expect that, somewhere along the way while you pursue your
dreams, you're going to lose the approval of some people close
to you. Don't worry about asking anyone except God for
permission to go after your dreams. Understand that sometimes,
in order to obey God, you'll need to disappoint other people. Ask
God to give you the confidence you need to move forward with
what He wants you to do, even when people you care about don't
support you. For one week, keep track of how you make your
decisions (both simple ones like where to go to dinner and
complicated ones like whether or not to take a certain job). As
you make each decision, write down whether you did what you
really wanted to do, or whether you did what you felt others
wanted you to do. Then, after the week is up, study your notes to
notice a pattern in your decision-making strategies. Going
forward, remember to choose what you want to do instead of
seeking other people's approval.
* Be willing to leave the comforts of home. Understand that
pursuing your dreams often requires venturing out beyond all
that's comfortable to you now. Don't let a love for the familiar
stand in the way of your dreams. If you live at home with your
parents, set a time for leaving and stick to it. Establish true
independence in your life. If you're stuck in a dead-end job, look
around for better opportunities and go after them. If a longtime
friend doesn't support your quest to fulfill your dreams, find some
new friends who will support you. If your current area doesn't
offer the resources you need to pursue your dreams, move to a
place that will better enable you to pursue them. Don't be afraid
to leave behind a way of life that you've been conditioned to
think is normal so you can discover something better. Leave small
thoughts behind and dream big.
* Trade average for excellent. Don't be satisfied with halfhearted
living. Recognize that in order to give your best to pursuing your
dreams, you need to be at your best as a person. Decide to live a
life of significance – one that makes the world a better place
because you lived. Ask God to use your ordinary life to
accomplish extraordinary purposes. Never stop learning. Take
care of your body through good nutrition and regular exercise so
it will serve you well as you go after your dreams. Remove clutter
from your home, office, and car so you can think more clearly and
use your time more productively. Write down your goals clearly
on flash cards, and review them regularly to keep them in the
forefront of your mind and stay on track. Find a photo of
something that represents a goal you have (such as a photo of an
island if you're dreaming of vacationing in Hawaii one day), and
place it somewhere relevant (such as by your ATM card to help
you remember to save). Celebrate whenever you make
accomplish something that moves you closer to your goals. Every
day, spend time with God in prayer about your dreams and your
progress toward them.
* Surrender a sense of control. Realize and accept the fact that
you can't control many things that happen to you. Whenever you
encounter frustration and disappointment as you pursue your
dreams, identify what your feelings are and face them with grace,
trusting in the fact that God is still working out good purposes in
your life. Don't waste time feeling sorry for yourself. Know that,
although you can't always change your circumstances, you can
always change your attitude in response to them. Pray for the
Holy Spirit to help you grow in the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy,
peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,
and self-control. Let go of the way you think things should
happen, and trust God to guide you through His best plans for
your life. Resist the temptation to be jealous of others who are
seeing their dreams come true while you're still waiting. Simply
remind yourself of all you do have to be thankful for, and keep
moving forward toward your goals.
* Start where you are. Don't wait for a certain time or situation to
start going after your dreams. Start right now, right in your current
circumstances. Be creative about maximizing your time. Know
that if you invest even small amounts of time toward reaching
your dreams, over the long haul your investment will pay off in a
big way. Whenever you have idle time, fill it in productive ways
(such as by listening to Scripture on your commute to work). Don't
let seemingly urgent things like household chores and checking
e-mail distract you from what's most important. Make sure that
you're focusing on important tasks – ones that will help your
dreams come true – first, and just fit all the "urgent" tasks in as
you can. Establish and grow relationships with key people who
can help you fulfill your dreams. Pray for God to lead you to a
mentor or two and place the right people alongside you at the
right times as you go after your dreams. Don't wait for all the
pieces of a plan to make perfect sense to you before moving
forward if you sense God calling you to do so; be willing to take
steps of faith as He leads you.
* Use money to fund your progress. Recognize that you'll need to
spend money to pursue most of your dreams. Don't let financial
constraints prevent you from following your dreams. Instead, think
and pray about a plan to make money available, over time, to
fund your progress. Get and stay out of debt to free up cash to use
for pursuing your dreams, such as starting your own business or
going back to school to earn a certain degree. Set up a budget
and stick to it so you don't overspend. If you're not bringing in
enough income, start looking for a second job or a new primary
job that pays more. Set short- and long-term financial goals. Save
as much as you can, tithe faithfully, and give generously.
* Stay motivated. Remind yourself often of the reasons why you're
making sacrifices and working hard to pursue your dreams. Paint
a vivid mental picture of what you want your life to be like after
you've achieved your goals. Write out a plan for how to make
your dreams realities and move forward with that plan while
inviting God to edit your plan as He sees fit. Dream lavishly and
expect God to do even more than you could ever imagine or ask.
Ask Him to keep encouraging you as you follow His dreams for
your life.
* Follow through. Be persistent when you face challenges on your
way to fulfilling your dreams. Don't grumble about difficulties;
instead, be thankful that you have the gift of each new day to
keep making progress. Try to enjoy the journey as much as the
destination. Be prepared for trials and tragedies that will
inevitably threaten to derail your dreams. When you encounter
them, depend on the hope that Jesus offers and keep working to
make progress as you can. Don't let your mistakes or failures
cause you to give up. Stay focused on your vision, keep working
hard, and continue to trust God.
* Keep seeking God's will. Constantly check in with God to make
sure your dreams align with His will for your life. Spend time with
Him daily in prayer. Regularly read, study, and meditate on
passages of the Bible. Participate in a church and a small group
to build relationships with trusted friends who can help you
discern where God is leading you. Make your relationship with
God your highest priority in life. Know that if you seek God
Himself first – before your dreams – then your dreams will fall into
place.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adapted from Life. Now.: Overcoming the 10 Obstacles that Derail
Your Dreams, copyright 2007 by Shannon and Michael Primicerio.
Published by Bethany House Publishers (a division of Baker
Publishing Group), Bloomington, Mn., www.bethanyhouse.com.
Shannon Kubiak Primicerio is the author of The Divine Dance,
God Called a Girl, and the BEING A GIRL... series. A popular
national retreat speaker, Shannon has also been featured in such
media outlets as PBS's Religion and Ethics Newsweekly and Time
magazine. She has a B.A. in Journalism and a minor in Biblical
Studies from Biola University.
Michael Primicerio has served as a youth pastor's assistant for
three years. He has discipled teenage boys and taught at youth
camps, high school chapels, and in a regular youth group setting.
He attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, including time abroad
in Israel.
Live Your Dreams Now
Whitney Hopler
Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer
Editor's Note: The following is a report on the practical
applications of Shannon and Michael Primicerio's
soon-to-be-released book, Life. Now.: Overcoming the 10
obstacles that Derail Your Dreams, (Bethany House, 2007).
What dreams lie dormant in your heart? Whatever you wish you
could pursue someday isn't really out of your reach right now. If
you start making deliberate choices to pursue your dreams –
without waiting for your circumstances to change – you don't
have to wait to see your dreams begin to come true.
So don't wait for someday. Overcome obstacles standing in the
way and start living your dreams now! Here's how:
* Overcome fear. Know that, although it's natural to feel fear
about taking the risks necessary to pursue your dreams, giving
into your fear will stop your progress. Realize that God will give
you all the power you need to do whatever He is calling you to
do. Rely on Him for help, knowing that He never fails. Don't worry
about what other people think of your dreams, since doing so will
allow them to control your dreams. Feel free to seek counsel from
a few trustworthy people who are close to you, but dismiss critics
who don't have your best interests at heart. Ask God to give you
the courage to do what He wants you to do, no matter what others
think. Make whatever changes you need to make to stop playing
it safe and living in a rut. Move, change jobs, find a new church,
or do anything else to get you unstuck and on the road toward
where you want to go. Meet with a trusted friend, family member,
or pastor to honestly express your dreams and fears, and ask that
person to pray for you. Check back in with this person regularly as
you make progress toward fulfilling your dreams.
* Stop trying to earn other people's approval. Ask God to help you
be comfortable with the unique person He has made you to be.
Then be yourself, rather than the person others think you should
be. Expect that, somewhere along the way while you pursue your
dreams, you're going to lose the approval of some people close
to you. Don't worry about asking anyone except God for
permission to go after your dreams. Understand that sometimes,
in order to obey God, you'll need to disappoint other people. Ask
God to give you the confidence you need to move forward with
what He wants you to do, even when people you care about don't
support you. For one week, keep track of how you make your
decisions (both simple ones like where to go to dinner and
complicated ones like whether or not to take a certain job). As
you make each decision, write down whether you did what you
really wanted to do, or whether you did what you felt others
wanted you to do. Then, after the week is up, study your notes to
notice a pattern in your decision-making strategies. Going
forward, remember to choose what you want to do instead of
seeking other people's approval.
* Be willing to leave the comforts of home. Understand that
pursuing your dreams often requires venturing out beyond all
that's comfortable to you now. Don't let a love for the familiar
stand in the way of your dreams. If you live at home with your
parents, set a time for leaving and stick to it. Establish true
independence in your life. If you're stuck in a dead-end job, look
around for better opportunities and go after them. If a longtime
friend doesn't support your quest to fulfill your dreams, find some
new friends who will support you. If your current area doesn't
offer the resources you need to pursue your dreams, move to a
place that will better enable you to pursue them. Don't be afraid
to leave behind a way of life that you've been conditioned to
think is normal so you can discover something better. Leave small
thoughts behind and dream big.
* Trade average for excellent. Don't be satisfied with halfhearted
living. Recognize that in order to give your best to pursuing your
dreams, you need to be at your best as a person. Decide to live a
life of significance – one that makes the world a better place
because you lived. Ask God to use your ordinary life to
accomplish extraordinary purposes. Never stop learning. Take
care of your body through good nutrition and regular exercise so
it will serve you well as you go after your dreams. Remove clutter
from your home, office, and car so you can think more clearly and
use your time more productively. Write down your goals clearly
on flash cards, and review them regularly to keep them in the
forefront of your mind and stay on track. Find a photo of
something that represents a goal you have (such as a photo of an
island if you're dreaming of vacationing in Hawaii one day), and
place it somewhere relevant (such as by your ATM card to help
you remember to save). Celebrate whenever you make
accomplish something that moves you closer to your goals. Every
day, spend time with God in prayer about your dreams and your
progress toward them.
* Surrender a sense of control. Realize and accept the fact that
you can't control many things that happen to you. Whenever you
encounter frustration and disappointment as you pursue your
dreams, identify what your feelings are and face them with grace,
trusting in the fact that God is still working out good purposes in
your life. Don't waste time feeling sorry for yourself. Know that,
although you can't always change your circumstances, you can
always change your attitude in response to them. Pray for the
Holy Spirit to help you grow in the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy,
peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,
and self-control. Let go of the way you think things should
happen, and trust God to guide you through His best plans for
your life. Resist the temptation to be jealous of others who are
seeing their dreams come true while you're still waiting. Simply
remind yourself of all you do have to be thankful for, and keep
moving forward toward your goals.
* Start where you are. Don't wait for a certain time or situation to
start going after your dreams. Start right now, right in your current
circumstances. Be creative about maximizing your time. Know
that if you invest even small amounts of time toward reaching
your dreams, over the long haul your investment will pay off in a
big way. Whenever you have idle time, fill it in productive ways
(such as by listening to Scripture on your commute to work). Don't
let seemingly urgent things like household chores and checking
e-mail distract you from what's most important. Make sure that
you're focusing on important tasks – ones that will help your
dreams come true – first, and just fit all the "urgent" tasks in as
you can. Establish and grow relationships with key people who
can help you fulfill your dreams. Pray for God to lead you to a
mentor or two and place the right people alongside you at the
right times as you go after your dreams. Don't wait for all the
pieces of a plan to make perfect sense to you before moving
forward if you sense God calling you to do so; be willing to take
steps of faith as He leads you.
* Use money to fund your progress. Recognize that you'll need to
spend money to pursue most of your dreams. Don't let financial
constraints prevent you from following your dreams. Instead, think
and pray about a plan to make money available, over time, to
fund your progress. Get and stay out of debt to free up cash to use
for pursuing your dreams, such as starting your own business or
going back to school to earn a certain degree. Set up a budget
and stick to it so you don't overspend. If you're not bringing in
enough income, start looking for a second job or a new primary
job that pays more. Set short- and long-term financial goals. Save
as much as you can, tithe faithfully, and give generously.
* Stay motivated. Remind yourself often of the reasons why you're
making sacrifices and working hard to pursue your dreams. Paint
a vivid mental picture of what you want your life to be like after
you've achieved your goals. Write out a plan for how to make
your dreams realities and move forward with that plan while
inviting God to edit your plan as He sees fit. Dream lavishly and
expect God to do even more than you could ever imagine or ask.
Ask Him to keep encouraging you as you follow His dreams for
your life.
* Follow through. Be persistent when you face challenges on your
way to fulfilling your dreams. Don't grumble about difficulties;
instead, be thankful that you have the gift of each new day to
keep making progress. Try to enjoy the journey as much as the
destination. Be prepared for trials and tragedies that will
inevitably threaten to derail your dreams. When you encounter
them, depend on the hope that Jesus offers and keep working to
make progress as you can. Don't let your mistakes or failures
cause you to give up. Stay focused on your vision, keep working
hard, and continue to trust God.
* Keep seeking God's will. Constantly check in with God to make
sure your dreams align with His will for your life. Spend time with
Him daily in prayer. Regularly read, study, and meditate on
passages of the Bible. Participate in a church and a small group
to build relationships with trusted friends who can help you
discern where God is leading you. Make your relationship with
God your highest priority in life. Know that if you seek God
Himself first – before your dreams – then your dreams will fall into
place.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adapted from Life. Now.: Overcoming the 10 Obstacles that Derail
Your Dreams, copyright 2007 by Shannon and Michael Primicerio.
Published by Bethany House Publishers (a division of Baker
Publishing Group), Bloomington, Mn., www.bethanyhouse.com.
Shannon Kubiak Primicerio is the author of The Divine Dance,
God Called a Girl, and the BEING A GIRL... series. A popular
national retreat speaker, Shannon has also been featured in such
media outlets as PBS's Religion and Ethics Newsweekly and Time
magazine. She has a B.A. in Journalism and a minor in Biblical
Studies from Biola University.
Michael Primicerio has served as a youth pastor's assistant for
three years. He has discipled teenage boys and taught at youth
camps, high school chapels, and in a regular youth group setting.
He attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, including time abroad
in Israel.
Holidays Not Always Happy For Ministers' Wives
Holidays Not Always Happy For Ministers' Wives, Panel Says
Written by Chris Turner
source: lifeway
NASHVILLE, Tenn., 11/27/06 -- Shirley Cross knows what it's like to not be "Patty Perfect" - and still survive.
"It's been an interesting season each year to go through because each year brings the different stresses," said Cross, a pastor's wife, employee of LifeWay Christian Resources, former missionary and mother of two. "How do you handle prioritizing the church parties and the family time? Issues with going to see family also was always a stress because you had to find time. And a lot of times, you not only had the concern about 'is there time to go,' but [also] 'is something going to happen with a church member in the church' [when you leave]?"
The last six weeks of every year are supposed to be the most festive times of the year, especially for Christians. Families gather for big Thanksgiving meals and just weeks later gather again to celebrate the birth of Christ.
The herald angel ushered in Jesus' arrival with, "Behold, I bring you good news of great joy." Unfortunately, many times for ministers' wives, the only good news they hear during the holiday season is that they have almost made it through to January. The stress of balancing the realities of their lives against the expectations of other people can sap them of the great joy they long to experience during the holidays.
Cross was part of a panel discussion recently recorded for an episode of Inside LifeWay (found at LifeWay.com/InsideLifeWay), the official news podcast of LifeWay Christian Resources. Cross joined Barney Self, Chris Adams and Inside LifeWay host Brooklyn Noel to discuss the great stress ministers' wives face around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Self is a licensed family counselor and a member of LifeWay's pastoral ministries team. Adams is the women's enrichment and ministers' wives specialist in the training and events area of LifeWay's church resources division. She formerly served as a special ministries coordinator at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas.
Ministers' wives often feel the pressure to be "Patty Perfect" during the holiday season, being the perfect hostess or guest, or providing the perfect gift - for everybody. Unfortunately, while ministers' wives may be smiling on the outside, the panel said, inside they are "probably screaming," hoping to survive until January.
"They cannot always afford to go and visit family, or because of church responsibilities they're not able to leave and go be with family," Adams said. "So sometimes it can be really lonely for them.
"There is also the issue of finances," she said. "Who do you buy presents for? Do you try to have something at your home, a little gift of some sort to give to those who come by your home? Where do you stop the gifts? Is it with other staff members? Is it with other congregation members?"
Adams also said the expectation to be at so many Sunday school parties or other gatherings can be a financial burden for those ministers' families with smaller children, which translates into a considerable expense for babysitting. Self said the expectations "are ubiquitous."
"There is a significant need for ministers' wives and ministers to show a graceful balance and say, 'yes, we love you but no, we are not coming to your party,'" Self said. "That is a way to affirm those who are inviting but it is also a way to draw the line as well.
"I think the ministers themselves can help their wives by defining for the church what's appropriate," Self added. "Very often the minister doesn't do that. He just sort of plays a passive role and takes it as it comes. Which means he brings home the list of Sunday school parties and there's an expectation that they're going to go to all of them."
Cross acknowledged wives have the fear that people don't want to hear "no." She said ministers' wives often fall prey to wanting to be people pleasers and fear saying no will offend church members. But, she said, saying "no" is a learning process, and one that is a necessity if wives are going to enjoy the season and help create a meaningful time for their own families.
"In order for balance to occur there needs to be an awareness of both sets of needs and expectations," Self said. "If you try to meet all of the needs it will not work. Often ministers' wives ignore their own needs and focus on the needs of others. This is a set-up for trauma in the family of the minister."
Adams said church members can look for ways to minister to their ministers' families by praying for them and doing something special for ministers' wives to acknowledge their contribution to the ministry. Self added that this is a difficult time of the year emotionally for many people in the church and it adds extra stress on ministers and their families.
"I think it's critical for the ministry body to be lifted up in prayer … by the congregation and certainly by specific groups within the church that are really committed to the church life being the best it can be," he said. "I think bathing ministers and their families in prayer, especially during this season, is vital because the pressures on them are greater."
Visit LifeWay.com/InsideLifeWay to listen to the entire discussion or for a complete transcript.
Written by Chris Turner
source: lifeway
NASHVILLE, Tenn., 11/27/06 -- Shirley Cross knows what it's like to not be "Patty Perfect" - and still survive.
"It's been an interesting season each year to go through because each year brings the different stresses," said Cross, a pastor's wife, employee of LifeWay Christian Resources, former missionary and mother of two. "How do you handle prioritizing the church parties and the family time? Issues with going to see family also was always a stress because you had to find time. And a lot of times, you not only had the concern about 'is there time to go,' but [also] 'is something going to happen with a church member in the church' [when you leave]?"
The last six weeks of every year are supposed to be the most festive times of the year, especially for Christians. Families gather for big Thanksgiving meals and just weeks later gather again to celebrate the birth of Christ.
The herald angel ushered in Jesus' arrival with, "Behold, I bring you good news of great joy." Unfortunately, many times for ministers' wives, the only good news they hear during the holiday season is that they have almost made it through to January. The stress of balancing the realities of their lives against the expectations of other people can sap them of the great joy they long to experience during the holidays.
Cross was part of a panel discussion recently recorded for an episode of Inside LifeWay (found at LifeWay.com/InsideLifeWay), the official news podcast of LifeWay Christian Resources. Cross joined Barney Self, Chris Adams and Inside LifeWay host Brooklyn Noel to discuss the great stress ministers' wives face around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Self is a licensed family counselor and a member of LifeWay's pastoral ministries team. Adams is the women's enrichment and ministers' wives specialist in the training and events area of LifeWay's church resources division. She formerly served as a special ministries coordinator at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas.
Ministers' wives often feel the pressure to be "Patty Perfect" during the holiday season, being the perfect hostess or guest, or providing the perfect gift - for everybody. Unfortunately, while ministers' wives may be smiling on the outside, the panel said, inside they are "probably screaming," hoping to survive until January.
"They cannot always afford to go and visit family, or because of church responsibilities they're not able to leave and go be with family," Adams said. "So sometimes it can be really lonely for them.
"There is also the issue of finances," she said. "Who do you buy presents for? Do you try to have something at your home, a little gift of some sort to give to those who come by your home? Where do you stop the gifts? Is it with other staff members? Is it with other congregation members?"
Adams also said the expectation to be at so many Sunday school parties or other gatherings can be a financial burden for those ministers' families with smaller children, which translates into a considerable expense for babysitting. Self said the expectations "are ubiquitous."
"There is a significant need for ministers' wives and ministers to show a graceful balance and say, 'yes, we love you but no, we are not coming to your party,'" Self said. "That is a way to affirm those who are inviting but it is also a way to draw the line as well.
"I think the ministers themselves can help their wives by defining for the church what's appropriate," Self added. "Very often the minister doesn't do that. He just sort of plays a passive role and takes it as it comes. Which means he brings home the list of Sunday school parties and there's an expectation that they're going to go to all of them."
Cross acknowledged wives have the fear that people don't want to hear "no." She said ministers' wives often fall prey to wanting to be people pleasers and fear saying no will offend church members. But, she said, saying "no" is a learning process, and one that is a necessity if wives are going to enjoy the season and help create a meaningful time for their own families.
"In order for balance to occur there needs to be an awareness of both sets of needs and expectations," Self said. "If you try to meet all of the needs it will not work. Often ministers' wives ignore their own needs and focus on the needs of others. This is a set-up for trauma in the family of the minister."
Adams said church members can look for ways to minister to their ministers' families by praying for them and doing something special for ministers' wives to acknowledge their contribution to the ministry. Self added that this is a difficult time of the year emotionally for many people in the church and it adds extra stress on ministers and their families.
"I think it's critical for the ministry body to be lifted up in prayer … by the congregation and certainly by specific groups within the church that are really committed to the church life being the best it can be," he said. "I think bathing ministers and their families in prayer, especially during this season, is vital because the pressures on them are greater."
Visit LifeWay.com/InsideLifeWay to listen to the entire discussion or for a complete transcript.
NEWS: Embryo cloning gets the go-ahead
Embryo cloning gets the go-ahead
Mark Davis and Mark Metherell
source: Religion news blog
December 7, 2006
AUSTRALIAN scientists will be able to clone human embryos for medical
research under legislation passed by Parliament which divided the
country's most senior politicians.
In a rare conscience vote, the House of Representatives passed the
controversial measures despite the Prime Minister urging MPs to vote
against the bill because it eroded some of society's most absolute
values.
The new Opposition Leader, Kevin Rudd, also opposed the legislation,
saying it crossed a fundamental ethical threshold by allowing human
life to be created for the purpose of scientific experimentation.
During his speech on the bill last night, Mr Rudd became emotional
when he recalled the suffering of his mother from Parkinson's disease:
"Mum died two years ago so she is not here to ask about this [bill]."
Despite prominent opponents, the bill passed by 20 votes.
The bill has been strongly supported by medical research organisations
because they say it widens the scope for eventual development of
treatments for crippling and lethal diseases.
The vote split both the Government and the Opposition because MPs were
free to vote according to their consciences rather than along party
lines.
John Howard was joined in voting against the bill by the Treasurer,
Peter Costello, the Deputy Prime Minister, Mark Vaile, the Health
Minister, Tony Abbott, as well as Mr Rudd and Labor MPs Peter Garrett,
Gavan O'Connor and Tony Burke.
Those in favour of the bill included cabinet ministers Brendan Nelson,
Julie Bishop, Ian Macfarlane, Alexander Downer and Philip Ruddock and
Labor frontbenchers Julia Gillard, Simon Crean, Jenny Macklin and
Wayne Swan.
Opponents failed in a last-ditch attempt to amend the bill to prohibit
use of foetal tissue for cloning, a measure critics said would mean
aborted female foetuses would be harvested to extract eggs for the
creation of embryos.
Speaking in the debate, Mr Howard said he had wrestled with the moral
issues at stake, trying to resolve the tension between the benefits of
medical research and the moral doubts over whether it was acceptable
to experiment on embryos.
But in the end he had not been convinced that the scientific evidence
justified changing the existing prohibition on so-called therapeutic
cloning.
"I think we live in an age where we have slid too far into
relativism," he said. "There must be some absolutes in our society."
Mr Rudd said: "I find it very difficult to support a legal regime
which allows creation of a form of human life with the single purpose
of allowing the conduct of experimentation. I am concerned with the
crossing of such an ethical threshold and where it may lead in the
long term."
The legislation would allow the cloning of embryos for research
through somatic cell nuclear transfer, commonly called therapeutic
cloning.
The House of Representatives vote follows a narrow one-vote majority
in the Senate in favour of the private member's bill introduced by the
former health minister Kay Patterson.
In a decision which shocked supporters of the legislation, Mr Costello
earlier yesterday spoke strongly against it. He said he was not
convinced by the legislation's 14-day limit on the life of cloned
embyros, which was a shifting line and one "I would not anchor
legislation on". Mr Costello supported the 2002 legislation allowing
stem cell research on embryos produced by IVF.
Mr Abbott, an avowed opponent of cloning, acknowledged that even
though he was opposed, he could not say how he would respond if the
process led to a treatment which could save a loved one.
Mark Davis and Mark Metherell
source: Religion news blog
December 7, 2006
AUSTRALIAN scientists will be able to clone human embryos for medical
research under legislation passed by Parliament which divided the
country's most senior politicians.
In a rare conscience vote, the House of Representatives passed the
controversial measures despite the Prime Minister urging MPs to vote
against the bill because it eroded some of society's most absolute
values.
The new Opposition Leader, Kevin Rudd, also opposed the legislation,
saying it crossed a fundamental ethical threshold by allowing human
life to be created for the purpose of scientific experimentation.
During his speech on the bill last night, Mr Rudd became emotional
when he recalled the suffering of his mother from Parkinson's disease:
"Mum died two years ago so she is not here to ask about this [bill]."
Despite prominent opponents, the bill passed by 20 votes.
The bill has been strongly supported by medical research organisations
because they say it widens the scope for eventual development of
treatments for crippling and lethal diseases.
The vote split both the Government and the Opposition because MPs were
free to vote according to their consciences rather than along party
lines.
John Howard was joined in voting against the bill by the Treasurer,
Peter Costello, the Deputy Prime Minister, Mark Vaile, the Health
Minister, Tony Abbott, as well as Mr Rudd and Labor MPs Peter Garrett,
Gavan O'Connor and Tony Burke.
Those in favour of the bill included cabinet ministers Brendan Nelson,
Julie Bishop, Ian Macfarlane, Alexander Downer and Philip Ruddock and
Labor frontbenchers Julia Gillard, Simon Crean, Jenny Macklin and
Wayne Swan.
Opponents failed in a last-ditch attempt to amend the bill to prohibit
use of foetal tissue for cloning, a measure critics said would mean
aborted female foetuses would be harvested to extract eggs for the
creation of embryos.
Speaking in the debate, Mr Howard said he had wrestled with the moral
issues at stake, trying to resolve the tension between the benefits of
medical research and the moral doubts over whether it was acceptable
to experiment on embryos.
But in the end he had not been convinced that the scientific evidence
justified changing the existing prohibition on so-called therapeutic
cloning.
"I think we live in an age where we have slid too far into
relativism," he said. "There must be some absolutes in our society."
Mr Rudd said: "I find it very difficult to support a legal regime
which allows creation of a form of human life with the single purpose
of allowing the conduct of experimentation. I am concerned with the
crossing of such an ethical threshold and where it may lead in the
long term."
The legislation would allow the cloning of embryos for research
through somatic cell nuclear transfer, commonly called therapeutic
cloning.
The House of Representatives vote follows a narrow one-vote majority
in the Senate in favour of the private member's bill introduced by the
former health minister Kay Patterson.
In a decision which shocked supporters of the legislation, Mr Costello
earlier yesterday spoke strongly against it. He said he was not
convinced by the legislation's 14-day limit on the life of cloned
embyros, which was a shifting line and one "I would not anchor
legislation on". Mr Costello supported the 2002 legislation allowing
stem cell research on embryos produced by IVF.
Mr Abbott, an avowed opponent of cloning, acknowledged that even
though he was opposed, he could not say how he would respond if the
process led to a treatment which could save a loved one.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Build your family before building a ministry
by Ronnie Floyd
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I believe that building your family is more important than building
your ministry. ... Today it stands as probably the only legacy I will
ever see this side of heaven. I would not trade anything for it that
ministry offers.
Ronnie Floyd, pastor of First Baptist Church, Springdale, Ark.
and author of 10 Things Every Minister Needs to Know
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I was a very young pastor in a growing church. I had my academic
degrees behind me and was engaged in my pastoral venture — hook, line,
and sinker! I was in my late 20s and had been married for just under
10 years. Josh was 4 or 5 years old and Nick was only 1 or 2 years
old. I was zooming and filled with life, vitality, and vision.
God was doing some marvelous things in our church. We had seen it come
alive with great passion and fire for evangelism. Everything was
growing.
Heaven was happening on Sunday, but trouble returned on Monday.
Meetings were dominant in the church world back then, and they seemed
to occur nightly and continuously for pastors in that season of
American church life. Jeana had been raised in a pastor's home, so she
understood the challenges of church and family to a degree, but I was
exhausted and my family was caught in the middle of it all.
I would hurry home around 5 p.m. in order to get back to an early
evening meeting with some committee or group of leaders. My family was
very young, and the church was growing. I knew this was taking its
toll on Jeana and me. The boys were way too young to feel it or know
it, but I was neglecting them due to all of the demands on my life.
One night on my journey home, I came to a stop sign. I believe I could
take you to it today. It was like the Holy Spirit spoke to me in that
still, small convicting voice. I am not sure what occurred, but I am
confident of what I told the Lord at that very moment. I said, "Lord,
I will stop sacrificing my family on the altar of ministry success."
That event and moment has shaped my life and family to this very day.
Had God not taught me that lesson at a young age, it might have been
catastrophic later in ministry, marriage, and life.
I believe that building your family is more important than building
your ministry. Not only have I believed it, I have lived it. Today it
stands as probably the only legacy I will ever see this side of
heaven. I would not trade anything for it that ministry offers.
As I have evaluated our journey in balancing marriage, family, and
ministry, I have narrowed the journey to seven values that we observed
in our family. These seven values were things we esteemed, believed
in, championed, and rewarded continually.
Value prayer
Since we are ministers, this sounds like something you would expect
another minister to say or try to prove he does, but make no mistake
about it: You will not succeed in marriage, family, and ministry
without prayer.
For at least two decades I have prayed Ephesians 6:10–18 – the armor
of God – over my family daily. I call their names out to God
specifically and then place the armor on them piece by piece. I do
this for all of our immediate family. We are in a war. Satan goes
after your family with great intensity. Therefore, stand your ground
in Jesus' name by placing the armor of God on your family in prayer
daily.
Also, we prayed with our children before they went to school every day
without exception. I encourage you to pray through the various crises
or situations you face as a family. Also, pray with your spouse
nightly. Jeana and I trade off nightly as to which one of us will pray
before we go to sleep.
Value marriage
The greatest thing you can do for your family is to have a spiritual
and enriching marriage relationship. If you want your children to make
the right decisions in life – especially in relationships – then you
have to have a healthy and godly relationship with your spouse.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you spend uninterrupted time with your mate consistently and
weekly, your mate and your children know that your family is more
important than your ministry.
Ronnie Floyd
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One way I do this is by taking Friday off every week to spend with
Jeana. I've done this ever since "the stop sign moment" I mentioned
earlier. It is our day, and I attempt to stay away from the office.
When you spend uninterrupted time with your mate consistently and
weekly, your mate and your children know that your family is more
important than your ministry.
Value church
The minister and his family need the church in their lives as much as
any other family needs the church. I always told the church when my
children were young, "Pray for my children to grow up loving Jesus and
the church." My children love Jesus and the church. Both Josh and Nick
married young ladies who love the church. Josh and Kate, as well as
Nick and Meredith, will raise children who love Jesus and the church,
beginning with Peyton.
Yet Josh and Nick always knew they came before the church. When Josh
was experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play in the
13-year-old World Series, I did not preach or attend a Sunday night
service which I had been scheduled to do.
In fact, the only game I ever remember missing was when I was asked to
preach to Promise Keepers in Washington, D.C. – before a million men.
I almost chose not to do it, but a friend advised me to talk to my
boys and ask them what they thought I should do. Both immediately
said, "Go do that!"
Value mentoring with gentle accountability
Teach your children to walk with Christ. Teach your children how to
have a daily time with God. Start when they first begin to read words.
Mentor them to lead and influence others to the degree of their
God-given giftedness.
Mentor them in their relationships as well. Do not let them become
culture-driven, but encourage them, in a godly way, to act differently
if God asks them to do so. At times I would intervene in my children's
relationships and re-direct them to others. Why? We knew if Satan
captured our children, it would happen through their friends or their
dating relationships.
Value consistency
Consistency builds godly children. Inconsistency builds the opposite.
You must be consistent in your leadership as a parent. You must be
consistent in your discipline. You must be consistently honest with
them as well. When you make a parenting or marital mistake (and you
will), admit it to your children.
Also, pick a time and develop a consistent time together with your
children. As our boys got older this became tougher, but we tried to
make Sunday at lunch a time when we would always go out somewhere or
stay at home and watch a football game together.
Value communication
Build a climate in your family where your children can tell you
anything. This means you let them finish without interruption or
explosion. Always affirm that you love them unconditionally. I still
tell my children, "I love you." I still kiss them on the cheek or the
neck, as well as embrace them. I let them know early on that they did
not have a bigger cheerleader than me. I believe beyond "I love you,"
the greatest words a dad can say to his children are the words, "I
believe in you."
Value vacations
Time away throughout the year is valuable to your family. In those
early years, it was limited due to finances. I believe it is also
important that as your children grow up you ensure that every vacation
is not going to be spent with other family. They need time with you
away from others.
One more time
Jeana and I are not perfect and do not have perfect children or a
perfect grandchild. However, what we do have is a healthy family, a
family full of love and grace. We want to be together.
I believe this can occur for any minister and his family if he values
the right things. Just one more time to set the record straight:
Building your family is more important than building your church!
Remember: "If anyone does not know how to manage his own household,
how will he take care of God's church?" (1 Tim. 3:5)
This article was adapted from Ronnie Floyd's book, 10 Things Every
Minister Needs to Know.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I believe that building your family is more important than building
your ministry. ... Today it stands as probably the only legacy I will
ever see this side of heaven. I would not trade anything for it that
ministry offers.
Ronnie Floyd, pastor of First Baptist Church, Springdale, Ark.
and author of 10 Things Every Minister Needs to Know
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I was a very young pastor in a growing church. I had my academic
degrees behind me and was engaged in my pastoral venture — hook, line,
and sinker! I was in my late 20s and had been married for just under
10 years. Josh was 4 or 5 years old and Nick was only 1 or 2 years
old. I was zooming and filled with life, vitality, and vision.
God was doing some marvelous things in our church. We had seen it come
alive with great passion and fire for evangelism. Everything was
growing.
Heaven was happening on Sunday, but trouble returned on Monday.
Meetings were dominant in the church world back then, and they seemed
to occur nightly and continuously for pastors in that season of
American church life. Jeana had been raised in a pastor's home, so she
understood the challenges of church and family to a degree, but I was
exhausted and my family was caught in the middle of it all.
I would hurry home around 5 p.m. in order to get back to an early
evening meeting with some committee or group of leaders. My family was
very young, and the church was growing. I knew this was taking its
toll on Jeana and me. The boys were way too young to feel it or know
it, but I was neglecting them due to all of the demands on my life.
One night on my journey home, I came to a stop sign. I believe I could
take you to it today. It was like the Holy Spirit spoke to me in that
still, small convicting voice. I am not sure what occurred, but I am
confident of what I told the Lord at that very moment. I said, "Lord,
I will stop sacrificing my family on the altar of ministry success."
That event and moment has shaped my life and family to this very day.
Had God not taught me that lesson at a young age, it might have been
catastrophic later in ministry, marriage, and life.
I believe that building your family is more important than building
your ministry. Not only have I believed it, I have lived it. Today it
stands as probably the only legacy I will ever see this side of
heaven. I would not trade anything for it that ministry offers.
As I have evaluated our journey in balancing marriage, family, and
ministry, I have narrowed the journey to seven values that we observed
in our family. These seven values were things we esteemed, believed
in, championed, and rewarded continually.
Value prayer
Since we are ministers, this sounds like something you would expect
another minister to say or try to prove he does, but make no mistake
about it: You will not succeed in marriage, family, and ministry
without prayer.
For at least two decades I have prayed Ephesians 6:10–18 – the armor
of God – over my family daily. I call their names out to God
specifically and then place the armor on them piece by piece. I do
this for all of our immediate family. We are in a war. Satan goes
after your family with great intensity. Therefore, stand your ground
in Jesus' name by placing the armor of God on your family in prayer
daily.
Also, we prayed with our children before they went to school every day
without exception. I encourage you to pray through the various crises
or situations you face as a family. Also, pray with your spouse
nightly. Jeana and I trade off nightly as to which one of us will pray
before we go to sleep.
Value marriage
The greatest thing you can do for your family is to have a spiritual
and enriching marriage relationship. If you want your children to make
the right decisions in life – especially in relationships – then you
have to have a healthy and godly relationship with your spouse.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you spend uninterrupted time with your mate consistently and
weekly, your mate and your children know that your family is more
important than your ministry.
Ronnie Floyd
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One way I do this is by taking Friday off every week to spend with
Jeana. I've done this ever since "the stop sign moment" I mentioned
earlier. It is our day, and I attempt to stay away from the office.
When you spend uninterrupted time with your mate consistently and
weekly, your mate and your children know that your family is more
important than your ministry.
Value church
The minister and his family need the church in their lives as much as
any other family needs the church. I always told the church when my
children were young, "Pray for my children to grow up loving Jesus and
the church." My children love Jesus and the church. Both Josh and Nick
married young ladies who love the church. Josh and Kate, as well as
Nick and Meredith, will raise children who love Jesus and the church,
beginning with Peyton.
Yet Josh and Nick always knew they came before the church. When Josh
was experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play in the
13-year-old World Series, I did not preach or attend a Sunday night
service which I had been scheduled to do.
In fact, the only game I ever remember missing was when I was asked to
preach to Promise Keepers in Washington, D.C. – before a million men.
I almost chose not to do it, but a friend advised me to talk to my
boys and ask them what they thought I should do. Both immediately
said, "Go do that!"
Value mentoring with gentle accountability
Teach your children to walk with Christ. Teach your children how to
have a daily time with God. Start when they first begin to read words.
Mentor them to lead and influence others to the degree of their
God-given giftedness.
Mentor them in their relationships as well. Do not let them become
culture-driven, but encourage them, in a godly way, to act differently
if God asks them to do so. At times I would intervene in my children's
relationships and re-direct them to others. Why? We knew if Satan
captured our children, it would happen through their friends or their
dating relationships.
Value consistency
Consistency builds godly children. Inconsistency builds the opposite.
You must be consistent in your leadership as a parent. You must be
consistent in your discipline. You must be consistently honest with
them as well. When you make a parenting or marital mistake (and you
will), admit it to your children.
Also, pick a time and develop a consistent time together with your
children. As our boys got older this became tougher, but we tried to
make Sunday at lunch a time when we would always go out somewhere or
stay at home and watch a football game together.
Value communication
Build a climate in your family where your children can tell you
anything. This means you let them finish without interruption or
explosion. Always affirm that you love them unconditionally. I still
tell my children, "I love you." I still kiss them on the cheek or the
neck, as well as embrace them. I let them know early on that they did
not have a bigger cheerleader than me. I believe beyond "I love you,"
the greatest words a dad can say to his children are the words, "I
believe in you."
Value vacations
Time away throughout the year is valuable to your family. In those
early years, it was limited due to finances. I believe it is also
important that as your children grow up you ensure that every vacation
is not going to be spent with other family. They need time with you
away from others.
One more time
Jeana and I are not perfect and do not have perfect children or a
perfect grandchild. However, what we do have is a healthy family, a
family full of love and grace. We want to be together.
I believe this can occur for any minister and his family if he values
the right things. Just one more time to set the record straight:
Building your family is more important than building your church!
Remember: "If anyone does not know how to manage his own household,
how will he take care of God's church?" (1 Tim. 3:5)
This article was adapted from Ronnie Floyd's book, 10 Things Every
Minister Needs to Know.
Schedule a buffer for yourself
source: RW Ministry Toolbox
...The faster you go, the more margin you need.
I'm guessing many of you have no white space in your appointment
books. It's absolutely crammed with appointments and reminders and
tasks. You've left no margin in your life, no place for rest, and I
think God would say, "This is not good!"
The truth is, you can't hope for space in your schedule or pray for
space in your schedule or expect somebody else to provide space in
your schedule. If you're going to free up some space for yourself, if
you're going to allow some down time and build some buffer zones into
your life, you're going to have to make the decision to do so. No one
else will do it for you.
This means actually leaving some empty spaces in your planner – a
pretty scary thought to some of us. But the result is that your Palm
Pilot won't reveal the word "Overload" every time you open it up.
Here's a fact about life: The faster you go, the more margin you need.
If you're going 70 miles per hour down the freeway, you want more than
three inches between you and the other car, don't you? It's no
different in life. Most of us in ministry have lives that are filled
to the brim with activity. You start your day running and it only gets
crazier as the day goes on. Since you're going so fast, you need
margin all the more. You need to build that margin into your day.
Why do we find ourselves having to work all the time? The Bible tells
us very clearly that if we don't allow space into our schedule, if we
just work all the time, we're foolish. Ecclesiastes 10:15 says, "Only
someone too stupid to find his way home would wear himself out with
work."
Don't you like the Bible? It cuts straight to the point. It's deals
very bluntly and honestly with our struggles.
It reminds me of the guy who comes home with a big pile of work he
needs to finish. His little kindergarten daughter looks at the pile
and asks him why he's working so hard and why he always has to bring
work home. The father looks at her and says, "The problem is, I just
don't get it all finished at work so I need to bring it home and get
it done here."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If I really want to last in life, I've got to stop and realize there's
a whole journey of life to live. I've got to remember it's not how
fast I live that's important; it's how well I live.
Rick Warren
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The daughter looks up at him and says, "Daddy, I think they should put
you in the slower group."
Why is it we have to feel so important that we have to keep every
moment of every day busy? Why do we stress load everything? Why do we
have the mindset that everything has to be done right now, and
wherever we're going, we have to get there quickly? The truth is -
life is not a race; it's a journey.
If I really want to last in life, I've got to stop and realize there's
a whole journey of life to live. I've got to remember it's not how
fast I live that's important; it's how well I live.
Pastor (or whatever your vocation is), some of us just need someone to
give us permission to slow down. Why not consider this your
permission?
Rick Warren
...The faster you go, the more margin you need.
I'm guessing many of you have no white space in your appointment
books. It's absolutely crammed with appointments and reminders and
tasks. You've left no margin in your life, no place for rest, and I
think God would say, "This is not good!"
The truth is, you can't hope for space in your schedule or pray for
space in your schedule or expect somebody else to provide space in
your schedule. If you're going to free up some space for yourself, if
you're going to allow some down time and build some buffer zones into
your life, you're going to have to make the decision to do so. No one
else will do it for you.
This means actually leaving some empty spaces in your planner – a
pretty scary thought to some of us. But the result is that your Palm
Pilot won't reveal the word "Overload" every time you open it up.
Here's a fact about life: The faster you go, the more margin you need.
If you're going 70 miles per hour down the freeway, you want more than
three inches between you and the other car, don't you? It's no
different in life. Most of us in ministry have lives that are filled
to the brim with activity. You start your day running and it only gets
crazier as the day goes on. Since you're going so fast, you need
margin all the more. You need to build that margin into your day.
Why do we find ourselves having to work all the time? The Bible tells
us very clearly that if we don't allow space into our schedule, if we
just work all the time, we're foolish. Ecclesiastes 10:15 says, "Only
someone too stupid to find his way home would wear himself out with
work."
Don't you like the Bible? It cuts straight to the point. It's deals
very bluntly and honestly with our struggles.
It reminds me of the guy who comes home with a big pile of work he
needs to finish. His little kindergarten daughter looks at the pile
and asks him why he's working so hard and why he always has to bring
work home. The father looks at her and says, "The problem is, I just
don't get it all finished at work so I need to bring it home and get
it done here."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If I really want to last in life, I've got to stop and realize there's
a whole journey of life to live. I've got to remember it's not how
fast I live that's important; it's how well I live.
Rick Warren
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The daughter looks up at him and says, "Daddy, I think they should put
you in the slower group."
Why is it we have to feel so important that we have to keep every
moment of every day busy? Why do we stress load everything? Why do we
have the mindset that everything has to be done right now, and
wherever we're going, we have to get there quickly? The truth is -
life is not a race; it's a journey.
If I really want to last in life, I've got to stop and realize there's
a whole journey of life to live. I've got to remember it's not how
fast I live that's important; it's how well I live.
Pastor (or whatever your vocation is), some of us just need someone to
give us permission to slow down. Why not consider this your
permission?
Rick Warren
What does God teach you when you're down?
personal/ministry resource from the Collingsworths
What does God teach you when you're down?
I do not know if God teaches you things when you are down, but I have
learned (and am continuing to learn) lessons that would've never been
mine had it not been for this pause in my life.
Take nothing for granted.
Little did I know a road trip would send me to the hospital - three
times, over a seven-week period, with a life-threatening condition.
When was the last time you looked at your situation and wondered, "Do
I cherish the moments that I have?" James often reminds us about what
life is: "You don't even know what tomorrow will bring—what your life
will be! For you are a bit of smoke that appears for a little while,
then vanishes." (James 4:14, HCSB).
Enjoy things about your spouse, and your children, that you are taking
for granted today. Nothing can take the place of time spent looking at
the good things that are yours. Not everything is bad in any marriage.
Look for the good spots and relish in them.
Your life experiences count.
Many times as we navigate the roads of life we look around at all the
great people we know who are making a difference. I was amazed as I
viewed a recent "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" television show about
a 26-year-old mother who had cancer. She was making such a difference
as she bravely fought for her life. She was such an inspiration to so
many.
Trying times tend to make us bitter or they make us better. We can
choose to rise above, see the good, and know in our heart that those
times make us stronger. They also allow us to learn things so we are
able to help those around us.
God needs you to learn what you need to know to touch another life.
Think about Jonathan and David and the vast wisdom they shared with
one another. There are many stories in the Bible that give us a
glimpse of lives filled with desperation, until God sends someone
along to help them. Who are you supposed to be helping? Or are you
praying for someone to help you through a difficult time in life?
Tune into His leading.
You can be used in a great way. Have you ever been prompted to make a
call, go see someone, send a card or letter and failed to do it? I
believe the Holy Spirit is continually pressing us to do things to
make a difference in someone's life. We have the joy of the Lord in
our hearts to share and God has blessed us with gifts to give away. If
you do not do what He requires, just think of the incredible blessing
you will miss!
Maybe there's a couple walking in the same shoes you walked in 5 years
ago. Or maybe there's a young mom suffering from the same kind of
depression that gripped your heart when you were her age. You may know
of a couple struggling to maintain an "everything is fine" image, yet
you can see through the facade. Ask God to show you people to minister
to.
If you're going through a tough time and think, "Who is supposed to
help me?" Pray for that person or seek out someone to call. God's
voice works to call us out to minister, and sometimes it prompts us to
ask for encouragement.
Today, I pray you will minister to someone. Or, that you will pray and
seek out the person who is supposed to minister to you! Remember, we
have no idea when we will be called home, so do those things you have
put off, say a nice word, or write a note of encouragement!
J.B. and Shugie
The Collingsworths coach church leaders on strategies to divorce proof
their congregations, and help couples build strong marriages. They
lead seminars in churches across the U.S. to make a difference in
marriages! If you are interested in booking JB & Shugie in your
church, please email beth@marriageandfamilymatters
What does God teach you when you're down?
I do not know if God teaches you things when you are down, but I have
learned (and am continuing to learn) lessons that would've never been
mine had it not been for this pause in my life.
Take nothing for granted.
Little did I know a road trip would send me to the hospital - three
times, over a seven-week period, with a life-threatening condition.
When was the last time you looked at your situation and wondered, "Do
I cherish the moments that I have?" James often reminds us about what
life is: "You don't even know what tomorrow will bring—what your life
will be! For you are a bit of smoke that appears for a little while,
then vanishes." (James 4:14, HCSB).
Enjoy things about your spouse, and your children, that you are taking
for granted today. Nothing can take the place of time spent looking at
the good things that are yours. Not everything is bad in any marriage.
Look for the good spots and relish in them.
Your life experiences count.
Many times as we navigate the roads of life we look around at all the
great people we know who are making a difference. I was amazed as I
viewed a recent "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" television show about
a 26-year-old mother who had cancer. She was making such a difference
as she bravely fought for her life. She was such an inspiration to so
many.
Trying times tend to make us bitter or they make us better. We can
choose to rise above, see the good, and know in our heart that those
times make us stronger. They also allow us to learn things so we are
able to help those around us.
God needs you to learn what you need to know to touch another life.
Think about Jonathan and David and the vast wisdom they shared with
one another. There are many stories in the Bible that give us a
glimpse of lives filled with desperation, until God sends someone
along to help them. Who are you supposed to be helping? Or are you
praying for someone to help you through a difficult time in life?
Tune into His leading.
You can be used in a great way. Have you ever been prompted to make a
call, go see someone, send a card or letter and failed to do it? I
believe the Holy Spirit is continually pressing us to do things to
make a difference in someone's life. We have the joy of the Lord in
our hearts to share and God has blessed us with gifts to give away. If
you do not do what He requires, just think of the incredible blessing
you will miss!
Maybe there's a couple walking in the same shoes you walked in 5 years
ago. Or maybe there's a young mom suffering from the same kind of
depression that gripped your heart when you were her age. You may know
of a couple struggling to maintain an "everything is fine" image, yet
you can see through the facade. Ask God to show you people to minister
to.
If you're going through a tough time and think, "Who is supposed to
help me?" Pray for that person or seek out someone to call. God's
voice works to call us out to minister, and sometimes it prompts us to
ask for encouragement.
Today, I pray you will minister to someone. Or, that you will pray and
seek out the person who is supposed to minister to you! Remember, we
have no idea when we will be called home, so do those things you have
put off, say a nice word, or write a note of encouragement!
J.B. and Shugie
The Collingsworths coach church leaders on strategies to divorce proof
their congregations, and help couples build strong marriages. They
lead seminars in churches across the U.S. to make a difference in
marriages! If you are interested in booking JB & Shugie in your
church, please email beth@marriageandfamilymatters
Facing Giants
by Greg Laurie
We all will face giants at one time or another in our lives. By
giants, I am speaking of what seem to be insurmountable problems and
issues. We try to fell these giants, but often they seem to only grow
stronger with the passing of time.
It could be a giant of fear. Or it might be a giant of some type of
personal sin that you fall into again and again. It might be the sin
of pride or envy or gluttony or lust or something else. In a related
way, your giant might be one of addiction, something that has a grip
on your life. Then again, it could be a giant of threat that is
taunting you today. Someone has slandered you. A lawsuit has been
filed against you. Maybe there is even a threat against your very
life.
Or it might be a different kind of giant altogether, like an
unbelieving spouse or a prodigal child. You have prayed for them. You
have asked the Lord to reach them, yet they seem to become more
hardened by sin as the years pass by. You find yourself wondering how
you will ever overcome this.
So how do we deal with giants? We find the answer in the Old Testament
account of David and Goliath. Most of us are familiar with the story.
What a victory it was as David boldly defeated the giant Goliath,
armed only with a slingshot and five smooth stones. The will of the
Philistines was broken. The Israelites were reinvigorated. And it was
all because a little shepherd boy answered the call of God and cut
down the giant.
So what can we learn from this story about facing off with our own
giants in life?
One, recognize that we all have giants.
We all face severe hardships, seemingly insurmountable obstacles and
temptations. We all have problems. We all have temptations. We read in
1 Corinthians 10:13, ??The temptations in your life are no different
from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow
the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he
will show you a way out so that you can endure?? (NLT).
While it is true we all have giants, it is also true that every giant
can be defeated. After all, giants rarely start out that way. Goliath
was not always a giant. He was not always nine-feet-six-inches tall.
He was once a baby. And with the passing of time and the nurture of
others, the baby became a child. And the child became a teenager. And
the teenager became a man. And the man turned into a giant.
In the same way, giants often begin quite small. When we have a big
sin in our lives, it started as a little sin that was allowed,
nurtured, fed, and even encouraged, and then became a giant that
taunts us. It started with a so-called Christian liberty that we
proclaimed and is now getting the best of us. In time, little things
become big things.
Two, realize the battle belongs to the Lord.
David told Goliath, ??This is the Lord's battle, and he will give you
to us!?? (1 Samuel 17:47 NLT). That is why giants defeat us again and
again, because we face them in our own strength and we lose. We need
to realize this is the Lord's battle.
Three, attack your giant.
Goliath had come into the actual territory of the Israelites. He had
crossed their line. He was taunting them. And if you tolerate a
Goliath, he will take over your territory. He will come right up on
your doorstep. That is why you don't run from giants. You don't
negotiate with them. You attack them. The Bible tells us, ??As Goliath
moved closer to attack, David quickly ran out to meet him?? (verse 48
NLT). As the enemy drew closer, David ran right at him.
Whatever your giant might be, force it into the light of day. Stop
rationalizing it. Stop excusing it. Realize you can't defeat it in
your own strength. Call on God and pray for His power, and then attack
it. Draw lines and be accountable to others. Stay away from people or
situations where you would be easily tempted. And don't let that giant
back into your life again.
Finally, trust in the Lord. Don't look at God in the light of your
giant; look at your giant in the light of God.
We all will face giants at one time or another in our lives. By
giants, I am speaking of what seem to be insurmountable problems and
issues. We try to fell these giants, but often they seem to only grow
stronger with the passing of time.
It could be a giant of fear. Or it might be a giant of some type of
personal sin that you fall into again and again. It might be the sin
of pride or envy or gluttony or lust or something else. In a related
way, your giant might be one of addiction, something that has a grip
on your life. Then again, it could be a giant of threat that is
taunting you today. Someone has slandered you. A lawsuit has been
filed against you. Maybe there is even a threat against your very
life.
Or it might be a different kind of giant altogether, like an
unbelieving spouse or a prodigal child. You have prayed for them. You
have asked the Lord to reach them, yet they seem to become more
hardened by sin as the years pass by. You find yourself wondering how
you will ever overcome this.
So how do we deal with giants? We find the answer in the Old Testament
account of David and Goliath. Most of us are familiar with the story.
What a victory it was as David boldly defeated the giant Goliath,
armed only with a slingshot and five smooth stones. The will of the
Philistines was broken. The Israelites were reinvigorated. And it was
all because a little shepherd boy answered the call of God and cut
down the giant.
So what can we learn from this story about facing off with our own
giants in life?
One, recognize that we all have giants.
We all face severe hardships, seemingly insurmountable obstacles and
temptations. We all have problems. We all have temptations. We read in
1 Corinthians 10:13, ??The temptations in your life are no different
from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow
the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he
will show you a way out so that you can endure?? (NLT).
While it is true we all have giants, it is also true that every giant
can be defeated. After all, giants rarely start out that way. Goliath
was not always a giant. He was not always nine-feet-six-inches tall.
He was once a baby. And with the passing of time and the nurture of
others, the baby became a child. And the child became a teenager. And
the teenager became a man. And the man turned into a giant.
In the same way, giants often begin quite small. When we have a big
sin in our lives, it started as a little sin that was allowed,
nurtured, fed, and even encouraged, and then became a giant that
taunts us. It started with a so-called Christian liberty that we
proclaimed and is now getting the best of us. In time, little things
become big things.
Two, realize the battle belongs to the Lord.
David told Goliath, ??This is the Lord's battle, and he will give you
to us!?? (1 Samuel 17:47 NLT). That is why giants defeat us again and
again, because we face them in our own strength and we lose. We need
to realize this is the Lord's battle.
Three, attack your giant.
Goliath had come into the actual territory of the Israelites. He had
crossed their line. He was taunting them. And if you tolerate a
Goliath, he will take over your territory. He will come right up on
your doorstep. That is why you don't run from giants. You don't
negotiate with them. You attack them. The Bible tells us, ??As Goliath
moved closer to attack, David quickly ran out to meet him?? (verse 48
NLT). As the enemy drew closer, David ran right at him.
Whatever your giant might be, force it into the light of day. Stop
rationalizing it. Stop excusing it. Realize you can't defeat it in
your own strength. Call on God and pray for His power, and then attack
it. Draw lines and be accountable to others. Stay away from people or
situations where you would be easily tempted. And don't let that giant
back into your life again.
Finally, trust in the Lord. Don't look at God in the light of your
giant; look at your giant in the light of God.
Holiday Ideas
Today's Christian Woman, November/December 2006
personal/ministry resource
Merry and Meaningful
12 ways to make the most of your holidays.
by Jeanne Winters
As you enter this year's festive season, consider incorporating new
traditions and time for personal reflection into your celebration.
Here are 12 fresh ideas just in time for the holidays:
1. Thinking of Thankfulness
Find a beautiful blank journal, or create one with handmade papers.
Then write the year's blessings in it. This can be a private exercise
or a family tradition. If you choose to make it a family activity,
have each member write briefly and allow time to read past entries.
Or, you may prefer a year-end journal to be completed after the
holidays. Either way, it's sure to become a treasured keepsake.
2. Joy to Your World
Share the Christmas message with everyone who visits your home. Cut
gold or silver shimmer fabric into squares. Place several wrapped
candies and a copy of a holiday verse such as Isaiah 9:6, Luke 2:11,
or Matthew 1:21 inside. Then tie the squares up with sparkly ribbon.
Keep a basket of these favors by your front door to bestow on your
package-delivery person or children selling door-to-door.
3. Guiding Lights
I never tire of seeing fine homes gleaming with colorful Christmas
lights. The usual line of cars tells me I'm not the only one who
enjoys the splendor! This year when you tour a glittery neighborhood,
choose one decorated house and one undecorated house, say a prayer for
the people who live there, and continue to pray for them every day
thereafter until Christmas.
4. Do Unto Others
Bring a little Christmas cheer to a "twin family" in need by providing
them with a few presents. A twin family is one with the same makeup as
yours (single; married with no children; single mother with two
children; etc.). Call your church or local social services department
for contacts and shopping guidance.
5. A Tisket, a Tasket …
Instead of exchanging gifts with your girlfriends or coworkers,
arrange a party to package gift baskets for a local women's shelter or
a pregnancy care center. First contact the director about specific
needs and quantities. Then create a list of items and ask friends to
sign up for what they'll provide. When you gather, gift-wrap cardboard
boxes or dress up inexpensive wicker baskets, then fill them with your
donations. Relax over tea and holiday treats before making your
delivery.
6. The Gift of You
Often the presents we shop so intently for are quickly forgotten. For
a more memorable gift, why not try doing something? Think about what
you might do for your spouse, friend, or parent that would have a
longer-lasting, more positive impact on your relationship. Would your
spouse appreciate a date night? Do your parents long for more quality
time with you? Don't be afraid to ask—it doesn't have to be a
surprise.
7. Gothic Gingerbread
Try your hand at a gingerbread church. You can work alone or with
friends or family members. Pour some apple cider, start the Christmas
music, and get to work. Choose a different country each year and
create its most famous cathedral or simplest country church in
miniature. Travel books can provide ideas. Then, pray for that nation
throughout the month of December.
8. Happy Birthday, Jesus
Offer Jesus a symbolic gift in honor of his birthday. Give him an area
of your life you desire to change—an emotion, an activity, or a
relationship—and physically wrap a box to represent it. Do this
individually or as a family. Create a family present to display every
year by painting an unfinished wooden box and tying it with a silk
ribbon.
9. Serve the Servants
December is an extra busy month for church staffers who work extended
hours due to holiday programs and an influx of visitors. Deliver a hot
meal to one or more of these families to help lighten their load.
10. Simple Pleasures
Set aside an annual night to relish simple, old-fashioned joys. Pop
some corn and snuggle with a book of sentimental short stories of
Christmases past. If you have kids, plan a night of games and pizzas.
Saunter through the snow-covered woods, leaving a trail of snow angels
behind. Or, if you live in a warmer climate, grab a blanket, head
outside, and search for the star in the East. Whatever you do, take
reprieve from worries and reflect on Christ's humble birth.
11. Guest of Honor
Set a place of honor for Jesus at your Christmas dinner table as a
reminder of his presence.
12. Forgiveness Eve
The end of a year is a wonderful opportunity to engage in earnest
reflection. Take time to forgive anyone who's wronged you during the
year and for whom you still harbor resentment or bitterness. Begin the
new year with a refreshed heart!
Jeanne Winters is the author of Inspirational Home (Creative Faith
Place). Visit her online at www.jeannewinters.com.
Copyright (c) 2006 by the author or Christianity Today
International/Today's Christian Woman magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Today's Christian Woman.
November/December 2006, Vol. 28, No. 6, Page 28
------
additional input from ELIZABETH
thanks helpmeet!
I LOVED this article! I was trying earlier this week to think of a little way we could give to church members without it costing a lot. This article inspired the following ideas:
1.We have left over candy from our Fall Festival. We can wrap these candies in silver paper and tie with silver and white ribbon. On Dec 31st we can have the children pass these out to each member.
2. At the entrance to the church, lay out a holiday notebook and a pen. Ask congregation members to sign it and write what they are thankful for this year. We can keep this item in the church library for all to come and read.
3. To remember to be thankful and teach my children thankfulness, I will make a homemade journal and keep it in our study. Each night before bed I will ask the children to name at least one thing they are thankful for that day. ( I will write for the younger ones.) At the end of the year we should have a nice little keepsake to reread as we please.
personal/ministry resource
Merry and Meaningful
12 ways to make the most of your holidays.
by Jeanne Winters
As you enter this year's festive season, consider incorporating new
traditions and time for personal reflection into your celebration.
Here are 12 fresh ideas just in time for the holidays:
1. Thinking of Thankfulness
Find a beautiful blank journal, or create one with handmade papers.
Then write the year's blessings in it. This can be a private exercise
or a family tradition. If you choose to make it a family activity,
have each member write briefly and allow time to read past entries.
Or, you may prefer a year-end journal to be completed after the
holidays. Either way, it's sure to become a treasured keepsake.
2. Joy to Your World
Share the Christmas message with everyone who visits your home. Cut
gold or silver shimmer fabric into squares. Place several wrapped
candies and a copy of a holiday verse such as Isaiah 9:6, Luke 2:11,
or Matthew 1:21 inside. Then tie the squares up with sparkly ribbon.
Keep a basket of these favors by your front door to bestow on your
package-delivery person or children selling door-to-door.
3. Guiding Lights
I never tire of seeing fine homes gleaming with colorful Christmas
lights. The usual line of cars tells me I'm not the only one who
enjoys the splendor! This year when you tour a glittery neighborhood,
choose one decorated house and one undecorated house, say a prayer for
the people who live there, and continue to pray for them every day
thereafter until Christmas.
4. Do Unto Others
Bring a little Christmas cheer to a "twin family" in need by providing
them with a few presents. A twin family is one with the same makeup as
yours (single; married with no children; single mother with two
children; etc.). Call your church or local social services department
for contacts and shopping guidance.
5. A Tisket, a Tasket …
Instead of exchanging gifts with your girlfriends or coworkers,
arrange a party to package gift baskets for a local women's shelter or
a pregnancy care center. First contact the director about specific
needs and quantities. Then create a list of items and ask friends to
sign up for what they'll provide. When you gather, gift-wrap cardboard
boxes or dress up inexpensive wicker baskets, then fill them with your
donations. Relax over tea and holiday treats before making your
delivery.
6. The Gift of You
Often the presents we shop so intently for are quickly forgotten. For
a more memorable gift, why not try doing something? Think about what
you might do for your spouse, friend, or parent that would have a
longer-lasting, more positive impact on your relationship. Would your
spouse appreciate a date night? Do your parents long for more quality
time with you? Don't be afraid to ask—it doesn't have to be a
surprise.
7. Gothic Gingerbread
Try your hand at a gingerbread church. You can work alone or with
friends or family members. Pour some apple cider, start the Christmas
music, and get to work. Choose a different country each year and
create its most famous cathedral or simplest country church in
miniature. Travel books can provide ideas. Then, pray for that nation
throughout the month of December.
8. Happy Birthday, Jesus
Offer Jesus a symbolic gift in honor of his birthday. Give him an area
of your life you desire to change—an emotion, an activity, or a
relationship—and physically wrap a box to represent it. Do this
individually or as a family. Create a family present to display every
year by painting an unfinished wooden box and tying it with a silk
ribbon.
9. Serve the Servants
December is an extra busy month for church staffers who work extended
hours due to holiday programs and an influx of visitors. Deliver a hot
meal to one or more of these families to help lighten their load.
10. Simple Pleasures
Set aside an annual night to relish simple, old-fashioned joys. Pop
some corn and snuggle with a book of sentimental short stories of
Christmases past. If you have kids, plan a night of games and pizzas.
Saunter through the snow-covered woods, leaving a trail of snow angels
behind. Or, if you live in a warmer climate, grab a blanket, head
outside, and search for the star in the East. Whatever you do, take
reprieve from worries and reflect on Christ's humble birth.
11. Guest of Honor
Set a place of honor for Jesus at your Christmas dinner table as a
reminder of his presence.
12. Forgiveness Eve
The end of a year is a wonderful opportunity to engage in earnest
reflection. Take time to forgive anyone who's wronged you during the
year and for whom you still harbor resentment or bitterness. Begin the
new year with a refreshed heart!
Jeanne Winters is the author of Inspirational Home (Creative Faith
Place). Visit her online at www.jeannewinters.com.
Copyright (c) 2006 by the author or Christianity Today
International/Today's Christian Woman magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Today's Christian Woman.
November/December 2006, Vol. 28, No. 6, Page 28
------
additional input from ELIZABETH
thanks helpmeet!
I LOVED this article! I was trying earlier this week to think of a little way we could give to church members without it costing a lot. This article inspired the following ideas:
1.We have left over candy from our Fall Festival. We can wrap these candies in silver paper and tie with silver and white ribbon. On Dec 31st we can have the children pass these out to each member.
2. At the entrance to the church, lay out a holiday notebook and a pen. Ask congregation members to sign it and write what they are thankful for this year. We can keep this item in the church library for all to come and read.
3. To remember to be thankful and teach my children thankfulness, I will make a homemade journal and keep it in our study. Each night before bed I will ask the children to name at least one thing they are thankful for that day. ( I will write for the younger ones.) At the end of the year we should have a nice little keepsake to reread as we please.
Resist Discouragement
by Rick Warren
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
... Great people are really just ordinary people with an extraordinary
amount of determination. Great people don't know how to quit.
Rick Warren
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I believe procrastination is the number one enemy of your life
mission. You know what you're supposed to do, but you don't get around
to it. You keep putting it off. That's a deadly enemy. But a close
second is discouragement. If Satan can't get you to put off your life
mission, he'll try to make you quit altogether. He'll neutralize you.
If I'm going to fulfill the purpose for which I was made, then I must
resist discouragement. Galatians says: "Let us not get tired of doing
what is right …" Do you ever get tired of doing what's right? Sure you
do. Because it's easier to do the wrong thing than the right thing.
When you're discouraged, you're ineffective. God cannot use
discouraged people, because discouraged people are the opposite of
people of faith. And God uses people who have faith. When I am
discouraged, I'm saying, "It can't be done." That's the exact opposite
of saying, "I know God can do it because he's said …"
I have a few questions for you. How do you handle failure? When things
don't go your way, when plans don't happen the way you want them, do
you start getting grumpy? Do you get frustrated? Do you start
complaining? Do you have a pity party? Do you finish what you start?
How would you rate yourself on persistence?
The Bible says you need to resist discouragement. Don't give in
without a fight. Nothing worthwhile ever happens without endurance and
energy. When a stone sculptor is trying to sculpt a masterpiece, do
you think the first time he hits the chisel with the hammer
everything's going to fall off and it will be a beautiful sculpture?
No. He has to keep hitting it and hitting it, chipping away. And
that's the way life is. Nothing really worthwhile ever comes easy in
life. You keep hitting it and going after it – and little by little
your life becomes a masterpiece.
The fact is, great people are really just ordinary people with an
extraordinary amount of determination. Great people don't know how to
quit.
I'm sure many of you are discouraged. Some of you are discouraged over
your children. Their lives are not going well. Some of you are
discouraged about your marriage. It's not at all what you thought it
was going to be. You feel deflated and disappointed. Some of you are
discouraged about your ministry. Or about your finances, or your
health, or the economy, or an unanswered prayer.
I want to say something to you. It may sound mean, but it isn't. It's
the truth. I say this in love. If you're discouraged, that's your
choice. You have chosen to be discouraged. Discouragement is always a
choice. It comes from thinking discouraging thoughts – and you can
change your thoughts any time. You have a choice of what you're going
to focus on: either your purpose or your problems, God's power or your
weakness, Christ or your circumstances. It's your choice.
Great people fight discouragement. Here's a tip to help: When you get
discouraged, ignore it. Just say to yourself, "I don't have time to be
discouraged right now. I'm too busy fulfilling my life mission." That
doesn't mean you're a Pollyanna and pretend that everything's great.
Life is a mixture of good and bad. You can be realistic, but you also
need to be optimistic because you are a Christian. "I can do all
things through Christ who strengthens me." And "Lo, I am with you
always," God says. He will help you, and he will strengthen you. Faith
starts with optimism.
Some of you have been praying for something specific and you haven't
yet gotten the answer. In Habbakuk 2:3 God says, "These things I plan
[for your life] won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the
time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow,
do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be
patient. They will not be overdue a single day." God's timing is
perfect. Our church claimed this verse from Habbakuk for 13 years. For
13 years we had no building of our own, and the church kept getting
bigger and bigger. We'd say, "Everybody else has a building. How come
we don't have a building?" The reason was that God wanted to put us on
79 acres of land. He had a bigger plan. The piece of property we now
own wasn't even available when we started Saddleback. There weren't
even roads leading to it. God had a plan and slowly, steadily, surely
the vision was being fulfilled.
The same is true in your life. God's delay is not a denial. Just
because you haven't had the answer or the miracle yet, that doesn't
mean God isn't going to do it eventually. It simply means not yet!
Maturity is knowing the difference between, "No," and "Not yet,"
between a delay and a denial. God says, "Don't become discouraged.
Resist discouragement. Because there are going to be delays in your
life."
You're going to be tested in your patience by God. The really good
news is you're not just going to be tested once, you're going to be
tested thousands and thousands of times. Because anybody can be
patient once. And anybody can be patient twice. And anybody can be
patient three times. So what God's going to do is test you over and
over and over. Why? So he'll know how patient you are? No. So you'll
know.
God tests you, not for him to find out what's inside of you but for
you to find out what's inside of you. He tests you so you'll know your
level of commitment, and he tests you so that you can know his
faithfulness. His purpose is to teach you.
Some of you are going through some difficult times right now and you
feel like dropping out of the race. You're discouraged because the
situation seems unmanageable. Unreasonable. Unfair. It may seem
unbearable. Inside you're basically saying, "God, I can't take it any
more. I just can't take it any more!" But you can. You can take it
some more because God is with you. He'll enable you. Remember, you are
never a failure until you quit, because quitting means you won't make
it to the finish line.
Resist discouragement! Finish the race God has set before you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
... Great people are really just ordinary people with an extraordinary
amount of determination. Great people don't know how to quit.
Rick Warren
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I believe procrastination is the number one enemy of your life
mission. You know what you're supposed to do, but you don't get around
to it. You keep putting it off. That's a deadly enemy. But a close
second is discouragement. If Satan can't get you to put off your life
mission, he'll try to make you quit altogether. He'll neutralize you.
If I'm going to fulfill the purpose for which I was made, then I must
resist discouragement. Galatians says: "Let us not get tired of doing
what is right …" Do you ever get tired of doing what's right? Sure you
do. Because it's easier to do the wrong thing than the right thing.
When you're discouraged, you're ineffective. God cannot use
discouraged people, because discouraged people are the opposite of
people of faith. And God uses people who have faith. When I am
discouraged, I'm saying, "It can't be done." That's the exact opposite
of saying, "I know God can do it because he's said …"
I have a few questions for you. How do you handle failure? When things
don't go your way, when plans don't happen the way you want them, do
you start getting grumpy? Do you get frustrated? Do you start
complaining? Do you have a pity party? Do you finish what you start?
How would you rate yourself on persistence?
The Bible says you need to resist discouragement. Don't give in
without a fight. Nothing worthwhile ever happens without endurance and
energy. When a stone sculptor is trying to sculpt a masterpiece, do
you think the first time he hits the chisel with the hammer
everything's going to fall off and it will be a beautiful sculpture?
No. He has to keep hitting it and hitting it, chipping away. And
that's the way life is. Nothing really worthwhile ever comes easy in
life. You keep hitting it and going after it – and little by little
your life becomes a masterpiece.
The fact is, great people are really just ordinary people with an
extraordinary amount of determination. Great people don't know how to
quit.
I'm sure many of you are discouraged. Some of you are discouraged over
your children. Their lives are not going well. Some of you are
discouraged about your marriage. It's not at all what you thought it
was going to be. You feel deflated and disappointed. Some of you are
discouraged about your ministry. Or about your finances, or your
health, or the economy, or an unanswered prayer.
I want to say something to you. It may sound mean, but it isn't. It's
the truth. I say this in love. If you're discouraged, that's your
choice. You have chosen to be discouraged. Discouragement is always a
choice. It comes from thinking discouraging thoughts – and you can
change your thoughts any time. You have a choice of what you're going
to focus on: either your purpose or your problems, God's power or your
weakness, Christ or your circumstances. It's your choice.
Great people fight discouragement. Here's a tip to help: When you get
discouraged, ignore it. Just say to yourself, "I don't have time to be
discouraged right now. I'm too busy fulfilling my life mission." That
doesn't mean you're a Pollyanna and pretend that everything's great.
Life is a mixture of good and bad. You can be realistic, but you also
need to be optimistic because you are a Christian. "I can do all
things through Christ who strengthens me." And "Lo, I am with you
always," God says. He will help you, and he will strengthen you. Faith
starts with optimism.
Some of you have been praying for something specific and you haven't
yet gotten the answer. In Habbakuk 2:3 God says, "These things I plan
[for your life] won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the
time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow,
do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be
patient. They will not be overdue a single day." God's timing is
perfect. Our church claimed this verse from Habbakuk for 13 years. For
13 years we had no building of our own, and the church kept getting
bigger and bigger. We'd say, "Everybody else has a building. How come
we don't have a building?" The reason was that God wanted to put us on
79 acres of land. He had a bigger plan. The piece of property we now
own wasn't even available when we started Saddleback. There weren't
even roads leading to it. God had a plan and slowly, steadily, surely
the vision was being fulfilled.
The same is true in your life. God's delay is not a denial. Just
because you haven't had the answer or the miracle yet, that doesn't
mean God isn't going to do it eventually. It simply means not yet!
Maturity is knowing the difference between, "No," and "Not yet,"
between a delay and a denial. God says, "Don't become discouraged.
Resist discouragement. Because there are going to be delays in your
life."
You're going to be tested in your patience by God. The really good
news is you're not just going to be tested once, you're going to be
tested thousands and thousands of times. Because anybody can be
patient once. And anybody can be patient twice. And anybody can be
patient three times. So what God's going to do is test you over and
over and over. Why? So he'll know how patient you are? No. So you'll
know.
God tests you, not for him to find out what's inside of you but for
you to find out what's inside of you. He tests you so you'll know your
level of commitment, and he tests you so that you can know his
faithfulness. His purpose is to teach you.
Some of you are going through some difficult times right now and you
feel like dropping out of the race. You're discouraged because the
situation seems unmanageable. Unreasonable. Unfair. It may seem
unbearable. Inside you're basically saying, "God, I can't take it any
more. I just can't take it any more!" But you can. You can take it
some more because God is with you. He'll enable you. Remember, you are
never a failure until you quit, because quitting means you won't make
it to the finish line.
Resist discouragement! Finish the race God has set before you.
Is Your Spouse Stressed at Work?
9 things you can do to help.
By Donna Savage
Watching your spouse struggle with prolonged stress at work can be
like a long roller coaster ride. Each day brings a new dip or turn
produced by the irritability and frustration your partner brings home
from work.
No one wants to watch helplessly as their mate wanders from unhealthy
stress into burnout or depression. We want to take positive action,
but we can't fix things by ourselves. Often all we can do is provide
support and encouragement during the rough moments. Here are nine tips
for handling the bumps and curves ahead.
1. Practice listening. We all struggle with the temptation to share
our insights and knowledge, sure that we can solve our spouse's
problem. Instead, partners may need us to listen without evaluating
their responses.
2. Be content with silence. Being supportive does not equal talking.
Recognize that your spouse may not want to update you daily, because
reviewing and reliving every event and emotion is additional stress.
3. Share the load. Your mate needs you to acknowledge the emotional
and physical demands of stress by offering help in acceptable ways.
Volunteer to handle supper and the kids' homework. Hire a neighborhood
teen to mow the lawn during the crunch season at work.
4. Meet primary needs. Husbands often need the reassurance of more
frequent sexual intimacy when they don't feel successful in the
workplace. Stressed-out wives need extra tenderness and affection—such
as a simple hug with no strings attached—and more time for
conversation.
5. Make home a haven. At times, deliberately choose not to unload
every issue and problem from your day during your first minutes
together. By waiting to share, you assure your spouse that you're not
the next one in line waiting for a piece of him or her.
6. Adjust your expectations. The stressed-out husband or wife may not
have much energy at home—for anything. The decision is ours whether to
spend the evening sulking or to tenderly kiss them as we give them the
evening off.
7. Keep your spouse in the picture. In an effort to help their
stressed spouse, some husbands and wives silently start handling all
the issues of the household or the children by themselves. They begin
to withdraw emotionally, not wanting to burden their mate by sharing
any personal struggles. In reality, isolating the beleaguered partner
simply communicates that they're a failure at home, too. We need to
share the news of a child's success at school or ask for our spouse's
advice about a relationship problem, and our mate needs the
encouragement of being needed.
8. Guard your heart. When we hear our spouse continually vent about
the same people or situations, it's easy to get sucked into their
anger and bitterness. Devoting extra time and energy to bolster our
spiritual walk allows us to give a husband or wife the prayer support
they need—without becoming bitter ourselves.
9. Demonstrate unconditional love. Let's face it. While we'd love to
see our mates display only spiritually mature responses to adversity,
that's not reality. Your spouse needs to "spew out the poison"
building inside before it does further damage: Although watching that
process isn't pretty, our spouses need the freedom to share bad
reactions without fear of rejection. By extending that freedom, we put
1 Corinthians 13:7 into action: "(Love) always protects, always
trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."
Near the entrance of most roller coaster rides is a warning sign. Some
rides prohibit people under certain heights or ages; others warn those
with specific medical conditions to avoid the ride. The roller coaster
ride of job stress comes with no such warnings—for the spouse at risk
or the partner.
We watch our mates struggle, but we can't win the battle for them. We
can't wave a magic wand and make all their aggravations disappear. We
can't even promise that our words and actions will lessen their
stress. We can, however, offer one important promise to a stressed-out
spouse. No matter how often the roller coaster pitches us from side to
front and back again, we can promise to go along for the ride and stay
in the car with them until the very end.
Donna Savage, a freelance writer, lives in Nevada.
By Donna Savage
Watching your spouse struggle with prolonged stress at work can be
like a long roller coaster ride. Each day brings a new dip or turn
produced by the irritability and frustration your partner brings home
from work.
No one wants to watch helplessly as their mate wanders from unhealthy
stress into burnout or depression. We want to take positive action,
but we can't fix things by ourselves. Often all we can do is provide
support and encouragement during the rough moments. Here are nine tips
for handling the bumps and curves ahead.
1. Practice listening. We all struggle with the temptation to share
our insights and knowledge, sure that we can solve our spouse's
problem. Instead, partners may need us to listen without evaluating
their responses.
2. Be content with silence. Being supportive does not equal talking.
Recognize that your spouse may not want to update you daily, because
reviewing and reliving every event and emotion is additional stress.
3. Share the load. Your mate needs you to acknowledge the emotional
and physical demands of stress by offering help in acceptable ways.
Volunteer to handle supper and the kids' homework. Hire a neighborhood
teen to mow the lawn during the crunch season at work.
4. Meet primary needs. Husbands often need the reassurance of more
frequent sexual intimacy when they don't feel successful in the
workplace. Stressed-out wives need extra tenderness and affection—such
as a simple hug with no strings attached—and more time for
conversation.
5. Make home a haven. At times, deliberately choose not to unload
every issue and problem from your day during your first minutes
together. By waiting to share, you assure your spouse that you're not
the next one in line waiting for a piece of him or her.
6. Adjust your expectations. The stressed-out husband or wife may not
have much energy at home—for anything. The decision is ours whether to
spend the evening sulking or to tenderly kiss them as we give them the
evening off.
7. Keep your spouse in the picture. In an effort to help their
stressed spouse, some husbands and wives silently start handling all
the issues of the household or the children by themselves. They begin
to withdraw emotionally, not wanting to burden their mate by sharing
any personal struggles. In reality, isolating the beleaguered partner
simply communicates that they're a failure at home, too. We need to
share the news of a child's success at school or ask for our spouse's
advice about a relationship problem, and our mate needs the
encouragement of being needed.
8. Guard your heart. When we hear our spouse continually vent about
the same people or situations, it's easy to get sucked into their
anger and bitterness. Devoting extra time and energy to bolster our
spiritual walk allows us to give a husband or wife the prayer support
they need—without becoming bitter ourselves.
9. Demonstrate unconditional love. Let's face it. While we'd love to
see our mates display only spiritually mature responses to adversity,
that's not reality. Your spouse needs to "spew out the poison"
building inside before it does further damage: Although watching that
process isn't pretty, our spouses need the freedom to share bad
reactions without fear of rejection. By extending that freedom, we put
1 Corinthians 13:7 into action: "(Love) always protects, always
trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."
Near the entrance of most roller coaster rides is a warning sign. Some
rides prohibit people under certain heights or ages; others warn those
with specific medical conditions to avoid the ride. The roller coaster
ride of job stress comes with no such warnings—for the spouse at risk
or the partner.
We watch our mates struggle, but we can't win the battle for them. We
can't wave a magic wand and make all their aggravations disappear. We
can't even promise that our words and actions will lessen their
stress. We can, however, offer one important promise to a stressed-out
spouse. No matter how often the roller coaster pitches us from side to
front and back again, we can promise to go along for the ride and stay
in the car with them until the very end.
Donna Savage, a freelance writer, lives in Nevada.
Bible Teaching: Gaps to Bridge & Principles to Understand
Bible Teaching: Gaps to Bridge & Principles to Understand
Ever been guilty of twisting the Scriptures to say what you want it to
say? or maybe just unkowingly or maybe even carelessly using a passage
to fit a point you want to make? or maybe quickly coming up with a
lesson without proper preparation and analysis of your content?
May this article help us become better at our study and lesson preparations....
By John MacArthur
As I read Scripture, I always keep in mind one simple question:
What does this mean???
It's not enough to read the text and jump directly to the
application; we must first determine what it means, otherwise the
application may be incorrect.
Gaps to Bridge
The first step in interpreting the Bible is to recognize the four gaps
we have to bridge: language, culture, geography, and history.
Language The Bible was originally written in Greek, Hebrew, and
Aramaic. Often, understanding the meaning of a word or phrase in the
original language can be the key to correctly interpreting a passage
of Scripture. Two books that will help you close the language gap are
An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, and
Nelson's Expository Dictionary of the Old Testament, by Merrill F.
Unger and William White, Jr.
You don't need to know Greek or Hebrew to use those books effectively.
Culture
The culture gap can be tricky. Some people try to use cultural
differences to explain away the more difficult biblical commands.
Don't fall into that trap, but realize that we must first view
Scripture in the context of the culture in which it was written.
Without an understanding of first-century Jewish culture, it is
difficult to understand the gospels. Acts and the epistles must be
read in light of the Greek and Roman cultures.
The following books will help you understand the cultural background
of the Bible: The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, by Alfred
Edersheim, Sketches of Jewish Social Life, also by Edersheim, and The
New Manners and Customs of Bible Times, by Ralph Gower. Geography
Geography
A third gap that needs to be closed is the geography gap. Biblical
geography makes the Bible come alive. A good Bible atlas is an
invaluable reference tool that can help you comprehend the geography
of the Holy Land. Of course, nothing helps like seeing the land
first-hand on a tour.
History
We must also bridge the history gap. Unlike the scriptures of most
other world religions, the Bible contains the records of actual
historical persons and events. An understanding of Bible history will
help us place the people and events in it in their proper historical
perspective. A good Bible dictionary or Bible encyclopedia is useful
here, as are basic historical studies.
Principles to Understand
Four principles should guide us as we interpret the Bible: literal,
historical, grammatical, and synthesis.
The Literal Principle Scripture should be understood in its literal,
normal, and natural sense. While the Bible does contain figures of
speech and symbols, they were intended to convey literal truth. In
general, however, the Bible speaks in literal terms, and we must allow
it to speak for itself.
The Historical Principle This means that we interpret Scripture in its
historical context. We must ask what the text meant to the people to
whom it was first written. In this way we can develop a proper
contextual understanding of the original intent of Scripture.
The Grammatical Principle This requires that we understand the basic
grammatical structure of each sentence in the original language. To
whom do the pronouns refer? What is the tense of the main verb? You'll
find that when you ask some simple questions like those, the meaning
of the text immediately becomes clearer.
The Synthesis Principle This is what the Reformers called the analogia
scriptura. It means that the Bible doesn't contradict itself. If we
arrive at an interpretation of a passage that contradicts a truth
taught elsewhere in the Scriptures, our interpretation cannot be
correct. Scripture must be compared with Scripture to discover its
full meaning.
Ever been guilty of twisting the Scriptures to say what you want it to
say? or maybe just unkowingly or maybe even carelessly using a passage
to fit a point you want to make? or maybe quickly coming up with a
lesson without proper preparation and analysis of your content?
May this article help us become better at our study and lesson preparations....
By John MacArthur
As I read Scripture, I always keep in mind one simple question:
What does this mean???
It's not enough to read the text and jump directly to the
application; we must first determine what it means, otherwise the
application may be incorrect.
Gaps to Bridge
The first step in interpreting the Bible is to recognize the four gaps
we have to bridge: language, culture, geography, and history.
Language The Bible was originally written in Greek, Hebrew, and
Aramaic. Often, understanding the meaning of a word or phrase in the
original language can be the key to correctly interpreting a passage
of Scripture. Two books that will help you close the language gap are
An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, and
Nelson's Expository Dictionary of the Old Testament, by Merrill F.
Unger and William White, Jr.
You don't need to know Greek or Hebrew to use those books effectively.
Culture
The culture gap can be tricky. Some people try to use cultural
differences to explain away the more difficult biblical commands.
Don't fall into that trap, but realize that we must first view
Scripture in the context of the culture in which it was written.
Without an understanding of first-century Jewish culture, it is
difficult to understand the gospels. Acts and the epistles must be
read in light of the Greek and Roman cultures.
The following books will help you understand the cultural background
of the Bible: The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, by Alfred
Edersheim, Sketches of Jewish Social Life, also by Edersheim, and The
New Manners and Customs of Bible Times, by Ralph Gower. Geography
Geography
A third gap that needs to be closed is the geography gap. Biblical
geography makes the Bible come alive. A good Bible atlas is an
invaluable reference tool that can help you comprehend the geography
of the Holy Land. Of course, nothing helps like seeing the land
first-hand on a tour.
History
We must also bridge the history gap. Unlike the scriptures of most
other world religions, the Bible contains the records of actual
historical persons and events. An understanding of Bible history will
help us place the people and events in it in their proper historical
perspective. A good Bible dictionary or Bible encyclopedia is useful
here, as are basic historical studies.
Principles to Understand
Four principles should guide us as we interpret the Bible: literal,
historical, grammatical, and synthesis.
The Literal Principle Scripture should be understood in its literal,
normal, and natural sense. While the Bible does contain figures of
speech and symbols, they were intended to convey literal truth. In
general, however, the Bible speaks in literal terms, and we must allow
it to speak for itself.
The Historical Principle This means that we interpret Scripture in its
historical context. We must ask what the text meant to the people to
whom it was first written. In this way we can develop a proper
contextual understanding of the original intent of Scripture.
The Grammatical Principle This requires that we understand the basic
grammatical structure of each sentence in the original language. To
whom do the pronouns refer? What is the tense of the main verb? You'll
find that when you ask some simple questions like those, the meaning
of the text immediately becomes clearer.
The Synthesis Principle This is what the Reformers called the analogia
scriptura. It means that the Bible doesn't contradict itself. If we
arrive at an interpretation of a passage that contradicts a truth
taught elsewhere in the Scriptures, our interpretation cannot be
correct. Scripture must be compared with Scripture to discover its
full meaning.
"The Friendships of Women"
Glynnis Whitwer, Senior Editor P31 Woman, Proverbs 31 Speaker and Author
Key .Verse:
Ecclesiastes 4:8-10,
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their
work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man
who falls and has no one to help him up!"
Devotion:
A study of elementary school activity recess revealed that boys and
girls play differently on the playground structures. Researchers have
found that girls are more likely to swing and climb to the top of the
play structures and yell down at their friends who are close by on the
ground. Boys, on the other hand, are more likely to run around the
structure or the playground.
Apparently, these findings concerned the researchers because they
worry that girls aren't using enough of the playground. Isn't that
interesting? Without any suggestion from teachers or parents, the
girls place themselves in closer physical proximity to each other,
thereby increasing their social contact.
Although little girls tend to disagree more than boys, their need for
friendships is obvious, and at a young age, seek each other out. God
designed this need in us, and friendships offer more than
companionship, they also offer protection.
With Satan as our enemy, and sin as our nature, we are weakened. One
of Satan's most effective tools is isolation. He knows if we stay
away from godly friends, he can start planting lies in our minds, and
thereby bring us down. But with good friends to surrounds us, and
affirm God's truth in our life, we are less susceptible to attack.
Consider frost damage. In a forest, a tree is more likely to be
killed by frost if it is standing alone. The same goes for plants and
bushes around our homes. However, when the trees are clumped together
there is a natural protection and they survive the cold.
This is a lot like people. None of us expect a difficult time to come
– but we live in a fallen world and bad things happen. To a person
without godly friends, a time of frost can kill them emotionally.
However, when a person is surrounded by friends, they are more likely
to survive.
For many of us, friendships are whipped cream on the ice cream sundae
of life. They are an added bonus, but not essential. However, God
thinks otherwise. In Ecclesiastes 4:8-10 we have the following words
of advice: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return
for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But
pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!"
In another book of the Bible, we are advised to confess our sins to
others. James 5:16 says, "Therefore confess your sins to each other
and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a
righteous man is powerful and effective." Since I'm probably not
going to confess my sins to someone I don't know, this verse affirms
the importance of godly friends.
As we enter a busy time of year, take time to be with friends. Plan a
holiday gathering and share the things you are thankful for. Look for
opportunities to include friends in your planning and preparation for
the big events in the next two months. While you are getting things
done, take time to share what's going on in your life. Our time
invested in friendships is time well spent. It's in our God-designed
make-up to need each other and it accomplishes God's desire for our
protection when the hard times come.
My Prayer for Today:
Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your almighty power and great love.
I confess the times I have neglected to develop godly friends. I pray
for wisdom to know how to be a better friend to those You have placed
in my life. Thank you for answering our prayers and for Your
faithfulness. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Key .Verse:
Ecclesiastes 4:8-10,
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their
work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man
who falls and has no one to help him up!"
Devotion:
A study of elementary school activity recess revealed that boys and
girls play differently on the playground structures. Researchers have
found that girls are more likely to swing and climb to the top of the
play structures and yell down at their friends who are close by on the
ground. Boys, on the other hand, are more likely to run around the
structure or the playground.
Apparently, these findings concerned the researchers because they
worry that girls aren't using enough of the playground. Isn't that
interesting? Without any suggestion from teachers or parents, the
girls place themselves in closer physical proximity to each other,
thereby increasing their social contact.
Although little girls tend to disagree more than boys, their need for
friendships is obvious, and at a young age, seek each other out. God
designed this need in us, and friendships offer more than
companionship, they also offer protection.
With Satan as our enemy, and sin as our nature, we are weakened. One
of Satan's most effective tools is isolation. He knows if we stay
away from godly friends, he can start planting lies in our minds, and
thereby bring us down. But with good friends to surrounds us, and
affirm God's truth in our life, we are less susceptible to attack.
Consider frost damage. In a forest, a tree is more likely to be
killed by frost if it is standing alone. The same goes for plants and
bushes around our homes. However, when the trees are clumped together
there is a natural protection and they survive the cold.
This is a lot like people. None of us expect a difficult time to come
– but we live in a fallen world and bad things happen. To a person
without godly friends, a time of frost can kill them emotionally.
However, when a person is surrounded by friends, they are more likely
to survive.
For many of us, friendships are whipped cream on the ice cream sundae
of life. They are an added bonus, but not essential. However, God
thinks otherwise. In Ecclesiastes 4:8-10 we have the following words
of advice: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return
for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But
pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!"
In another book of the Bible, we are advised to confess our sins to
others. James 5:16 says, "Therefore confess your sins to each other
and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a
righteous man is powerful and effective." Since I'm probably not
going to confess my sins to someone I don't know, this verse affirms
the importance of godly friends.
As we enter a busy time of year, take time to be with friends. Plan a
holiday gathering and share the things you are thankful for. Look for
opportunities to include friends in your planning and preparation for
the big events in the next two months. While you are getting things
done, take time to share what's going on in your life. Our time
invested in friendships is time well spent. It's in our God-designed
make-up to need each other and it accomplishes God's desire for our
protection when the hard times come.
My Prayer for Today:
Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your almighty power and great love.
I confess the times I have neglected to develop godly friends. I pray
for wisdom to know how to be a better friend to those You have placed
in my life. Thank you for answering our prayers and for Your
faithfulness. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
NEWS: Families in India Driven from Homes for Receiving Christ
Families in India Driven from Homes for Receiving Christ
Nirmala Carvalho & Vishal Arora
Tribal peoples retaliate for villagers converting; in Karnataka, more
specious charges.
MUMBAI, India – Adherents of a Bodo tribal religion in Assam,
northeast India, forced nine families from their homes last Tuesday
(November 14) for converting to Christianity.
The villagers destroyed six of the nine families' homes, forcing the
Christians to take shelter in a primary school. The nine families live
in four villages in the Kokrajhar district of Assam.
Their ordeal began when Christians attended a Pentecostal meeting held
in Haldibari village last Monday (November 13).
"This meeting infuriated the Bodo tribals, who organized their own
religious gathering the next day," a source told Compass.
At 8 a.m. on Tuesday morning (November 14), the tribal people of
Haldibari gathered for their own meeting at the village council hall,
said the Rev. Madhu Chandra, Delhi regional secretary of the All India
Christian Council.
"Some of them were sympathizers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
[RSS, a Hindu extremist group]," Rev. Chandra said. "Under their
influence, the group resolved to evacuate Christian families from the
village."
At around 2:30 p.m. that day, 25 Bodo villagers went to the homes of
three Christian families in Haldibari and attacked their houses. The
violence soon spread to the neighboring villages of Moflabari,
Jamduguri and Basdari.
The district administration rushed security forces to the area to
guard the nine families, who had taken shelter in a lower primary
school building.
Kokrajhar police officer Manoj Kumar Saikia told Compass that a case
had been registered against the 25 alleged offenders. At press time,
police had arrested seven of the 25 but released them on bail.
Advocates have submitted a memorandum to the Bodoland Territory
Council, asking it to investigate the attack, pay compensation to the
Christian families who lost their homes, and provide safety to other
minority Christians in the district.
Attacks in Karnataka
In the southern state of Karnataka, Christians will hold a rally on
December 2 in the wake of specious arrests for "forced conversion' and
vandalism of a church in the past week.
A quarry owner filed a police complaint against two Christians,
including a pastor, accusing them of "forced conversion" on Wednesday
(November 15), said Dr. Sajan K. George, national president of the
Global Council of Indian Christians.
A pastor identified only as Hoysala and his companion, medical doctor
Anup Kumar, were accused of forced conversion in Karnataka's Mandya
district.
The pastor and Kumar had gone to visit a friend at a quarry in
Jaknahalli village in Pandavapura Taluka in Mandya District on
Wednesday, George said. Not finding the friend there, they started
back and a woman approached them requesting that they pray for her as
she was suffering from a severe headache. As they were praying, the
owner of the quarry came and shouted at them, accusing them of
forcible conversion.
Nevertheless, the two were able to leave peacefully.
The following day, the quarry owner filed a complaint against them at
the Pandavapura police station, accusing them of conversion. The two
were arrested and released on bail the following day.
The Christians could not be released on bail the day of their arrest,
Thursday (November 16), because all officers of the rank of inspector
or sub-inspector were occupied on security for a visit of political
leaders at a Bharatiya Janata Party rally, George said.
On November 17, a lower court refused their bail application and sent
them to the Mandya jail. "However," George said, "a higher court
granted them bail in the evening."
Also in Karnataka, on November 18 Hindu extremists vandalized a statue
of Mary in a Catholic theological institution. About 10 unidentified
people marred the statue in the Carmelram Theological College, on
Sarjyapur Road on the outskirts of Bangalore, George said.
He added that spit and vermillion (red powder applied on the forehead
by certain Hindus) was found in the vicinity of the statue. College
authorities could not identify the attackers as they fled in a blue
car and on a few motorbikes at 11:15 p.m.
Condemning the incident in a public letter, George urged the chief
minister of Karnataka to "instruct the government machinery" to
maintain religious harmony and peace in the state.
Representatives of various Christian organizations, mainly Catholic,
had on Wednesday (November 15) urged Deputy Commissioner of Police
M.S. Srikar to provide security to Christians in the wake of rising
attacks on them in the Hubli-Dharwad region in Karnataka.
Copyright 2006 Compass Direct News
Nirmala Carvalho & Vishal Arora
Tribal peoples retaliate for villagers converting; in Karnataka, more
specious charges.
MUMBAI, India – Adherents of a Bodo tribal religion in Assam,
northeast India, forced nine families from their homes last Tuesday
(November 14) for converting to Christianity.
The villagers destroyed six of the nine families' homes, forcing the
Christians to take shelter in a primary school. The nine families live
in four villages in the Kokrajhar district of Assam.
Their ordeal began when Christians attended a Pentecostal meeting held
in Haldibari village last Monday (November 13).
"This meeting infuriated the Bodo tribals, who organized their own
religious gathering the next day," a source told Compass.
At 8 a.m. on Tuesday morning (November 14), the tribal people of
Haldibari gathered for their own meeting at the village council hall,
said the Rev. Madhu Chandra, Delhi regional secretary of the All India
Christian Council.
"Some of them were sympathizers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
[RSS, a Hindu extremist group]," Rev. Chandra said. "Under their
influence, the group resolved to evacuate Christian families from the
village."
At around 2:30 p.m. that day, 25 Bodo villagers went to the homes of
three Christian families in Haldibari and attacked their houses. The
violence soon spread to the neighboring villages of Moflabari,
Jamduguri and Basdari.
The district administration rushed security forces to the area to
guard the nine families, who had taken shelter in a lower primary
school building.
Kokrajhar police officer Manoj Kumar Saikia told Compass that a case
had been registered against the 25 alleged offenders. At press time,
police had arrested seven of the 25 but released them on bail.
Advocates have submitted a memorandum to the Bodoland Territory
Council, asking it to investigate the attack, pay compensation to the
Christian families who lost their homes, and provide safety to other
minority Christians in the district.
Attacks in Karnataka
In the southern state of Karnataka, Christians will hold a rally on
December 2 in the wake of specious arrests for "forced conversion' and
vandalism of a church in the past week.
A quarry owner filed a police complaint against two Christians,
including a pastor, accusing them of "forced conversion" on Wednesday
(November 15), said Dr. Sajan K. George, national president of the
Global Council of Indian Christians.
A pastor identified only as Hoysala and his companion, medical doctor
Anup Kumar, were accused of forced conversion in Karnataka's Mandya
district.
The pastor and Kumar had gone to visit a friend at a quarry in
Jaknahalli village in Pandavapura Taluka in Mandya District on
Wednesday, George said. Not finding the friend there, they started
back and a woman approached them requesting that they pray for her as
she was suffering from a severe headache. As they were praying, the
owner of the quarry came and shouted at them, accusing them of
forcible conversion.
Nevertheless, the two were able to leave peacefully.
The following day, the quarry owner filed a complaint against them at
the Pandavapura police station, accusing them of conversion. The two
were arrested and released on bail the following day.
The Christians could not be released on bail the day of their arrest,
Thursday (November 16), because all officers of the rank of inspector
or sub-inspector were occupied on security for a visit of political
leaders at a Bharatiya Janata Party rally, George said.
On November 17, a lower court refused their bail application and sent
them to the Mandya jail. "However," George said, "a higher court
granted them bail in the evening."
Also in Karnataka, on November 18 Hindu extremists vandalized a statue
of Mary in a Catholic theological institution. About 10 unidentified
people marred the statue in the Carmelram Theological College, on
Sarjyapur Road on the outskirts of Bangalore, George said.
He added that spit and vermillion (red powder applied on the forehead
by certain Hindus) was found in the vicinity of the statue. College
authorities could not identify the attackers as they fled in a blue
car and on a few motorbikes at 11:15 p.m.
Condemning the incident in a public letter, George urged the chief
minister of Karnataka to "instruct the government machinery" to
maintain religious harmony and peace in the state.
Representatives of various Christian organizations, mainly Catholic,
had on Wednesday (November 15) urged Deputy Commissioner of Police
M.S. Srikar to provide security to Christians in the wake of rising
attacks on them in the Hubli-Dharwad region in Karnataka.
Copyright 2006 Compass Direct News
Asking Questions Like the Master Teacher
Ask your small group the same types of questions Jesus used to produce change.
By Dave Arch
"Do you not yet understand?"
—Jesus (Matthew 8:21)
Whether in a public gathering, a confrontation with his enemies, or a
private conversation with his closest friends, Jesus consistently used
questions to produce change and growth. In the eighth chapter of the
Book of Mark, he used eight types of questions.
1. Answering with Questions (Mark 8:5)
Rather than merely answering a question (and thereby stunting the
question's teaching potential), Jesus would often answer a
participant's question with a question of his own.
In Mark 8, when his followers asked Jesus how he planned to feed a
crowd of 4,000 people, he responded with a question: "How many loaves
do you have?" That question kept his followers involved.
It takes confidence and wisdom to ask involving questions. Asking a
question as simple as "What do the rest of you think?" can keep people
engaged and searching for truth. When we answer every question, we rob
the questioner of the satisfaction found in personal discovery.
2. Gathering Data (Mark 8:5, 19-21)
Jesus eventually asked some personal questions in this chapter.
However, he began with and interspersed throughout the dialogue
questions of a more factual nature. "How many loaves do you have?"
involved his followers on a non-threatening level.
Using these types of questions helps maintain group involvement while
gently moving toward the more personal application questions. A
factual question such as "How many years have you worked in your
current job?" doesn't require much personal disclosure but still
reveals insights about the person.
3. Making Statements (Mark 8:12)
Jesus skillfully asked rhetorical questions to emphasize a point in a
powerful but non-combative manner. "Why does this generation seek for
a sign?" communicates much better than "You stubborn group of
unbelieving people!" Such diplomacy is a beneficial teaching skill.
4. Communicating Passion (Mark 8:17-18)
When rhetorical questions are linked together, they can transport
tremendous passion. In Mark 8:17-18, Jesus asked his followers: "Why
are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or
understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes but fail to
see, and ears but fail to hear?"
As Jesus joined questions together without giving pause for an answer,
his listeners were rendered thoughtfully speechless.
This technique can be used effectively in discussion groups to
powerfully reinforce a point.
5. Correcting (Mark 8:21)
When we need to correct someone, phrasing it as a question can allow
the person to make the necessary changes without defensiveness or
losing face. Instead of saying, "You are so stupid—you never
understand anything," Jesus asked, "Do you not yet understand?" This
question made the point while maintaining the involvement of his
participants.
6. Seeking Feedback (Mark 8:23)
While healing a man of blindness, Jesus asked, "Do you see anything?"
We can ask the same kind of question throughout any teaching process.
A question such as "Do you understand what we're studying?" can reveal
the level of comprehension and keep people on track.
7. Encouraging Personal Application (Mark 8:27-29)
Toward the conclusion of Mark 8, Jesus used two increasingly personal
questions to lead his followers into content application.
He began with a more general question—"Who do people say I am?" (Mark
8:27)—before leading into the directly personal question—"Who do you
say I am?" (Mark 8:29).
When we want to move our group to application, a good approach is to
ask, "What are some ways we could … ?" before transitioning to "What
are some ways you could … ?"
8. Soul Searching (Mark 8:36-37)
Mark 8:36-37: "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet
forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?"
These types of questions reach to the heart of an issue and have no
comfortable reply. One example of such a question might be: "How can a
church survive if it isn't in touch with the needs of the
congregation?" Closing with this type of question or writing it at the
bottom of a handout can make a strong impact.
By Dave Arch
"Do you not yet understand?"
—Jesus (Matthew 8:21)
Whether in a public gathering, a confrontation with his enemies, or a
private conversation with his closest friends, Jesus consistently used
questions to produce change and growth. In the eighth chapter of the
Book of Mark, he used eight types of questions.
1. Answering with Questions (Mark 8:5)
Rather than merely answering a question (and thereby stunting the
question's teaching potential), Jesus would often answer a
participant's question with a question of his own.
In Mark 8, when his followers asked Jesus how he planned to feed a
crowd of 4,000 people, he responded with a question: "How many loaves
do you have?" That question kept his followers involved.
It takes confidence and wisdom to ask involving questions. Asking a
question as simple as "What do the rest of you think?" can keep people
engaged and searching for truth. When we answer every question, we rob
the questioner of the satisfaction found in personal discovery.
2. Gathering Data (Mark 8:5, 19-21)
Jesus eventually asked some personal questions in this chapter.
However, he began with and interspersed throughout the dialogue
questions of a more factual nature. "How many loaves do you have?"
involved his followers on a non-threatening level.
Using these types of questions helps maintain group involvement while
gently moving toward the more personal application questions. A
factual question such as "How many years have you worked in your
current job?" doesn't require much personal disclosure but still
reveals insights about the person.
3. Making Statements (Mark 8:12)
Jesus skillfully asked rhetorical questions to emphasize a point in a
powerful but non-combative manner. "Why does this generation seek for
a sign?" communicates much better than "You stubborn group of
unbelieving people!" Such diplomacy is a beneficial teaching skill.
4. Communicating Passion (Mark 8:17-18)
When rhetorical questions are linked together, they can transport
tremendous passion. In Mark 8:17-18, Jesus asked his followers: "Why
are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or
understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes but fail to
see, and ears but fail to hear?"
As Jesus joined questions together without giving pause for an answer,
his listeners were rendered thoughtfully speechless.
This technique can be used effectively in discussion groups to
powerfully reinforce a point.
5. Correcting (Mark 8:21)
When we need to correct someone, phrasing it as a question can allow
the person to make the necessary changes without defensiveness or
losing face. Instead of saying, "You are so stupid—you never
understand anything," Jesus asked, "Do you not yet understand?" This
question made the point while maintaining the involvement of his
participants.
6. Seeking Feedback (Mark 8:23)
While healing a man of blindness, Jesus asked, "Do you see anything?"
We can ask the same kind of question throughout any teaching process.
A question such as "Do you understand what we're studying?" can reveal
the level of comprehension and keep people on track.
7. Encouraging Personal Application (Mark 8:27-29)
Toward the conclusion of Mark 8, Jesus used two increasingly personal
questions to lead his followers into content application.
He began with a more general question—"Who do people say I am?" (Mark
8:27)—before leading into the directly personal question—"Who do you
say I am?" (Mark 8:29).
When we want to move our group to application, a good approach is to
ask, "What are some ways we could … ?" before transitioning to "What
are some ways you could … ?"
8. Soul Searching (Mark 8:36-37)
Mark 8:36-37: "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet
forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?"
These types of questions reach to the heart of an issue and have no
comfortable reply. One example of such a question might be: "How can a
church survive if it isn't in touch with the needs of the
congregation?" Closing with this type of question or writing it at the
bottom of a handout can make a strong impact.
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