The ultimate gift of Jesus’ life delivers four gifts that often go unopened.

Peace with God

Since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith in Jesus Christ, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.  Romans 5:1 NLT

No more running or hiding.  God isn’t out to spank you or abandon you or withhold his love from you.  He offers a fresh start with no regrets.  

Are you willing to accept the gift of Jesus, as payment for all your poor choices?

Peace of God

Jesus tells us, I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart.  And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.  So don't be troubled or afraid.  John 14:27 NLT

The peace of God is within you in the person of the Holy Spirit and fills us with hope, courage, and wisdom.

Have you misplaced this gift?

Begin again your journey of following Jesus.

Peace with Self

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 NASB

No more self-loathing or self-sabotage.  No more acting out because you feel bad about being bad.  Jesus' peace brings truth into our hearts and minds and sets us free.

Peace with Others

...as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  Romans 12:18 CSB

As we experience Jesus extending peace to ourselves we begin to offer it freely to others.  Freely we received -- freely we give.  As best we can we choose forgiveness, not payback, as did Jesus.

Reflect

Which of these have you not yet opened?  Have you opened it before and stashed it away in the closet?

Pray

As You came the first Christmas as baby Jesus, I choose You now as the kind, just, the forgiving man Jesus.  

I’m opening all of these gifts, God, as I open or reopen my heart to You.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

…You led Your people through the wilderness…Psalm 68:7

The pillar of smoke by day and fire by night guided our spiritual ancestors through the wilderness.  

We read in Exodus chapters 13 and 14 it was a symbol of God’s presence. 

When the pillar of smoke or fire moved the people moved.

As it slowed so too did they.

When it stopped they stopped.  I imagine they learned to wait and listen.

How fast did the pillar move?  I doubt it raced across the wilderness and waited for hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children to catch up.

Most likely it moved at a pedestrian pace.

Emmanuel, through this Advent season, leads us through this present wilderness.

Go slow this Christmas and savor the moments.

Let every heart prepare Him room.

The Messiah, Jesus, the Savior of the world is coming, again.

Reflect

Light a candle tonight and read Matthew chapters 1 and 2.

Pray

I see Your smoke moving across this present wilderness and I am taking small steps of faith.  Come, Lord Jesus, come!  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They listened but after a while, said to themselves, This is too hard to live like that!  They went on professing to be followers of Jesus, but in their hearts and practice, they were swimming in the shallow end of the pool.

Jesus turned to His disciples asking, Do you want to go away too?  Simon Peter answered, Where else would we go? You are the only One. 

God can be depended upon; He wants us to be as decided, reliable, and stable.

God is looking for men on whom He can put the weight of all His love and faithful promises.

Today, you may hear Jesus calling you to step out, as my friend Jesse calls it, into a new level of obedience.

Reflect

I went past the field of a sluggard,

past the vineyard of someone who has no sense;

thorns had come up everywhere,

the ground was covered with weeds,

and the stone wall was in ruins.

I applied my heart to what I observed

and learned a lesson from what I saw:

A little sleep, a little slumber,

a little folding of the hands to rest—

and poverty will come on you like a thief

and scarcity like an armed man.

~ Proverbs 24:30-34 NIV

Pray

Again. I hear You knocking. I choose Your way.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What ground have you lost, dream have you given up on, habit or character defect have you been feeding into?

What stands in the way of the best of you, as a man, spouse, follower of Jesus!

Where do you need to take a stand?

To get it back you’ll have to fight for it. You don’t fight alone. Remember, every day Jesus sends us out saying, Go.  I am sending you out and I am going with you. Luke 10:3

Eleazar was one of David’s Mighty Men. He stood his ground in the middle of the field, and the Lord blessed him with a great victory. 2 Samuel 23:10

I love this guy Eleazar. He was fighting for his life, his king, and his family. He stood his ground. With a sword in his hand, he stood his ground and advanced on his enemy. Legend has it that he fought so long and so hard that by the end of the battle, his sword was welded to his hand.

You are that man. You are Eleazar in your marriage, family, and circle of influence in the world. 

No one can take your place.

God trains our hands for battle and gives us armor and a weapon we’re expected to use.

The battle is not against your wife, your family, or any other person.

The battle is against the spiritual forces of darkness.

Resist with prayer the urge to cut and run.

Fight hard and fight long.

Take a stand. Some fights are over in a few minutes while some persist with us like a siege. Call it out. Become prepared for a long one. Organize a strategy. Invite a spiritual friend to stand with you. Declare and take a stand for what you will fight for this year.

In the middle of the field, you will not be alone.

Resist.

Fight hard.

Take a stand.

You can do this. Go fight for what’s important.

Reflect

What stands in the way of the best of you, as a man, spouse, follower of Jesus!

Where do you need to take a stand?

Pray

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perhaps for you today is trash day.

Paul, put it this way…Let there be no sex sin, impurity, or greed among you…no dirty stories, foul talk, coarse jokes - this is the kind of trash that can accumulate in your soul.  Ephesians 5:3-4 paraphrase

This is a short list of the garbage you may find in your soul right now.

Some are obvious.  Most are subtle…with allure, drift, forbidden fruit, and BAM we find ourselves deceived.

A few verses later Paul writes  with the passion and urgency of a train hammering down the rails:  “WAKE UP!”

Brother, crawl out of the cave and step into the light!

Get back to following Jesus with your heart, mind, body, and soul.

Reflect

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.  1 John 1:9 (NIV)

Pray

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.  Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.  Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus looked up before He stepped out.

The miracles of raising Lazarus from the dead, turning a few loaves and fishes into a feast for thousands, and His “near the end of His life” prayer in John 17 were all preceded by Jesus looking up.

He looked up to remind Himself of the truth - that He truly was God’s Son, that the source of His ability emanated from the Father, and that the Spirit filled Him and resourced Him to do what he was about to do.

We need to look up.

People are watching to see if we are authentic.

The heavens are watching.

All the while, demons whisper, lilt, and tempt with getting even when put down, responding to a harsh accusation, or doing the wrong thing.

Yes.  I need to look up out because in the moment I often take the low road.  Inviting You into the situation by pausing and looking up I become attuned to Your wisdom.

Begin today to acquire the habit Jesus employed -- look up -- to God, Shepherd, and Guardian of your soul.

Reflect

What unguarded moments will you encounter today?  How will you respond?

Pray

O God, help me learn to pause and look up before I put my foot in my mouth today.  Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This verse invites regular Jesus-following people to dream big, pray long, and step out of the comfortable and into the unknown of advancing the Gospel.

Did you get that?

Now speaks of the time following Jesus’ resurrection when the rule of payback was replaced by the rule of love.  Payback speaks of rule-keeping and we call rule-keeping the Old Covenant.  The rule of love –  what Jesus taught and lived – calls us to turn the other cheek and extend forgiveness quickly.  This is called the New Covenant and governs the way everything works in this world and beyond.

Note the writer is honoring God as he points us to the source of our ability to advance.  It is God’s mighty power not our own.

Truly, this verse invites us -- perhaps compels or challenges us – to step out of the comfortable, as did Jesus.

Step into advancing this now that governs our lives by dreaming big into your family relationships, or praying long about next steps, or stepping out of a casual relationship with God and going for it.

The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.  2 Chronicles 16:9a NLT

Your Maker is inviting you to join Him.

Reflect

How will you respond to this invitation?

Pray

Our Father, who is in heaven, I want to honor Your Name, and so I pray that Your Kingdom will come, and that Your will be done in my life as I advance into this day with You.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It wasn’t long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant way of life.  Ephesians 2:1

Today, through your faith in Jesus, you’ve been gifted with a fresh new life.  Ephesians 2:8

No longer an alien, orphan, or stranger - but a true irrevocable child of God - loved beyond measure with no strings attached.  Ephesians 2:13

Imagine!

Take it in!

Soak in it.

The truth about you - a beloved child of God on whom His favor rests.

Choose today to live out of what is true about you - no longer an alien, orphan, or stranger - extend the grace given you by God to all you meet today.

Reflect

…you were formerly far off and have been brought near by the blood of Christ.  Ephesians 2:13

Pray

God, today, help me live out of what is true about me (and You).  To be as kind, patient, and quick to forgive others, as You are with me!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul, the writer of the book of Ephesians, sends this letter to his friends.  He writes to remind them of what is true about following Jesus’ Way and inspire them to take their faith seriously.

Begin your day with a simple prayer for those you love…

I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!  Ephesians 1:18-19  The Message

Pray

Who needs you to pray as Paul prayed for his friends? Thank God, by name, for your kids, spouse, and friends.  Ask God to bless their…

…body with health, purity, and stamina.

…labor with wisdom and favor at work or school.

…emotional life with joy, health, and healing.

…social life with growing friendships, fidelity in marriage, and courageous parenting.

…spiritual life with a breakthrough in knowing You today.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This concludes six episodes looking at what the Bible says about how we can weather unavoidable headwinds and hardship.

In this final episode, we will explore how headwinds and hardship test our faith.

Without headwinds, our faith is untested.

Why is that?

We need to learn to wait.

We have a need for endurance. 

Sharp sudden hardship is easily endured. When it drags on in its long and weary way year after monotonous year, returning day after day with the same dull routine of hopeless agony, the heart loses its strength. Streams in the Desert

It is IN the wind where endurance tests and proves our faith.  

These trials are only to test your faith, to see whether or not it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests gold and purifies it. 1 Peter 1:7 TLB

It is with the eyes of faith that we come to know that God causes all things to work together for the good to those who love God.  Romans 8:28 TLB

Headwinds and hardship:

…stretch us by taking us out of our comfort zone.

…make us limber as we learn to go with the flow.

 …expand our reach when we step out by faith.

…increases our capacity to endure.

Why is faith so important? 

It is the certainty that Who we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead.

Without faith it is impossible to know love and enjoy God, to follow Him with your heart, and to love like Jesus. Hebrews 11:6 paraphrase

Lean into the headwind you are facing today.

Pray

What small steps of faith have You planned for me today Lord?  Help me with eyes of faith to recognize them.  With the feet of faith that I would take that first step and another and another.  With faith in my heart trusting You precede me I go into this day.  Thank you!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For six episodes we are looking at what the Bible says about how we can weather unavoidable headwinds and hardship.

In this episode, we learn the greatest things are always hedged about by the hardest things.

Over forty years ago I underlined this verse in my well-worn Bible.

…the hill country shall be yours.  For though it is a forest you shall clear it, and to its farthest borders it shall be yours; for you shall drive out the Canaanites, even though they have chariots of iron and though they are strong.  Joshua 17:18  NASB

This is what I call my “life verse”: a Bible verse that has become prophetic, encouraging, and inspiring.

With almost every setback, betrayal, or self-inflicted gunshot wound God has guided me with this verse.

It points me to follow Jesus with my heart and to adopt His ways come hell or high water.

The hill country speaks of headwinds and hardships I’ve encountered and continue to strive against.  They are heavily defended and resistant yet, the verse inspires hope.

In my old worn copy of Streams in the Desert are these words inspired by Joshua 17:18.

The greatest things are always hedged about the hardest things, and we too shall find mountains and forests and chariots of iron…

The very hardships that you are enduring in your life today are given by the Master for the explicit purpose of enabling you to win your crown.

Do not wait for some ideal situation, some romantic difficulty, some far-away emergency; but rise to meet the actual conditions which the providence of God has placed around you today.

Your crown of glory lies embedded in the very heart of these things - those hardships and trials that are pressing you this very hour, week, and month of your life.

Go with God.  He goes with you!

Prayer

Thank You, God, that hardship need not be something to avoid at all costs, but an opportunity to grow in my devotion and follow-through as a follower of Jesus.  You are with me always!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For six episodes we are looking at what the Bible says about how we can weather unavoidable headwinds and hardship. In this episode, we learn about deep water.

It’s not uncommon that Jesus invites us to put out into the deep water and let our nets down for a catch of fish.  Luke 5:4b paraphrase

Peter and his friends got blanked the night before.  Jesus knows where the fish are.  Testing their patience, He asks them to go out again, to deep water, and let the heavy nets out again.

What is Jesus asking you to go out again to do?

If it’s not fish what is it?  

It may be unfinished promises or projects, poorly executed promises, half-hearted commitments to family, friends, or co-workers.

Listen to that tap on your shoulder -- that one thing that nags and lingers whispering “unfinished” in your heart.

Name it and then ask, “Jesus, what would you have me do?”

What work is involved in the depths of deep water?

It may involve detoxing from old habits, untangling the mess by slowing down or declaring a season of study, meditation, or service.

What are your modern-day heavy nets?

Most likely these are the nuts and bolts of your life.  Perhaps it’s your morning private time with God, time with your wife and kids?  Maybe it’s following through on the pace of your life, health, or finances?

For a few days, take these three questions to God.  Ask Him to help you answer them. Only God, your best friend, sees the pickle you are in and can help you.  Sit with Him as you pray, listen, and take notes.

You must stay close to Jesus.

Listen deeply every morning, afternoon, and evening.  Remember, He not only knows the depths you are navigating and the weight of the burdens you are carrying…  But He also knows where the fish are.

Prayer

Where else can I go God but to you?  Some things are going well for me while in other areas I am drifting or playing in the shallow end of the pool.  I am willing to go out again, into deep water, and do the heavy net work so long as You go with me.  Thank You!  Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of our spiritual ancestors, Elijah, found himself in deep trouble and had to run for his life.

He ran himself into exhaustion until he came to a cave where he stayed for 40 days. 

Sometimes we need to Sit & Listen

Sit & listen isn’t what Elijah had been doing and yet when he became ready to really hear from God, it was sitting not running that was the hot ticket.  Listen to what the Bible says…

The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”

Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind.

After the wind, there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.

After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire.

And after the fire came a gentle whisper.

When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. 1 Kings 19:11-13 TLB

Sit & Listen

It’s so counter to how we want to respond.  If you’re like me or Elijah we want to run from it, avoid it, or pretend it’s not there.

Sometimes we need to listen to the wind rather than fix the problem.

Perhaps, after sitting with it for an hour, a day, a season - holding the situation in a sacred space of calm sitting with God we can begin to whisper, “God, what would You have me do (if anything)?”

Prayer

In many ways, I’m a runner Lord - from my problems, consequences, from You and the last thing I’m comfortable doing is sitting and listening to You!  Yet, it seems my way rarely really fixes things.  Help me slow down, sit, and listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are learning from Peter and how he was able to weather wind and waves…

A fierce storm attacked the disciples made their way across the lake. About 3 am Jesus came to them walking on water in the middle of a fierce storm

Peter, the impulsive one, called to Jesus, “Lord if it is you, tell me to come to you by walking on water.”  Jesus replied, “All right, come.”

Peter jumped out of the boat and, eyes fixed on Jesus, walked toward Jesus!

Peter heard the wind saw the waves became afraid and began to sink. Peter then eyes locked on Jesus cried out “ Jesus, save me!”  Jesus reached out and steadied Peter and they both git back into the boat.   Matthew 14:28-32 paraphrase

Perhaps you have been walking on water with Jesus with your taxes, or your spouse just had a stroke, or an unforeseen issue with your car, kids, or marriage and you too hear the wind, see the waves, and are beginning to sink!

Notice Peter’s response. 

“Jesus save me!”

Yes, we too can begin to sink, to try harder, to scramble back into the comfort of the boat and it’s illusion of perfect safety.

How can we avoid headwinds & hardship?  

We can’t.

How can we stop sinking?

Refocus on looking at the situation and fixing our eyes on Jesus.

“Jesus, save me!” affirms that He will keep in perfect peace those whose hearts are fixed on Him. (Isaiah 26:3)

Jesus is growing us up.

At every age and stage, God seeks to develop ever-increasing situational trust in us. 

Lean into the lesson of the Wind and Waves

Grow an intimate moment-to-moment reliance and awareness that in the boat or on the water you are not alone, He is always near, He will help with just a whisper.

Do not be surprised that later today Jesus invites you to get out of the boat onto the water with Him.  It could be when you get a letter from the IRS or Social Security Administration saying they are making changes to your account.  It could mean death comes to the door of another close friend.  It could be at night when fears are racing.

Pray

Lord, Jesus Christ, I don’t like headwinds or hardship.   I want to avoid them altogether, or at least to stop sinking as quickly as possible.  Help me learn to simply cry out. “Jesus, save me!”

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the Breathe Meditation for the week.  Written and produced to help you know, love, and enjoy God, to follow Him with your heart, and to love like Jesus.

For the next six weeks, we will look at what the Bible says about how we can weather headwinds and hardship.  Jesus will teach us how we too can be overcomers!

Jesus tells us that “in the world, you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 AMP

Years ago I was sitting in a recovery meeting reciting the Serenity Prayer with 60 or 70 other men and women, who like me, were confronting the stiff headwind of recovery.

The phrases “...accepting hardship as a pathway to peace” and “taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is” stopped me dead in my tracks.

Out loud to myself, I said “I DON’T WANT HARDSHIP!!!  I WANT IT EASY.”

You see, I, like many – if not most – of us don’t like hardship.   We want to avoid it altogether, or at least to get out of it as quickly as possible.  And, we don’t want to take this broken world as it is…  We want to fix people, places, and things.

A headwind can come out of the north with a bitter cold brought on by holding on to some addicting habit that sucks the warmth from your soul. 

Or out of the east like hope staggering to rise like Lazarus from the dead, years of chronic pain, or becoming more and more familiar with grief as we grow older. 

The fast west wind of youth when you are stalled or drifting in your faith or your career, your fidelity, or putting out into deep water learning to stay close to Jesus. 

Headwinds racing out of the south can be a form of God calling us up and out – a burning bush experience, a Goliath standing in the way of duty, a betrayal, or even a self-inflicted wound. 

Yet it is the Headwinds that help us soar.

They are the lift facet of the Holy Spirit. Headwinds develop holy resistance that forms the muscles of a spiritual endurance runner, the Force that forges endurance. It is a friend, not a foe. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

__________

Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone was rolled aside from the entrance.

Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, “I have seen the Lord!” Then she gave them his message.

That evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors, in fear of the Jewish leaders, when suddenly Jesus was standing there among them! After greeting them, he showed them his hands and side. And how wonderful was their joy as they saw their Lord!

He spoke to them again and said, As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you. Then he breathed on them and told them, Receive the Holy Spirit.  John 20:1, 18-22 (TLB)

He told his disciples, I have been given all authority in heaven and earth.  Therefore go and make disciples in all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and then teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you; and be sure of this—that I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”  Matthew 28:18

__________

Imagine  Can you imagine the shock and confusion that rocked Jesus’ disciples when Jesus walked into the room?  

Action  How would you respond?

Ask Jesus  How would you have me continue on with Your mission Jesus?  What “next step” do you want me to take?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

__________

That afternoon, the whole earth was covered with darkness for three hours, from noon until three o’clock.

About three o’clock, Jesus shouted, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? which means, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

Some of the bystanders misunderstood and thought he was calling for Elijah.  One of them ran and filled a sponge with sour wine and put it on a stick and held it up to him to drink.  But the rest said, “Leave him alone. Let’s see whether Elijah will come and save him.” Matthew 27:45 TLB

The light from the sun was gone—and suddenly the thick veil hanging in the Temple split apart. Luke 23:45

When Jesus had tasted it, he said, It is finished, and bowed his head and dismissed his spirit. John 19: 30

Then Jesus shouted, Father, I commit my spirit to you, and with those words, he died.

When the captain of the Roman military unit handling the executions saw what had happened, he was stricken with awe before God and said, “Surely this man was innocent.”

And when the crowd that came to see the crucifixion saw that Jesus was dead, they went home in deep sorrow.  Meanwhile, Jesus’ friends, including the women who had followed him down from Galilee, stood in the distance watching. Luke 23:46 - 49 

When evening came, a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, one of Jesus’ followers, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, placed it in his own new rock-hewn tomb, and rolled a great stone across the entrance as he left. Both Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting nearby watching. Matthew 27:57-61

__________

Imagine You have followed Jesus in the crowd up the hill, watched Him drop the cross then climb onto it as they nailed Him to it. Hear the ring of the hammer on the nails as the people grow silent. What runs through your mind?

Ask Jesus Help me whisper Father, I commit my spirit to you each time I find myself exhausted and at wit's end.

Action As I close my eyes, help me meditate on the truth that I will never be separated from God again.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus is crucified on a hill in between two thieves who, I imagine, were screaming with pain, asking for mercy, and watching how Jesus responded to the slander of bystanders.  How Jesus carried Himself spoke to the heart of one of the thieves.

Slowly read and reflect on what follows…

__________

Two others, criminals, were led out to be executed with him at a place called “The Skull.” There all three were crucified—Jesus on the center cross, and the two criminals on either side.

And the soldiers gambled for his clothing, throwing dice for each piece.  The crowd watched. And the Jewish leaders laughed and scoffed. “He was so good at helping others,” they said, “let’s see him save himself if he is really God’s Chosen One, the Messiah.”

The soldiers mocked him, too, by offering him a drink—of sour wine.  And they called to him, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself !”

A signboard was nailed to the cross above him with these words: “This is the King of the Jews.”

One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!”

But the other criminal protested. “Don’t you even fear God when you are dying? We deserve to die for our evil deeds, but this man hasn’t done one thing wrong.”  Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.”

And Jesus replied, Today you will be with me in Paradise. This is a solemn promise. 

Luke 23:32-43 (TLB)

__________

Imagine  See yourself as one of the two thieves watching Jesus as life oozes out of you.  What regrets would haunt you?  Do you identify with either of them?  The one that taunts Jesus to do something…or the one who asks Jesus to remember him...

Action  Take a moment to thank Jesus for His grace to the thief, recognizing that same grace is extended to you now.

Ask Jesus  Where am I experiencing the consequences of my own bad decisions?  How would You speak into my pain?  Let me experience Your kindness the way you replied to the second thief’s awareness of who You are.  Show me Your kingdom -- the place of Your rule and authority in my life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many know facts about Jesus. Though all are loved and welcome few know Jesus as their Saviour.  Soldiers and betrayers approached Him in the Garden of Gethsemane as He was about to be betrayed, beaten, and crucified the next day.

Slowly read and reflect on what follows.

____________________

Jesus asked a deep brooding question, “Whom do you seek?”

John 18:7

A short time later Jesus was taken in chains to meet with Pontius Pilot, the Roman Governor. He asks Jesus, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Perhaps Pilot too felt the hole in his heart and was curious enough perhaps to move from curious to a devoted follower.

How about you? Curious? Aware of a deep unfilled longing in your heart? What, or who are you looking for? Are you weary? 

The One you seek has come for you.

Jesus is the One you have been searching for.

____________________

Imagine  If your spouse or child had inoperable brain cancer what lengths would you go to find a cure? Would you consider unorthodox treatment not recommended by Western medicine? Would you travel the world to find a doctor who has found success with a new medication?

This is the story with all of us. We all have a terminal disease called “humanity.” 

Only One can rescue us from the abyss of the unknown.

Action If you knew you would die today would you be certain of what lies ahead for you? You can have the assurance of heaven. The Bible tells us is available to all who come to believe in Jesus and accept Him as their Saviour. 

But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.  John 1:12

Ask Jesus Will you be my Lord and Saviour? I believe You are the One.

Begin attending a church. Tell someone you have become a follower of Jesus. Drop me a note at budlamb@infaith.org or give me a call at 831-566-4131

____________________

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Early in His ministry, Jesus spoke sobering words concerning how it would go for His followers.

The day He was crucified His cryptic words likened Himself to “the green tree.” It causes us to pause to consider how Jesus uses suffering in our lives.

Slowly read and reflect on what follows.

____________________

I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. Be as wary as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware! For you will be arrested and tried, and whipped in the synagogues.

Yes, and you must stand trial before governors and kings for my sake. This will give you the opportunity to tell them about me, yes, to witness to the world.

Near His crucifixion, beaten and bloody carrying His cross, Jesus stumbles, turns to onlookers, and says these few cryptic and prophetic words, For if they do these things in the green tree, what will happen in the dry?

Luke 21:31

____________________

Years, after Jesus was raised from the dead His tiny band of brothers and sisters, overcame many obstacles but were successful in continuing on in Jesus Way.

Today, the Living Word of God reminds you and me saying “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you.” 1 Peter 4:12 NASB

____________________

Imagine You are in the crowd as Jesus slowly crawls toward His crucifixion. He IS the green tree and in essence, He says to us “If they do this to Me, what may happen to you?” 

Action Reflect on Jesus’ Passion: betrayal, beatings, harsh words, fatigue, hunger, and thirst, at the hands of fellow humans. Are you ready to follow Jesus in this way?

Are you hearing Jesus's invitation to go deeper?

Ask Jesus Grow a deep soul in me! Help me become a more devoted follower. Take me. Break me. Make me. Mold me.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus’ final words often probe with open questions designed to reveal hidden motives, deep desires, and hunger for hope. We may hunger from a distance or dare to come closer.

Slowly read and reflect on what follows.

____________________

As Jesus and the disciples left the city of Jericho, a vast crowd surged along behind.

Two blind men were sitting beside the road, and when they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, Sir, King David’s Son, have mercy on us!

The crowd told them to be quiet, but they only yelled louder.

When Jesus came to the place where they were, he stopped in the road and called, What do you want me to do for you?

Sir, they said, we want to see!

Jesus was moved with pity for them and touched their eyes. And instantly they could see and followed him.

Matthew 20:29-34 TLB

____________________

Imagine With your eyes closed...What would your life be like if you could not see? How would you get around or connect with that someone who is now your spouse? Would you be an optimistic blind person or prone to discouragement? How high on your bucket list would sight be?

Action Metaphorically vision can be an imagined plan for the future. How has your life waned with personal vision? What would you change if you could see better, further, or with new eyes? What choices would you have made differently?

Ask Jesus Give me eyes to see what I cannot see, Lord! I want a vision for my life - large or small - but a vision that is fulfilling. I want to see my family, friends, and what's next with new eyes!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Slowly read and reflect on what follows.

____________________

"Dear, dear children, how brief are these moments before I must go away and leave you! Then, though you search for me, you cannot come to me—just as I told the Jewish leaders."

Simon Peter said, "Master, where are you going?"

And Jesus replied, "You can’t go with me now, but you will follow me later.

Let not your heart be troubled. You are trusting God, now trust in me. There are many homes up there where my Father lives, and I am going to prepare them for your coming.

When everything is ready, then I will come and get you, so that you can always be with me where I am. If this weren’t so, I would tell you plainly. And you know where I am going and how to get there."

“No, we don’t,” Thomas said. “We haven’t any idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

Jesus told him, "I am the Way—yes, and the Truth and the Life. No one can get to the Father except by means of me.

"If you love me, obey me; and I will ask the Father and he will give you another Comforter, and he will never leave you.

He is the Holy Spirit, the Spirit who leads into all truth. The world at large cannot receive him, for it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you do, for he lives with you now and someday shall be in you.

No, I will not abandon you or leave you as orphans in the storm—I will come to you.

In just a little while I will be gone from the world, but I will still be present with you. For I will live again—and you will too. When I come back to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.

I am telling you these things now while I am still with you. But when the Father sends the Comforter instead of me—and by the Comforter I mean the Holy Spirit—he will teach you much, as well as remind you of everything I myself have told you.

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives.

So don’t be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you—I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really love me, you will be very happy for me, for now, I can go to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do, you will believe in me.

I don’t have much more time to talk to you, for the evil prince of this world approaches. He has no power over me, but I will freely do what the Father requires of me so that the world will know that I love the Father. Come, let’s be going."

John 13:33; 14:1-30 TLB

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was near the end of Jesus’ time, as He set his face like flint to go to Jerusalem, His cross, His Passion, that Jesus impressed on His tiny band of followers perhaps the most important lesson they needed to learn…

Slowly read and reflect on what follows.

____________________

It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.

The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.

After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”

Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”

Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.”

For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them.

“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.  I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you."

John 13:1-15 NIV

____________________

Imagine  You are having a meal with Jesus and your best friends. Suddenly, Jesus gets up from the table and begins to pour warm water into a large basin -- something you’ve never seen Him do before.

Jesus is standing in front of you offering to wash your feet -- symbolic of the most soiled parts of you What goes through your mind as Jesus washes and dries your feet?

Hear Jesus, “You don’t understand now why I am doing it; someday you will.” 

Action Reflect on those things that you need to let go of – to make available for Jesus to wash away and forgive.  

Ask Jesus What is it in me that’s holding me back?  How do I let You in to wash these most private of wounds?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rather, be on the alert, the enemy of love prowls like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. Note:  the enemy is as a roaring lion -- in TRUTH the enemy is a powerful yet futile foe.

As you take a stand against the seductive lies of the enemy he is bound to cut and run.

Resist him, cemented in your faith…and yes, after you have suffered taking your stand against the pus pocket, your faithful love consumed Father God will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.  1 Peter 5: 5, 7-10 paraphrase

You see, love stands.  It takes a stand when we want to run.

Love stands up for virtue, truth, and promises -- like in “I pledge allegiance to the United States of America” or “I Bud, take you Lea Ann to be my wedded wife” or a pledge implied to a newly conceived human -- it is implied that we devote our lives to helping that new human learn Jesus’ way of life.

Love stands up for the sick, weak, alone, lost, confused, angry, aggressively militant, addicted, and the well-intended but often tragically confused politicians.

Love stands waiting for your spouse, friend, boss, pastor, to come around to see you, not just tolerating you.

Yes, love stands waiting while injustice seems to prevail.

It stands while all hell is breaking loose and trusting that God will make all things right as we surrender.

A stand seems so feeble in our times of aggression and automatic weapons.  Even so - it is our simple stand, turning the other cheek, that is the spirit in the truth that power is perfected in weakness.

We learn that love stands when everything inside screams DEFEND YOURSELF!!!  HIT BACK -- HARDER.  NO MERCY.  REFUSE TO FORGIVE.  MY WAY IS RIGHT!!!

Eleazar, the son of Dodo, a mighty warrior, stood his ground in the middle of a battlefield and the Lord gave him a great victory.

Jesus stood His ground in the wilderness as He was tempted by the enemy to compromise His purpose. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%204%3A1-13&version=NIV

Though Peter denied Jesus three times, according to church tradition, he was crucified in Rome upside down during the later reign of Roman emperor Nero around the year 64 AD.  Peter felt he was unworthy to be crucified as his Lord was.

Don’t be surprised when you hear the whisper to be on the alert -- in your heart cry out Lord help me in full assurance that He will.

Where do you need to take a stand?  What is holding you back?  Why not invite God into the situation asking Him to help learn the way of Jesus where love stands?

Pray

I long to love like Jesus.  Open my eyes to where I need to take a stand and take it with confidence that You will infuse my heart's desire to love with determination, my actions with heavenly strength, and my willingness to take a stand.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

These sufferings tend to come upon us like a storm, as a bitter disappointment, a crushing defeat, or a betrayal at the hands of a close friend. 

Yet it is in the storm that God equips us for service.  When God wants to make a man He puts us into some storm.  The history of manhood is always rough and rugged.  No man is made until he has been out into the surge of the storm and found the sublime fulfillment of the prayer: “O God, take me, break me, make me.”

Every man who is pre-eminent for his ability was first pre-eminent for suffering.

The beauties of nature come after the storm.  The rugged beauty of the mountain is born in a storm, and the heroes of life are the storm-swept and the battle scarred.  

Excerpts from Streams in the Desert - January 16 (2022) by L.B. Cowman

Many years after Peter denied Jesus publicly three times, he writes to us from the deep well of suffering turned to wisdom.  Peter writes, Don’t be surprised at the fiery ordeal that comes upon you for the testing of your faith. 1 Peter 4:12  

We learn the Law of Love by suffering through broken dreams and promises, experiencing the loss of dignity when slapped on the cheek, or when our spouse refuses to forgive.

Suffering in these ways, we learn how to receive suffering as Jesus did – and to extend love through it as Jesus did.

This is the suffering Peter is speaking of here in chapter 4. A message he expects us to heed.

We suffer from a divine purpose that we most often cannot see.  Yet with the eyes of our heart, we can be assured the purpose is clear.

Peter, most likely, was influenced by Paul’s writing on this matter.

We have this treasure in an earthen vessel that the surpassing greatness may be of God and not ourselves; we are afflicted in many ways, but not crushed, perplexed, but not despairing, persecuted, but not destroyed; always carrying in our bodies the dying of Jesus, that the life love of Jesus would leak out of us.  2 Corinthians 4:7-9 paraphrase

And, so, beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that comes upon you for it is the way we learn to extend and receive love.

Pray

Surely there must be another way God.  If that was so, Jesus would have taken it. This is very sobering Lord. Help me let go of my 5th-grade view of love, pick up my cross, and quit complaining or taking the low road to avoid or minimize pain.  O God, take me, break me, make me.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter continues to break down how to love like Jesus in his little book 1 Peter chapter 3.  Once again Peter filters what he writes (surely inspired by the Holy Spirit) through his personal circuitous journey.

Remember, Peter was impulsive, get it done, no-nonsense guy.  I imagine his marriage was like many men you know who run their home with a “my way or the highway” fist - or abdicate spiritual leadership to their wives. Their faith is something they dabble with not something they are consumed with.

Well, Peter became consumed with his faith in Jesus, and it was a long painful process of suffering and transformation.  He had a lot of rough edges.

So, another love lesson from the anvil of a man we now refer to as Saint Peter.

Where Love Begins

Peter must have been listening closely when Jesus was asked, which is the great commandment in the Law? Matthew 22:36.

Jesus responded with you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind.  And the second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Peter learned this law of love as Jesus extended patience, forgiveness, and compassion.

Peter slowly learned to receive and be heart-changed by Jesus’ patience, forgiveness, and compassion.

Peter (I can only imagine) painfully after repeated failures and do-overs began to learn to extend patience, forgiveness, and compassion to himself.  Isn’t it true we seem be unwilling to extend love in this way insisting we crucify ourselves over again?

Peter began to extend love to his wife as he learned to live with his wives in an understanding way…1 Peter 3:7

Do you see the progression?

We learn to receive God’s love.

We learn to accept ourselves and our humanity.

We learn to extend this love first to our spouse.

Love others in an understanding way.  Why is this such a hard thing to do?

• If we cannot love our wives like Jesus we do not know love.
• We live with others in an understanding way because God lives with us in an understanding way.
• Living with someone in an understanding way means:

You accept them as they are.  Not tolerate - full acceptance - embrace their difference.  Remember your wedding vows”  For better or worse I take you to be my beloved.  And I In the name of God, I, _____, take you, _____, to be my wife/husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until parted by death. This is my solemn vow.

• Remember it’s a partnership - not a benevolent dictatorship.
• Submit to one another

We learn this law of love when we learn to receive love completely. 

We next learn to extend love AND receive love. 

You see don’t you that without God extending love to you you would not have the opportunity to learn to receive. 

You see by learning to extend it to ourselves we know the muscle movement required to extend it to others. 

And so, we learn to love as we love God in return for loving us as we are not as we should be.

We learn to love ourselves, by extending forgiveness quickly and being patient with our progress or lack of it.

We learn to love others only if we have learned to love God and ourselves.

We are the aroma of Christ.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Set Aside

Do you realize how kind the Lord has been to you?  If so, then put away your impatience with your wife and kids, stop being lazy about your spiritual life, turn off the secret stuff.  Grow up into the fullness of your salvation. Come to Jesus again and begin afresh where you are!  1 Peter 2:2 paraphrase

Like you and me, Peter came to grips with being stalled in his faith.  On the outside, he still talked the talk, but without the fire -- his faith was shallow.

Peter writes to people who have stalled or drifted and have lost the fire.  He writes to inspire us to remember what is true about you and about God.

We can always come back

You see, Jesus’ law of love reaches where you are now.  You can begin again again.  No questions asked – well, other than the same three questions Jesus asked Peter in John 21:15-17 - Do you love Me?

Regardless of Peter’s behavior, he was a son of God.  Same with you and me.  Like the prodigal in Luke 15,  we are forever His son.  He welcomes us back without condemnation.  The Apostle Paul piles on to confirms it:  “Therefore there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1 NASB

We are God’s chosen

Peter reminds you and me that we have been chosen by God Himself - you are priests of the King, you are holy and pure, you are God’s very own. 1 Peter 2:9a TLB

Friend, sit with this.

We are God’s chosen…and, we are set aside, not ordinary, but set aside as God’s special kids so that we can show others how God called us out of the darkness and into His wonderful light.  1 Peter 2:9b TLB

We are visitors here

Spiritual amnesia, social media, and our culture fight to frame our view of what’s true.  We seem to think our street address or our job description defines our citizenship.

Not so.

Our citizenship is in the Kingdom of God – not this world.  We are merely passing through.

Our real home is out of this world.

So what does this all mean?

Your heart is hungry for the fire to return – your heart to beat with His heart; to live this one time on the planet with integrity.

• The heart of God sees where you are.  His love is calling you home.

• Tell God right out loud, “I’m coming back to You God!”  Then take a tiny step of faith by telling your spouse, a friend -- heck, email or call me!

• Follow this up by getting your Bible out and slowly reading Matthew 5-7 for the next few weeks.

• Get yourself and your family back to going to church regularly.

You are not alone.

Jesus personally carried the load of our sins in His own body when He died on the cross so that we can be finished with sin and have a good life from now on.  For His wounds have healed ours!  Like sheep, you wandered away from God, but now you have returned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls who keeps you safe from all attacks. 1 Peter 2:24-25 paraphrase

Pray

God, sometimes I feel like You’ve forgotten me.  Or when I act out it’s as though I’ve forgotten You. I don’t feel “set aside” as one of Your chosen. So, going forward, help me build my life, my relationships, dreams and goals on the truth of Jesus’ way of love.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He has had His eyes on each of us from our inception and His posture toward us is loving.  Not the love we learned as kids, reinforced on tv and in movies, the smarmy heads in the sand puppy love that sets up soon-to-be discarded marriage vows.

Jesus sought out Peter as He did you and me. Peter was an everyman, who came to the true place of faith as a fisherman. He was somewhere in his 30’s, desperate to “make it” at his trade, his marriage, and however he defined spirituality.

Like many, he really wasn’t making it – but if you asked him he’d insist he was, though the evidence was beginning to break into his denial.

It was in this condition that Jesus walked into Peter’s life. Jesus invited him to be one of His followers.  Peter, with all his virgin enthusiasm, said yes without hesitation.

It is Peter’s quick “yes” to Jesus and his slow transformation which we can all relate to.  

Nearing the end of his life, Peter writes two small books, 1st, and 2nd Peter.  In these writings, we find encouragement in this slow, painful process of becoming what we believe.

Peter begins with “To aliens living in disbursed outposts, followers of Jesus, - learn Jesus’ Law of Love.” 1 Peter 1:1 & 22 paraphrase

To you and me, Peter meets us where we are and how we are – spiritual aliens here on earth and followers of Jesus – and the first thing he has to say is to learn Jesus’ law of love.

Why would Peter lead off with that?

A slow but steady learner, Peter learned first-hand from Jesus that love is the universal, preeminent, and primary law of life that guides all human interaction, all creation, and governs the connection between the infinite God and finite humans.  The law of love is the root and supersedes all other ways things work.

Peter learned Jesus’ Law of Love living with Jesus for three years -- he was an apprentice.

He saw and listened to Jesus talk love, show love, and live love to the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Jesus’ Law of Love exploded into Peter’s heart after he denied Jesus the third time as Jesus turned and made eye contact with Peter.

The Bible says “Peter remembered what Jesus had said.”  Peter wept convulsing sobs like a man with dry heaves.  It was a black day for Peter because he had no opportunity to talk to Jesus until after Jesus’ crucifixion.

The Love Motivation

After Jesus was raised from the dead, He gathered His disciples at the beach for a fire and food.  Can you imagine the dread in Peter’s heart as Jesus asked him to take a walk with Him?

Jesus asked him three times, “Do you love me more than the approval of others?” Three times Peter responded, weeping “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”

Jesus’ quick, complete forgiveness – motivated by love – cauterized the open wound of Peter’s heart.

So 35 years later we find Peter writing to you and me – aliens living in disbursed outposts, followers of Jesus -- learn Jesus’ Law of Love.

What does Jesus’ Law of Love look like?

With your heart…

Be patient, kind, and compassionate.

Forgive any and every offense without reservation or hesitation

Don’t judge or criticize.

Be slow to anger.

Honor your marriage vows.

Pay attention to Jesus’ words to Peter, you, and me: “everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts upon them, may be compared to a wise man who builds his house on a rock.”  Matthew 7:24 NASB

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2022 can be your God-inspired BEST YEAR EVER with ONE WORD going forward, ONE VERSE to inspire, and a SIMPLE PLAN with micro-steps. 

Why is a SIMPLE PLAN important? 

Without a plan, you will drift and chase rabbit trails through 2022.

Without a plan, you have no idea what is most important. 

Without a plan, you don’t know where the finish line is. 

With a plan, you have a map with a destination.

In this session, you can begin to craft your 2021 plan. 

BEGIN NOW 

Begin by reading over the My 2021 Life Plan to get familiar with the format. Read it but don’t compare. I’ve been doing this for a long time. Begin where you are and be ok with it. 

THE BIG IDEA 

Take 20 minutes right now and fill in the blanks. Don’t overthink or wordsmith. Hold yourself to this time frame and blast it out. If nothing comes to you in one key area, leave it blank. Then, tuck it in a safe place and get on with the rest of your day. 

THE NEXT BIG IDEA 

Tomorrow pull out your plan first thing in the morning and read it over -- making notes, edits and additions. You will find God uses this daily review to help you craft your plan as you go. 

God will use your SIMPLE PLAN to guide how you plan and schedule each day of the week. Understand that you cannot work on each key area all the time! Each week ask yourself “Which two or three areas are the most important for me this week?” and focus on them. 

In our next session, we will talk about KEEPING ON TRACK throughout the year. 

PRAY 

I’m new at this God! I’ve been drifting. I’m winning in some areas of my life but in areas like my marriage or work, I’m really missing the mark. Please help me craft a SIMPLE PLAN. Thank you. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Set this year up as your best year ever by making the decision to begin with one word.  

One word over the year can keep you focused.

One word over the year will keep you moving when you want to quit.

With one word over the year, God will meet you where you are, walk with you every day, and help you finish strong.

Choose a word that fires you up, speaks to your soul, and inspires you to get out of the little boat you are in and walk on water with Jesus.

Talk to God about your life, invite Him in to inspire you to love and good deeds.  You can do this if you take a step of faith.  Nothing happens without simple steps of faith repeated.

Finding a word is as simple as making a list, looking at it for a few days, adding a word, deleting a word if it’s not right, and asking God to inspire you with a word.

Here are a few words from last year from a few of my friends:

Listen

Courage

Guarantee

Purpose

Dedication

Focus

Seek

Trust

You will know you’ve selected the right word if it feels a bit risky. It may not juice anybody else up and that doesn’t matter -- if it does you, then you’re set. 

I wear my word stamped onto a key made by the good people at The Giving Keys, an inspiring “pay it forward” company. It is a constant reminder that God is changing my heart and walking with me. 

So take a small step of faith - listen to God and pick a word - it begins a new beginning and that’s how God began - by choosing a Word.

Next week we will dig into a simple plan. 

Pray 

2021 was a rough one for me. The idea that 2022 could be my best ever seems ridiculous. I’ve heard that with God all things are possible. So, I trust You will guide me as I begin my year with You. Thank You. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How would you describe peace?  The absence of conflict?  Tranquility or calm?  A moment away from three screaming kids?

Jesus’ peace satisfies the deepest longing of our soul, soothes loneliness, restores relationships, and overcomes the deepest betrayals we can imagine.

This Christmas Jesus, Prince of Peace, brings peace in four gift-wrapped packages delivered to you today...

Peace with God

“Since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith in Jesus Christ, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.”  Romans 5:1 NLT

No more running or hiding.  God isn’t out to spank you or abandon you nor withhold his love from you. He offers a fresh start with no regrets if you are willing to accept the gift of His Son, Jesus, as payment for all your poor choices.

Peace of God

Jesus tells us, “I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart.  And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.  So don't be troubled or afraid.”  John 14:27 NLT

The peace of God is within you in the person of the Holy Spirit and fills us with hope, courage, and wisdom.  The peace of God can leak out of you to others in a similar way Jesus’ peace flowed out of Him offering hope and friendship to the sick, lonely, and forgotten.

Peace with Self

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 NASB

No more self-loathing or self-sabotage.  No more acting out because you feel bad about being bad.  Jesus' peace brings truth into our hearts and minds and sets us free.

Peace with Others.

...as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  Romans 12:18 CSB

As we experience Jesus extending peace to ourselves we begin to offer it freely to others.  Freely we received - freely we give. As best we can we choose peace, not payback, as did Jesus.

Which gift is most meaningful to you this year?  Who do you know that needs these three gifts?  Why not forward this to them now?

Pray

Lord Jesus thank You that You are the Prince of Peace and can fill my life with peace.  So, I’m thanking You for these four gifts; help me share them with my kids, spouse, friends, and those in my world who are sick, lonely, or forgotten. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My not vaccinated 10-week covid experience transformed my faith, refined my purpose, and helped me discover what matters most.

It was an intervention on a massive scale, like having a dicey conversation with your spouse.

I lost all sense of rhythm in my spiritual, physical, and relational life. I was barely alive and the momentum of my life was at a dead standstill. Those two questions that haunt all men - “Who am I? And What am I doing?” began to pester me.

I felt I was starting over. Again.

Moving from “reaction” to “action.”

I moved from “reaction” to “action” as I started my days with God - reading a Psalm each day, making a shortlist of things I needed to do, and then getting after them with all I had - which wasn’t much.

I ate well, stayed hydrated, and talked each morning with Lea Ann about what was most important. It was a slow recovery, but I accepted things as they were rather than focusing on the past. I crawled my way into physical, relational, and spiritual fitness with micro-steps.

Creating a beachhead.

With a tiny bit of momentum, I began to encounter stiff resistance. It came when I got too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. Trigger points for virtually any self-sabotage.

So I talked with my friend John and he asked: “What’s your plan?” I didn’t have one at the time but I later talked with God and slowly assembled one. It began with a random watching of the movie “Saving Private Ryan’ where I seized on the word “beachhead.” 

A beachhead is a defended position on a beach taken from the enemy from which an attack can be launched. Oxford Dictionary

Did you get that? It is a defended position taken from the enemy.

Getting my life back was in many ways a fight to “take back lost ground.”. Getting a toe hold was a dog fight yet I inched forward one day at a time. Not without setbacks, but always recovering and going forward.

Resist. Fight. Take a stand.

Three words became part of my morning reminder as I look into each day.

Resist. Resist the pull to cling to victim thinking, the lies of the enemy, and the momentum of our culture.

Fight. Fight for it. Resistance is fierce and the beach is heavily defended. Be alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, and be strong.

Take a stand. Fear can creep in and if it gets an opening it can derail your progress. “Take a stand” means you refuse to yield, you call a trusted friend to pray with and for you, you fix your heart on Jesus and fight hard.

You see, we have this treasure in earthen vessels so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 2 Corinthians 4:7-10 NASB

God is teaching and I am learning on this recovery road that there is a way things work. 

A beachhead hinges on God-inspired everyday decisions shaped by breakthrough moments. 

Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We don’t fight these two things - it’s simply the way things work.

In this session, we’re going to look at “acceptance” of the way things work in a broken, fallen world.

We are wise to invite God to help us.  Consider the first line in the Serenity Prayer - “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

Acceptance is a word from the wilderness, the desert, and fierce landscapes where we face the fact that we have no control.

Acceptance is like 5 card stud poker.  Stud not draw. We have to do the best we can with what we have!  The orphan hordes and hides. The boy folds. The man plays ‘em as best he can and doesn’t whine about it.

Acceptance is coming to terms and not getting stuck in the debilitating, life draining tar pit of “Why me??? anger, and resentment.  Sometimes life isn’t fair.  Tires go flat.  Jobs relocate or get phased out.  Illnesses strike.  Sometimes things just happen.  Sometimes it’s due to the poor choices of others that trap us in the backwash.

Acceptance is about those things we cannot change.  The things we have prayed about and gotten a clear answer of ‘no’ from God.

Acceptance is a choice. Most often we need to drop into acceptance when we are consumed with being right or having a specific outcome -- namely, our own!

Acceptance of the way things really are, not as we’d like them to be.

Acceptance of your limits.  Knowing what you have control over and what you don’t.

Acceptance of other people’s opinions.  Letting go of needing to be “right.”

Acceptance can be defined as letting go of my opinion or my assessment of things and taking hold of what is true.

Acceptance of me by God.  “My heart began to thaw as I became open to His unconditional acceptance of me as I am, not as I should be. He loves me whether in a state of grace or disgrace, whether I live up to the lofty expectations of His gospel or I don’t. He comes to me where I live and loves me as I am.” Brennan Manning

With acceptance, we trade good for great, angst for peace while everything inside seems to scream “NO!!!!!”

Jesus tells the story of a Centurion, an officer in the Roman army.  The officer asked Jesus for help with a sick soldier under his command.  Here’s how the conversation went...

“Lord,” he said, “my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.”  Jesus said to him, “Shall I come and heal him?”  The Centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.  For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” Matthew 8:5-13 NIV

The Centurion understood and accepted how things work in the natural, physical world.  For example, he understood the devastating effects of terminal illness and he understood the chain of command.

But more importantly, the Centurion understood the power of prayer (making a request of Jesus) and placed his hope and faith in Jesus.   And Jesus is never bound by or limited to the way things (normally) work!  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time of year some things speed up and others slow down.  For many, it is a time to reflect and set a new course.  If this is you, consider these simple ideas to prepare your heart for what’s next.

Create space to listen

This won’t happen unless you put it on your calendar.  Your good intentions will be overrun by other people’s poor planning.

Invite God IN

Talk with God about where you are stuck, waiting, confused, or raring to go.  He is more than eager to help.

Seek Counsel

Get together for coffee with someone you look up to and find out how they go about getting wind in their sails.

Listen to your heart

Three questions can prime the pump.  “Who am I?, What am I doing?, and What’s most important now?”

Let go - take hold

If you take actions like those above you will become aware of new directions that fire you up and worn-out things that you need to let go of.

If you take time now, the chances are very good that you will get off to a good start in 2022.  If you don’t take time now you can count on things being pretty much the same.

PRAY

You know God where I am with my life - and the truth is, reading this I realize I can make some choices.  Help me walk with You and others through this season of reflection.

RESOURCE

If you have a copy of my book, Chasing the Sage, check out a short chapter that will help you with this daunting season of change starting on page 161.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus shows us what gratitude really looks like.  In John 8 we find the story of a woman (and a man) caught in adultery.  The religious leaders following the rules of the Old Covenant demanded she be stoned.  Jesus, the mediator of the New Covenant, where grace-filled love is the new law extends mercy; i.e. not getting what we deserve.

The woman’s response to Jesus’ mercy?

Gratitude.

Those aware they are beneficiaries of mercy can extend mercy.  Those unaware are unable to extend mercy like Jesus.

Every so often it does me good to fail in a BIG way.  Oh, not that I do it intentionally, or take it lightly.

Failure is compost from which the explosive cleansing of gratitude comes.

Unaware, in denial, or blaming others for my massive (yet ultimately forgiven) debt, I act like a spoiled brat.  I  point out the minor faults in loved ones, and demand the maximum sentence instead of mercy.

Only the habitual offender, in his right mind, weeps true tears of remorse when facing his victim, accuser, and the hanging judge.

He no longer blames, he stands naked and exposed -- guilty with no defense, confessing with no blame or rationalization.  He is fully aware of his heinous guilt.

Our Judge only asks “What did you do?” and waits.

All He asks is that we tell Him without blaming, justifying, or minimizing.

What, then does He wait for?  He waits for our gratitude and that we become like Him in this matter -- that we respond in like-kind to everyone in every offense with the same kind of mercy which we receive from Him.

“Turn the other cheek” is how Jesus put it.

Reflect

This Thanksgiving, recall a massive failure.  Reflect on how complete God’s forgiveness, and purpose in your heart to be like Jesus to others.  Become grateful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The wall is a symbol of spiritual health.  The spiritual health was as sick as their city and for the same reason -- the neglect of regular maintenance.

Times were really hard.  Remember the pandemic winter of January 2020?  That’s what we’re talking about.

The people rallied behind the leadership of a regular guy named Nehemiah.  He organized the people and got them working together.  The people had a heart and mind to work!

Discouragement sets in as the work reaches the halfway point.

The media of the day conspired a smear campaign that demoralized the workers to the point the entire project was at risk of failing!

The will to work evaporated as fear raced through the workers when the project was about to be overrun by mercenaries.

Discouragement overcome!

Nehemiah once again rallied the people with, “Don’t be afraid of them, remember the LORD who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.” Nehemiah 4:15

I can imagine hundreds of households returning to the spiritual practices of family prayer, of reading Bible stories to their children, and moms and dads praying for their kids, neighbors, and country.

As the wall began to be repaired so too the spiritual fibre of the people.

In his journal, Nehemia wrote, “The workers went at it with one hand on a shovel and the other hand on a sword.”

Swords and Shovels for today

SWORDS  

Return to the basics of daily prayer as a desperate man.  

Read a chapter a day in your Bible.  

Get yourself and your family back to church.  

Focus more on our powerful God and less on the news and social media.

Become aggressive with optimism anchored in hope.

SHOVELS  

In your heart, home, and world figure out what needs your attention, a tune-up, or an overhaul and get after it with everything you’ve got.

Craft a plan and work it together.

Do the work -- one brick at a time.

As I write I am reminded of the wise words attributed to Solomon:

I walked by the field of a man, the vineyard of one lacking sense.  I saw that it was overgrown with thorns.  It was covered with weeds, and its walls were broken down.  Then, as I looked and thought about it, I learned this lesson:  A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest -- and poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like a robber.  Proverbs 24:30-34

Brother, hand me another brick.

Pray

Help me get sick and tired of being sick and tired, of waking up with either an emotional or physical hangover.  Help me get back the rhythm of saying “no” to those life sucking things I’ve been saying “yes” to.  Help me rebuild what I’ve neglected.  And as we do this -- one man at a time, we can rebuild the fabric of our churches and our country.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The unfolding of this present darkness which has been rumbling in the background of many of our heads and hearts -- and the high likelihood it will continue -- perhaps for years.

Remember, Jesus promised to come back for us.  His coming back will not be delayed much longer. Hebrews 10:37 TLB  This has been the anticipation of Christians for over 2,000 years.  In A.D. 34 it was “perhaps today.”  The same is true now, “perhaps today.”

As citizens of Jesus’ Kingdom and the United States of America, we don’t need to freak out about it, but it does beg the question, “What am I supposed to do?”

Today we are going to explore...taking small steps of faith and look at how a guy was prompted by God to do something and how he got after it.  Let’s take a look at the story...

Noah..trusted God.  When he heard God’s warning about the future, Noah believed him even though there was then no sign of a flood, and wasting no time, he built the ark and saved his family. Noah’s belief in God was in direct contrast to the sin and disbelief of the rest of the world—which refused to obey—and because of his faith (in action) he became one of those whom God has accepted.  Hebrews 11:7 TLB

Noah didn’t ignore the warnings about the future.   He listened to what God wanted him to do and then he took action.

Noah’s actions saved his family.

His children learned firsthand from their father how to be a person of faith.

His wife must have felt cared for -- and surely she was proud to have Noah as her husband.

With God as the General Contractor and Noah as a craftsman builder, their relationship must have been intimate, conversational, intense, and fun!  Imagine literally working alongside God.

That’s what God has for you and me -- an invitation to survey the landscape, listen for instruction, get after it with small steps one day at a time... and do it with God.

Noah was a man of faith.  What is faith?  It is (human action based on) the confident assurance that something is going to happen.  It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead. Hebrews 11:1 TLB

What are you hearing these days?  What’s really on the horizon?

Pray

Heavenly Father, please help us to ‘see’ through the fog of our present circumstances to rest on the certainty of Your promises...and then act accordingly.  AMEN

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

God, speaking through Moses a few thousand years ago, spoke to the Jewish nation when they were in a hard place, a wilderness place, not unlike the chaotic in-between place we are in.  Here’s what He said...

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.   Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.  Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.  Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.  Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV

These people were in the wilderness -- a land in between an apocalyptic life of slavery in Egypt and the promise of a land filled with milk and honey; i.e. the promised land.

These people were instructed to repeat these words daily to help them remember what to do as their world was spinning out of control wilderness wandering for 40 years.  40 years!

Perhaps like me, the unfolding of this present darkness has been rumbling in the background of your head and heart.  Either you’re looking at it like “I think we’re getting back to business as usual” or “I believe things are getting worse” or you’re not thinking about it at all.

Jesus’ words to followers like you and me paint a picture beyond the wilderness of this accelerating present darkness -- they tell us about our promised land.

“Let not your heart be troubled.  You are trusting God, now trust Me...When everything is ready, then I will come and get you, so that you can always be with me where I am.  And you know where I am going and how to get there. John 14:1-4 TLB [The Living Bible]

Now don’t get in a panic -- I’m not saying Jesus is coming back today.  I’m just reminding us Jesus said He would come again.  No one knows when.  The big question I found myself thinking is “What am I supposed to do while in this land in between?”

God is showing me very clearly;

• Love people, pray for those I disagree with, forgive quickly, keep trusting God.
• Read Bible stories to my granddaughter.
• Listen to the Spirit and do what He says.

To His disciples, you and me, who barely understand what is truly unfolding, Jesus said, 

“I have told you all of this so that you will have peace of heart and mind.  Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows; but cheer up, for I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33 TLB

Pray

More and more I’m feeling like those people in the wilderness -- in between.  It does seem to be getting more chaotic.  I’m concerned for my kids, my spouse, my job, and my country.  Show me very clearly God what to do and how to be between the wilderness of today and the promised land.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In my head, I hear this verse a lot lately. Mostly when I’m trying to get something done and encountering resistance when the urge is to find an easier way or leave it half-finished. and add to the pile of stuff waiting for me in the corner.

You do, we, I need to find the way of endurance.

I hear it and so do you -- the pile of unfinished well-intended things tells us.

The old sage Paul says it this way...the path is the way of endurance. 1 Corinthians 10:13 BLT [1]

Endurance is the ability to withstand hardship or adversity; especially the ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity of a marathon runner's endurance.

Endurance is tested, or proven, or developed when everything inside you screams “I want out now!” and we stick to the task before us to the end.

The strange thing is, we think we can endure in a hurry. 

The way of endurance is to go slow - as a style of living. Hurry, busyness, speed kill the will to endure.

The undisciplined rush quickly to fantasy, the allure of stimulation, or to the fast burn of desire.

Selfish impatience in a hurry turns love into a self-seeking activity.

A mind out of control never sits still long enough to hear the voice of God.

In dark times we frequently pursue frenzied quick fixes.

And we are in dark times. What if this present darkness continues for ten or twenty years? Each year compounding the fear factor and the loss of personal freedoms.

"Go slow - or "go slower."

“Go slow” implies action, personal responsibility, and engagement -- the opposite of passivity which prevails in many of our lives.

Endurance is a “go slow” character trait -- we make a promise and keep it through to the end.

Get your arms around living within your means, and seeing it all the way through -- day by day, rain or shine.

Most any ordinary, mundane, everyday task calls us to endure; i.e. “do it” - in a complete and comprehensive way.

God is calling me out -- and you out: we have need for endurance! He is calling our families, church, and our nation to pursue the Way of Endurance.

It gets darker as winter comes upon us, as the media turns the screws, politics pursues agendas, our world spins more and more out of control -- dark times for sure.

Yes, in dark times we frequently pursue frenzied quick fixes. Our families need us to be enduring men who hold the line, finish the task, and run long.

If not now, when?

Pray

God, I’m in such a hurry. I feel like I can’t slow down! Help me at least to slow down to a sustainable pace. I’m tired of putting things off, leaving a legacy of unfinished projects, or giving in to the fast burn of desire. Help me follow the way of endurance and hold me to it - don’t let me weasel out of it this time. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A short summary of the story of Bartimaeus:  He was a blind beggar and had one opportunity to tell Jesus what he wanted.   As Jesus approached down the street, His disciples kept the screaming throngs from crushing Him. The noise was deafening.

It was now or never for Bartimaeus.

A friend said that Jesus was steps away.  Bartimaeus let out a scream at the top of his voice. Jesus help me!  Actually, it was more of a long loud moan -- a guttural bay like a dying dog howling in desperation -- a scream of the soul.

The Bartimaeus Howl

No distrust made him waver.

“Jesus.  Help me!” the Bartimaeus Howl, the primal scream from the heart of faith and the whisper of the Jesus Prayer.

Jesus stopped dead in His tracks.  In His gaze, He heard the howl.  “What do you want?” Jesus asked.

“Help me!  I want to see!!!”

Right then and there Jesus opened Bartimaeus’ eyes, circumcised his heart, and cauterized the wound with a flaming stick from Moses’ burning bush.  

Perhaps it’s now or never for you.

Perhaps you are waiting.  Jesus is near.  Tell Him what you want.  Ask big.

Perhaps you are a friend.  Hold up the Christ light of love for your Bartimaeus.

Pray

Lord, these days, most of us are afraid of the dark, the unknown, the news.  Come down our street, the hallway of our home, the inner place of soul blindness and help us!  So that with hope, against hope we would believe…as we contemplate our life situation now as good as dead…yet with respect to the promise of God, we do not waver in unbelief, but grow strong on faith. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We think that since people treat us this way, that’s the way God works, too.

That’s not the way things work with infinite God toward us finite humans.

Jesus demonstrates it’s not too late.

When most exhausted, beaten to a pulp, and about to die hanging on a cross with two other felons, one of the felons asked Jesus if it was too late for him. Jesus told him, “it’s never too late.” Luke 23:40-43 (BLT)

It’s not too late…

To start over and begin again.

To change something or quit something.

To come home (to yourself or others) -- again.

To tell the truth or say “I’m sorry.”

To forgive or to receive forgiveness.

To be a friend, pursue a dream, start a fire, light a fuse.

To risk big and make one heap of all your winnings and risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, and lose, and start again at your beginnings and never breathe a word about your loss. (If, by Rudyard Kipling)

This side of death we can come home, pursue a dream, start over with just about anything. 

But on the other hand it is true that time runs out to come home to God. When we die, what’s next depends on how we respond to Jesus’ offer just like the guy in Luke 23.

Don’t wait. Time is short. 

Come on home. 

Prayer

Father, please give me the courage to recognize that it’s not too late and to do something about it.  Expose my excuses for what they are and enable me to take that daunting and long-overdue first step.

PS If you have questions about coming home to God for the first time or hundredth time - give me a call anytime 831-566-4131. Bud

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. 1 Corinthians 9:24 (NASB)

The Apostle Paul uses running as an image for living and the idea of winning to illustrate following Jesus. I’ve been running for almost as long as I’ve been following Jesus -- 43 years. God has used this verse to inspire me to get up after I’ve been tripped up, to get going after a lazy layoff, and to begin again after an injury.

It was 9 weeks after symptoms of the wicked respiratory bug appeared that I went for a run of one mile.  

One mile was all I was planning. One mile to begin again, to regain a lifestyle characterized by daily runs. One slow but steady mile, paying close attention to how my lungs were doing, to my energy, and to my stamina. As Jesse says “Listen to your body.” And I was.

After a quarter of a mile, the hip flexor in my left hip began to tighten up and so I dropped to my knees and stretched it out. As I was stretching I realized I had not stretched before I started. After I worked it out I finished without it acting up. In a sense, it was a winning run in that my body responded well with today’s short, slow but steady run.

It’s been like this in many areas of my life where I have been tripped up, lazy for a season, or wounded in body or soul that getting going again often meant I needed to stretch something out.

This “stretching it out” can be something painful like working through an issue with your spouse, taking a look at your finances, or getting back to basics with God. When we feel these hip flexors acting up, we need to stop, drop, and stretch it out in order to get back to that one slow but steady walk with God which is called “today.”

We can do this. You can do this.

Listen to your body. Listen to your heart. Listen to the voice of the Father calling you home.

Pray

Yes, God, I’ve been feeling some pain and hoping it will go away on it’s own. I’m not sure how to stretch it out. Help me stop, drop, and pray - then get up and finish today strong. Thank You!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up, my family took road trips. Often we would return home at night. As an 8 year old, I never doubted that Dad had enough money to buy gas. I never doubted he knew where we were going.

I had complete and total trust. Not a hint of doubt. Just simple trust that Dad had it handled.

If we could free ourselves from insisting on answers from God, second-guessing the route He has chosen or being on hyperalert to make sense of these dark days, we would discover that the essence of biblical faith lies in trusting God.

For many of us, we’re on a road trip and it’s dark... And either God is at the wheel or we think we are.

“Craving clarity, we attempt to eliminate the risk of trusting God. Fear (or doubt) of the unknown path stretching ahead of us destroys childlike trust in the Father’s active goodness and unrestricted love.” -- Brennan Manning in Ruthless Trust: The Ragamuffin’s Path to God (Page 6)

Ruthless Trust:

It is ”When all else is unclear, the heart of trust says ‘Into Your hands, I commit my spirit’ Luke 23:46. (Ibid Page 6)

It “is the defining spirit of authentic discipleship” -- of being a follower of Jesus.” (Ibid Page 4)

It is in the midst of tragic events that leave us bereft of understanding. Trust does not demand explanations, but turns to the One who promised, “I will not leave you as orphans.” (John 14:18a NASB)

It is a decisive conversion from mistrust to trust which must be renewed daily -- moment by moment. It becomes an acquired lifestyle.

Growing Trust:

...this kind of trust is acquired only gradually and most often through a series of crises and trials” which is called “life.” (Ibid Page 9) “In order to grow in trust, we must allow God to love us precisely as we are (warts, secret sins, and all) (not as we want to be or were told we should be)”. (Ibid Page 16)

Trust is the remedy for our addiction to clarity about what’s next. The antidote for parent’s fearful hearts for our kids., The elixir for whatever it is that keeps us awake at night.

-------------------------------------------------------------

Pray

Help me learn to trust in You throughout the darkness of my illness, divorce, under or unemployment, aging body, shame, and regrets. God the list is seemingly endless.

Help me trust You have it handled and resist pushing You out of the way so I can drive the car. Help me banish any and every thought of doubt. Teach me the way of ruthless trust. Break me of the habit of thinking it’s all up to me. Help me know You better -- not simply know about You -- but know and enjoy You.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At one time I referred to this verse as the “get out of jail free” card from the board game Monopoly. And in a sense, it is.

Jesus paid a debt He didn’t owe for my debt that I couldn’t pay.

The way God goes about helping us get to “no regrets” cost Jesus His life. So it isn’t cheap like Monopoly money. It’s so opposite to how the world works. Consider His offer here: There is…

- No solitary confinement

- No “go to your room!” (with anger and negative emotion for emphasis)

- No penalty box

- No “show me the money!” as though you should be able to pay the penalty

- No powering up demand - “What were you THINKING!???”

- No “This is it! We’re finished!”

- No withdrawal of love, acceptance, or presence.

When the prodigal son returns (Luke 15:11-24), it’s all about homecoming, celebrating, and a fresh start.

All it takes for us prodigal sons and daughters is to turn in the homeward direction, and say “I’ve messed up” honestly and without blame or rationalizing--and BAM! “God forgives!”

Reflection

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Do not cast me away from Your presence,

And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation,

And sustain me with a willing spirit.

~ Psalm 51:10-12 NASB

Prayer

I’m tired, God, of lugging this bag of regrets around God. (Take a moment and name them - or jot them on a napkin) Weary is a better word. They are what they are--things I did, thoughts I entertained, or words I said that are not fitting one of Your kids. Help me get back on the right track with things. And, thank You Jesus for paying the price I couldn’t pay. Amen

[1] Bud Lamb Translation

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I often underestimate what Jesus faced in the wilderness of Luke chapter 4. Jesus experienced 40 days of starvation and dehydration before He faced off with satan. Certainly, Jesus is/was fully God - but/and fully human.

His humanity must have crippled Him with a limp or crawl through those final days when the liar satan attempted to entice Him with an easy way out.

I used to think Jesus rebuked satan with a thundering voice but I’ve changed my thinking. Emaciated with hunger and thirst, through parched lips, skin dry as a bone and His head baked to near hallucination I can imagine the best Jesus could do was a whisper.

So too with my wilderness journey - every day my heart is assaulted with lies and offers of an easy way out.

I would like to see myself as powerful in my faith, thunderous in my rebuke.

The truth is I am weak, wavering in my faith, and the best I can do is whisper “I rebuke you in Jesus name! Jesus have mercy on me!”

And with this whisper of a holy rebuke my soul gives credit to God alone, for God is the source of my anchored optimism.

Grow an intimate moment-to-moment reliance and awareness that you are not alone, God is always near, He will help with just a whisper.

---------------------------------------------------

Prayer

Oh God, my help in time of need, help me not be surprised if later today the perfect storm presents itself. That I would be alert to lies and rebuke the enemy with a whisper calling out Jesus have mercy on me!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

Chasing the Sage is about the slow, painful, magnificent process of the Fathering of men by God, Who offers us His blessing with no strings attached.

Living out of the Sage for us mortals, we find is a long discipline in the same direction. We fall and get up again and again.

Take pains with these things, be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to all…persevere in these things; for as you do this you will ensure salvation for yourself and those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:15-16 NASB

Our progress is not linear. We find these movements to son, to man, and chasing the Sage are mystical as much as they are intellectual.

This gives the journey the wonder of the unknown calling us into the mist while looking for scraps of the map to guide us forward.

We find ourselves letting go of long embedded once useful ways which are now dead weight. As we let go we become open and available to new ways -- new wineskins in which the wine of a life well-lived is carried and given away.

Our lives are a long uninterrupted line of squiggles, starts, and stops, dips, and divots, all kinds of weather, friendships that come and go. The only constant is ourselves and our God.

Our progress is marked with struggle, with failure, along with the hard-fought fruits of endeavor.

Chasing the Sage, we become what we believe in faith, and practice. We survive the journey as Proverbs 24:16 men who fall down and get up rain or shine. We become men who follow their hearts, learn to love like Jesus, and know God as a Friend.

We emulate God as we become the imago dei as kings, warriors, holy men, and lovers equipped to carry our own cross and encourage others with theirs.

Chasing the Sage we find purpose and passion as we become more and more comfortable living in our own skin, communing with God, and loving others.

We find knowing and enjoying God to be the Pearl of great price which the merchant sold everything to acquire.

Lock arms with a few trusted friends who share the journey. Dig into the Bible together, be authentic with your progress, and invite others to join you in expanding Jesus’ presence in this world.

Those haunting questions - Who am I and what am I doing? They answer themselves as we chase the Sage.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

What got you here won’t get you there.

The habits and life tools that got us here won’t get us where we want to go. We need to learn new habits and get new tools for life.

These simple tools work...if you work them.

…discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. 1 Timothy 4:7-9 NASB

I’ve found four tools in particular that God has used to help me chase the Sage for almost 40 years. These have become indispensable to me.

Not a day passes without beginning with them. They place me in the soil where God grows a great soul; reminding me who I am and what I am doing here as He reminds me Who He is and What He is doing here.

I believe Jesus practiced these tools daily to help Him keep on purpose and fueled with passion.

Invite God into each element of the Core Four as a matter of conversation and inclusion.

Do the Core Four each morning before you get going. It will take you about 20 minutes. In doing so, you will enter the day focused on the right things and inspired to be the man God created you to be.

1. READ: Reading the Bible every day will expose you to timeless truth in a timely fashion.

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16

2. RECORD: Keep a journal by recording your thoughts, your dreams, and your goals. Include scribbled notes on lessons you are learning, quotes that inspire you, and things you want to remember. Record what is going on in your heart.

Michael Hayatt reminds us that what happens to us is not as important as the meaning we assign to it. Journaling helps sort this out.

3. REFLECT: Reflect daily through meditation and prayer, remembering who you are and where you are going. Reflect on your dreams and goals; the events in your family, work, and world. Do this with God in a conversational manner.

Few things have impacted me more as I chase the Sage than s l o w l y reflecting on the Serenity Prayer on a daily basis.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

The courage to change the things I can,

And the wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time,

Enjoying one moment at a time;

Taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is;

Not as I would have it;

Trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will;

So that I may be reasonably happy in this life

And supremely happy with You forever in the next.

4. REVIEW: Daily go over the to-do’s on your list. Put things in your calendar so you won’t forget them. Review your calendar with God; your “to-do” list for family and work. Ask yourself “What’s most important for me to do or be today/this week/this month?”

By implementing the Daily Core Four, you will start each day focused, refreshed, and with a plan. You will come to know and enjoy God on a deep and enduring level. They can help you achieve your goals, and be a better husband, friend, and member of your community.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

God is God, He can use any number of ways to create defining moments that catch our attention.

As C.S. Lewis tells us, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

When the Lord saw that Moses had turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the (burning) bush, and said “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” Exodus 3:4

Moses was chasing the Sage and, like us, didn’t know it. I bet that after his burning bush experience and the intimate conversation with God that followed, Moses began to be open to something new.

God called to Moses in the burning bush and Moses moved closer. The trajectory of his life changed in that defining moment.

It is as though Moses was in the biggest poker game of his life and God was inviting him to push all his chips in on this one BIG hand and trust Him.

I can relate to the story of Moses. Moses was minding his own business on the far side of the wilderness. He was alone. He was at an all-time low point in his life -- nothing was going right. He was starting over -- not at the top of the management rung, but at the bottom.

It may be burning in you today -- right now! Something you’ve been dreaming, thinking, and praying about.

Don’t freak out! Our God knows our hearts and is working behind the scenes in us to advance His Presence.

Look at it - the mystery of spontaneous combustion is the spontaneous Presence moving in your heart.

Listen to it - the small voice you just heard in your gut whispering YES to a dead or dying dream.

Lean into it - respond to it as Moses did: Not knowing where He will lead you -- just say ‘yes!’

Linger in this look, listen, and lean into this season. Be wary of the temptation to quickly name it and move on or to share it with others too soon.

PRAY - Father I hear You. I am stunned, shoeless on holy ground. The Thy Kingdom comes, in my life. Thy will be done. Here. Now.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

I went on retreat to the Little Portion Monastery and Hermitage deep in the woods of rural Arkansas.

I felt God was calling me out to go deeper or to come closer and to make some changes and so I set off on a spiritual field trip -- to experience, observe, and discover how others practice their faith.

I knew God would meet me on this adventure -- and He did!

Why did I go?

I had been hearing God calling me away from trying to multitask my spiritual life, to slow down, to go deeper, and to really enjoy God and others. I was captivated by the ideas of excelling still more, and having my ambition to be less hurried and yet to still be active in my work. (see 1 Thessalonians 4:10-11)

I had been tinkering with my quiet time and wanted more. More intimate conversations with God, slowly soaking in His presence -- as compared to praying a dutiful, quick, albeit heartfelt prayer, and then moving on to “more important” stuff.

In reading the parable of the Pearl of Great Price (Matthew 13:45-46) I discovered that to me “the Pearl” is knowing and enjoying God.

I came to realize I wanted more than anything to know and enjoy God, to love like Jesus, and to follow Him with all my heart.

When I returned I found myself drawn to a more simple and deeper relationship with God -- I knew that unless I changed my style of living, the chances of getting something else in return was wishful thinking.

I began to develop some ideas about my future lifestyle - that is, how I wanted to move through the day in a clear, well-defined style of relating to God, people, and my work.

I returned willingly to pursue and be pursued by this Pearl of Great Price -- this God of all creation, one moment at a time. I began to slow down and do one thing at a time with a growing awareness that God is in me, with me, and for me. Yes, to let this soak in, and leak out.

Over time I learned how to integrate prayer and work, reflection and relationships, rest and activity in a way that is sustainable and life-giving.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

Deep discipleship -- our lifelong process of God conforming us into the image of His Son, leaching out all that needs to go, chiseling out character defects, refining all that remains, and healing our masculine soul. Man, it is a lifelong process!

The Bible says...Husbands, love your wives… Ephesians 5:25 NASB

Typically God uses marriage to get at those places in me -- those places I try, without success, to hide. This is God’s agenda from the get-go, but he will not override our resistance.

Sooner or later, when the pain of our disease becomes greater than our fear of the remedy,

God begins this deep work in us. It truly is deep discipleship.

As a husband, I’ve been a very slow learner.

A year ago last summer, on a three-month road trip with my wife, I slammed into the truth. Yes, I mean the truth that I did not know how to love well. It was so painful, yet cleansing, to say it out loud to me and eventually to Lea Ann.

The words I chose were I am having a hard time loving you. I didn’t say, You are a hard person to love.

The misunderstanding came out of the blue and created a hard few days or weeks until we both came to see that it was a statement about me and not her.

The first thing I did was memorize 1 Corinthians 13:4-11.

Yes, memorizing this was painfully slow - it took me almost two months to get it down. It became my daily reading and reflection and over time my head became familiar with the rhythm and flow of what is commonly referred to as “The Love Chapter.”

More importantly, my heart began to beat, yes, to beat to the rhythm of love.

Over the next ten months, via daily reflection and pursuit of learning how to love like Jesus, I began to make micro-movements as I began to become patient, and kind…

I came to understand Jesus’ teaching on love truly was/is designed by Him to become our way. His Way is to become our way.

Everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher. Luke 6:40

Jesus’ Way is to work on my side of the street, turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, extend forgiveness, see myself as a broken person in need of a Savior and all others the same way. Practice compassion as a style of living. Be generous.

The funny thing about this way of navigating love is that loving like this is impossible for an orphan or a boy-man.

Why?

Because we orphans and boy-men are so preoccupied with hiding our wounds by busyness, medication, and blame.

When we hit the wall of love and hear the voice of the Father inviting us to navigate toward His Way, then we have a chance to get it right.

Chasing the Sage is learning to love like Jesus.

Husbandship, loving our wives as Jesus loves us, is the final exam in the school of Sage. We can’t move into Sage if we avoid the test of love.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

Chasing the Sage one begins to make sense out of chaos.

Connecting media posts by one-dimensional politicians, mercenary pundits, and fear-based citizens, he searches to find the truth inside and underneath and behind the scenes -- the tolling of the bell, the sounding of the shofar, like Magi discerning ancient times and events.

He looks to initiate young Samuels, the young up-and-coming holy men of the future. Ahh, this is such long, painful discipleship!

The Bible says...And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 NASB

To reflect is one of the practices a Sage develops.

It’s a bit of paying attention and having a “go-to” place where reflections can be written down or sketched out and then collected in a journal of sorts. I call mine “Field Notes” as that’s mostly what they are -- notes from being in the fields of spiritual soaring, alpine adventures by foot or kayak, or musing on the stuff of living in this fallen world.

He who chases the Sage remains aware of his humanity, his propensity to hide, lie, to be impatient.

He is forever either a prodigal son, a proud older son or a pharisee -- or man of growing integrity who falls often and continues to get up.

He rushes to ask God’s forgiveness for the thousandth time he has indulged his flesh; knowing it pleases the Father.

He takes the finished work of Christ to have been terrifyingly painful, expensive, and sufficient for all things.

Chasing the Sage, he prays for many of today’s boy-men Pastors who minister like clanging cymbals.

Many are deceived into thinking what they know and show is love, but is, in fact, nothing but turning the Holy Scripture into a cookbook. Their six-week sermon series about how to get your soul back is written and presented by pastor boys in men’s bodies who think this is the way a holy man speaks for God Almighty.

A man chasing the Sage weeps. He is often a forgotten man. He is keenly alert to the whisper of the Ancient of Days, the Three Men we admire most - the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

He listens in silence for words spoken between the inhale and exhale from eternity past. Words and groans from God, Who in the beginning, before the beginning, pre-existed in perfect harmony before anything else existed. Who is now and ever shall be.

More than likely you will not find him on talk radio or as a commentator for Fox News. His writing will not be best sellers or his ideas neatly presented on a podcast. Chances are slim the boy-men pastors, who serve as the spiritual leaders of today, and I fear the future, will be interested.

He who chases the Sage speaks softly around the fire after a long silence. Those with loud voices can’t bear the silence. They speak loud and fast, gesticulating wisdom -- skimmed off the top or plagiarized -- which gives the appearance of wisdom but has no real power to heal. Draw a crowd? Yes. Inspire to holiness? Perhaps.

The wise way is foolish to those who are posing. The wise one extends grand compassion in the purest sense to the well-intentioned heathen or fallen pastor turning follower because he knows by experience the furnace of transformation that awaits just a bit down the road.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

The people who told you to play it safe spoke from a place of fear.

Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:13 NASB

Jim and I were on a trail run at Folsom Lake, starting at the Dike 8 trailhead -- 5 miles, out and back, on a rocky trail.

This was the first time I’d run with Jim. On the way out he led and set the pace. About 3 miles into the run we came to a small hill, maybe 30 yards with 50 feet elevation gain.

About 5 yards into the hill Jim started screaming I LOVE HILLSSSSSSSSSSSSSS! and raced up the hill.

Now, that’s not my mode. I’ve run for 25 years and my motto has been “slow and steady.”

Now I’m hearing Jim screaming his guts out attacking the hill and I find myself charging the hill too! I love hillssssssss!!!!!!!!! explodes out of me too! It felt awesome. We attacked the hill and killed the giant.

It wasn’t a big leap to observe that my approach to living was the same: safe.

With running, I ran safely to conserve energy and avoid injury. With life, pretty much the same: conserve energy, avoid injury. In a word? Safe.

A few things have become clear to me since that run.

Passive Heritage. Like most men born after the industrial revolution, we were raised by women. Dad was at the factory or the office, so mom taught us how to be a boy/man. Not all of us grew up with this heritage, but a ton did. Well-intentioned moms did their best, but they didn’t pass on the wild, the attack, the get after it with a whoop! No, most of them taught us to be nice, play by the rules, and, yep -- be safe.

Soft Hands. Though I grew up in the Oregon woods, when I became an adult I moved to the city. I became domesticated. I moved from creating and cultivating to moving stuff around. I became a poser, who lost touch with the land -- the dirt. My hands got soft, my heart flabby.

Quick Fixes. Rather than attack life, I avoided the risk of going for what was important. I self-medicated in a variety of suck holes of time, relationships, and energy. Quick fixes always left me with either a physical, emotional, or spiritual hangover as I violated my personal code over and over. The choices I made were choices with virtually no risk. No real hard work involved.

Adrift. Along the way, over the years I drifted through life. Never clearly declaring with the intention of following through. If it wasn’t easy, I would lower the bar. The result? An adult adrift.

Something significant happened that day on the trail with Jim.

Our rally cry is “Attack Hills - Kill Giants!” AHKG!!!!!!

Attack Hills - Kill Giants with a pimp mindset is abuse -- you’re just a bully. This is the opposite of a noble warrior devoted to a cause greater than himself.

Attack Hills - Kill Giants has to do with all the elements of a fully vested man. We become a King who rules well, a Warrior willing to do whatever is needed to achieve the prize for the King, a Holy Man reliant on God, and a Lover who leads with his heart.

“Nobody ever defended anything successfully, there is only attack and attack and attack some more.” --General George Patton

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most boys learn how to be men from their well-intentioned mothers while their fathers were absent.

As a result, we grow up, but we don’t mature; uninitiated into manhood by a man, we remain a boy in a man’s body.

Like my friend Dave says - we want it easy. We want the gain without the pain... but that’s not the way it works.

To a boy, all work that requires discipline seems like something to avoid or take a shortcut through; yet, those who do the work become men. Hebrews 12:11 paraphrase

Originally told in the deserts of Egypt during the third and fourth century was the story of a boy looking for guidance about how to move into manhood.

The story of John the Little follows. I found this story in the book Desert Wisdom: Sayings from the Desert Fathers, by Yushi Nomura.

The original story was written by a Christian hermit from the fourth or fifth century in Egypt. The writer was one of many referred to now as the “Desert Fathers” who withdrew themselves from the power-hungry society in order to encounter the God of love in the desert.

"There was a spiritual seeker known in those days as John the Little. It was said that in his search for wisdom he sought out an old wise man, a Theban, who lived in the desert near Scetis.

John asked about this movement from boy to man.

The wise old sage told him, “Take a piece of dry wood and plant it. Water it every day with a bottle of water until it bears fruit.”

The water, however, was so far away from there that John had to go out late in the evening and come back the next morning.

Three years later, the tree came to life and bore fruit."

Doing the work: the distant journey to find and bring water -- in the night, with no one watching.

Doing the work: long obedience.

Doing the work: years without a hint of green. Dry wood.

Did I say long obedience?

Boy becomes a man.

Who is wise? Let him give heed to these things, and consider the lovingkindness of the Lord. Psalm 107:43

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

When you hit the wall running a marathon, it feels like you have run face-first into a stack of bricks. Your legs start feeling like concrete posts, every step is a triumph of will, and you seriously doubt that the race has a finish line.

Save me, O God, for the floodwaters are up to my neck. Deeper and deeper I sink into the mire; I can’t find a foothold. I am in deep water, and the floods overwhelm me. Psalm 69:1-2 NLT

Physically, the first time I hit The Wall running was in the Big Sur Marathon at about mile marker 20. My legs felt like hamburger, my arms like lead, my head was in a fog. I felt like quitting.

Near the Carmel Highlands, when I was about to cash in my chips, my friend Al Polly -- an elite, but injured marathoner who was not able to run this race -- came out of nowhere and started running alongside me. Al ran with me and paced me in to finish my first marathon.

In my late 20’s I hit the Wall of Life. That is, I was flunking out of college because of my growing addictions and I had no vision for those two questions that can keep us awake at night. “Who am I and what am I doing?” I was about to cash in my chips and I hit The Wall.

Scholars (beginning with Blaise Pascal) say we have a God-shaped hole in our hearts which nothing but God can fill, yet we try to fill it with all sorts of counterfeits. These counterfeits never deliver and only drive us to The Wall.

I remember reading books that I thought would help me. Books on spiritual things such as The Tibetan Book of the Dead, books on transcendental meditation, The Prophet by Kalil Gibran, Jonathan Living Seagull by Richard Bach, poetry by Richard Brautigan, Be Here Now by Ram Das, and finally, The Holy Bible.

Nothing I read captured my attention or came close to the hole in my heart until I began to read about Jesus and His teaching.

Out of gas and short on hope, I found Jesus, like Al Polly, running alongside me. Jesus ran me in the rest of the way.

How did He do that?

Well, He came to me. God comes to us when we are broken, lost, and out of gas.

Next, I said “Yes” and accepted His invitation to run with me. I’ve been running with Jesus ever since. Ultimately this movement from orphan to son begins and ends with saying “Yes” to Jesus' invitation.

Come to Me (Jesus) all who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

The Bible is very clear about this adoption process.

...all who believed him (Jesus) and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12

This isn’t about being good enough. It’s about accepting a gift. For me, it was a gift I hardly understood. What I did know was that I needed help. Just like in the marathon, I recognized my powerlessness to proceed on my own. I needed help making positive strides and making progress.

The same with my soul, my life; I needed help and only God could fill that hole in my heart. All other attempts to fill that void just sucked me deeper and deeper into a black hole.

Jesus, speaks to every orphan, saying to us today - No, I will not abandon you as orphans - I will come to you. John 14:18

Over these past 40 years as an adopted son of God, I’ve hit the wall many times. As a runner, I’m slow but steady. On my spiritual journey, it’s the same. God is the picture of patience and meets us where we are on the road -- not where we think we should be.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

I was in denial about how it was for me growing up. I minimized the physical and emotional abuse, became numb to the shame and the conditional love. The following poem, written in my early 40’s, was written during a dark season where I was getting my history straight.

In Jesus’ own words - “...you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

Getting the truth about our history will set us free. Here are tools I found which facilitate the process:

An open heart

A trusted friend or counselor

Celebrate Recovery

Lots of prayers

A trusty journal to record what you learn

“Six Year Old” came out of a series of journal notes where I reflected on what it was like for me growing up with an emotionally distant, preoccupied 27-year-old father of four.

Here now is the poem, “Six Year Old”...

Listen! I’m afraid!!!!! You’re bigger than me, and you drive a car, and you have hair down there.

All I get from you is, “Oh?” and nod your head when I call for help. You don’t stop the important stuff you’re doing. You don’t stoop down to three feet high, pick me up and hold me heartbeat close.

I don’t want you to only know THAT I’m afraid. I want to tell you WHAT I’m afraid of, how giant the monster is, the slimy green color of its skin, the wet smoke and long tail and drippy claws.

But I really don’t want to tell you anything ‘cause you’re big and supposed to know everything, you’re supposed to see it coming before it gets me. You’re supposed to kill all the monsters on the block so I will be safe.

I’ll kick and scream till you listen!

And the more you act like I’m not here, the more I’ll do bad things. Then I’ll go -- and hide. From the monster -- and you. If you look for me all you will find are my empty pj’s.

And from high in the cherry tree, I will whisper, I won’t come down till you say you’re sorry and cross your heart promise that next time a monster comes, and I yell for you, that you’ll come, and listen, and hold me.

Getting your history straight is very important -- not so we can shift the blame for our hard life to our parents, but so we can face the truth, deal with the hurt, and move on to breaking the generational cycle of creating orphans instead of sons and daughters.

The truth will set us free!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

I found myself facing the fact that I had been blaming my Dad for my shallow life. He had emotionally and spiritually abandoned me and my family. I blamed him for his physical and emotional abuse, for his lack of leadership in our home, and his hiding out brooding in his room while the rest of the family was playing in the swimming pool. I needed to forgive my Dad.

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

I was cold-cocked by a turning point in the relationship between an estranged father and son by a line in Prodigal Father Wayward Son, co-authored by Sam Keen (age 70+) and his son Gifford Keen (mid 50’s). I was reminded of how it was between my Dad and me.

Son, Gifford, after many years of resentment, bitterness, and unforgiveness broke through. When he was about 50 (and his dad in his early 70’s) he began to see his dad’s failures as a man looking at him in the mirror.

Gifford realized “...the statute of limitations has run out now.” Gifford could no longer blame his Dad for the failure of his own life. He needed to forgive.

I owned up to my side of the street. I came to the simple, yet painful realization that I could no longer hold my father accountable for the current state of my life -- that what got me here was a series of my own choices.

I saw in myself the image of my father, a man doing the best he could and failing miserably. The playing field became level. My father became a peer in my eyes. I discovered common ground and I began to forgive my father.

It took years of estrangement to find common ground; but, sitting on a bench facing north one windy day in October at Echo Lake in the Sierra Nevada Range in California...we did. I was 55 and Dad was 76. From behind, we looked like two old friends. From the front...yes, we looked like father and son. From above, we looked like reconciliation and redemption.

Forgive my father? You’ve got to be kidding!!!

Forgiveness does not mean what they did was right. It does not deny what happened or the pain inflicted or the damage done. Forgiveness simply says, “I will no longer make you pay...”

No, I’m not kidding.

You cannot move forward without forgiveness.

What matters is not how we start but how we finish.

In chasing the Sage we learn forgiveness.

Make the first move.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The BIG IDEA

None of the qualities of the Christian (sage) life can be learned out of a book. Something more like apprenticeship is required; being around someone who, out of years of devoted discipline, shows us by his or her entire behavior what it is.

Moments of verbal instruction will certainly occur; but mostly, an apprentice acquires skill by daily and intimate association with a “master”, picking up subtle but absolutely essential things such as timing and rhythm and “touch”.

Follow my (Paul’s) example, as I follow the example of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV

Listen to how the master, Paul, speaks to us -- now a Sage through the centuries...

As long as I'm alive in this body, there is good work for me to do. If I had to choose right now, I hardly know which I'd choose. Hard choice. The desire to break camp here and be with Christ is powerful.

Some days I can think of nothing better, but most days because of what you are going through, I am sure that it's better for me to stick it out here. So I plan to be around for a while, companion to you as your growth and joy in this life of trusting God continues.

You can start looking forward to a great reunion. When I come to visit you again, we'll be praising Christ, enjoying each other. Philippians 1:22-23 The Message

Christ just leaks right out of Paul. It happens effortlessly because Paul has let go of ambition for fame or to have the spotlight.

Paul is just as pleased to see the young, the misguided, or those with impure motives proclaim Jesus’ Way. Paul sees that Christ is working His will out in ways that Paul can't even completely understand himself.

The Sage lives a life of trust -- not the ambition for trust -- but a life of the demonstrated trust. And the challenge here is simply this: to become what we believe. This transformation requires a long apprenticeship which, of necessity, requires a measure of suffering.

Reading the books that Paul has written, understanding the price he paid to know and follow Christ in this way provides keen insight for us. We're looking for someone to follow.

Countless times, Paul encourages others to be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1

He tells his beloved Philippians, What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9

In chasing the Sage we call no attention to ourselves. At all times we point people to Christ.

Paul is no longer looking for the approval of others. He knows that he's playing to a stadium filled with an audience of One.

For me, it is such a long and painful apprenticeship. The desire for the spotlight or to be seen or noticed or for people to go, "Wow!" is so strong, and yet the Lord is faithful to continue to help me in this apprenticeship.

No, the qualities of this sage life are not learned from a book, but through a long and difficult apprenticeship.

It is well worth the journey.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carole and I needed cash in West Africa and a local Christian took us to the bank. We stood inside with sweat streaming down...under a ceiling fan which did about three revolutions every ten seconds.

An employee took our paperwork to a desk. There it sat for a half-hour. No one was nearby. A person from another desk retrieved the paperwork and took it to his desk.

We continued to stand, silent, our agitation hidden under a veneer of patience.

After an hour and a half, we said to our companion, Abraham, "We're sorry this has taken you from your work." He replied, "The Lord knows where I am."

That response has become like scripture to Carole and me: The Lord knows where I am. We do what we do unto Him, not to satisfy the compulsions of us or others.

It used to be that I would angst over circumstances, others' actions, failures small and tiny. But the Lord is becoming my audience. I do what I do unto HIm, no one else. I am aware that He is here with me...now because He knows where I am all the time, what my needs are, what the next moment will bring. I am learning to be present in His presence.

Consequently, worship is no longer a performance by others on Sunday. Now, it is a celebration of CHRIST IN US every day, in every circumstance...yes, even in the steamy Tropics.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prayer

Heavenly Father, everything in Your Creation is exposed and lies before Your eyes. Your knowledge of it all is endless. I confess that I try to take your place, control my circumstances, and angst when I can't. I yield Your throne. Only You are worthy. Only You know where I am...and I find comfort in that fact. I rest in You. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

O God - show me how to live well. Psalm 143:8 paraphrase

We begin with ‘Why’ because it reveals our hidden motivations and is the seat of vision. 

‘What’ brings vision to the context of our lives -- it sets the floor and ceiling of what we are all about.

 ‘How’ is the architect’s plans from which the structure is built.

For years I’ve looked at “how” from the standpoint of “How am I going to get something done?” My answer to that question resulted in creating a critical path -- the micro-steps which, I think, will get me from here to there.

Recently though, I am considering other ways of looking at “how.” Perhaps you too will have other ways to consider. Here then are some new thoughts on “how.”

How am I going to proceed?  In a hurry? Before I have really decided on the ‘why’ and ‘what’ of it all? Will I proceed with God and the counsel of others or will I rely on my own perspective?.

How will it unfold? Will I insist on perfection or view it as a process of discovery? Will I go into it without anticipating unintended consequences?

How have I prepared for it?  With wishful thinking or did I, as Mark Batterson says, “dream big, pray hard, and think long”? Am I prepared for it to take longer than I expect?

How much do I want it? Have I counted the cost, or as much as I can imagine, and am I willing to pay the price? As Matt Fitzgerald wrote in How Bad Do You Want It?, “The only proof of wanting it more is suffering more.” 

How will I stay on track? This perhaps is one question which is most neglected, yet most essential. All too often we start well but finish poorly. To keep on track I use a written plan, daily review, and a daily punch list of to-do’s to increase my chances of success.

Like the old Spanish Proverb says, Choose whatever you want and then pay for it.

Pray

O God I want my one time on the planet to be a life of purpose. Help me choose wisely how I proceed.

Read

The chapter on the Daily Core Four in Chasing the Sage, page 165

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previously we unpacked the “Why?” question and started off with this quote by Matt Tebbe:

Jesus uses questions differently than we commonly do today.

We ask questions for information; Jesus asks questions to provoke transformation.

We ask questions for answers; Jesus asks questions for awareness.

In this edition we look at “What”.

I began to discover that these questions which Jesus asks -- and in particular the “What” -- can end with a period, an exclamation point, or with a question mark!

Having spent years tinkering with “Why?” God began probing the fringes of my awareness with the whisper of “What.”  I wasn’t hearing it as a question but a statement or an answer, or a bold declaration.

Jesus’ question “What do you want?” is provocative.

Consider Jesus' question to a guy who had created a lifestyle of waiting.  Jesus asks, “What do you want?”  The guy does not respond with an answer, rather, he explains, almost with a complaint: - “No one will help me.”

Consider now, Jesus asks almost the same question in Mark 10 to a man named Bartimaeus -- who, like the guy in John 5, needed help with something. Bartimaeus responds with a strong, clear answer:  “I WANT TO SEE!”

Several years ago I was in a season of painful transformative change as I stepped out of pastoring in a large church into some unknown, undefined career “next step.”  I had no idea what to do next, but I knew staying in the church was not an option.  In a real sense, I had to figure out “What” I was going to do.

So, I put myself in the shoes of these two guys.  I wasn’t like the John 5 guy who played the victim and I wasn’t the Mark 10 guy who knew what he wanted.

“Can I get back to you?” was my answer to Jesus’ “What?”

It was a GREAT answer!  Honest, active, and inclusive.  Inclusive in that I began to pray conversationally with God about my situation.

I went through months of “Tell me God what you want me to do.” and it seemed the line went dead -- no answers from God.

Then, after what seemed like an eternity, I stopped asking that “What” question and took another approach.  I dropped into the John 5 guy and instead of answering the question, my daily mantra was “I will do anything You want me to do.”

Another frustrating eternity of months.

One day I heard the strong voice of God asking “What do you want Bud? You and I know who you are, and what fires you up.  Let’s figure this out together!”

What followed was truly an exciting season of discovery, affirmation, and faith.  Slowly I came to develop a vision for my next step.  You see, I changed my “What” from a question mark to a period.  My “What” became a strong declaration.  Strong like the Mark 10 guy.

Note, I didn’t attempt to figure out my “What” as though God was too busy to help me. No, it was a deeply collaborative experience that included God and many close, trusted friends.

Choosing the “Can I get back to You?” may be a hot ticket for you.

Forks in the road prompt us to invite God in.

Why wait?

Pray

O God, my Creator and Redeemer.  Let’s get  after this together!  I want to become like the Mark 10 guy!  Amen

Resources

The following chapters in Chasing the Sage can help you move toward your “what.”

Questions, p. 35

Boys Play it Sage, p. 49

Defining Moments, p. 103

Life Plan, p. 155

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Written by David, of the lineage of Jesus, this Psalm reflects the heart of a man asking God to work through these three questions: Why? What? How?

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14 NASB

Today we look at “Why?” Jesus, the Master Teacher in all dispensations and pandemics frequently asks the “Why” question.

Jesus uses questions differently than we commonly do today.

We ask questions for information; Jesus asks questions to provoke transformation.

We ask questions for answers; Jesus asks questions… for awareness.

-- Mark Tebbe: https://www.teloscollective.com/engaging-through-asking-5-ways-jesus-asked-questions/

Why are you thinking such things in your heart? Mark 2:8

Why are you anxious about clothes? Matthew 6:28

Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye yet fails to perceive the wooden beam in your own eye? Matthew 7:2

Why are you afraid? Matthew 8:26

In other words: Why do I think what I think and do what I do?

Let me suggest just a few questions Jesus might ask:

Why am I quick to blame?

Why am I holding on to things so hard?

What do I need to say “no” to?

Why do I say “yes” when I really need to say “no!”?

What keeps me awake at night?

Why do I insist on getting my way?

Why do I resist change?

Why do I procrastinate?

‘Why’ reveals our hidden motivations and is the seat of vision. ‘What’ brings vision to the context of our lives -- it sets the floor and ceiling of our lives. ‘How’ is the architect’s plans from which the building is built.

Next, in Part 3 we unpack ‘What.’

What do you want?

Not what do others want -- but you?

Your “What” shows the world who you are.

Reflect

Which ‘Why’ answer, reason, or justification needs to go. What needs to take its place?

Don’t labor over it - just name it, write it down, and come back to it later.

-------------------------------------------------------

PRAY

Oh my God, I was not ready for this today. I have a ton of things to get done today, I didn’t sleep well last night, work and the kids are out of control, and I read a blog post earlier this morning and...and now this! Help me get a handle on my why.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Full of practical wisdom for life, the wise author of Psalm 90 asks God to “teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 NIV

WHY

Why do I think what I think and do what I do?

‘Why’ reveals our hidden motivations.

‘Why’ sets the ceiling and the floor of our lives.

WHAT

What do you want?

Not what do others want -- but you?

Your ‘What’ shows the world who you are.

HOW

How will I respond to my ‘what’?

How will I rally resources in support of my ‘what’?

How will I keep on track as I strive towards my ‘what’?

Jesus’ questions often begin with ‘why?’. ‘Why’ gives us vision. ‘What’ brings vision to the context of our lives. ‘How’ explains the steps we believe will add flesh to our ‘what’ and color to our ‘why’.

Today more than ever, with the chaos of “mask” or “no mask” -- and all the divisiveness just this one simple question brings, we need to pay attention to our ‘why’, ‘what’, and ‘how’.

Why? Each of us has one time on the planet, our lives matter, the time is short, and we are all needed.

----------------------------------------------------

PRAY

Yes, God, teach me to number my days! My kids are growing so fast, I’m not so certain things are really getting better, and I would like to change some things. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

...seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33 NASB

Learning to love like Jesus doesn’t come naturally for most of us. After a few years, most marriages have found a rhythm. It’s familiar but all too often it’s flawed -- often in small areas...sometimes in major areas. Left unattended, the heart of your marriage can atrophy and become lifeless.

The good news is your marriage can be better! It’s not easy...but possible. God is on your side and will meet you where you are.

So, a few hard-won lessons of husbandship (and wives these apply to both sides of the street).

Principles to learn and apply:

Renewing the heart of marriage begins with you. You and God actually. Typically though, we want to avoid dealing with it at all costs. Blame is usually the way boy-men make sense of the way things are. Blame and/or denial. Denial settles for the status quo; imagining there is no way out.

These are not for you to read and then go tell your wife she needs to join you in learning and applying them. Boys do stuff like that. You need to focus on these principles and learn to live them so love leaks out of you by your style of living -- not the words you profess. Your wife has heard your words and has learned that your words are mostly hollow.

Your marriage is not a 50/50 proposition - it is 100% up to you to learn to love like Jesus. And, it’s 100% up to your spouse to do the same. Whether they do or not is up to them. All you can do is work on yourself. Learn to love your spouse like Jesus, and entrust the whole enchilada to God.

Love. God’s standard of what love is can be found in the Bible. We can learn to love like Jesus. Your journey to a healthy marriage begins and ends with your ability to love like Jesus.

Broken. This journey is deeply personal and begins with being broken; i.e., clear self-acceptance that you have not loved your spouse, and that on your own you cannot. An honest reflection will reveal how poorly you love it like this. Read 1 Corinthians 13:12-14 and Colossians 3:11-14

...all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 NIV

Unless you accept your inability to love like God, you will remain loveless and your marriage will atrophy.

Grace. Your relationship with God is grounded in grace, and so must be your relationship with your spouse.

As you learn to accept God’s forgiveness, you will learn to extend almost limitless grace to your wife and welcome it from her. This is where you, like Jesus, learn to turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, and forgive without being asked; i.e. let it go.

Unless you learn to extend grace (whether or not she reciprocates) your marriage will be based on You owe me.

As you work through all this, you will find God at work in your life to make you more like Jesus, rather than just being a better husband or having a better marriage. Like most spiritual lessons, this is counterintuitive...to become a better husband you have to work on following Jesus' way of living. As you grow closer to God, over time, you will grow closer to your spouse.

Each day you will find yourself at a fork in the road -- you can either blame your spouse or others for your current situation or accept that you don’t love like Jesus and seek from Him the grace to extend grace.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PRAY

Lord God, how I want to avoid looking at my side of the street and instead blame my spouse, my family of origin -- anything or anyone but myself. I fear deep reflection that will expose my character defects. Meet me where I am, help me pick up this cross, and follow You daily out of desperation, trusting that You will make all things right as I surrender to Your will.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Awake sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:14 NASB

First thing, about 5 am I get up, turn on the gas to heat water for a cup of Joe - San Francisco French Roast from Costco with a turkish grind. My mind and soul is fogged like the windows of my truck parked out back. The windows will defog in an hour or so as the sun crests the hill. Same with my mind/soul -- it takes about an hour till the Spirit penetrates the eye of my heart and I’m making sense of things in my own right mind.

Yes, it takes about an hour sitting with God in the dawn of each new day to get my head on straight.

I begin very slowly to reflect and pray through the Daily Prayer (John Baillie, 1886-1960) followed by the Serenity Prayer (Reinhold Neibuhr, 1892 - 1971), 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, and Ephesians 6:10-19.

I do so as a desperate man--lost, doing the work of remembering who I am and what I am doing this day on this planet. I am desperate every day.

All along, as I awaken with God, I pray, talk, or mumble -- putting voice to my heart in partial sentences, bits of thoughts, fragments of truth -- those inspired Words of God -- verses which I’ve laboriously memorized and scrambled into the meat locker of my soul.

At times I find myself in a fierce spiritual battle, gripping and grunting in a fight to the death with the Prince of Darkness. As I do, I become more proficient with the tools of spiritual war. At times I am rolling with laughter, jotting thoughts in my journal, watching the dawn descend on the eucalyptus trees across the dell.

This is the best part of my day.

By now the last bit of coffee has grown cold. I take the final sip, and then having met with my Maker, I advance into the day ready for anything.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

PRAY

Help me awaken each day like this God. You may have a different way to peel back the dark, fix my heart on truth, and remind me You are in charge. Whatever it takes, I surrender again. Remind me to do my part in this God! Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“And David danced with all his might before the Lord…”  2 Samuel 6:14 Living Bible

Then and now, many considered it silly that anyone would dance before God. Perhaps it’s more a matter of the heart. In today’s world, we celebrate with a text and emoji or an online greeting card with fireworks, dancing hearts, and explosions. We send it off and consider it a celebration but it’s not.

Richard Foster writes that “the carefree spirit of joyous festivity is absent in contemporary society. Apathy and melancholy dominate the times.”

And yet, this ancient pathway of celebration is a hallmark of those who follow Jesus' Way.

Celebration, joy, and gratitude are all included in this dance of the heart. And if we have not learned how perhaps it is in this current wilderness where we discover something missing in our walk with Jesus.

We begin with gratitude -- being grateful for what we have, not what is missing.

We begin with a prayer -- asking God to meet us where we are, not where we want to be.

We begin with micro-steps -- coming back, or coming for the first time, to a deep surrender -- to let God be God, and you be you.

Celebration, joy, and gratitude are born from rescue, provision, and hope. Gratitude, prayer, and micro-steps are the dance steps. And like any dance, it takes practice.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Pray

Thank You for forgiveness, no regrets, fresh starts, and Your Presence God. Thank you for watching over my kids, my spouse, my concerns, the roof over my head, my dog, my job, the food in the fridge, the doctors, those that ring up food in the grocery store. Thank You for the sun, the rain, the snow, the cold. Thank You for the promise of Your return -- where all things end well! And as David prayed in Psalm 51 “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and uphold me with a willing spirit.” Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's podcast, he begins reading on page 27 and continues to talk into the season of living as a "functional orphan" and the downward spiral that takes many men in their journey of chasing the Sage.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Left to ourselves we can make tragic choices. With guidance from others, we can reduce the chances a bit.

Consider the story of a couple who decided to move far away from the home and loving community where they had lived for over 30 years. It was the home in which they were married, raised a family, and had grown deep roots in their church and community.

The move seemed to make a lot of sense from a financial side -- and the couple was in agreement. So they listed their home and bought a beautiful new home in a newer community.

Twenty years later over dinner, the wife said to her husband, “I never wanted to move from our old home!” Her husband replied, “I didn’t either! I thought you did, so I went along with it.”

Consider now the story of a couple who were faced with an opportunity to work and serve far away from family, friends, and everything familiar. Not only did they talk honestly and openly with each other, but they also called together 20 long-time friends and neighbors. Following a meal of soup and bread, the couple shared the opportunity they were considering and invited each person to ask questions and give feedback.

The friends asked good and sometimes hard questions. The couple shared how God was opening doors for service and each was on board with it so long as it was clear God was in it. Based on what the couple shared, each person strongly encouraged the couple to go.

The encouragement and prayers of friends and family allowed the couple to make a wise decision and to thrive for many years in a hard but fruitful season of service.

God can speak to us through the counsel of others. Yes, the Day is drawing near.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Let's Pray

I’m not sure where to start with this ancient pathway, God. My “Lone Ranger” mentality recoils at inviting others in on what seems to be my private stuff. I do know we’ve made some hasty decisions. So, as with some of the other ancient pathways, I will say: “Help me God to be willing to seek guidance from trusted friends.” Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A religious expert asked Jesus, “What is the most important thing for us to do?” Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37 NIV

“Worship” is another ancient pathway that people have followed for generations. Worship begins in the heart and finds its voice as we sing, shout, dance, or weep. As a noun, it means “the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration.” As a verb, it means “to show reverence and adoration.”

How we worship is secondary. Primary is our heart’s response to God’s sustained initiative. The only way to miss the point of worship is to attempt to worship without engaging your heart.

Typically we think of worship as something we do on Sunday, in a church. Many confuse singing a song with worship. How is that? Well, mindless repetition of words does not necessarily engage the heart. Consider these lyrics from the Matt Redomond song, The Heart of Worship.

When the music fades

All is stripped away

And I simply come

Longing just to bring

Something that's of worth

That will bless Your heart

I'll bring You more than a song

For a song in itself

Is not what You have required

You search much deeper within

Through the way, things appear

You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship

And it's all about You,

It's all about You, Jesus

I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it

When it's all about You,

It's all about You, Jesus

We simply cannot worship with our heads or in a hurry. Slowing helps us worship.=

Eugene Peterson, the author of The Message, a personal paraphrase of the Bible, distinguishes three kinds of language in our culture:

• Level 1 language is information and engages the head.
• Level 2 language is manipulation or motivation and engages the emotions.
• Level 3 language engages the heart.

The language of the Bible is Level 3 -- it is designed to engage the heart -- and therein is the rub for most of us (myself included) who spend more time in our heads and emotions than we do our heart.

To worship is to contemplate the ‘weight’, greatness, eminence, power, and authority of God. (1) Quoted by Brennan Manning in Ruthless Trust. That He is both infinite and intimate. Owner of a thousand sheep on a thousand hills; captures each tear of yours in a bottle; aware of each ache, dream, thought and hope in your heart and a billion others. He is able to engage in millions of conversations at the same time without a dropped call.

"He stretches out the north over empty space and hangs the earth on nothing. He wraps up the waters in His clouds, and the cloud does not burst under them. He obscures the face of the full moon and spreads His cloud over it. He has inscribed a circle on the surface of the waters at the boundary of light and darkness"….Job 26:7-10 NASB

Yes, God is worthy of our worship.

Yet what happens when tragedy strikes?

There is an enormous difficulty we crash into when we consider worship. What happens when the tragedy in the form of a stillborn baby, the cold loneliness of a husband denied access to his 87-year-old wife of 60 years as she lies in a cold room at a memory care facility, “how does dare to propose (a heart) of trust in the face of raw, undifferentiated heartache, cosmic disorder, and the terror of history? -- Brennan Manning, Ruthless Trust, Page 39

We can do nothing but trust, as did Jesus facing the brutal injustice of His crucifixion when His heart screamed across the universe, “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit!” Luke 23:46 ESV

Intellect fails us. Emotion overwhelms us. It is our heart with which we trust. Jesus alone is the hope which is the anchor for our soul.

Worship transforms us to progressively become more like Jesus. God is not insecure; He has no need for us to tell Him how great He is. Worship, whether corporate or alone, is meant to usher us into God’s presence. There, as we are overwhelmed with His beauty and majesty, we are changed.

----------------------------------------------------

Pray

I’m like the guy who wrote the lyrics God -- I want to return to the heart of worship. Help me sit still long enough to begin to capture a glimpse of Your glory. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this session, they talk about how to keep self-motivated and moving forward when you're not feeling it, habits that help pull you out of a dive. They conclude with a powerful quote from Mark Twain.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“If you have messed up and you find it continues to be an ache in your heart talk to a trusted friend, tell them what you’ve done. This is part of healing and restoration.” James 5:16 - Bud Lamb Translation

At key times in my life, this ancient pathway has been a place of tremendous breakthrough. The weight of my secret sins is lifted when I practice this element of the Christian lifestyle. You may come from another faith background where confession is a Sacrament that is administered by a Priest and absolves a person of guilt. If so, this may sound untrue; however, the Bible is clear on how sin is absolved; i.e. the finished work of Christ on the cross. (Romans 5:1-11)

The first person to go to when you’ve messed up is to God. He is the first offended and the quickest to forgive. God holds no grudges and wants to clean up the mess and help us get back on the road.

“But if we confess our sins to him, he can be depended on to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. And it is perfectly proper for God to do this for us because Christ died to wash away our sins.” 1 John 1:9 Living Bible

If you find it continues to be an ache in your heart, you may find it helpful to talk it over with a trusted friend who will keep your conversation in complete confidence. “Confession” for the absolution of sin is made to God, not a man. The confession implied for us is to uncover something secret, share it with another we trust, who will, in turn, confirm to us God has completely covered our sin and things are “right” again between us and God.

I have practiced confession with my wife Lea Ann and a number of trusted friends (you know who you are).

When you “hear” the confession of a friend, put the judge and critic in you aside. Look at the log in your own eye, pause, and invite God into your heart asking Him for the grace to listen. Your job is to listen to what your friend has to say, remind them the sin is forgiven (1 John 1:9), and offer a Prayer of Remembrance. Keep it short. Use this as a framework:

Oh Father, here we are, two broken people. My friend has talked to you about this so it’s no surprise to You and You have already wiped the slate clean, forgiven completely, and my friend sits here with You holding nothing against them. Thank You Jesus for taking the hit. I bind the enemy from spewing guilt and shame on my friend. Thank You Holy Spirit for your comfort and encouragement in the deepest part of my friend's heart. Amen

“...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 NASB

“Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.” John 8:7 NIV

-----------------------------------------------------

Pray

Yikes God, this sounds daunting! Tell someone else -- my spouse -- what I’ve done!!!! What if they hold it against me, shame me, and instead of reminding me I’m forgiven they ask for a divorce??? And God, help me to “hear” a confession by my spouse or friend in a way of tenderness and compassion for the ground is level at the cross. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's podcast, he begins reading on page 25 and continues to talk into the season of living as a "functional orphan" and the downward spiral that takes many men in their journey of Chasing the Sage.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not people.” Colossians 3:23 GNT

“There is a difference between serving and being a servant. Typically, when we serve, we determine when, where, and what we’re going to do. When we are a servant, we surrender those decisions to those we serve. In essence, the servant says, “Put me in coach - anywhere will do, just put me in. I want to be on the team.” -- Bud Lamb, Chasing the Sage, Page 149

Dallas Willard writes, “I believe the discipline of service is even more important for Christians who find themselves of influence, power, and leadership (at home, marketplace, or community). To live as a servant while fulfilling socially important roles is one of the greatest challenges any disciple ever faces.” -- Dallas Willard, Spirit of the Disciplines, Page 183

Jesus defines greatness in the Kingdom of God as being a servant of all. “To be “great” and to live as a servant is one of the most difficult spiritual attainments...for it alone will train them to exercise great power without corrupting their souls.” ibid, Page 183

The distinction between “service” and “servant” reveals our hearts. Clearly, Jesus calls us to be servants -- servants of all. His example of washing the disciple's feet (John 13:3-5) gives us a clear picture of the heart in action.

How then can we practice being a servant?

“Doing precedes feeling.” Determine to serve with kindness -- one act each day.

Hidden acts of kindness...Small kindnesses: picking up the newspaper of a neighbor and placing it on the doorstep; taking a bowl of hot soup from your own pot to a neighbor, pausing to listen to a neighbor who is having a hard time dealing with COVID; or assembling “Care Packages” -- one gallon zip lock bags loaded with energy bars, toothpaste and toothbrush, kleenex, travel deodorant, and a $5 Starbucks card to have available to give to homeless standing at the street corner.

Be alert to opportunities...For example the quickening of your heart to some need or person. A friend of mine became aware of a 95-year-old couple in our area and began cooking and delivering a simple meal once each week. Begin the day with “What will it be today God?” Then be vigilant and swiftly do what presents itself.

----------------------------------------------------

Pray

Help me keep this simple Lord. I can overcomplicate things -- help me see micro-opportunities to be a servant to the people in my life and take action even while everything in me is screaming “This can wait!!!!” I want to live and love like Jesus. Thank You. Amen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most guys operate as functional orphans; the result of wounds from the hands of our fathers, their absence; or from the hands of betrayals where we asked for help but were shamed.

We learn the first lesson of an orphaned - it is unwise to trust others. We learn to move through life believing survival is all up to us.

Bud reads from Chasing the Sage, Pages 17-18.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to what the impulsive Peter wrote about submission: “...clothe yourself with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5 NASB

The practice of this ancient pathway can tear down the barrier we build from thinking we are the center of the universe. It teaches us humility. We discover what compassion really means. For as we learn to let go of our rights, “we lay down the terrible burden of needing to get our own way.” -- Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline, Page 111

I submit to my wife when I allow her to influence me. Several years ago, my wife Lea Ann and I introduced Re|engage Marriage to our church with powerful healing results. Following the weekly meeting, I would send a quickly crafted email of encouragement and send it to the leaders and participants. Usually, the email included typos and incomplete sentences. What mattered most was that I pound out the email quickly or else it would get lost in a sea of other pressing details.

One day Lea Ann asked if we could edit it together before I sent it out. Something knotted up inside me. In my head, I did the math. I thought, “If I write and send it myself it will take me 10 minutes. If I say “OK,” it will take me at least 30 minutes!”

Well, I said “OK.” And yes, it took longer..., but it truly was a better email. This situation helped me become willing to be open to help from Lea Ann and others. As I learned to let go of control, our marriage became stronger.

When, in our hearts, we are open to the influence of others, we learn the freedom to surrender the right to retaliate as we practice turning the other cheek.

We learn submission as we follow Jesus’ Way...if you want to follow Me, learn to deny yourself of what you want.

Yes, submission is hard because it confronts my stubborn need to be in control. And yet it is such a liberating discipline to practice.

“Although this discipline has been the source of some of the greatest abuses through inadequate understanding and teaching on it, it is essential to our call to follow, and become like, Jesus.” -- Bud Lamb, Chasing the Sage, page 149

-------------------------------------------------

Pray

Another zinger God. On the surface, I’m not interested in learning this ancient pathway. But, again, I’m willing to try. Help me become aware this week when something knots up inside when I face an opportunity to accept someone to influence how I want to handle things. First “aware of” and then “embrace” the help of others. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chasing the Sage is about this slow, painful, magnificent process of the continued Fathering of men by God, Who offers us His blessing and abundance with no strings attached.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus knows what we need to sustain the pace of life. He says, “Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest for a while.” Mark 6:31 NASB

“In the relentless busyness of modern life, we have lost the rhythm between work and rest,” writes Wayne Muller in his pearl of a book Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives.

The practice of this ancient pathway will help you slow down, become unhurried, and as a result, you will grow closer to God and others.

I know, you're probably thinking, “Silence and solitude? You’ve got to be kidding!! I hardly have time to pull together the paperwork for my tax returns!”

OK, I get it -- so approach this path in micro-moments. It is a state of mind, not a place.

Take a breath. One or two deep inhales and exhales.

Take a break. Walk across the room, around the house waving your arms, or around the block.

Take a moment. Restart your phone then ask God to bring to mind two things to be grateful for.

Take a look. The sky, your spouse or child, a great memory...focus for a few.

Take it further. “Sabbath can only begin if we close the factory, turn out the lights, turn off the computer, and withdraw from the concerns of the marketplace. Choose one heavily used appliance or device - and let it rest for a morning, afternoon, or entire day, surrender to a quality of time when you will not be disturbed, seduced, or responsive to what our technologies have to offer. -- Wane Muller, Sabbath, page 28

“The discipline of solitude is creating time alone and in silence, where it’s just God and you. We must get away from people so we can be truly present with them.” --Bud Lamb, Chasing the Sage, page 149

“Without silence, there is no solitude. Though silence sometimes involves the absence of speech, it always involves the act of listening. Simply to refrain from talking, without a heart of listening to God, is not silence.” -- Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline, page 98

------------------------------------------

Pray

I will take that breath, God. It’s a micro-step in the right direction. We both know I can’t sustain this pace, so thank You for this tiny pathway to peace. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Twenty years ago about once a month when I walked into our house after work, Lea Ann would shout “You got a letter from John!”

It was from John Eldredge who, then and now, always seems to have something encouraging to say to me.

Now the letter isn’t addressed to me as "Dear Bud" but rather a "Dear Friend." Yes, it’s a newsletter sent to perhaps thousands, but to me, it is deeply personal. He doesn’t know me from the next guy and it doesn’t matter to me.

Well, I got another letter from John last week.

So here we go…

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Several years ago, this was my verse for the year: “...make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business..." 1 Thessalonians 4:11 NASB

I was harried; feeling strained as a result of having demands that exceeded my resources. I have hurried: everything I did, I did in a hurry. I felt rushed all the time.

It wasn’t about being more disciplined with my time, managing my calendar, or being lazy. It was my appetite. My appetite for more.

What I needed was to slow down, simplify, and return to a sustainable pace of living.

Now, with this COVID Wilderness, everything is hyper what it was pre-COVID. Now it’s harried and hurried on steroids! We need to simplify and slow down before we blow up, crash, or burn.

Jesus offers us a better way, a more simple way, when He says, “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:26-27 NASB

So, you’re not sure how to simplify in this wilderness? Ask God. He will make a way through the wilderness. He knows you are looking for the land of milk and honey and He can get you there. Show your good intentions by taking a few micro-steps.

Practice slowing. Cultivate awareness when you’re out of control, going too fast, breathing too heavy, pushing too hard, wanting it too much. Awareness is the key. Practice slowing. Give yourself a time-out if even for five seconds. With practice, you will slow down.

Less is more. Practice saying “no.” No to more stuff, more email, more calls, more technology, more excitement, more activities that pull your family apart. Less is more.

More is less. Reduce clutter. Get rid of stuff. Have a garage sale and get rid of anything you’ve not touched in 6 months. Create some space to live in and then learn to live in it.

“There is a healthy kind of busyness where your life is full with things that matter...by that definition Jesus himself was busy.” -- John Mark Comer, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

This is the season to discover a sustainable pace. Make this your ambition -- to pursue a sustainable pace, to make your house a home, and carve our space in this wilderness for hope to come alive.

------------------------------------------

Pray

Oh man God, this hits home! I can hardly imagine plain, basic, uncomplicated with all the technology I deal with, the zoom meetings with the kids in the background of my kitchen-table-turned-home-office. You know I need this. Help me remember to talk to my spouse or a good friend and begin to slow down. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together Bud and Aaron unpack the idea of “The COVID Man: Lessons from the COVID Wilderness.” As they share the story of their friendship, recovery, and faith in Jesus, they will discuss:

1. How COVID is affecting men as a magnifier for men in their relationships, marriage, and parenting.
2. How “Pre-COVID” issues at work and business can become hyperactive or more problematic in this time of uncertainty. 
3. How COVID brings to surface dormant issues in many areas of our life (i.e health, emotional/psych, and spiritual). 

They will also talk about how this crisis has affected their faith and practice as followers of Jesus as they draw comparisons with this COVID wilderness and the wilderness experience of the nation of Israel found in the book of Exodus in the Bible.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bible tells us that - “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV

The Bible is no ordinary book. It is inspired by God. Written with history, biography, poetry, songs, and a mysterious prophecy. It can be intimidating. It consists of 66 “books” written by over 30 different authors. If you started with the first book, Genesis, it wouldn’t be too long before you got bogged down and quite possibly discouraged.

Learning to study the bible begins with a few simple tools. Your confidence will grow as you add study to your list of ancient practices to your modern-day life.

“Whereas meditation on scripture is devotional, the study of scripture is analytical. We study scripture to learn the history of our faith, the people who have gone before us, and how to know God, enjoy Him, and to love like Jesus.” -- Bud Lamb, Chasing the Sage, Page 148

The ancient pathway of “study” means we devote time and attention to acquire a growing familiarity with God’s Word. Note: You may not study the Bible every day; however, you will come to reflect, remember, and apply it to life every day!

I have found myself most motivated to study when I’m “faced with a need-to-know or need-to-grow situation” ― Larry Osborne, Sticky Church.

So here are a few tools I have used which will help you gain confidence as you read and study the Bible.

30 Days to Understanding the Bible by Max Anders. Yes, in 15 minutes a day you will be introduced to key Bible characters, places, and events in chronological order as well as core teachings of the Bible.

Life Application Study Bible by Tyndale House. I call this the “big gun.” It has over 100 profiles of key people, 500 maps, charts, and a dictionary. It also has verse-by-verse commentary which explains the complicated sections and helps make them more understandable.

Yes, your confidence with your faith will grow leaps and bounds, you will discover food for its soul, and you will come to know what you believe!

-----------------------------------------

Pray

I have read parts of books about You, but I’ve not read the Bible -- it’s confusing. I don’t understand the “why” about so many things - like why You seem so angry at times, or why You “smote” (Exodus 32:35 NASB) some people and not others. I’m curious though about these simple tools Bud wrote about, so I’m going to check out the links and take it from there. Help me do the right thing. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next, learn to put aside your own desires so that you will become patient and godly, gladly letting God have his way with you.  This will make possible the next step, which is for you to enjoy other people and to like them, and finally, you will grow to love them deeply.   The more you go on in this way, the more you will grow strong spiritually and become fruitful and useful to our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:6-8 The Living Bible

Yes, the more we go on in this way - the way of learning a new lifestyle modeled on the lifestyle Jesus lived -  the stronger we grow spiritually, the more we know and enjoy God, and love like Jesus.

Fasting is one of the ancient pathways Jesus practiced and spoke of when He said “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me.”  We truly are on solid ground when we seek to model the style of living Jesus lived.

“Really, it’s just abstinence from something for a limited duration for the purpose of focusing on God.  Abstinence from food (and sometimes water as well) is what is primarily meant by fasting in the scriptures.  But fasting can also be abstaining from other things, such as technology or entertainment.  As we deprive ourselves of physical, emotional, or intellectual satisfaction we learn to find our sufficiency in God.” -- Bud Lamb, Chasing the Sage, Page 148

It’s not that what we abstain from is bad. But in our world today where more is better, faster is never fast enough, multi-tasking is esteemed, life can return to its proper speed when we give it a break.

A typical food fast of 24 hours abstains from eating food yet allows drinking water.  Our compassion for the homeless and hungry grows.

Fasting from technology turns off the TV, smartphone, and all electronics from 6 pm to 6 am the following morning.  Our connection with family grows as we play cards, take walks, tell stories.

Taking a 10-minute walk in the morning and afternoon is abstaining from the ruthless pursuit of “getting it all done.”  We find delight in sunshine or snow outside the office or home.

In all these outcomes we find ourselves more open to the majesty of God.

Fasting we learn to let go of being in control, create space to hear as our hunger screams, and enjoy resting in God’s provision in slowing down.

Go to your calendar now and mark off some times to schedule a fast.

-------------------------------------

Pray

OK God, over these past few weeks I’ve learned about the ancient paths of reflection and prayer.  They are pretty familiar but now fasting?  Really?  When it comes right down to it God, I just don’t want to - kind of like a little kid being reminded to eat his broccoli.  But...I’m going to give it a try.  Help me let go of my need to be in control.  Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is what God is saying to us:  “Stand by the ways and see, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk-in it; Then you will find a resting place for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16a NASB

We are designed to connect with our Maker. He is infinite; beyond our ability to understand or control, yet He is intimate and proximate enough to be known.

Yes, God is beyond our ability to completely comprehend, yet, He is intimate and near. How does this happen? Well, simply, God invites us to communicate with him by talking and listening.

Prayer is simply talking and listening to God. “We learn to pray by praying. There is no right or wrong way to pray. You cannot pray a bad prayer. The best prayers come from the heart; no pretending and no special language.” --Bud Lamb  Chasing the Sage, page 148

We are encouraged to talk to God about anything that concerns us.

Talking with God is just like talking with your spouse or kids or friends -- you talk about things you’re concerned about as they listen. Then they talk and you listen. It is a give and take conversation where both express ideas, emotions, and concerns.

The best prayers come from the heart; no pretending and no special language.

When praying, be real.  If you’re confused or angry, let the emotions flow. If you’re sad or depressed, let Him know. If you’re in need of guidance or help in any way, just put it out there and ask.

How long to pray? It can be as short as “Jesus, help me!” or as long as it takes to work through all the details about the concern you are grappling with. God is a great and patient listener! He doesn’t limit you to 280 characters! 

Slow down - He’s got all the time in the world to be with you!  Being in a hurry will frustrate your conversations with God.

What matters is that you do your best to engage in the conversation with God. He understands and reads your heart so you don’t have to make the words come out “right” -- just let it flow.

Remember, prayer is learning to talk to God and listen to Him in return...and we learn to pray by praying.

So, "Let's pray!"

--------------------------------

Pray

Take a few minutes right now to talk with God about what is going on in your heart right now.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is what the LORD says: “Stand by the ways and see, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk-in it and you shall find rest for your souls.” -- Jeremiah 6:16a NASB

Having a God-inspired word, verse, and simple plan for your life, God now points us to the development of the interior life of a follower of Jesus.

It is a transformed lifestyle - away formed by the cultivated interior life of spiritual tenacity, endurance, and love which fits us to the outward life where dreams and goals become reality.

What then are the “ancient paths” Jeremiah is referring to and how do we learn to become skilled in their usage? This is the focus of the next 12 sessions of the Breathe Meditation series.

A word of caution before we begin. “Hurry” will short circuit your learning. Go slow. Practice slowing. What our hearts hunger for is not found in a rush.

Reflection

We begin today with reflection; i.e. to think deeply or carefully about something. Similar words are: contemplate, meditate, or focus.

“...very simply it is becoming still and settled in the knowledge that God is God and we are not. It is a silent place where we can hear and submit to the voice of God. It’s being marinated and simmered in the Truth until it moves from head to heart. It’s that simple...and it’s that hard.” Chasing the Sage, Page 148

Reflect on Scripture

Reflect on small sections of the Bible, slowly reading and re-reading, paying attention to what your heart is responding to, and talking with God about it.

This is more like reading a love letter than it is skimming a user guide for a new gadget. Reading fast is not reflecting. Go slow.

Set a modest goal of 5 to 10 minutes 2 or 3 times each week.

Set a time and place where you can be quiet and alone. Whenever and wherever works best for you.

Begin breathing slowly with your eyes closed as you pray, asking God to bless this time together.

Psalm 23 is a good place to begin. I suggest you reflect on it for a few weeks. Yep. A few weeks.

Then to John 14:1-6 followed by Matthew 6:1-13.

Integrate reflective reading into your regular reading when you come to a verse or story that moves you. Pause then, and reflect asking God to guide you.

Reflection, learning to become still, and spiritual reading are ancient paths to our faith as followers of Jesus. Become skilled with it and your intimacy and friendship with God will blossom!

Be patient with your learning process.

--------------------------------

Pray

God, the idea of being still...yes, I like it. If You knew how busy my head is You would know just how much I need to learn this. But You ARE God and You know all about me and what I need today. Will You quicken my heart to learn a new style of living. It sounds so appealing and yet daunting. Amen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, how can we keep on track for an entire year? I can hear some of you questioning incredulously, “Keep on track for an entire year?!?!”

Yes! That is what I’m proposing for you brave friends who have selected ONE WORD, ONE VERSE, and crafted a SIMPLE PLAN for your BEST YEAR EVER 2021.

The idea of keeping on track doesn’t mean you never get off track. Keeping on track means you have a few guardrails in place going into 2021 to literally help you keep on track.

Here are a few tips for this marathon year you’re undertaking:

Begin Each Day With God

As part of your daily morning time with God review your simple plan and make a shortlist of things you intend to do that day. This way you invite God into it from the get-go as you ask Him to help you stay on track.

Adjust as Needed

Adjust means when you become aware you’ve been chasing a rabbit trail, you get BACK on track as soon as possible. This will help you maintain momentum and make allowance for your humanity.

Embrace Accountability

Ask a trusted friend to be your check-in partner for 2021. Share with them your desire to keep on track with your life. Tell them about your word, verse, and simple plan.

Ask if they will have a 15-minute conversation with you every week. Explain that you want them to ask you to answer these questions:

1. What did you do from the big items on your list for last week? Go over the big items on your list for last week that you DID. This is not storytelling. It is as simple as reading a shopping list where you line off items as you toss them in the cart.

The big idea here is to review with your check-in partner and yourself, “This is what I started out to do last week and this is what I did.”

2. What are the big items on your list for this week? Talk about the big-ticket items on your list for this coming week. A bit of storytelling is OK just so long as you leave time for the final question...

3. What might be difficult about this next week? This is the BEST question as it will help you anticipate rabbit trails or obstacles that might discourage or distract you.

Conclude the remainder of your time asking how things have been going with your friend and asking how you can pray for him--then, as I like to say, “Can I pray both of us out the door?”

When it comes right down to it, it’s up to you to make your list and stay on track, or adjust and get back on track.

This is the only way to avoid drift and keep on track for the entire year.

___________________

PRAY WITH ME

Here we go, God! This is where the rubber meets the road--where my good intentions are put to the test. It’s daunting and it’s new and I’m a bit afraid I don’t have what it takes. Steady me to take it one day at a time. Remind me that You are in me, with me, and for me. Help me adjust without shame or guilt. Guide me to a trusted friend to check-in weekly. Amen

PS My good friend Dr. Parker Houston writes, “Harvard research by Gail Matthews shows that you are significantly more likely to achieve your goals when you have a written plan, clear action steps, and regular accountability.”

Best-Year-Ever Resources

One Word & One Verse

A Simple Plan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our last session, we took a short look back over 2020 and crunched it into three words.

2020 was the BEST YEAR EVER for me in spite of the pandemic. I did not start 2020 with any resolutions. “Resolutions are well-meaning, but they rarely last. To make anything last, there must be a change of heart, not just a change of season.” (1)

Instead, I started with ONE WORD going forward, ONE VERSE to inspire, and then implemented a SIMPLE PLAN, with micro-steps, and my heart was changed one day at a time.

In this session, we will begin by asking God to lead you to ONE WORD and ONE VERSE. 

Select one from this list that inspires, fuels, or unsettles you out of your comfort zone.

Compassion.  Colossians 3:12-13 

Purpose.  Jeremiah 29:11 

Self-discipline.  1 Timothy 4:7b-8 

Focus.  Hebrews 12:1-2 

Faith.  Hebrews 11:6 

Pray.  Philippians 4:6-7 

Love.  1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Risk.  Proverbs 3:5-6

You will know you’ve selected the right one if it fires you up. It may not juice anybody else up and that doesn’t matter -- if it does you, then you’re set.

I wear my ONE WORD stamped onto a key made by the good people at The Giving Keys, an inspiring “pay it forward” company. It is a constant reminder that God is changing my heart and walking with me. 

My ONE WORD for 2021 is TRUST and my ONE VERSE is John 14:1.

Let me know yours and I will pray with you into 2021 that God will use your ONE WORD and VERSE to lead you into your BEST YEAR EVER. 

Next week we will dig into a SIMPLE PLAN.

(1) Erika Michelle asymphonyofpraise.com/about

___________________

PRAY WITH ME:

2020 was a rough one for me. The idea that 2021 could be my BEST YEAR EVER seems ridiculous. I’ve heard that with God all things are possible. So, I trust You will guide me as I begin my year with You. Thank You.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Look back over 2020. What three words would describe 2020 for you? 

Note, I’m not asking for you to recap 2020 like you were a newscaster listing the top three stories; i.e. the pandemic, the election, the economy.

When I was asked this question out of the blue by my good friend Dave I responded with:

Focus.

Hard-work.

Best-year-ever.

At the beginning of 2020, I selected a “word for the year” - FOCUS. I’ve been a “word for the year” kind of guy for a long time. Like others, I’ve found one word can make a big difference if I pay attention to it 365 days in a row.

2020 was a focus year for me to get after things that were important to my family, my faith, and my service to others.

2020 was a hard-work year for me because the important things are not always the easy things - and so, I needed to do the work and do it well.

2020 was a best-year-ever for me in spite of the pandemic, the election, and the economy due in large part I think because I focused on what I could do rather than what I couldn’t. I showed up each day for work, and at the end of the day, I put the tools down, ate a good meal with my wife, and took the rest of the day off grateful for what we had.

So, take a few minutes and come up with three words you would use to describe 2020 for you. 

Write them down, talk to God about them.

If you need to weep then weep. If you need to celebrate then celebrate. The big idea here is to open your heart to God, let Him in on where you are, then surrender what those words bring up for you to Him.

Next week we will talk more about the “word for the year” idea. For now, take that short look back.

[1] Bud Lamb Translation