Showing posts with label finishing well. Show all posts
Showing posts with label finishing well. Show all posts
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Around The Corner
"Go down ahead of me to Gilgal. I will surely come down to you to sacrifice burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, but you must wait seven days until I come to you and tell you what you are to do." 1 Samuel 10:8 (NIV)
God had given Saul specific directions from the prophet Samuel on how to win in a battle Saul was going through. Saul was instructed to go to Gilgal and wait on Samuel to come and offer a sacrifice unto God. Then Saul would be told what to do next in his life. But in 1 Samuel 13:8-14, we find that Saul did not wait and did not follow what the Lord told him to do.
“He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul’s men began to scatter. So he said, “Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.” And Saul offered up the burnt offering. Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived, and Saul went out to greet him. “What have you done?” asked Samuel. Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Mikmash, I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the LORD’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.” “You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people, because you have not kept the LORD’s command.” (NIV)
Saul did not wait on the timing of God's direction. He started looking at the situation around him. He began to see, in the natural, the men beginning to leave; the men he was counting on. He began to fear and think, “My enemy is going to come into this territory and attack me.” Then he began to feel, “I will take matters into my own hands and not follow The Word given to me. It’s getting too late, The Word or promise given to me is not happening, I will just stop waiting and believing that God will come through for me. This is just taking too long!”
Is that where you are right now? Are you like Saul, looking at how hard it’s getting? Are you beginning to move according to what is going on around you?
Saul’s promise was coming. The manifestation of his promise from God was on its way; it was moving on the road toward him! His promise was almost there when Saul decided to quit waiting, watching, believing and speaking what God said. His breakthrough was on its way. The change in his situation that he had been waiting on was just a few moments in time from him, and Saul gave up and canceled it all to discover that “Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel arrived.”
That’s what God wants you to know. He knows what time it is. He loves you and He will keep His Word – will you? Are we going to give up because it looks like it is getting late? Are we going to try to make a breakthrough happen by ourselves and in our own power?
Decide today to dig your spiritual heels in the ground and not give up! You shall finish strong!
Scripture Of The Day: "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." - Psalm 27:14 (NIV)
Friday, December 30, 2011
The Finishing Line
The time is here again, the end of another year. For many reading this, 2011 has been a year of processing, shaping, formatting and fitting. Yes, the trials and hard times came, and are still here, but we have to really know and believe that they came, and are still here, only to make us strong.
Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything. (James 1:2-4, NLT).
In the year to come 2012, we can still experience God “having our back.” Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never forsake you.” That is why we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Hebrews 13:5-6, NLT). And we can still give him what he wants presented from us. "And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable." When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? (Romans 12:1, NLT).
We must have confidence deep down within that only comes from God the Father. We must know who we are in him and move forward in him. If there are folks running the race with you on the ‘track field’ who want to turn around or want to stop running and stay behind, you may have to tell them “Okay, I’ll see you later! 2012 for me is going to be a year of experiencing that vision, dream, or promise that I’ve been working on, holding on to, and waiting on God to do and complete through me.”
As this year comes to an end, there is one thing we can say: we’ve survived! A survivor is one who has remained existent and outlasted the circumstance and situation; one who didn’t give up, but hung in there. We’ve made it to the finishing line. Now all we have to do is cross over into 2012 and start a new ‘workout’ (processing, shaping, formatting, fitting), getting us ready for the upcoming experiences mentioned above. In the ‘workout,’ we have to put our total trust, increased faith, and dependency in and upon the coach of our ‘track team,’ the Lord our God.
Scripture Of The Day: “For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything.” - James 1:3-4 (NLT).
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Second Wind
There is almost nothing greater than seeing a great track and field competition in which the underdog is already counted out before the race starts. They start out slow and low and behold you see the underdog seemingly get strength out of nowhere and they forge ahead to finish the race well! In common terms, we call that a “second wind.”
Getting your ‘second wind’ literally means that you are able to obtain a renewed energy towards a task. It clearly denotes a picture of a person being tired, worn out, beaten down, whipped, overwhelmed and disoriented. And while the person has the desire to push through all of this, there are mental, emotional, physical, and sometimes spiritual realities that seem elusive and out of reach. It is at these points of frustration that seemingly, the individual musters enough wherewithal to fight through the tiredness and disorientation – getting a ‘second wind’.
I believe, unequivocally, that God is a God that dishes out “second winds.” They aren’t just given to anyone. They are distributed to the people who really desire to serve God with all of their heart, mind and soul. His Word confirms it. Reading Hebrews 12: 2-3 (Message), it shares, “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed--that exhilarating finish in and with God--he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!”
It gives us clear understanding of how to get our ‘second wind,’if we’re exhausted by life. It shows us how to:
1) Concentrate! - Concentrate on who you are and who you are trying to please. Ultimately, you are trying to please God. In the middle of living, if you strive to please God, you will work to please yourself and others.
2) Consider! – Consider the discipline and dedication to winning that Jesus exhibited. The scripture says, ‘study how He did it.’ He had options to quit and chose not to. You too have options to quit. But don’t. There’s more to life that you haven’t seen yet. If you give up now, you will miss the greater stuff yet to be seen and accomplished in your life.
3) Celebrate! – Celebrate everything. Celebrate your past, pains and problems. Celebrate your path, purpose and provisions. Celebrate your talents and gifts. Celebrate your future and your faith. James (1:2-4) shows us that every challenging time in life proves to have greater achievement for our future.
When you do these three things, among others, it will shoot adrenaline into your soul. When you get adrenaline in your soul, it will ignite a fire in your mental capacities. You’ll develop ideas and creativity will start to live with you. When your spiritual and mental capacities receive a boost, your physical and emotional stamina builds and shapes. Don’t live in your frustration and disorientation. During this holiday time, you’re going to get your second wind to finish the year strong and start the New Year with drive. Take a deep breath – and prepare for your second wind!
Scripture Of The Day: "Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed." - Hebrews 12:2 (MSG)
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
The Turn-Around
God can write a story like no other can. His sovereign ability to reach into a person’s future and erect a monument of victory is incomparable. He literally delights in crowning the lowly as prince, and in using the stumbling blocks that have been placed in our paths by others as stepping stones to a throne of His making.
It’s amazing how he could pull a life from the pit and transform it in such a way that it becomes unrecognizable to the enemy. Such was the life of Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob. From the pit, to the prison, to the palace, Joseph meandered his way to destiny despite the roadblocks he encountered.
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God glorifies His great name in the time of opposition because He specializes in the principle of resurrection. The concept of a thing living again after it had been presumed dead is a wonderful reality in the mind of God. In other words, “It’s not over until God says it’s over.” Certainly, the very life of Christ upon the earth testifies and confirms that there is no opposition – whether it be in the form of a pit or in the form of a grave – that can stop God from reaching down and lifting a life to the place that He has destined for it.
You see, God takes great pleasure in moving a person from the depths of seeming defeat and ushering them to the pinnacle of success. He delights in bringing life out of death and in making “the stone which the builders rejected” into the chief cornerstone (Ps. 118:22). Yes, it is His utmost delight to move beyond your circumstances and do the impossible on your behalf. As a matter of fact, He will ‘flip the script’ until your enemies become your footstool (Ps.110:1) and those who fought against you turn and pray for you to bless them (Ex. 12:32). Indeed, resurrection, restoration, metamorphosis of status, and newness of life are prominent spheres of His mighty dominion.
For this reason, we see Joseph, though severely mistreated in his youth, rising to great power in the very place he was sent to die. He became governor in the land of his captivity and ruled over those to whom he was sold as a slave. Without doubt, Joseph must have understood that though he was ‘persecuted’, he was not ‘abandoned’; and though he was ‘struck down’, he was ‘not destroyed’ (2 Cor. 4:9). Thus, he remained faithful to God and to his vision, and was buoyed by both as God worked behind-the-scenes of his life. In the end, Joseph, the Hebrew slave of the Egyptians, died as Joseph, the Hebrew ruler of the Egyptians.
God finds great pleasure in turning the tables in your favor. His joy is contained in ensuring that you end well. And so now may the God of the ‘turn around’ bring restoration and increase to every area of your life; and may your tomorrow be exceedingly greater than your yesterday.
Scripture Of The Day: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." - Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)
The Resevoir
If you’ve ever observed athletes during any extended race, you've noticed that they exert the greatest strength during the last few meters of the race, or as it is commonly called, “the stretch” of the race. It happens because the finish line is visible and the desire to reach it intensifies, signaling a release of stored energy that invigorates the mind, body and spirit, causing the person to persevere or strive forward.
The Bible says that we overwhelmingly conquer—Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. (Romans 8:37). There is never a reason to quit; we are destined to overcome. We are fashioned by God. And the same place that stores and releases physical energy and strength also stores and releases supernatural energy and strength. There’s a reservoir inside of each and every one of us.
For instance, how many times have you looked back over your life and wondered how you survived some of your worse setbacks? How many times have you thought about quitting just to discover that the end was closer than you thought? We are equipped with the power to overcome, triumph and prevail. I am reminded of the story of Moses and the Children of Israel concerning their captivity. Moses was told NO on ten different occasions by Pharaoh. But he did not lose faith or give up on the mission—he persevered. He was the personification of a reservoir.
Now, what is a reservoir? Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary gives us three definitions of a reservoir: 1. a place where something is kept in store; 2. an extra supply, a reserve; and 3. an organism in which a parasite that is pathogenic, or disease-causing for other species lives and multiplies without damaging its host….” Given these definitions, a reservoir can be a person, a place, and a thing. And if we were to shed spiritual light on these three definitions, they might read as: 1. a place where strength, energy, endurance, courage, faith, patience, love and understanding are kept in store; 2. an extra supply of mental apparatus; and 3. a person that is not afflicted by their adversities, but remains steadfast and overcomes the challenges and attacks that usually harm and destroy others.
It may take a while to reach the pinnacle in your life, but at your disposal are the tools for survival—they’re in your reservoir. If you need strength, it’s in there. If you need peace, it’s in there. If you need courage, it’s in there. And if you need endurance, it’s in there too. For the greatest assets in life are not material possessions, superficial beauty, or monetary gain; the greatest assets in life are the Fruits of the Spirit that are constantly multiplying inside of you. It explains how you got back up after a fall. It explains why you didn’t commit suicide after a difficult breakup or vicious attack. It explains why you can still smile in the midst of a storm. It explains your confidence despite the odds that are against you. It explains how you beat cancer. And it explains how you overcame depression. It explains how you have persevered. You are a reservoir!
Scriptrue Of The Day: "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." - Romans 8:37 (NKJV)
Monday, December 26, 2011
Finishing With Purpose
School was the place I found my solace and love before I moved in with my foster family. I craved the positive attention from the teachers then the way I crave God’s presence now. I moved to Atlanta to pursue my higher education. When a janitor accidentally threw away the files of sixty incoming freshman, I lost my independent student status and was unable to continue my studies while they tried to sort out the mess he made. With two other siblings in college, my foster parents couldn’t afford to pay my tuition. It devastated me.
By the time everything was straightened out it was too late for me to qualify for the grants and loans I needed to pay for school. For two years I struggled and worked two and sometimes three jobs trying to save up to pay and fix the problem created when my file was lost. No matter how hard I worked, something would go wrong and I couldn’t get back in to finish at my original school. My return to college became an obsession; the jobs I selected and everything I did gravitated around getting a degree.
During the third year of trying to finish college, I rekindled my relationship with God. My desire to finish school and realign my life with the plan I drafted in high school began to change. Deep down I had begun to associate my worth and ability to offer something to the world with having a college degree. Education had become an idol in my life because it defined my worth by how much of it I possessed. The more I learned about God, the more I learned about who He said I was and the purpose for which He created me.
The principals governing my life—when I was willing to do almost anything to graduate—changed. My heart and mind opened to the truth of what determined my worth based on God’s word instead of having a degree. Serving God and being debt free conflicted with my original path, but was the path God’s word illuminated for my feet to walk. My appetite to please God and complete the work He formed me to do became more important than meeting a deadline. I realized finishing well didn’t have to mean finishing college the way everyone else does or expects you to do it. Finishing well means doing what my Father in heaven sent me to do, trusting him to qualify me to do it, in a way that pleases him.
Scripture Of The Day: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Finishing With Eternity In Mind
A few years ago, Dad’s sister Louise fell ill with what would be her final battle with cancer. Living several hours away from her, I had never gotten to see her more than once or twice a year my whole life, but my childhood is dotted with many fond memories of trips to Tennessee to stay with her and Uncle Edsel.
This particular day, since they lived near a favorite vacation spot of ours, my husband and I traveled a little farther and went to visit her. It was hard to see such a vibrant woman quickly fading to a different hue from what I was used to.
As my time to leave drew near, there was so much I wanted to say, and I knew this was probably our last time together on this earth. A lump stuck in my throat and tears began to pour out as I recalled what an incredible role model she’d been to me all through life. She was an off-the-charts good cook. She could sing and play nearly any instrument she got her hands on. She was the consummate pastor’s wife and a loving mother, and everyone loved her quick humor and contagious laugh. I stammered as I spoke the words to her, “All my life I wanted to be just like you.”
She smiled weakly, squeezed my hand, and said, “Be like Jesus, honey. Just be like Jesus.”
I’ve thought of that conversation many times since her passing, and thought of how she so easily she transferred any praise for herself on to Jesus. What a mantle of wisdom to lay across my shoulders in some of the last words she ever spoke to me. It summed up pretty much everything I would ever need to know about life.
We hold so tightly to our little plastic trophies. We keep refreshing our browsers to see if anyone “liked” our status on Facebook. We’re not too far removed from the insecure teenagers we once were, who long to be remembered as the best-looking, the most valuable player, the most likely to succeed, as chronicled on the pages of the yearbook of our lives. How ironic that what will define our eulogy isn’t what we amassed, but rather, what we gave away—in particular, those things we committed into the hands of the Father. It will be our legacy on earth and it will be the yardstick of our eternal reward when at last we stand at the Bema Judgment Seat of Christ.
Jesus, in His final fleeting breaths on the cross, committed His Spirit into the hands of the Father and then declared, “It is finished.” The Bible tells us of yet another event to come, when He will place something else into God’s hands. 1 Corinthians Chapter 15 tells us that Jesus will subdue all the kingdoms, rulers, authorities of this world system, and even the last great enemy, Death. Our Jesus, the Role Model of all role models--the One under Whose feet lies everything that is or ever was—will come under the authority of God the Father in the greatest act of submission of all eternity. And of His kingdom there will be no end!
Aunt Louise knew Whose lead to follow. I’m with her…I want to be like Jesus, too.
Scripture Of The Day: "Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere." - 1 Corinthians 15:28 (NLT)
Friday, December 31, 2010
Closing Well
By Dave Burchett
For twenty-five years I have directed Texas Rangers baseball. And all of those seasons have taught me a valuable spiritual lesson from the National Pastime. I have learned how important it is to be a good closer.
In baseball parlance, the "closer" is the pitcher who comes into the game in the last inning to protect the lead and finish off the win. It all comes down to the closer. If he does well the collective efforts of eight position players and the pitchers that proceeded will have a happy ending. If the closer fails, all of that effort is wasted. There is nothing more demoralizing than playing a great game for eight innings and seeing it all blow up in the last one. So what is the spiritual lesson learned from a baseball closer?
Closing out well is critical as a follower of Christ. I am praying and seeking to be a good closer in my faith walk with Jesus. Sadly that is not a given. Many great men of the Bible did not finish well. They allowed the efforts of many around them to end in frustration and anguish because they did not close well. The honest portrayal of human success and failing is something I love about God’s Word. It is one important aspect that makes the Bible unique and real.
The successes and failures are equally displayed. Men with great stories still managed to not close well. Examples? How about the story of Saul? How sad to hear words like this at the end of your journey.
“How foolish!" Samuel exclaimed. "You have disobeyed the command of the LORD your God. Had you obeyed, the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your dynasty must end, for the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart. The LORD has already chosen him to be king over his people, for you have not obeyed the LORD's command." (1 Sam 13, NLT)
Imagine when the prophet came to Eli and proclaimed this dire message. What a kick in the spiritual gut this must have been.
"Therefore, the LORD, the God of Israel, says: The terrible things you are doing cannot continue! I had promised that your branch of the tribe of Levi would always be my priests. But I will honor only those who honor me, and I will despise those who despise me."
I would be willing to imagine that Saul and Eli were planning on closing well. They had moments of great leadership and fellowship with God. But they couldn’t close. You know that Saul’s story ended in madness. The results for Levi’s sons were horrific. His family needed a man who could start well, stay strong, and close it out with integrity and faith.
I want to finish strong. I want to close this journey with an effort that honors the One who was willing to finish for me. Paul understood athletics. Sports can be a good metaphor for life and he knew that well. At the end of my life race I have a couple of options that I could hear.
a) You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. (Gal 5)
b) You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. (2 Tim 4)
I choose b) for the words I want to hear.
I pray that I will close well.
Scripture Of The Day: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
Dave Burchett is an Emmy Award winning television sports director, author, and speaker. He is the author of When Bad Christians Happen to Good People and Bring’em Back Alive – A Healing Plan for those Wounded by the Church. Visit him at http://www.daveburchett.com
For twenty-five years I have directed Texas Rangers baseball. And all of those seasons have taught me a valuable spiritual lesson from the National Pastime. I have learned how important it is to be a good closer.
In baseball parlance, the "closer" is the pitcher who comes into the game in the last inning to protect the lead and finish off the win. It all comes down to the closer. If he does well the collective efforts of eight position players and the pitchers that proceeded will have a happy ending. If the closer fails, all of that effort is wasted. There is nothing more demoralizing than playing a great game for eight innings and seeing it all blow up in the last one. So what is the spiritual lesson learned from a baseball closer?
Closing out well is critical as a follower of Christ. I am praying and seeking to be a good closer in my faith walk with Jesus. Sadly that is not a given. Many great men of the Bible did not finish well. They allowed the efforts of many around them to end in frustration and anguish because they did not close well. The honest portrayal of human success and failing is something I love about God’s Word. It is one important aspect that makes the Bible unique and real.
The successes and failures are equally displayed. Men with great stories still managed to not close well. Examples? How about the story of Saul? How sad to hear words like this at the end of your journey.
“How foolish!" Samuel exclaimed. "You have disobeyed the command of the LORD your God. Had you obeyed, the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your dynasty must end, for the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart. The LORD has already chosen him to be king over his people, for you have not obeyed the LORD's command." (1 Sam 13, NLT)
Imagine when the prophet came to Eli and proclaimed this dire message. What a kick in the spiritual gut this must have been.
"Therefore, the LORD, the God of Israel, says: The terrible things you are doing cannot continue! I had promised that your branch of the tribe of Levi would always be my priests. But I will honor only those who honor me, and I will despise those who despise me."
I would be willing to imagine that Saul and Eli were planning on closing well. They had moments of great leadership and fellowship with God. But they couldn’t close. You know that Saul’s story ended in madness. The results for Levi’s sons were horrific. His family needed a man who could start well, stay strong, and close it out with integrity and faith.
I want to finish strong. I want to close this journey with an effort that honors the One who was willing to finish for me. Paul understood athletics. Sports can be a good metaphor for life and he knew that well. At the end of my life race I have a couple of options that I could hear.
a) You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. (Gal 5)
b) You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. (2 Tim 4)
I choose b) for the words I want to hear.
I pray that I will close well.
Scripture Of The Day: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
Dave Burchett is an Emmy Award winning television sports director, author, and speaker. He is the author of When Bad Christians Happen to Good People and Bring’em Back Alive – A Healing Plan for those Wounded by the Church. Visit him at http://www.daveburchett.com
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tell Peter
By Bishop Vashti McKenzie
Everyone likes a little personal attention. It’s not that we’re that selfish, self-centered, peculiar or particular (or maybe we are), but we all like a little personal attention every now and then.
That’s why we patronize businesses that cater to their customers and their needs – that little personal attention that keeps you coming back for more: the sales associate who is understanding; the service station attendant who is patient; the clerk who answers all of your questions no matter how many times you ask them and get the same answer; and the manager who remembers you and what you purchased the last time.
Businesses have grown all because they knew the value of customer service. Other businesses have failed because they did not pay some personal attention to their customer base.
We like to belong to groups where there is some personal attention. We like to go to churches where people give you some personal attention, people are glad to see you come, and they miss you when you’re gone. We love churches where someone may remember it’s your birthday, or where you want to share your latest excitement because you know they will be glad for you. We love churches where the usher remembers where you sat the last time you were in church, and where the officer who remembers your name.
We love churches where someone may remember that your spouse is still in the hospital or that your family member is in town; the baby has finally graduated or that things are getting better where you live. We love a church home where there maybe a hug or a handshake– all of us like a little extra personal attention. Even if you’re in a place where no one can remember your name, at least they will smile at you and make you feel at home.
In 16th chapter of Mark’s gospel, the women came to the tomb early. There they pressed their way to complete the embalming process without knowing if the stone was rolled away or if the soldiers would give them a hard time. When they arrived, they found out God had already taken care of both problems. They had an angel experience. Jesus is not dead. He said, “Go and tell my disciples, and Peter.”
Now here is the personal attention, and Peter. What about the other disciples? Why not ask about John or Luke, Andrew or Nathaniel. Why give such attention to Peter?
The mention of Peter is unique to Mark. The other gospels do not specifically mention his name. Now we must ask the question why?
Remember that Peter denied Jesus three times after pledging his faith. He was prepared to defend Jesus in the garden, but denied him before the cock’s morning crow. Peter denied Jesus not once but three times.
Here is an indication that Peter’s mistake was not final. He messed up, but he could finish well.
Peter was the leader who led the followers of Jesus into hiding. He made strategic mistakes, displayed poor judgment and exhibited improper behavior. Have you ever done that or been here?
Yet by calling his name at the tomb, was Jesus letting Peter know that his mistakes did not cost him his leadership position or his relationship with the Savior? Was this an indication that his mistakes were not final?
David made a mistake with Bathsheba and continued to be king of Israel. He finished well. The woman at the well made mistakes in serial monogamous relationships. She finished well. Saul persecuted the church, but after his Damascus Road experiences, as Paul, he finished well. Thank God for a Personal touch so we too can finish well!!
All of our sins were nailed to the cross and buried in a tomb. If we confess, God is faithful to forgive. All humanity was released from the bondage of sin so we could finish well.
Our mistakes are not final. (This is where you begin to praise God throughout the day!)
Scripture Of The Day: "Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always." - 1 Chronicles 16:11
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the presiding bishop of the 13th Episcopal District of the AME, and serves as a guiding example for women and church leaders throughout the country. For more on Bishop McKenzie, visit http://www.13thame.com or hear her messages daily at http://www.thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com.…
Everyone likes a little personal attention. It’s not that we’re that selfish, self-centered, peculiar or particular (or maybe we are), but we all like a little personal attention every now and then.
That’s why we patronize businesses that cater to their customers and their needs – that little personal attention that keeps you coming back for more: the sales associate who is understanding; the service station attendant who is patient; the clerk who answers all of your questions no matter how many times you ask them and get the same answer; and the manager who remembers you and what you purchased the last time.
Businesses have grown all because they knew the value of customer service. Other businesses have failed because they did not pay some personal attention to their customer base.
We like to belong to groups where there is some personal attention. We like to go to churches where people give you some personal attention, people are glad to see you come, and they miss you when you’re gone. We love churches where someone may remember it’s your birthday, or where you want to share your latest excitement because you know they will be glad for you. We love churches where the usher remembers where you sat the last time you were in church, and where the officer who remembers your name.
We love churches where someone may remember that your spouse is still in the hospital or that your family member is in town; the baby has finally graduated or that things are getting better where you live. We love a church home where there maybe a hug or a handshake– all of us like a little extra personal attention. Even if you’re in a place where no one can remember your name, at least they will smile at you and make you feel at home.
In 16th chapter of Mark’s gospel, the women came to the tomb early. There they pressed their way to complete the embalming process without knowing if the stone was rolled away or if the soldiers would give them a hard time. When they arrived, they found out God had already taken care of both problems. They had an angel experience. Jesus is not dead. He said, “Go and tell my disciples, and Peter.”
Now here is the personal attention, and Peter. What about the other disciples? Why not ask about John or Luke, Andrew or Nathaniel. Why give such attention to Peter?
The mention of Peter is unique to Mark. The other gospels do not specifically mention his name. Now we must ask the question why?
Remember that Peter denied Jesus three times after pledging his faith. He was prepared to defend Jesus in the garden, but denied him before the cock’s morning crow. Peter denied Jesus not once but three times.
Here is an indication that Peter’s mistake was not final. He messed up, but he could finish well.
Peter was the leader who led the followers of Jesus into hiding. He made strategic mistakes, displayed poor judgment and exhibited improper behavior. Have you ever done that or been here?
Yet by calling his name at the tomb, was Jesus letting Peter know that his mistakes did not cost him his leadership position or his relationship with the Savior? Was this an indication that his mistakes were not final?
David made a mistake with Bathsheba and continued to be king of Israel. He finished well. The woman at the well made mistakes in serial monogamous relationships. She finished well. Saul persecuted the church, but after his Damascus Road experiences, as Paul, he finished well. Thank God for a Personal touch so we too can finish well!!
All of our sins were nailed to the cross and buried in a tomb. If we confess, God is faithful to forgive. All humanity was released from the bondage of sin so we could finish well.
Our mistakes are not final. (This is where you begin to praise God throughout the day!)
Scripture Of The Day: "Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always." - 1 Chronicles 16:11
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is the presiding bishop of the 13th Episcopal District of the AME, and serves as a guiding example for women and church leaders throughout the country. For more on Bishop McKenzie, visit http://www.13thame.com or hear her messages daily at http://www.thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com.…
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Win the Entire Race
By Shaun King
Do any of you remember watching Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt demolish three Olympic records?
The guy was so doggone fast that he started celebrating before he crossed the finish line and still left everyone else in the dust! He was widely criticized for being so boisterous, but something was lost amidst all of the criticism of his swagger.
Usain Bolt trained like a madman to lead the pack in the start of the race, the middle of the race, and in the end as he crossed the finish line.
He knew that if he was going to break "unbreakable" records and win gold medals, being a great starter was not enough. Getting a quick start and pushing hard through the middle wouldn't be enough either.
Usain knew that he was going to have to use all that God gave him from the starting block to the yellow ribbon, if victory was really going to be his!
Hear my heart -- in this season the Lord wants you to get a fast wind behind you so that you'll get a quick start, but far too many of our dreams, our ministries, our business, and even our marriages, launch with the loud, flashy boom of July fireworks, but fizzle out at the first sign of bad weather.
This isn't good enough. God did not just call you to get married; He called you to stay married. The Lord didn't just plant a vision in your heart to start a ministry or business in your community; He called you to start a ministry of business that would endure the challenges of our time and still be alive and kicking to tell the story on the other side!
While staring into the face of his young son Solomon, David said in 1 Chronicles 28:20: "Be strong and of good courage, and act. Do not be afraid or dismayed; for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you, until all the work or the service of the house of the LORD is finished."
In his prayer for the Philippians, the Apostle Paul said it this way, "I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ." (Phil. 1:6)
Overnight wonders and fast starters are a dime a dozen. The true test that you and I must pass is whether or not we have prepared to win the entire race. My prayer for you today is that you will allow the Spirit of God to give you the endurance that you'll need.
Scripture Of The Day: "Be strong and of good courage, and act. Do not be afraid or dismayed; for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you, until all the work or the service of the house of the LORD is finished." - 1 Chronicles 28:20
Shaun King is Lead Pastor of The Courageous Church in downtown Atlanta. A king of multi-tasking, Shaun is a proud husband, father of four, grad student, regular guest on NPR, and an avid blogger at http://www.ShaunInTheCity.com.
Do any of you remember watching Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt demolish three Olympic records?
The guy was so doggone fast that he started celebrating before he crossed the finish line and still left everyone else in the dust! He was widely criticized for being so boisterous, but something was lost amidst all of the criticism of his swagger.
Usain Bolt trained like a madman to lead the pack in the start of the race, the middle of the race, and in the end as he crossed the finish line.
He knew that if he was going to break "unbreakable" records and win gold medals, being a great starter was not enough. Getting a quick start and pushing hard through the middle wouldn't be enough either.
Usain knew that he was going to have to use all that God gave him from the starting block to the yellow ribbon, if victory was really going to be his!
Hear my heart -- in this season the Lord wants you to get a fast wind behind you so that you'll get a quick start, but far too many of our dreams, our ministries, our business, and even our marriages, launch with the loud, flashy boom of July fireworks, but fizzle out at the first sign of bad weather.
This isn't good enough. God did not just call you to get married; He called you to stay married. The Lord didn't just plant a vision in your heart to start a ministry or business in your community; He called you to start a ministry of business that would endure the challenges of our time and still be alive and kicking to tell the story on the other side!
While staring into the face of his young son Solomon, David said in 1 Chronicles 28:20: "Be strong and of good courage, and act. Do not be afraid or dismayed; for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you, until all the work or the service of the house of the LORD is finished."
In his prayer for the Philippians, the Apostle Paul said it this way, "I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ." (Phil. 1:6)
Overnight wonders and fast starters are a dime a dozen. The true test that you and I must pass is whether or not we have prepared to win the entire race. My prayer for you today is that you will allow the Spirit of God to give you the endurance that you'll need.
Scripture Of The Day: "Be strong and of good courage, and act. Do not be afraid or dismayed; for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you, until all the work or the service of the house of the LORD is finished." - 1 Chronicles 28:20
Shaun King is Lead Pastor of The Courageous Church in downtown Atlanta. A king of multi-tasking, Shaun is a proud husband, father of four, grad student, regular guest on NPR, and an avid blogger at http://www.ShaunInTheCity.com.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Finish Well
By Robin Ware
It’s important that we pay close attention to timing of events that occur in our lives. We shouldn’t allow time to float by or to let things just happen. For those with a destination in mind, you have to understand the value of providential moments.
We serve a God with a purpose. He uses providential moments to effect and or change our current paths permanently if we are obedient. As we get closer to the end of this year of trying times, economic challenges and multiple job losses, it’s imperative that we draw even closer to God.
One of my first providential moments occurred in October 2003 when I was downsized from my job. I immediately knew that my survival depended on how I handled this moment. As I look back over the past years, I can tell you that I thank God that I recognized this occurrence as a providential moment that would segue way me into my purpose and not as an instance that was recorded by me as being wronged, picked on or overlooked.
Often times, we as Christians don’t practice what we preach. We consistently say that we want what God has for us. It troubles me that when God gives us what he has for us, we question him, curse him and even turn our backs on him. The story of Job is so befitting for those that want to finish well. We know that God allowed the enemy to test Job. We have to understand that our tests and trials are no surprise to him.
If we are doers of the word, we know that the enemy will want to challenge God’s best, which we all are. What assignments have you not completed that you know you must before the end of this year? Is it a book, a program for youth, or even a new career? What providential moment did you experience that clued you in that its time to make the next move?
It’s heart wrenching to get knocked out when you are in a fight. Successful fighters spend years preparing physically and mentally for the challenge that lies ahead. Like fighters, God prepares us seasons in advance. Don’t take anything for granted. You may not be where you think you should but what you have already experienced was for you to use in this season. God knew then what he could trust you with.
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the talents. One man was given 5 talents, one was given 2 and one was given 1. The catch is that they were given talents based on their ability. In order to finish the rest of this year of “birthing” it’s important to get back in place, refocus and commit to go all the way so that you finish well.
Scripture Of The Day: "You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." - Hebrews 10:36
Robin Ware is a certified meeting planner and marketing consultant to a number of churches throughout the U.S and abroad. She is the author of Hosting Church Folk, and is the President of The Ware Agency. For more information about Robin, log onto http://www.thewareagency.com.
It’s important that we pay close attention to timing of events that occur in our lives. We shouldn’t allow time to float by or to let things just happen. For those with a destination in mind, you have to understand the value of providential moments.
We serve a God with a purpose. He uses providential moments to effect and or change our current paths permanently if we are obedient. As we get closer to the end of this year of trying times, economic challenges and multiple job losses, it’s imperative that we draw even closer to God.
One of my first providential moments occurred in October 2003 when I was downsized from my job. I immediately knew that my survival depended on how I handled this moment. As I look back over the past years, I can tell you that I thank God that I recognized this occurrence as a providential moment that would segue way me into my purpose and not as an instance that was recorded by me as being wronged, picked on or overlooked.
Often times, we as Christians don’t practice what we preach. We consistently say that we want what God has for us. It troubles me that when God gives us what he has for us, we question him, curse him and even turn our backs on him. The story of Job is so befitting for those that want to finish well. We know that God allowed the enemy to test Job. We have to understand that our tests and trials are no surprise to him.
If we are doers of the word, we know that the enemy will want to challenge God’s best, which we all are. What assignments have you not completed that you know you must before the end of this year? Is it a book, a program for youth, or even a new career? What providential moment did you experience that clued you in that its time to make the next move?
It’s heart wrenching to get knocked out when you are in a fight. Successful fighters spend years preparing physically and mentally for the challenge that lies ahead. Like fighters, God prepares us seasons in advance. Don’t take anything for granted. You may not be where you think you should but what you have already experienced was for you to use in this season. God knew then what he could trust you with.
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the talents. One man was given 5 talents, one was given 2 and one was given 1. The catch is that they were given talents based on their ability. In order to finish the rest of this year of “birthing” it’s important to get back in place, refocus and commit to go all the way so that you finish well.
Scripture Of The Day: "You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." - Hebrews 10:36
Robin Ware is a certified meeting planner and marketing consultant to a number of churches throughout the U.S and abroad. She is the author of Hosting Church Folk, and is the President of The Ware Agency. For more information about Robin, log onto http://www.thewareagency.com.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
This is the Day That the Lord Has Made
by Dr. David C. Cooper
In his book, "To See the World in a Grain of Sand," C.L. James tells the fable of a wise old cat that notices a kitten chasing its tail. "Why are you chasing your tail so?" asked the wise old cat. The kitten replied, "I have learned that the best thing for a cat is happiness, and happiness is my tail. Therefore, I am chasing it; and when I catch it, I shall have happiness."
The wise old cat said, "My son, I too have paid attention to the problems of the universe. I too have judged that happiness is in my tail. But, I noticed that whenever I chase after it, it keeps running away from me, and when I go about my business, it just seems to come after me wherever I go."
Jesus promised us real happiness and true joy. "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" (John 15:11).
Happiness results from positive emotions such as joy, gratitude and hope. Negative attitudes are toxic to the mind and body. Research shows that negative emotions narrow thought. We can't dream or envision new possibilities when we are filled with negative emotions such as fear, resentment and pessimism. Positive emotions make thinking more creative and resourceful. Everyday is a celebration of life. Begin every day with this affirmation of faith: "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps 118:24).
First, today is the day the Lord has made so receive it with joy and gratitude. "In everything give thanks" (1 Thes 5:18).
Second, God only gives you today, not tomorrow, so focus on today. Don't get distracted by the failures of yesterday or the worries of tomorrow.
Third, He has made this day especially for you. Today is not an accident; not just another 24 hours.
Fourth, everything in each day is made for you -- the ups and the downs, the joys and the sorrows. God is involved in every aspect of your today. So, "give thanks for everything" (Eph 5:20).
Finally, expect something good to happen today. Then go out and make something good happen. You've got to make something happen in order to be happy.
Scripture Of The Day: "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" - John 15:11
Dr. David C. Cooper is Senior Pastor of Mount Paran Church of God in Atlanta. Currently, he serves as chairman of the Board of Directors and as an instructor in Counseling at the Psychological Studies Institute in Atlanta. For more on Pastor Cooper, visit http://www.mountparan.com.
In his book, "To See the World in a Grain of Sand," C.L. James tells the fable of a wise old cat that notices a kitten chasing its tail. "Why are you chasing your tail so?" asked the wise old cat. The kitten replied, "I have learned that the best thing for a cat is happiness, and happiness is my tail. Therefore, I am chasing it; and when I catch it, I shall have happiness."
The wise old cat said, "My son, I too have paid attention to the problems of the universe. I too have judged that happiness is in my tail. But, I noticed that whenever I chase after it, it keeps running away from me, and when I go about my business, it just seems to come after me wherever I go."
Jesus promised us real happiness and true joy. "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" (John 15:11).
Happiness results from positive emotions such as joy, gratitude and hope. Negative attitudes are toxic to the mind and body. Research shows that negative emotions narrow thought. We can't dream or envision new possibilities when we are filled with negative emotions such as fear, resentment and pessimism. Positive emotions make thinking more creative and resourceful. Everyday is a celebration of life. Begin every day with this affirmation of faith: "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps 118:24).
First, today is the day the Lord has made so receive it with joy and gratitude. "In everything give thanks" (1 Thes 5:18).
Second, God only gives you today, not tomorrow, so focus on today. Don't get distracted by the failures of yesterday or the worries of tomorrow.
Third, He has made this day especially for you. Today is not an accident; not just another 24 hours.
Fourth, everything in each day is made for you -- the ups and the downs, the joys and the sorrows. God is involved in every aspect of your today. So, "give thanks for everything" (Eph 5:20).
Finally, expect something good to happen today. Then go out and make something good happen. You've got to make something happen in order to be happy.
Scripture Of The Day: "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" - John 15:11
Dr. David C. Cooper is Senior Pastor of Mount Paran Church of God in Atlanta. Currently, he serves as chairman of the Board of Directors and as an instructor in Counseling at the Psychological Studies Institute in Atlanta. For more on Pastor Cooper, visit http://www.mountparan.com.
This is the Day That the Lord Has Made
By Dr. David C. Cooper
In his book, "To See the World in a Grain of Sand," C.L. James tells the fable of a wise old cat that notices a kitten chasing its tail. "Why are you chasing your tail so?" asked the wise old cat. The kitten replied, "I have learned that the best thing for a cat is happiness, and happiness is my tail. Therefore, I am chasing it; and when I catch it, I shall have happiness."
The wise old cat said, "My son, I too have paid attention to the problems of the universe. I too have judged that happiness is in my tail. But, I noticed that whenever I chase after it, it keeps running away from me, and when I go about my business, it just seems to come after me wherever I go."
Jesus promised us real happiness and true joy. "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" (John 15:11).
Happiness results from positive emotions such as joy, gratitude and hope. Negative attitudes are toxic to the mind and body. Research shows that negative emotions narrow thought. We can't dream or envision new possibilities when we are filled with negative emotions such as fear, resentment and pessimism. Positive emotions make thinking more creative and resourceful. Everyday is a celebration of life. Begin every day with this affirmation of faith: "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps 118:24).
First, today is the day the Lord has made so receive it with joy and gratitude. "In everything give thanks" (1 Thes 5:18).
Second, God only gives you today, not tomorrow, so focus on today. Don't get distracted by the failures of yesterday or the worries of tomorrow.
Third, He has made this day especially for you. Today is not an accident; not just another 24 hours.
Fourth, everything in each day is made for you -- the ups and the downs, the joys and the sorrows. God is involved in every aspect of your today. So, "give thanks for everything" (Eph 5:20).
Finally, expect something good to happen today. Then go out and make something good happen. You've got to make something happen in order to be happy.
Scripture Of The Day: "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" - John 15:11
Dr. David C. Cooper is Senior Pastor of Mount Paran Church of God in Atlanta. Currently, he serves as chairman of the Board of Directors and as an instructor in Counseling at the Psychological Studies Institute in Atlanta. For more on Pastor Cooper, visit http://www.mountparan.com.
In his book, "To See the World in a Grain of Sand," C.L. James tells the fable of a wise old cat that notices a kitten chasing its tail. "Why are you chasing your tail so?" asked the wise old cat. The kitten replied, "I have learned that the best thing for a cat is happiness, and happiness is my tail. Therefore, I am chasing it; and when I catch it, I shall have happiness."
The wise old cat said, "My son, I too have paid attention to the problems of the universe. I too have judged that happiness is in my tail. But, I noticed that whenever I chase after it, it keeps running away from me, and when I go about my business, it just seems to come after me wherever I go."
Jesus promised us real happiness and true joy. "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" (John 15:11).
Happiness results from positive emotions such as joy, gratitude and hope. Negative attitudes are toxic to the mind and body. Research shows that negative emotions narrow thought. We can't dream or envision new possibilities when we are filled with negative emotions such as fear, resentment and pessimism. Positive emotions make thinking more creative and resourceful. Everyday is a celebration of life. Begin every day with this affirmation of faith: "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps 118:24).
First, today is the day the Lord has made so receive it with joy and gratitude. "In everything give thanks" (1 Thes 5:18).
Second, God only gives you today, not tomorrow, so focus on today. Don't get distracted by the failures of yesterday or the worries of tomorrow.
Third, He has made this day especially for you. Today is not an accident; not just another 24 hours.
Fourth, everything in each day is made for you -- the ups and the downs, the joys and the sorrows. God is involved in every aspect of your today. So, "give thanks for everything" (Eph 5:20).
Finally, expect something good to happen today. Then go out and make something good happen. You've got to make something happen in order to be happy.
Scripture Of The Day: "I have spoken these things to you that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" - John 15:11
Dr. David C. Cooper is Senior Pastor of Mount Paran Church of God in Atlanta. Currently, he serves as chairman of the Board of Directors and as an instructor in Counseling at the Psychological Studies Institute in Atlanta. For more on Pastor Cooper, visit http://www.mountparan.com.
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