Performance Driven Yet Spiritually Empty

The Type-A personality is one that is driven by passion and enthusiasm. It is a person that is often fraught with complexities and can be toxic to the health of an organization. A person may be performance driven yet spiritually empty. Today I want to discuss my own inadequacies and vulnerabilities as I share this entry.

I derive my energy from being with people. I enjoy hearing their stories and encouraging them to pursue even greater risk and achievements. Perhaps, I am too forceful at times and its biggest impact is generally leaving me spiritually empty.

I am he confessed performance driven person. I am inclined to push rather than be led and to drive myself and others. For good or for bad, I can easily find something to do. I don’t let a lot of grass grow under my feet. You might find me wildly enthusiastic and personally driven poured a set of goals that are often internal and stress filled.

I have learned that it’s not the choices we make that ultimately matter but it’s the patterns that develop that present the problem. Habits form overtime including the habits of busyness and performance that can create an unhealthy identity.

While I am driven I find that I am often spiritually empty. In my spiritual life I have found that God does it need my new ideas in that way, going in alone attitude isn’t what God requires. In my younger years I thought that being a good Christian meant being extremely active and busy with a list of items, like checking off the list. I felt that success was dependent on me and it came from a time when I grew up what is the belief that I had to always get things right.

I felt it the more I did the more spiritual I was. I believed that God was pleased with my busyness. My life motto, even today believes that Christine is wasteful. Blaise Pascal becomes my motto: “I have discovered that all human evil comes from this, man’s being unable to sit in a room.” (1623-1662)

As I get older I am probably finding even more distraction in my little world. If my identity is based on what I do or even the outcomes of what I produce, I consider my life is insufficient. This set of beliefs often compete against a life filled with peace and Sabbath. I also come to learn that I place expectations on others and forget that I need to be gracious and respectful. Not everyone has to work the same way I do!

As I am now in recovery from a particular addiction of haste and busyness, I now realize that it was often vanity and superficial spirituality. In my recovery I have discovered that it’s OK to rest and relax.

To look more into this subject read the following article: Performance-based-Christianity.

Perhaps the challenge today is to find what brings you satisfaction and more important what defines your identity. Is your identity in Christ and his grace core upon your personal endeavors as if you have to prove yourself. Throughout my life I felt as if I needed to prove something and perhaps it was my childhood experiences that my outlook or perhaps even a personality orientation but ultimately it was in vanity.

I have learned that I do not have to go in alone and that God does not necessarily keep score of my busyness. Perhaps, like Martha, Jesus needs to remind me that it’s not about doing but it is more about being. In my life I have learned to become less concerned about proving something and more concerned about being in Christ.

In my life I have learned to become less concerned about proving something and more concerned about being in Christ.

Ask yourself a couple questions In a way to self assess. in a way to self assess.

1. Do you feel the need to always take charge and control?

2. Do you track your success based on your accomplishments?

3. Do you need to take credit for success and failure?

4. Are you obsessively worried about what people think of you?

If yes to most of these questions that I encourage you to admit and begin to be on the road of recovery along with me. It’s a life time journey but one that you can find improvements on, especially as we understand that our identity is in Christ alone and not by works. I know for me, I am likely to boast (or take pride ) but thanks be to God for His great love and patience with me.

Gnostic Code Contrary To Real Life!

You may be curious about the title and you may even wonder what I mean by Gnostic code contrary to real life. Today’s blog entry comes from an idea that struck me as I was thinking through how most people live by a code that is not always easy to decipher. I wonder, how many times do we apply Gnostic thinking to the every day life.

Gnosticism was something that was very prevalent in the New Testament but it was not exclusive to that time period. The apostle Paul spoke about this many times when he said that there is a group of people that he often referred to as leading a false religious beliefs called Gnosticism. It was a group of people who felt as if they had a secret yet special knowledge on all things spiritual. They elevated themselves above others as if they lived by a code that most had no way to decipher. It was a way of life that was held to a particular group and a particular way of life. A secret knowledge was the basis of their religious beliefs.

The gospel of Jesus Christ (as in mainline or evangelical churches) is open and free to everyone. The meaning of the gospel is simple to understand and it is based on the work of the Lord Jesus Christ and not of ourselves. It is a way of life that is public and not private, open and not closed, known and not secret. It is understood universally not exclusively.

So, what do I mean by living our lives with a secret knowledge? I often believe that culture plays into this in many ways. There are secret traditions and ways of living that are only known by a few and for insiders more than outsiders. It is perhaps a cult rather than a sectarian religion.

Driving through Amish country I’m reminded that there are over 300 different types of Amish groups. They live life by a series of special codes and ways of life. For the average person it is hard to recognize them but let me tell you a few customs that distinguish themselves from others.

In the Amish life there may be rules that pertain to the type of horse and buggy you drive. Some have open tops while others have canopies. Some have no canopies at all. The way in which they dress may also distinguish them from one another. Some have buttons that are sewn on the outside while others have buttons that are hidden behind fabric. The way in which they wear their hat or the type of hat that they have can also distinguish them from one another. Some have high top while others have thick brims and others have no brim at all.

There are special codes in secrets hidden within the religion that somehow communicate a level of spiritual living. I’m not criticizing the Amish for their way of life, I’d rather admire them, it illustrates my point as it relates to evangelicals and others. We have a way of life that is hidden behind codes with nothing by which to decode it with.

It’s no wonder that evangelism is so difficult. As people trace their religious stream and attempt to defined their faith, they are often confused by the many denominations and churches that we have today. Too often people define their spirituality by their denomination in which most of us know that it is not what gives you access to heaven but it is a way that shows you how and who to believe in to get there. Many “followers” are prideful and maintain a way of life that is like living a secret life, like membership to a club that is only for certain people. 

What if we could explain our way of life in simple terms?

What if we could reveal in simple terms what it is to have faith and become a follower of Christ?

These gospel is pretty plain and easy to understand. We recognize that it is not based upon works or really anything that we do. It is not a mythical array of ideas. It is based on a set of core beliefs through Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our salvation.

Do we make being a Christian complex? Do we allow for God’s grace in the ministry of the Holy Spirit to develop a disciple? Or, have we fixated on the externals like our dress and hair style? Do we make being a Christian complex? Do we allow for God’s grace in the ministry of the Holy Spirit to develop a disciple? Or, have we fixated on the externals like our dress and hair style to determine play Grace is about?

The gospel is basic  and included simple ingredients. It certainly includes love but it is love that transforms our lives in reveals our potential in Christ. 

I remember attending a youth / family camp as a child in which I was restricted in what I could wear and even who I associated with. When I would go to camp meeting there was always somebody there to button my top shirt button and I was not permitted to wear a polo shirt. (Button down shirts and long sleeves were preferred.) They were concerned about my appearance perhaps more than my heart but I know that they love me just the same. The way in which they communicated it to me was out of great concerned for how I lived. 

Going to camp, in a way it was sort of like a Gnostic way of living. I didn’t understand the code but I complied. I didn’t know that there was a heart relationship that I needed to have with God that could bring me understanding of my lifestyle and choices in life. It’s funny but today I prefer to wear a button down shirts.

You may chuckle because in our current generation we are seen quite the opposite. The external dress and tattoos often camouflage the heart. It’s easy to make assumptions isn’t it? You’ve been there too, right!

My hope is that today you can reflect upon what is the secret code by which you live but never telling others about the hope of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that more is caught then taught but this is not true in every case. People will see your lifestyle and only judge it as different but not understanding the source upon which you define your life. Unless we tell them of a hope we have in Christ, they may never understand that they too can belong. They need to know that grace and hope are universally available through Christ.

The Scripture teaches that it’s important to tell not just show! I believe it’s never been more important for people to hear your testimony! People may think you are peculiar but unless you say that is because of Jesus, they will never understand why you are different.

This Is Simple For The Lord!

Consider the complexities you and I face everyday. From programming our TV remote to using your mobile phone (like an iPhone or Android). How about online ordering and finding the right information we need for the issue we are trying to solve. COVID-19 as one example. 

Our world is full of complexity! Is not anything simple? I once asked a person for direction. It seemed like I could have followed my simple turn-by-turn directions. Yet, the description was more complex than the problem I was trying to solve. After listening to a long answer from one person that made me wish I had written everything down because after 5 turns I was loosing track of the her description. Then another person who was listening quietly interrupted. She simply said, “I know a simple way!” In just two turns she described to me a much more simple way. She simply started with a point of reference I was familiar with, “Do you know where Walmart is?” 

How many times do we add complexity to simple things? I know I have been a contributor to complex answers. I love it when I instructions are written for dummies like me. I especially like pictures and illustrations. Diagrams help me to see step-by-step directions. It take more discipline to narrow the subject to simple answers. It takes more time to draft and re-draft answers to get to the point. 

God is so infinite and complex. He is bigger than anything our minds can understand yet, He makes Himself known in simple ways. To Adam and Eve, he walked among them in the garden. To Abraham, he came in the form of sojourners and often angels. To Moses He was in the burning bush and gave Himself a name, I AM. The examples continue throughout the Bible. 

The prophet Elisha knew God through relationship. God’s  message was given in simple instructions. In 2 Kings 3:18 Elisha simplified the battle plan by saying that is a simple thing for the Lord. It didn’t have to be overwhelming, detailed, and highly complex. It took faith and a trust in God, yet, it was easy for God! 

The prophets and church fathers knew Him in profoundly simple ways! Reads Hebrews 12 to see what God said about each of our spiritual patriarchs. The gospel is summed up in just a few expressions of love and grace. 

A good leader is able to take complex issues and simplify the answer. It doesn’t mean that it is easy for us but in our simple faith in God, we can find simple answers.

Today my blog is a reminder to remember that while God is complex, His solutions can be understood in simple terms. I remember that my parents often would tell me that to simply trust them. At times they would even say, “Because I say so!” Many times I would simply trust them. It was enough that they would just said because I say so. It is when we put our hand in the hand of God that we can learn to walk with Him through life. 

I am reminded that the first step to understanding is relational. I love the now famed statement by Babby Mason, “When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart!” God will care for the many details IF we begin by trusting Him!

What Is Christian Success?

We have all heard this question asked over-and-over. From the ranks of celebrities and politicians, success is defined as high achievement and too often wealth. Indeed, while success is driven by the hungry (those who desire and drive for success) it is not just defined by the highest levels of earthly definitions. 

What is Christian success? This is perhaps a contradiction of terms; an oxymoron. (Defined by the opposite of intellectual ideals.) On one hand it is about what we achieve, accomplish, the ability to earn, and the ratings of many. Yet, I am convinced that it is not just the rankings of those at the top. It is also the depths of deepest meaning as well.

I love what Tony Dungy says about success. He has achieved great fame and success in his career as a great football player, winning both college bowl and the Super Bowl as player and coach! No one would ever think of Dungy as not achieving. He now speaks all over the country and the World as he lends his voice to the NFL as well as leading such great causes as All-Pro Dads. 

He says, “Let me suggest that is comes down to what kind of role model we are, especially to children.” (Uncommon Life Devotional Challenge)

Dungy was referring to the life of Dave Thomas as he thought about Christian success and write the quote above. As many know that the Thomas foundation has done much to promote Adoption and even Dave has lived it out through Adoption. It’s important to recognize that a life lived well it’s not about just what you believe but it goes beyond that.

Dungy writes, “Dave Thomas realize that it’s not enough to say the right things. We’ve got to live them out.”

Success in the eyes of the world may be about things and privilege and prestige but in the Christian life, success is more than those things. It is about living both publicly and privately our faith. It’s about making choices and also about behavior, as Dungy further states. It’s about being a role model. Dungy suggest that, “it comes down to what kind of role model we are, especially to children.”

We can read in scripture that the Lord defined faith through the description of being adopted. We read in Ephesians that we have been adopted and by God’s grace, through Jesus Christ and we are children of God.

Ephesians 1:5: God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

How Can I Pray For You?

 Just look around and you will see, we are living in deprecate times! People are discouraged, depressed, and dealing with destructive addictions of all kinds. I know that you see it too! It seems that we are seeing like never before in our lifetime, people are struggling. Lives are shipwrecked, broken on the shores of an angry ocean.

I believe that there has never been a better time to share our faith in Christ in my lifetime. People are looking for answers to complex issues. The world is angry, fearful, and confused like never before. When we are faithfully sharing g the Word of hope or our testimony of God’s faithful precepts and provisions, the world leans in because many want hope and Truth. 

One of the best ways I have found very effective to share my witness is through prayer! When we ask how can I pray for you, we will discover that people are open and willing to permit us to pray. I can’t tell all the ways I have found this to be true but let me tell you a couple of times I have experienced.

I love to do street evangelism. I am always amazed at how God leads and how the divine doorway opens. Time-after-time, I enjoy meeting strangers and asking them how I can pray for them. Few turn me down. 

Brandon is one example. I called to him across the parking lot. He was minding his own business as he walked across the way. When I called out to him, I simply asked one question. “Hey friend, how can I pray for you?” I imagine you can guess his response! “What?!” As I drew near, he almost took a few steps back. He didn’t expect this line of questioning. He quickly saw that I was sincere and with a smile, he saw that I was meaning to be friendly. We had a great time talking about the grace if God through Jesus. Sure, he told me what he was dealing with. He was surprised that I took a few bucks out of my wallet to meet his immediate need. Without judgement, I prayed for God’s grace and blessings to be upon him. 

I have traveled to hundreds of cities around the country. I have done this with hundreds of others, nearly every city I went through. Store merchants, clerks at grocery stores, waitresses, business men and women minding their own business, simply committing to work and while standing in line at fast food restaurants. (I prefer to go inside to place my order rather than drive-thru.) 

Another time I recall asking the question, how can I pray for you? I was simply going to grab a quick meal at a fast food place. Just outside the front door, being passed by others was a woman who looked to be homeless. I invited her to join me for a meal. I think she said yes only because she was hungry. Likely she thought I was strange. I was not someone that she would naturally share a meal with. 

As we placed our orders, I encouraged her to order anything she wanted. I said that she should buy somethings that she could have for a meal later or tomorrow. 

As we finished ordering g and paying, I asked her how Could I pray for her. Not thinking but, as I prayed for her I was holding up the line. I didn’t move out of the way, letting others order their meal. Interestingly, I quickly finished my prayer to loom up and see that everyone in line were also in a posture of prayer. No one rushed me. No one said mean things. In fact, I believe that they joined me in prayer because of their own need for prayer. Hope was present. The Kingdom of God had come to all of us during that time of prayer.

Like 10 is the biblical illustration that I often look to. Jesus sent out his disciples with very few instructions but as I study this passage, I am reminded that the goal was to make God’s Kingdom a reality for the least and the lost! 

Luke 10:9 — Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’

What am I saying? I believe that prayer is a Kingdom dominion act of faith! Try it? Don’t ask “Can I pray for you?” But ask, “How can I pray for you?” Don’t worry about being reject. Not everyone will respond but for those that do, God’s Kingdom will come near to those that participate! It is an act of your faith that draws others into God’s presence.

Only Half Alive :: Love Goes Beyond

I was reading recently a few passages of scripture that convinced me more than ever before. I am commanded to love! 

One notable scripture is in Luke 10.

It is in this passage that we find the story of the Good Samaritan who was the hero who loved and served a person who was beaten and robbed by bandits. This story illustrated who our neighbor is and what mercy means. Jesus taught that love goes beyond. 

Like the disciples — we too are being reminded — that as as we do unto the least of these, we do for Him! 

The disciples or amazed by Jesus is teaching most notably as a relates to his authority for justice and judgment! He makes it clear that in days of judgment he will separate the sheep from the goats.

When we look past our own indifference and complacency, we will see the incredible need around us each and every day. There is another world that is very active all around where we live, shop, eat, and other places we go… It’s a world filled with hopelessness and despair. But God lifts us from that perspective to see those in need! God’s kingdom is like that. 

I’m reminded of what was written about in the story of the Good Samaritan. 

Edwin Bechner gave commentary to this when he said that when the good Samaritan came to the man who was half dead along the road, he responded to the man’s need BUT he also recognized his own need...to help someone else. He says that the Samaritan responded because he realized that he could do something. 

Edwin wrote: “Though the man was half dead, the good Samaritan realize that he, himself, was only half alive!”

** It is in helping others that we come to live again! **

Kindness and Conviction Are Nearly Synonymous.

Thumbing through a series of memorization verses that I have recently been challenged to know, I came across a verse from Ephesians 4. The verse has brought me to a new understanding of the incredible work God wants to do in me and in all of our lives. 

It is always interesting to me that I could read the same passages over and over yet to find new meaning and application for my life in current times. You’ve been there too. As you studied a passage and even may have taught on it yet, down the road you read the same passage and see something that you never realized before. Thankful for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and a personal growth that comes in our Christian lives. 

I am thankful that the Holy Spirit continues to work on me and in me to make me his disciple each and every day.

Ephesians 4:23 reads; “Be kind to one another. Tenderhearted. Forgive others just as God, through Jesus Christ, has forgiven you.“

I find two words that are rather synonymous as I memorize this passage of scripture. Kindness and conviction are both found here! Sure, do you see kindness? Of course you do! Can you see conviction here too? Not so apparent but wait for it. It is a conviction of a profound grace set loose in our lives as we realize and stand-fast on God’s command to forgive one another. Conviction holds us to this Truth; we are convinced like we have never been before! 

It’s no mistake that we find a proper etiquette for how we should treat one another while also being commanded to do what Jesus had done on our behalf. When I look over this passage of scripture I am more and more convinced of its truth and how necessary it is for our lives today! 

Kindness is synonymous with conviction. Well the two words have definitions and characteristics that are unique, yet they possess similar qualities that are synonymous with grace. It may be that these terms don’t sit in a list in your thesaurus yet each of them do possess the characteristic of forgiveness. 

Grace is of incredible worth. There are times in our lives when we must forgive but it can only happen through the power of God at work in our lives. Grace is not a word that comes from a strictly human context. Grace must come from outside of ourselves and likely resides where it has originated, with God through Jesus Christ.

I can tell you that even in my life I have needed to forgive though it did not happen in my own strength. Some acts of grievous condition are too horrible to be nonchalant and I response. We don’t shrug the bitterness we feel. 

The scripture that I am memorizing will take a lot longer to get into my heart and soul then just simply reciting the words. Be kind. Gracious. Forgiving one another. All of which can only happen through the power of God. Only as we are convicted to live out grace do we begin to understand the depth of such a passage! 

I can only better understand grace as I understand what it took for this to become a part of our index for life, the codex that holds all things together. It can only become a part of our glossary of terms as we understand the sacrifice of the One who exemplified its meaning! I can more appropriately respond to being kind toward one another, gracious toward one another, and forgiving one another as I know God’s gift toward me.

Grace makes kindness and conviction similar words! Conviction is what holds our compass (direction) in place. Conviction is what grounds our faith. We are convinced (conviction has this at the root) that this is Truth! 

So when we are kind (tender-hearted) we do so because we are convinced of the grace God freely gives! When we are kind, it is not just a polite gesture but it comes from a deep conviction, knowing of the grace God gave us! 

See how these words (kindness and conviction) are synonymous? They both related to grace that only God can give! 

The application of grace is yours for the taking! The rewards of knowing and applying Truth are what will sustain your life and soul. Try making a list of all the action steps that you can began because of grace. It is is this grace that you find yourself being more kind and convinced of the Truth of forgiveness! 

Three Words That Bring Success To Any Job!

Ask yourself a simple question, what would it take for me to be successful? Whether we talking about personal success or professional success, it boils down to three simple words that I think can forever change your outlook about everything.

If you had to pair down from a list of 100 attributes that you could incorporate into your life into three simple words, what would they be? Whether you’re trying to be successful as a student or as a parent or as a professional leader, the simple words will give you perspective and potentially put you ahead of the pack.

Each of these are attributes that employees as well as colleagues look for in their leadership in teams.Whether you’re trying to pull together a diverse set of values or give rise to your influence, these simple words or what I want to talk about today. They will improve your life.

These three words are: hunger, humility, and harmony.

1. Hunger is the first word. I’m not talking about an appetite for food or your favorite dessert. I’m simply talking about your drive and desire to be both effective and efficient. It’s about what motivates you in nearly every area of your life. It’s asking yourself the question, what wakes me up in the morning? If you can define that and build your skills to match, you’re unstoppable and that is what employers and members of your team are looking for.

2. Humility is the second word. It’s not the opposite of the first but it is a competing companion that if you collaborate effectively, you can come out on top. What do I mean? Nobody likes a bullish or boastful person. It usually is what makes people pull away from the relationship when somebody is to ego centric. It’s the arrogance that turns you off. 

While you may not see it in yourself you can certainly spotted in others. But a person who goes through life with a degree of humility will always come out on top. The Bible says that God humbles the proud but gives grace to the humble. When somebody is confident in what they do yet remains soft-spoken and not needing to take the credit, people are usually drawn to them. They are people who complement the competition. They’re not concerned about the glory. 

Humility goes along way in drawing people together. You’ll be an ideal candidate if you can truly show that you are genuinely humble.

3. Harmony is the third word in perhaps on purpose it is in this order. When the first two words complement one another where there is “umf” (the energy it takes to drive forward) as well as grace (a sincerely gracious attitude) you will generally find harmony. 

Perhaps I’ve learned this late in life but I don’t always need to be first; to speak or to act. I often find that we are willing to have members of the team who are peaceable and kind. They are not the “do nothing“ people but they are willing to listen first. 

Harmony is not uniformity but it is like an orchestra, each one doing what they do best yet sitting in to the collective of an orchestra where the outcome is being directed by a maestro.

Reflect on these three words and begin to make note of how you fit within each context. 

Are you motivated enough? Do you express a level of humility that complements others? Are you willing to be a member of the team and that the main player?

Choices, in and of themselves may not be the problem. However, it is the patterns that come from choices that determine our fate.

Success: It Is NOT About You!

Perhaps the title of this article is a little deceiving. You might read this and wonder if I know what I am talking about.  I do believe that success is based on personal motivation and individual drive while making the right decisions. Successful people are hard-working and lead effectively through values and goals. 

Yet, I believe we live in a world that is extremely self-centered. Therefore I must conclude that success is not based on you or me. Success is not about you! I believe it is based on recognizing the narcissism that exist all around us.

Let me take time to explain. Psychologist have examined the the American way of life contributes to this issue as a disorder. Many seem to believe that their needs are primary! It is based on individuality and personal choice. Many believe that this has created a generation of very self-oriented people that we might call narcissism. This is a term that is perhaps best described as the need for self though it does take into consideration self-preservation and protection of one’s own property or belonging. 

The term narcissism is basically defined as: “excessive interest in or admiration of oneself and one's physical appearance.” For today’s article I believe that we could expand that definition without redefining its original intent. I think we can see it through the values and actions of individuals.

As long success is only defined as wealth and the gathering of “stuff,” it can result in self-centered, selfish, and “me-first” entitlements. My pushback on this notion Is that we need to understand how successful can be generous. This means that as we achieve, we also understand how to bring others along. 

The impact of narcissism on relationships has a tragic end. Read more.

I believe that the number one topic that most people are interested in is the topic of themselves. How true it is that as you are interacting that people long to talk about themselves and how what they are doing makes a difference. Seldom do you hear anyone stop and ask, how are you today?

Most successful networkers are those that take an interest in others. They have a sincere concern for what other people’s needs are above their own. Just look at the rise of social media which is the exploitation of self. People post about self interest and the majority of selfies are for the sake of getting their portrait on display for others to see, like, or share.

Perhaps the point of this blog entry is just a reminder that we need to be more aware that our success is for the betterment of others. The next time you are contemplating and wondering about your level of self-centeredness, count how often you use the word high or promote your individuality, with its rights and privileges. You may be surprised to realize how important you think you are, in your own eyes.

Back To School Again — Hope For Future Generations!

Schools are opening up again but with a cloud of uncertainty. COVID-19 along with government and healthcare regulations  have presented challenges and restrictions on how we educate our young. Our future hope is in the educational needs of of our children.

Today, I am amazed by all the challenges that have faced us in 2020. I think it’s safe to say that we all stand amazed. These are definitely unusual days and there is so many times that I wonder what all of this means. Yet, I am convinced that God is in control and that He is never surprised!

My joy and certainty is in Christ and the only hope we can be certain of! While thumbing through my Bible, I recently came across Romans 12:1-2 again. I’ve read this passage a thousand times. It always seems to confirm to me that God is wanting to do a new thing in me and through me but there is one constant that never changes; we are to renew our mind! It is our perspective (the way we see life) that make all the difference. The renewal of our minds is the profound difference.

As kids return to school, I must reflect on the understanding that we too, need to be students of God’s Word. I think about the many restrictions that our kids are having to face and how often the obstacles that even we face can distract us from the opportunity to renew our minds for God’s glory. 

Allow me to take a few moments to share with you a few of my personal musings as I meander through this blog.

How many times have you heard the saying, “If only I had the time?” How often have you heard the many excuses? We live in a time when there is so many restrictions on our free time. We seem to have more free time than ever before yet, we seem to find distractions easily. It is so easy to become distracted that we miss the opportunities that are right before us.

I challenge each one of us to go back to school, spiritually. Just like hope is found in future generations, so too we discipline our pursues in Christ. Our future depends on it. As we renew our mind, consider the impact it can have on those we lead; the young, those in need, & future generations.

One thing that I know is that elders (those older) demonstrate the commitment to duty and responsibility. Perhaps it’s because of the many struggles that our elders have seen or perhaps in their generation they have learned to not take anything for granted. Their experiences can teach us! 

As our children return to school but it’s also return to a spiritual school and a commitment to the word of God as Truth. God’s wisdom helps answer complex problems. God’s Word is the teacher and by His Spirit do we learn. 

Romans 12:1-2 reads, 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. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

What new lessons are you anticipating? What is one thing that you can learn from? What is one discipline you still need to master? Make your list of the lessons you need to study or take action steps to improve upon. 

Learn from experiences and teach them to yourself and pass them into your children and those younger than yourself. It is in your failing that someone can learn but much more in your successes that lessons are witnessed. Your disciplines become models for others to follow.

Don’t let anything keep you from growing and developing into all that God has for you! Future generations are watching and counting on you to grow in the grace and spiritual light that God provides! 

Ideas Matter, Outcomes Measure.

Today is not that unusual from any other day. Even before I crawl out of bed, I often have several ideas that seem terrific and caliber enough to sit-up and take note. Alongside my bed, on my nightstand, I quickly grab my pen and jot down notes of my ideas. If I don’t write them down they can quickly fade. Poof, they are forever lost! 

Ideas flow easy for me, and especially when I am attempting to solve a particular problem that has plagued my mind and troubled my way. Ideas matter, I tell myself often in an attempt to console my awakened thoughts because seldom do my ideas become extraordinary. I am keen on the path to make a difference in my own creative way. I believe that my ideas make a difference but in reality, only a few really stick.

Ideas, like phantoms and even like a fog in the early morning, which is surrounded by darkness; they appear but only for a few fleeting moments. People have gained a great reputation and have secured their future by patents that came from ideas. Many have crafted entire industries that have revolutionized our current conveniences but those are truly rare commodities. Ideas do matter but there is one thing that is even more vital.

Actions speak louder than words, is a phrase people often use which motivates us. It is when we take our ideas and put action to practical steps that separate them from the ordinary. Outcomes truly measure. It is in the steps that follow your ideas that make a difference. It changes the ordinary into an extraordinary substance of the abstract to the concrete. ideas are but only the first step.

Random thoughts are only part of the equation that unravels the befuddled mind; organizing and categorizing useful information. As ideas are put in order and actions that follow can progress really be made. While actions can be measured, it is ideas that have to finish its work to began the process.

So, the next time you have a brilliant idea, stop and further envision the steps it will take to achieve a measurable outcome. No big idea stands on its own! 

The next time your inspired thoughts create and espouse ideas, realize that your first action step is most vital. 

The next time you promote your idea you will also need to enlist a set of actions that breath life into your dreams.

Ask yourself, what can I do with this idea that can enhance the overall plan? 

Ask yourself, how can this idea be attached to a practice next step that is measurable?

The Lord will always inspire ideas that matter yet will He equip us with actions that measure outcomes. Could it be that God created us for action that should bring him glory?

Scripture provides inspired direction: 

• God’s idea was followed by action.

Genesis 1:27-28

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”

• We, like a fog are here but for a moment but what will last is what God does through us.

James 4:14-15

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.”

• Actions measure success. 

Psalms 37:2-3

For like grass, they soon fade away.

Like spring flowers, they soon wither.

Trust in the LORD and do good.

Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.

God’s Love Letter

Ephesians 2:8 reads; For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God. (ESV)

I officiated a wedding one day as the pastor. The couple that I met made it very clear to me that they wanted me to share the gospel in simple and plain language during their wedding. The bride-to-be told me that many of her family members will be coming from overseas and that their religion was  not Christianity. With tears in her eyes and passionately explain to me how important it would be for the 150 guests of hers from India to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I told them that I would love to be able to do that and begin to prepare for that special day. I was more than happy to participate in such a wonderful opportunity. Instead of my preaching the normal message to the bride and groom, I prepared my thoughts for a simple love letter from God.

On the 9th hole of a very prestigious golf course we set up for the wedding. As the bride came down the aisle I could see that her smile conveyed a heart filled with love and hope for members of her family. All of the normal Christian tradition was emphasized and then I was given the opportunity to share the special love letter from God, my message to the bride’s family. I stepped aside from a couple begin to address my comments to the congregation assembled that day.

I could see that they were very receptive to the whole field message that I shared with them and I simply told them that God has written us a love letter that if red we transform their understanding of faith, hope, and love.

Following the wedding the bride’s aunt and uncle approached me asking more questions about my message. We exchanged words back-and-forth for over an hour during the reception as we compared Christianity to their Hindu religion. Ultimately I stated that bottom line, the difference between their religion and mine was that through Jesus, we are given a gift of eternal life and that through a simple prayer we can have eternal life in heaven. The brides uncle turned and said I want some of that before we bought our heads and they recited a simple prayer of confession.

As the celebration continued for the bride and her husband there was another celebration that was underway in heaven because of the several that prayed to receive Jesus that day.

Our hope is because of the wonderful love letter that God wrote to us, through his word. It is a message of sacrifice that gives us hope for eternal life. Religion it’s not just a set of beliefs but I trust that we can have With God through Jesus Christ. It is because of his shed blood on Calvary but we have received the greatest gift and that we should pass this gift on the others.

Take just a moment to reflect on the letter, God’s word that he has written to you. Celebrate his gracious gift of eternal life because you are really a recipient of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Rebuild Or Restart?

Times are different, aren’t they? It seems as though that just a few months ago we were living in a very different age. But here we are, months after COVID-19 has caused many of us to change our routines and comply to new standards.

This begs the question whether we should rebuild or restart?

Many who are leading churches and other organizations are having to restart only to have setbacks with new procedures in an attempt to make church safe. This is not the only industry that is impacted as many nonprofits and charitable causes including foster care has shifted dramatically.

Social distancingIs a new phrase in our vocabulary. Wearing mask is a new practice that we must comply with. The news cycles are not just spreading information about a virus but they are spreading fear and uncertainty.

I often read articles and newsfeeds that talk about organizations having to “restart” their current activities; many having to get very creative in their efforts.

Many could be paralyzed during this time because they’re not sure what the next step is. I believe that if you don’t know the next step look ahead for hope is in the horizon. It’s in the long range that we find a fresh vision. 

It’s time to start thinking long range on many of our efforts. Perhaps we need to be thinking about more than just simply resetting but perhaps we need to rebuild. This is a much different conversation because it’s not just about re-gathering or picking up where we left off.

The conversation is now about finding a long range answer. We must ask what does 2021 look like? Whatever the cause  and no matter the activity that we once enjoyed, we have to consider what starting over looks like. 

When we think about rebuilding we must begin with vision and create a structure that meets the objective in more meaningful ways. We have to consider the impact we could have on long range objectives.

Here are four questions we can start by asking:

1. What is your mission? Everything has a beginning including the reason why you exist to begin rebuilding by understanding your mission.
2. What are your values? State clearly the values that motivate you and help you accomplish your reason to exist statement.
3. What can you do right now that is unhindered by the current circumstances? It’s important to maintain in the midst of obstacles and difficulties so do what you can do now while also thinking ahead.
4. What is your vision and strategy when you think about rebuilding your objectives given the current hindering circumstances? It’s time to think fresh and do as you look at your long range goals and be creative.

Live outside the realm of fear and objections and think clearly, with a fresh vision for how you accomplish your reason you exist mission statement. Rebuild instead of restart. 

Rebuilding gives you a fresh outlook for your future endeavors. When you restart you go back to previous parameters that made sense for a very different time.

Rebuilding allows you the space to push aside obstacles in order to think clearly. When you restart your limit your potential because of pre-existing conditions.

Rebuilding means reconstructing your future hope for why you exist. when you restart you pick up from where you last left off with no consideration for the future.

Should you rebuild or restart? I recommend rebuilding!

Counterfeit Faith.

Romans 12:9 Reads; “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. (ESV)”

My two sons are now grown and even serving in the profession of law-enforcement. When they were in school they combined two projects from school assignments in which their collaborative creativity produced a counterfeit, duplicated dollar bill. They not only created it by using techniques from art class they had aged it, by getting it wet and drying it, and passed it on to me for inspection.

To my surprise, believing that it was real, recognize there humorous trick when they giggled as they told me that it was counterfeit currency. I was shocked! 

I took it from them and told them that this was wrong and even took the dollar bill to a friend of mine who retired from the Secret Service. Even more amazing was that he identified it quickly as a counterfeit without even looking at it but from how it felt in his hand.

Eventually my sons learned a valuable lesson as the retired Secret Service friend took the boys aside one Sunday morning after church and basically scared them enough to which they never tried that again.

My friend, the retired Secret Service agent said that he learned to identify counterfeit money by studying the characteristics of real currency. He told me that in all of his training they are taught to study what is real, not what is counterfeit.

In our lives we too must study what is true to avoid the counterfeit in our spiritual lives. A valuable lesson my boys learned we too can learn as we study the truth of God’s Word in order to have an authentic and genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

First John 1:5 reminds us that God is pure light, in him there is no darkness. For you and for me, it’s important to recognize that in Christ, we too are a reflection of the hope we have through God‘s love for us. As we live out a genuine faith through Jesus Christ, be reminded that in Christ there is no amount of artificial light that will ever replace the glory of the true light that is in Christ Jesus and through His Word, we can reflect His light.

For more on this subject, see my message that I shared on YouTube - Rev. Rick E. Carder.

In order to know the truth of God’s Word begin by memorizing scripture this week and in weeks to come. 

Giving Yourself Permission To....

I recently was in a seminar as a friend of mine shared about the importance of grieving loss. It was with a group of pastors when Mike shared that it’s okay to give yourself permission to grieve.

It struck me, in my travels, I come across many pastors in which I hear of their hardships and difficulties. Pastoring today is a very lonely occupation. I hear Pastors tell me that they don’t know who they can share their toughest heart-aches with. They wonder who they can trust to be vulnerable with.

When my friend shared that you need to give yourself permission to grieve it hit me. That it is a message I need to deliver to Pastors. I am in contact with them on a daily basis. Often pastors talk about the grief of others and they may even encourage people in their grief but perhaps they are hardest on themselves. Too often they do not give themselves permission to grieve disappointments or loss in their lives.

We read all throughout Scripture of the importance of going to the Lord in prayer as well as how important it is to have someone close with whom to share your honest and transparent hardships and heartaches. Psalms 34:18 reads; “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

Perhaps it’s the profession of the Clergy (which is a vocational Calling) and maybe even the fact that it is predominantly a male dominated profession (though I don’t believe this is limited to only men) but all of us must come to a place when we need to ask for help in a safe space; sharing about those most intimate concerns that weigh heavy upon clergy.

What is it today that weighs heaviest on you? Who do you have that you can trust to share your most difficult and heartbreaking concerns? Have you given yourself permission to grieve?

The following are a few verses you may want to consider as you think about this particular topic while at the same time giving yourself permission to grieve.

Ready For (The Right) Action.

Ready? Set? WAIT! Sound like something you have heard before? Does this sound typical? Most of our lives are lived in a “hurry up, wait” mode. We rush to get ahead only to be stopped or slowed by unexpected detours and road blocks.

I traveled over 50,000 miles last year on behalf of my ministry. I have sighed and zagged across Indiana to meet expectations and goals, appointments and gatherings. I know all-to-well the unexpected detours. I have driven around road blocks and encountered detours that have set my travel plans and schedule back. I usually know to buffer my travel itinerary in such cases that I may find my way closed ahead. 

Isn’t it frustrating? We often feel that any road construction a waste of time. You have been there too?

The Word of God brings clarity in your Calling and role. In Christ there is light that brings vision but darkness breeds confusion and fear! 

I am reminded of the many times I have prayed only to have delays or a change of plans sign redirecting MY route. I can write a book on all the times that I sought God in pray only to TELL HIM what I want. I have learned that I need to really seek His Will for my life, which begins by listening and learning. 

It is often so true that my ways are not His Ways. I am reminded that until I align my plans with God’s plans that I come up short. 

Waiting is a key strategy in knowing what God has in-store for our lives. Psalms 130:5-6 reminds us; “I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning.” (ESV)

To often, we waste the detours and delays in our lives. Too often we rush past what we need to know before we move forward. Too often, we drop out of life (parking along the road) because of the uncertainty of obstacles.

Taking the right action requires taking time to see the detours, road-blocks, and dead-ends as opportunities. Recently I was able to see the NEOWISE COMET (pictured on July 13, 2020). This is a reminder for me. In the midst of darkness, the clarity of seeing the Comet reminds me to look for clarity that can inspire you. For me, this is Jesus and my faith in Christ. Like a shining light, though rarely seen, provides a focus point! 

You can take time right now to make a list of the times you feel like obstacles are setting you back. As you make the list, list what your options and choices are. From this second list, how will you next choice bring clarity to your purpose for living.

Reaping a Harvest

Matthew 28:19 reads, Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

The story is told of a farmer who went out to plant his fields. He was approached by a young boy. Inquisitive, the boy asked the farmer about the seed that fell to the ground. He asked, “What will this become?“ The farmer smiled gently and said softly to the boy, “Within this one seed is a harvest that is plentiful for many. As this seed grows and as we tend to the weeds that will also grow we can feed not just one person but many.”

Similarly, our lives, reap a harvest that will not only produce another seed but a rich harvest as we tend to the weeds and  cultivation of the soil in our spiritual lives. We have heard it said that you reap what you sow. That is not only true in our own lives but in the lives of others.

The scripture compels us to go and tell others. It is in those efforts that we are planting seeds that will grow a harvest for God’s glory. It is in our investment and care for others that people come to faith through Jesus Christ.

Who is one person that you can prayerfully invest in, telling them about your faith in Christ? Take just a moment now to pray and then plan to cultivate, toil, plant, and reap a harvest for God’s Glory.