During the 10 years I spent in full-time church music, there were always certain kinds of jokes floating around among staff people, and it always seemed like the gathering just before a staff meeting was when some of those jokes would be shared. Maybe you know what I’m talking about here. It’s not that these kinds of jokes are inappropriate, it’s just that they seem funnier to people who do ministry work every day, since there are some realities that simply come with working with people in that environment. Telling jokes like this is usually a harmless way to let off steam.
But some of those jokes have a little more truth in them than we normally expect, and sometimes there’s a little pain to go with the laughter. One of those jokes goes like this: “You know the difference between a new youth pastor and a former one? About two years.” I can still remember hearing people laughing at that, knowing that almost any ministry job title could be substituted into that joke. But I can also remember some of the awkward silence after the laughter died down, as some of those same people were now quietly counting the months or years, remembering how long they had been in their current role. And they didn’t have to say it out loud, but I knew some were considering moving on and doing something else.
Ministry transition and turnover are pretty common occurrences, but for this discussion we can simplify things into three categories: relocation (with or without a promotion), switching to a different career focus (ex. youth vs. music) and leaving the job of ministry altogether. While each of these scenarios involves a certain amount of change, I think it’s pretty common to see many younger leaders simply changing locations and continuing to do the same thing, but in a different city or neighborhood. I’m sure the latest studies can give more insight into recent trends, but the church scene of the last 20 or so years probably has seen lots of movement overall.
Still, I get a little concerned when I hear about a former student of mine or other younger ministry leader who continues to bounce around from place to place, not staying long enough to put down roots. Oh, I’ve heard some of the justifications, some said out loud, some only implied: But they don’t understand me here, so I’m leaving. But I’m being held back here. But they don’t want to change fast enough, etc. I understand completely, since over the years I’ve struggled with some of those same thoughts myself. Believe it or not, ministry people were saying the same things long before you or I ever came onto the scene. Sometimes those statements represent valid concerns that need immediate action on our part. But sometimes it helps to step back, take a deep breath and make sure we know what God has in mind for a given season.
When given the chance to offer input into a potential departure, I often ask three simple questions: 1. Did God call you there? 2. Has God released you to leave? 3. Are you submitted to the leaders there? Most people understand my asking the first and second question, but often don’t get why I ask the third question. What does submission have to do with anything? Well, as it turns out, it has a great deal to do with things.
As a ministry leader, being properly submitted to your leaders offers at least two things to you, and those have to do with covering and blessing. But many young leaders don’t understand this in the beginning, and they think that other factors are more important, like their skill, talent, ability, etc. But unfortunately those misconceptions often lead to some unintended problems. One of those unintended problems is this: too many young, talented people don’t view others outside their world of creativity with the same respect they give people who are at the top of their own field. In other words, it’s much easier to stand in awe of the current worship leaders at places like Hillsong or Bethel than it is to respect the leaders where you currently serve. Did I just hit a nerve there? If so, then I hope my words will help you.
Be aware that the seasoned leaders around you are very likely picking up on any subtle attitudes you might be giving off, including a possible lack of real respect on your part. And they know that if you don’t respect them as you should, then you’re probably not completely submitted to their roles in your life and ministry. Are there some leaders out there who are less than perfect? Absolutely, but you and I aren’t perfect either! The point is that we have to find a way to submit to those leaders God has allowed to lead us, because a lot is riding on it.
I’m not suggesting that you put your standards or convictions aside. Sometimes there are valid reasons to appeal the leadership decisions coming from above. But I’m mainly speaking about your overall attitude toward the people who lead you. I've always appreciated a sage bit of advice that came from a seasoned leader, years ago during my time in church music: If you can't respect the person in the position, you can at least purpose to respect the position. Be encouraged that God sees our efforts to do the right thing in these sometimes delicate situations. And if you've already made mistakes in this area, don't beat yourself up! But do purpose to be proactive and ask God to forgive you. Then, as necessary, have any personal conversations that could help clear the air.
But back to why submission to those above us is so important. First, let’s chat about covering. God intends for you to be submitted to the leaders in your world because that’s part of the covering you will always need here on Planet Earth. This is not a solo act. A friend of mine was a worship leader in a small church in a small town back in the day. When God promoted him and his worship music, he became a very famous person almost overnight. Soon he was traveling and enjoying an amazing ministry and career. But it wasn’t long before his personal life fell apart. He later confided in me that he had unintentionally launched out into success without staying submitted and under the covering of his local church. He eventually saw God’s restoration in his life and ministry, but that life lesson was painful and hard-won. Covering is an important part of our lives, and no matter how successful we become, we should never allow ourselves to “graduate” and walk away from it.
Second, let’s talk about blessing. Some people see the concept of blessing as some fantastic future season when we’ve made lots of money, everyone loves us, and there are no more problems in life. That may happen at some point, but in the meantime we all still have to work, live and get along with each other in this imperfect world. And yet, in the midst of all that, God can and does bless us. But what I’ve seen over and over again for ministry leaders is this: certain blessings will filter down through the chain of command, delivered into our hands through those we are submitted under. A financial bonus could come from my supervisor. A prayer of mine could be answered through the leaders to whom I answer. Getting the point here? If this is the way things could play out, then staying submitted to those God has put over me has very practical benefits for me, my family and those who are following my leadership.
I hope these thoughts are helping someone right now. But before I wrap up this time of sharing, I’d like to address one more important and related item regarding transitions: timing. Some ministry folks don’t realize how important timing is to God, and too often decide to make a substantial life change or career change without consulting God about if or when that change should happen. You may be thinking, How could someone who is so gifted, sensitive and effective in leading others in worship be susceptible to being misled in his or her own life? I personally believe that the enemy of our faith likes to use the disappointments and frustrations of our current season to get us anxious, and then continues to use that anxiety against us to get us to launch out prematurely and leave. Let me say it a different way. If the enemy is unable to get you into gross sin or to get you completely off track, then he will often settle for offering something good to you ahead of God’s timing. Not possible, you say?
Timing was critical for Jesus in his earthly ministry, and that serves to help us here. In John, Chapter 2, the problem wasn’t that Jesus couldn’t turn water into wine, it was that he didn’t want to open that door of his ministry until the time was right. Another issue of timing had to do with Jesus being tempted in the wilderness (Matthew Ch. 4). One of the things Satan tried to tempt Jesus with was offering him “the kingdoms of this world and all their splendor” (verses 8-9). I personally find it amazing that Satan would offer something like this to Jesus, as if he didn’t fully realize who he was trying to tempt. But Jesus knew who he himself was and what was ahead for his future. Ultimately he chose to trust his Heavenly Father and waited on God’s best within God’s timing and seasons.
And that’s much of our challenge today. We must come to a place where we completely trust that God knows what he’s doing on our behalf, so that we don’t try and “fix” things for him, possibly making a mess of our own journey, as the children of Israel did. God wanted them to eventually enjoy the Promised Land. But their lack of trust in God along the way caused them to rebel, and their wilderness experience lasted longer than it should have. (Joshua 5:6)
Today, sometimes God requires us to step into wilderness seasons, for the purpose of finding out who he really is while at the same time finding out who we really are in him. But a premature departure could possibly put us into a wilderness season God may have never planned for us, simply because we were not led by the peace that comes with trusting God. I understand how easy it can be to allow the emotions of the moment to start moving things toward some other place that appears to offer less difficulty, heartache or frustration. But we need to remember that the enemy will make use of whatever temptation we play along with, which means that God’s timing is a crucial part of his protection for us.
As I tell the college students in my classes, having a baby or working a full-time job that pays well can be wonderful blessings of God, but having them happen in the right season helps makes those blessings everything they could be. Said another way, premature blessings may actually bring their own issues into our lives that were not necessary, and I believe that that’s part of the enemy’s subtle strategy. Speaking of students, I also have to remind some of them that they don’t have to cram twenty years of their future lives and experiences into their current four years of college! My goal is to help them see the bigger picture, so that they don't get anxious and sabotage their own success during their current window of opportunity.
Likewise, just because certain desires of your heart are not playing out in the here and now, that’s not always enough reason to leave without God’s timing and leading. Some of the good things that lie ahead for us are simply not for this time and place, and we need to trust God while his current and future seasons for us unfold. Speaking of time and place, here's a small encouragement for those who feel invisible right now: Just as Moses was kept hidden until the time was right, God may very well be keeping you in a similar place, so that the right things happen at the right time for you. In other words, your future blessings may have little to do with the people you are with right now, so it's possible that God is actually protecting you from premature success.
As I wrap this up, I hope that these thoughts I’ve shared will be helpful to you or someone you share this with. Sure, some seasons are more difficult than others, but we can’t always know on this side of the journey which experiences and life lessons are optional, so it pays to not second-guess God along the way. I’ve learned from experience that you can change zip codes all you want, but you’ll never escape or outrun God’s seasons for your life! It’s better to work in cooperation with God and his timing for us, rather than forcing him to clean up possible messes due to our impatience or lack of trust.
Here’s to a great season, getting everything from it God wants you to get, while trusting him in the meantime.
Philippians 4:6-7
Persevere!
Don't let a healthy dose of discernment turn into an avalanche of
skepticism! God has good plans for us, but we must stand strong against
distraction, discouragement and disillusionment. God will do what he has
promised, but we must fight the urge to give up!
Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
–Philippians 1:6
@drtimwaters
Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
–Philippians 1:6
@drtimwaters
Staying in Sync
I was starting a class the other morning, about to ask my students for any prayer requests. But I first put the morning's scripture up on the board. Today the verse was 1 Corinthians 10:13, and we chatted briefly about applying it to our daily lives. At about that moment I was reminded of something a friend posted on social media a few years back. I first explained to the students that neither I nor my friend look seriously to the messages found inside fortune cookies for direction in life. But I told them that I was glad he posted this particular message that day, because its words have stuck with me ever since: "Do not mistake temptation for opportunity."
Let that quote sink in fully. I would imagine that this is some sort of ancient proverb, possibly from the Chinese culture. But it wouldn't surprise me if it's some paraphrase of one of the Bible's proverbs. The depth of those few words astounds me! How many times in life have we looked at a situation or opportunity and assumed it was God's best, arriving on a silver platter, when in fact it wasn't what it seemed? Whether it was simply a good thing coming prematurely or whether it was actually something that could bring us eventual harm, the point is that God expects us to discern rightly in these matters.
Do we have to be experts in every area? No! But God does want us to come to him with items that need his wisdom (and don't all the meaningful ones need that?). Let's face it, some things in life are too important to risk skipping God's input about them. The enemy knows this, and will often try more subtle means of getting us off track. The right mate, car, promotion or other life-altering situation may not be a complete blessing if it arrives too soon, and the wrong situation will never be right, especially if we act on it apart from God's will for us.
As we move forward in life, asking God to order our steps and open the right doors at the right time, we need to give him the chance to do exactly that. But sometimes this involves patience on our part, while we watch certain things unfold over time. So often we're trying to create immediate results when God is more concerned about the part of the bigger picture we can't yet see. The good news here is that he isn't trying to frustrate us. Rather, he is trying to bless us in a way that protects us from mistakes (and sometimes from ourselves) as we navigate forward in this journey called life.
Direct my steps by your word.
–Psalm 119-133 (NKJV)
@drtimwaters
Strings Attached
You've heard it before. "God is love." While this is a true statement, it doesn't tell the whole story. Usually this gets brought up in awkward discussions about life, culture and the choices we make. By declaring that God is love during these conversations, some of us intend to shut out the thoughts and comments we don't agree with. It's fine to disagree, but let's make sure we're representing God the right way.
During the 1960s, America experienced a new meaning being given to the term "free love" as our cultural traditions were being challenged left and right. Though God's love has always been free and available to us, some people in the 60s sought to teach us that free love meant simply enjoying the moment, with no further commitments or consequences. It soon became common to see and hear about physical relationships with no strings attached. Given that this is part of our cultural heritage, it's not that big of a stretch for some to also see God's love as having no strings attached.
But though some people may get some comfort from a thought like that, it's not reality. And the problem with treating our relationship with God as having no strings
attached is that we keep him at arm's length, never allowing the
relationship to go deeper than the surface.
God's love actually does have strings attached, but the good news is that they're the right kinds of strings. These attachments include grace-driven accountability, healthy boundaries and proper expectations.
I encourage you today to allow God's strings to attach to you fully, in every area of your life. These strings aren't the nooses or tourniquets our culture would have us believe. Instead, these strings are lifelines that keep us rightly related to our Heavenly Father. Remember, though God loves us just the way we are, he also loves us too much to leave us that way.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
–Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
@drtimwaters
Let Gratitude Be The Attitude
Here’s a quick thought for you today: Our attitude is the gatekeeper of life, impacting how we choose to see it. If the gate stays closed, then you and I will, too. But if we trust God and allow him to grow us and add new things to us, then we can become all he intended us to be. Today I encourage you to choose to be thankful, grateful and open to God’s best, even if that means letting him change your plans along the way.
Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace. So let the peace that comes from Christ control your thoughts. And be grateful.
–Colossians 3:15 (CEV)
@takinghigher
Order in the Court!
When I was younger, I couldn’t wait to be out and living on my own, in total freedom! Then eventually one day it happened, and I was living in my own place, away from family, starting school in a different state. The sudden freedom was overwhelming, but in a good way. I did pretty much whatever I wanted to do, whenever I wanted to do it. I sang at the table if I felt like it. I stayed up all night if I wanted. I even ran with scissors! But eventually I realized that too much freedom has its own issues, and that the freedom we really crave is the kind that comes from having God’s order in our lives. Notice I didn’t say anything about being smothered, quenched or denied. I’m simply saying that you and I tend to have more success when we decide to have the right kind of order in our lives.
Some boundaries in life are good, and are actually helpful. By eliminating certain unnecessary items, I'm free to focus on the ones I'm called to look after and be involved in. There’s a distinct difference between “I can” and “I should” in this life, and wisdom dictates that I learn that difference sooner than later. Just because I can eat ice cream every day, that doesn’t mean I should. And just because I can pursue my own, selfish motives in life, again, it doesn’t mean I should. God’s boundaries for us were never about dulling down life. They’ve always been about freeing us to focus on our relationships with him and with others. I encourage you today to allow God’s fences to become your fences, because there’s no greater freedom in life than the kind that comes from allowing God to set your house in order.
The Lord and the Spirit are one and the same, and the Lord’s Spirit sets us free.
–2 Corinthians 3:17 (CEV)
@takinghigher
Do My Words Really Matter?
I’ve been around long enough now to have spent time with a variety of Christians, from various backgrounds and perspectives. Some circles and groups have things in common, while some find things to disagree about. In these times of disagreement I find myself going back to God’s Word in order to find as definitive an answer as I can, so that I can settle any possible question. One of these questions has been the importance of the words you and I say (or don’t say) as Christians. Some people say that our words are extremely vital, while others shrug off this concept and say it’s not that big of a deal. But as I’ve spent time with this, I’ve come up with at least two times in my journey where my own words completely changed my life! Let me explain.
The greatest day of my life was the day that I personally asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. Maybe some lift a hand in a service, and maybe some quietly nod when their turn comes. But I spoke out loud and invited him in. In the blink of an eye my future was instantly changed, and for the better! Another great day was the day of my wedding. When the pastor asked if I was ready to take Christy as my wife, I said, “I do.” To my knowledge, there’s no such thing as a matrimonial shrug. If I had responded to the big question by looking down, shoving my hands into my pockets and giving my shoulders a quick shrug, I doubt there would have been a honeymoon! But I said the right thing that day. And I’ve come to realize that my words have allowed me to change my future. My former trajectory of miserable bachelorhood, headed toward an eternity without God, has been set straight!
I think you can see my points here. Maybe to you words haven’t meant much, and I was that way earlier on. But put into these contexts, I hope you can see how quickly things can change, all by the mere speaking out of what’s in our hearts. It may take some practice, but it’s worth it when we decide to say what we mean, and mean what we say. My encouragement to you for the day: Whenever possible, let it be God’s words, available to us in the Bible, to be the next thing you say.
Your words show what is in your heart.
–Luke 6:45 (CEV)
@takinghigher
The greatest day of my life was the day that I personally asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. Maybe some lift a hand in a service, and maybe some quietly nod when their turn comes. But I spoke out loud and invited him in. In the blink of an eye my future was instantly changed, and for the better! Another great day was the day of my wedding. When the pastor asked if I was ready to take Christy as my wife, I said, “I do.” To my knowledge, there’s no such thing as a matrimonial shrug. If I had responded to the big question by looking down, shoving my hands into my pockets and giving my shoulders a quick shrug, I doubt there would have been a honeymoon! But I said the right thing that day. And I’ve come to realize that my words have allowed me to change my future. My former trajectory of miserable bachelorhood, headed toward an eternity without God, has been set straight!
I think you can see my points here. Maybe to you words haven’t meant much, and I was that way earlier on. But put into these contexts, I hope you can see how quickly things can change, all by the mere speaking out of what’s in our hearts. It may take some practice, but it’s worth it when we decide to say what we mean, and mean what we say. My encouragement to you for the day: Whenever possible, let it be God’s words, available to us in the Bible, to be the next thing you say.
Your words show what is in your heart.
–Luke 6:45 (CEV)
@takinghigher
Now Is Not The Time To Quit
A new and free, brief podcast to encourage you: Now Is Not The Time To Quit
iTunes link:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/
Web link:
http://drtw.net/podcasts/tih/
iTunes link:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/
Web link:
http://drtw.net/podcasts/tih/
A Blessing or a Curse?
My friend Jermaine shared a picture on the web recently. He had just finished a great meal of Chinese food and posted a shot of the message he found in his fortune cookie. Now I'm not suggesting that Chrisitans get life wisdom or direction from fortune cookies, but the cookie’s message he shared is worth repeating: “Do not mistake temptation for opportunity.” Wow, so this means that every door that opens to me isn’t God’s best? This means that every option isn’t intended to be a blessing? This means that I could miss God’s best by taking something that he didn’t send? How can I tell the difference between a potential blessing or a potential curse?
I love to share this with young leaders when I get the opportunity: Knowledge has to do with what I know I can do. But wisdom has to do with knowing what I should do. Can vs. should. That’s a huge part of our lives and the directions we choose to take. And while we have scriptural principles to guide our lives, sometimes we’re presented with options that aren’t so clearcut. In some cases I could have a good option or I could have an even better option. Sure, it’s always easier to look back and know later what the right decision would have been. That’s part of learning and growing in life. But what if I could know some things ahead of time, so that my percentage of right choices could be even higher? The good news is that God hasn’t abandoned us in this life. He’s walking it with us, and always at the ready to share his wisdom and direction. I encourage you today to spend time with him in the process of life’s decisions. He always knows more than we do, and he always wants the best option for us.
I am now giving you the choice between life and death, between God's blessing and God's curse, and I call heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Choose life.
–Deuteronomy 30:19 (GNT)
@takinghigher
I love to share this with young leaders when I get the opportunity: Knowledge has to do with what I know I can do. But wisdom has to do with knowing what I should do. Can vs. should. That’s a huge part of our lives and the directions we choose to take. And while we have scriptural principles to guide our lives, sometimes we’re presented with options that aren’t so clearcut. In some cases I could have a good option or I could have an even better option. Sure, it’s always easier to look back and know later what the right decision would have been. That’s part of learning and growing in life. But what if I could know some things ahead of time, so that my percentage of right choices could be even higher? The good news is that God hasn’t abandoned us in this life. He’s walking it with us, and always at the ready to share his wisdom and direction. I encourage you today to spend time with him in the process of life’s decisions. He always knows more than we do, and he always wants the best option for us.
I am now giving you the choice between life and death, between God's blessing and God's curse, and I call heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Choose life.
–Deuteronomy 30:19 (GNT)
@takinghigher
Extravagant Whispers
As you start your day today, there’s a very kind and loving note awaiting you. But this isn’t just any note. No, this one has been left for you especially, and it’s been written by someone very special. In fact, this note was written with passion and with care, and was penned by your First Love. Maybe you’ve seen this note before. Maybe its pages are well-worn and show the signs of repeated reading, and yet, it’s new this morning. Sure, some simply refer to it as The Bible, but when you see it, your pulse quickens, your breathing changes, and your eyes moisten. This is no dry book for you. This testament is part of you, and it was written by the Author and Finisher of your faith.
Today your First Love is calling to you in that still, small voice. Don’t let the busyness of this day keep you away. Put down the cell phone. Put down the laptop or tablet. Get away from the distractions and find that quiet place. His gentle hands and spirit are reaching out to you, ready to embrace you like no one else can. Don’t let this day pass by before letting him whisper your name in the secret place. He knows your heart, your thoughts and your dreams and hurts. No one can reach the depths of your being like your Savior, and he’s waiting right now for time with you. Take time to be with him, and take time to hear those extravagant whispers.
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.”
–Psalm 91:1-2 (NKJV)
@takinghigher
Today your First Love is calling to you in that still, small voice. Don’t let the busyness of this day keep you away. Put down the cell phone. Put down the laptop or tablet. Get away from the distractions and find that quiet place. His gentle hands and spirit are reaching out to you, ready to embrace you like no one else can. Don’t let this day pass by before letting him whisper your name in the secret place. He knows your heart, your thoughts and your dreams and hurts. No one can reach the depths of your being like your Savior, and he’s waiting right now for time with you. Take time to be with him, and take time to hear those extravagant whispers.
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.”
–Psalm 91:1-2 (NKJV)
@takinghigher
Psalm 9:10
Here’s a followup verse to Tuesday’s post, talking about letting God have the whole package in our lives:
And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
–Psalm 9:10 (ESV)
@takinghigher
And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
–Psalm 9:10 (ESV)
@takinghigher
The Whole Package
"But I'm good at this!" "But God made me this way, so I have no choice." "But this is how I've made a name for myself." Any of these sound familiar? I've said some of these things myself before, and I've also gotten into heated debates over some of these statements. So they're not new to me. Maybe you've never said these exact phrases before, but maybe you've had thoughts that are similar. At any rate, it all comes down to where we place things in life. Sure, we say God is our Father and that he comes first. But I've been guilty of allowing my musical gifts and career to eclipse his importance in my life. And when I've gotten into disagreements with others about lifestyle and orientation, the most heated moments have had to do with where God fits into things. But please understand. I'm not judging anyone today. I'm simply asking a few questions only you can answer for yourself.
If I say God is most important in my life, then my words and actions should reflect that, right? But I need reminders now and then, so that my passions and pursuits don't take God's place on top. And if I agree with scriptures that say I am identified with Christ, then he must rule and reign over every part of my life, including things I'm drawn to, good or bad. I hope you're seeing that I really do care when I remind us all that every part of our lives belongs to him, and must submit to his Lordship in our hearts. This means my dreams and ambitions, along with my habits and tendencies. And it includes my victories and mistakes.
I'll finish with a friendly encouragement today. Maybe you've heard that God loves us just the way we are, but that he also cares too much to leave us that way. God isn't just wanting to have the parts of us we think are worthy. He wants every part of us. Just as the young boy saw a miracle when he released his basket of fish and bread to Jesus, I ask you today to let God have your whole package, and watch what he will do.
Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come.
–2 Corinthians 5:17 (GNT)
@takinghigher
If I say God is most important in my life, then my words and actions should reflect that, right? But I need reminders now and then, so that my passions and pursuits don't take God's place on top. And if I agree with scriptures that say I am identified with Christ, then he must rule and reign over every part of my life, including things I'm drawn to, good or bad. I hope you're seeing that I really do care when I remind us all that every part of our lives belongs to him, and must submit to his Lordship in our hearts. This means my dreams and ambitions, along with my habits and tendencies. And it includes my victories and mistakes.
I'll finish with a friendly encouragement today. Maybe you've heard that God loves us just the way we are, but that he also cares too much to leave us that way. God isn't just wanting to have the parts of us we think are worthy. He wants every part of us. Just as the young boy saw a miracle when he released his basket of fish and bread to Jesus, I ask you today to let God have your whole package, and watch what he will do.
Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come.
–2 Corinthians 5:17 (GNT)
@takinghigher
A New Day
It was the Spring of 1988. After a couple of years of trying, I had finally succeeded in being accepted into graduate school at the University of Georgia. And I was now living away from home and on my own, there in my first place in Athens. Having just moved in, I had almost no furniture. There was nothing on the walls or windows. But I was the first one to live in that new duplex, and it seemed so fresh. Soon after I got settled in I began to go to my classes. The chilly Winter air was giving way to the new breezes of Spring. I can still remember so vividly those mornings, waking up on the temporary cot I slept on in that bedroom. The warm sunlight would quietly greet me, lighting up the whole room. Some would have felt sorry for me, seeing me start out with so little in that place. But I didn't feel sorry for me, I was excited! It was a new season in a new place, with new possibilities.
I've shared all that to say this: No one knows how to give you a fresh start like God does. Just like that sun-filled room lit up my days in that new season, God's mercies are new every morning for you too. I encourage you to enjoy this new season God has created for you, and to go make the most of it.
The Lord's unfailing love and mercy still continue, fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise.
–Lamentations 3:22-23 (GNT)
@takinghigher
I've shared all that to say this: No one knows how to give you a fresh start like God does. Just like that sun-filled room lit up my days in that new season, God's mercies are new every morning for you too. I encourage you to enjoy this new season God has created for you, and to go make the most of it.
The Lord's unfailing love and mercy still continue, fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise.
–Lamentations 3:22-23 (GNT)
@takinghigher
The Best Gift
As we get deeper into the holiday season, some of us have a pretty daunting task ahead. We have to find exactly the right gift for the right person, and in some cases repeating this small miracle for several people. I’ll never forget the year I actually hit that target with a bull's eye for my wife. Back then our son David was still in diapers, and we were getting by with only one income while Christy stayed home with him. There wasn’t much extra money for Christmas that year, and yet I still wanted to make it a special time and show my wife my appreciation for her. I took some time and prayed for God’s wisdom in the matter, knowing that I’d have to make a little money go a long way. After praying, I sensed that I had a plan. I soon found myself at the jewelry store at the mall. There I found a great piece of jewelry that fit my budget and brought peace to me after purchasing it. In fact, things played out there pretty much as I had seen in my prayer time. Imagine how pleased I was when the gift was opened on Christmas Day and I had a happy wife! I only shared with her about my prayer quest after she helped me understand how accurately targeted my gift had been for her.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could all hit the target with such accuracy every time we wanted to give a gift? Well, in some ways the plan has already been set up for us. You see, those of us who have asked Jesus Christ into our hearts and lives are carrying the best Gift that was ever given. It can’t wear out, it won’t ever lose its value, and it is the only gift that can truly keep on giving, with no worries over warranties. In fact, this Gift gives for an eternity, but it’s up to us to pass it along. If you’re grateful about what Jesus has done in and through your life, I ask you to consider those in your world who could also benefit from having him in their own lives. Will you pray and ask God to connect you with the right people who so desperately need what it is you already have? Any Gift this priceless is worth sharing!
Freely you have received; freely give.
– Matthew 10:8 (NIV)
Wouldn’t it be great if we could all hit the target with such accuracy every time we wanted to give a gift? Well, in some ways the plan has already been set up for us. You see, those of us who have asked Jesus Christ into our hearts and lives are carrying the best Gift that was ever given. It can’t wear out, it won’t ever lose its value, and it is the only gift that can truly keep on giving, with no worries over warranties. In fact, this Gift gives for an eternity, but it’s up to us to pass it along. If you’re grateful about what Jesus has done in and through your life, I ask you to consider those in your world who could also benefit from having him in their own lives. Will you pray and ask God to connect you with the right people who so desperately need what it is you already have? Any Gift this priceless is worth sharing!
Freely you have received; freely give.
– Matthew 10:8 (NIV)
Going Higher
With the New Year approaching, many of us are starting to reevaluate where things are in life. What could 2012 hold for us? For some, this next year will be about staying in some of the same ruts, repeating some of the same mistakes, and reliving some of the same regrets. This is nothing new for some, since this is how the last several years have been going. They’ve been going around and around the same mountain, making little progress in their Christian walk or anywhere else. Discouraging thought, isn’t it? But it doesn’t have to stay that way! God didn’t send his own Son to the cross for you and me so that we would wander in the desert for the rest of our lives. Yes, the intent was our salvation, but also for us to be able to accomplish the plans God has for our lives, too. But I find that it’s very difficult to accomplish anything while things are going badly all the time and the focus stays on me and my mistakes.
But today could be the start of a new season. This could be a great time for you to spend some quality time with God, allowing him to show you possible adjustments and changes that could allow 2012 to be your best year ever. It’s ok to take our questions into that time with him: Is it time to fast and pray? Should I expect some new directions or opportunities in the next season? Have I been off-track in some areas? These questions don’t make God nervous! He’s our loving, Heavenly Father, and he desires for us as his children to walk in his best plans. It’s not selfish or immature to ask God about these things. So often God wants something good to happen in our lives even more than we do, but we must do it His way. Ready for some positive change?
When we were at Mount Sinai, the Lord our God said to us, You have stayed long enough at this mountain. Break camp and move on.
- Deuteronomy 1:6-7
But today could be the start of a new season. This could be a great time for you to spend some quality time with God, allowing him to show you possible adjustments and changes that could allow 2012 to be your best year ever. It’s ok to take our questions into that time with him: Is it time to fast and pray? Should I expect some new directions or opportunities in the next season? Have I been off-track in some areas? These questions don’t make God nervous! He’s our loving, Heavenly Father, and he desires for us as his children to walk in his best plans. It’s not selfish or immature to ask God about these things. So often God wants something good to happen in our lives even more than we do, but we must do it His way. Ready for some positive change?
When we were at Mount Sinai, the Lord our God said to us, You have stayed long enough at this mountain. Break camp and move on.
- Deuteronomy 1:6-7
A Moment in Time
First the racquet fell away. Then the hat flew behind him as he ran. I can still remember it vividly, but all in slow motion. My son David turned and ran toward the gate, as fast as a 5-year old could run. Our cheerful game of tennis had turned into a sudden urgency as he darted from asphalt to grass, making a beeline for the large oak tree ahead. As he came up under those high branches he pressed his thumbs into the waist of his pants. His hips and knees danced in opposite directions as he freed himself. Suddenly his hands shot up into the air, arms straight and chest puffed out. This image must have looked to others like some white pygmy, worshiping the tree before him. And then not a move. Except for the stream that appeared in front of him, making the whole scene look a lot like a statue of a cherub, in the front court of a museum. Yes, he had made it! And now relief was his.
Why did I share this strange little story? Well, for one thing, because it’s a vivid memory of a morning spent with my son. We’ll never get that day back, but I’ll have that memory forever. It was an amusing moment, but also one that moistens my eyes when I think about how much that little guy has always meant to me. I also share this memory to remind you that this is very similar to how God feels about you. You’ve also done some things to make him chuckle, and he’ll never forget about those special times you’ve shared together. He’s watched you grow and mature, and he cherishes each moment with you. Is it possible to find time today to spend a few precious moments with your Heavenly Father? I think it would mean a lot for both of you.
Come close to God and He will come close to you.
- James 4:8 (AMP)
Why did I share this strange little story? Well, for one thing, because it’s a vivid memory of a morning spent with my son. We’ll never get that day back, but I’ll have that memory forever. It was an amusing moment, but also one that moistens my eyes when I think about how much that little guy has always meant to me. I also share this memory to remind you that this is very similar to how God feels about you. You’ve also done some things to make him chuckle, and he’ll never forget about those special times you’ve shared together. He’s watched you grow and mature, and he cherishes each moment with you. Is it possible to find time today to spend a few precious moments with your Heavenly Father? I think it would mean a lot for both of you.
Come close to God and He will come close to you.
- James 4:8 (AMP)
Keep Swinging!
Know what a bullpen is? It’s the part of the baseball stadium where all the pitchers warm up, waiting for their turn in the game. But beyond that physical location, the bullpen also refers to the roster of relief pitchers, each patiently waiting for a turn in the spotlight. As sports fans know, it usually goes something like this: The starting pitcher goes as long as possible in the game, trying to strike out as many opposing batters as possible. But should things take a bad turn, that starter is replaced by a fresh pitcher from the bullpen. And the idea is to have a full roster of waiting pitchers, each brought in for a strategic purpose. In fact, certain batters are paired with certain pitchers, to ensure a strikeout.
I said all that to say this: Do you lately feel like you’ve been standing at the plate, facing pitcher after pitcher, and mostly striking out? No home runs or getting on base, but just swinging in the wind? Just as in baseball, we have someone in this life who continues to throw things at us, time and time again. And when one pitcher is tired, another takes his place, keeping up the pressure on us. But the good news here is that God doesn’t let us strike out! In a baseball game it only takes three strikes to sit you down, but in life God doesn’t stop there! In fact, he’s like a patient coach who also owns the baseball stadium. In effect, he says, “Nope, he’s not through yet. I’m going to make sure we get a home run here. Son, you just keep swinging until you get a hit. I’ve got your back.” Did you get that? God says, “Keep swinging until you get a hit.” With help like that, how can we lose? Let’s wrap it up with this: Whose score are you keeping up with today - the bullpen’s score or God’s score?
If God is for us, who can be against us? We are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
- Romans 8:31, 37 (NIV)
I said all that to say this: Do you lately feel like you’ve been standing at the plate, facing pitcher after pitcher, and mostly striking out? No home runs or getting on base, but just swinging in the wind? Just as in baseball, we have someone in this life who continues to throw things at us, time and time again. And when one pitcher is tired, another takes his place, keeping up the pressure on us. But the good news here is that God doesn’t let us strike out! In a baseball game it only takes three strikes to sit you down, but in life God doesn’t stop there! In fact, he’s like a patient coach who also owns the baseball stadium. In effect, he says, “Nope, he’s not through yet. I’m going to make sure we get a home run here. Son, you just keep swinging until you get a hit. I’ve got your back.” Did you get that? God says, “Keep swinging until you get a hit.” With help like that, how can we lose? Let’s wrap it up with this: Whose score are you keeping up with today - the bullpen’s score or God’s score?
If God is for us, who can be against us? We are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
- Romans 8:31, 37 (NIV)
Thought For Today
You were created for today. Will you spend it on yesterday’s mistakes or will you use it to help make someone’s tomorrow a better day?
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Taking It Higher is now also on Facebook. Come join us!
Visit Taking It Higher on iTunes (click to visit)
Taking It Higher is now also on Facebook. Come join us!
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