Alive and Active Life

The Christmas season is almost here! Many people are getting excited. How about you? Christmas tree, lights, candles, beautiful music, gifts, special foods, and Advent. In fact, Advent starts in just a few days.

Incidentally, have you wondered what Advent is about? What’s the purpose? What value does Advent bring to your modern, extremely busy life – especially during one of the busiest months of the year?

With all this in mind, I’d like to explore Advent and how it can positively impact your holiday season and your life. Additionally, I’d like to tell you how a daily Advent focus each December day can quite literally help prepare your heart for a more meaningful Christmas. Then, your approach to Christmas will be more balanced. More heart-engaging. Subsequently, you’ll notice joy peeking into your Christmas preparations.

The Advent Season has been celebrated for many years with rich meaning. Historically, an advent marks the arrival of a notable person or event. And the notable person celebrated at Christmas is Jesus. Incidentally, the event is the birth of God – becoming a human baby. What a striking event and arrival! And what a notable person! That’s a pretty big wow. In fact, it requires a response.

Because Christmas is jam-packed with rich traditions, gifts and wrappings, special foods, decorations, fabulous music – it takes purposeful focus to not miss the real meaning. At the core, Christmas is much more than just traditions. This very special celebration gives you a lovely opportunity to respond personally and intimately to the birth of Christ.

Since Advent assists you to celebrate joyfully with a bit of structure, this practice actually prepares your heart and directs your focus.

Often, a wreath with candles is used during Advent. Then – lighting a new candle on each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day – there is a certain anticipation. Incidentally, it’s not essential to use a wreath or light candles. Just simply focusing on meaningful ideas each day prepares your heart. Alive and Active Life has a great tool to use for Advent. Let me tell you about it.

Because of the wonder of Christmas, and yet the challenges of managing all the preparations, you need a good tool to keep your heart in step with the deeper meaning of Christmas. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is a small book to help prepare your heart for Christmas. This little book is thoughtful, gently to-the-point, and celebratory. And in fact, it nudges your heart to focus on the deep reason we celebrate Christmas. It helps you remain balanced in holiday preparations. And it can be used effectively each December day because it’s condensed – yet focused.

You can easily be enriched in five to ten minutes each day leading up to Christmas. And this renewal time helps you better manage the holiday stressors while pondering encouraging thoughts.

Celebrate Advent started as a tool I developed years ago to help my family prepare for Christmas. So much commercialism hits a family during the holiday season. God prompted my heart to create short, focused, devotional thoughts to help my children reflect on nuggets of truth during Christmas.

As years passed, others found out about it. Soon, I was hearing people say – “You need to publish this little book.” So, I went to work to develop Celebrate Advent: A Life Response to Emmanuel and help people participate in Christmas Advent.

It’s now our most popular book. The cover is festive, colorful, and inviting. When you open this beautiful little book, you see an easy-to-use layout. Attractive artful scrollwork graces the pages. Since featured Scripture is printed right across the page from daily inspirational thoughts, you only have one book to open each day.

Pause just a few minutes each day to remember the rich meaning of Christmas as you prepare for this holiday. And let peace and joy slip into your heart.

This book focuses on very short passages from Isaiah, printed on the left page of the book so you don’t have to look them up. Isaiah is filled with encouragement and truth. It reaches forward to the birth of Jesus. Plus, it announces Christ as Sacrifice and Savior. And it comforts hearts presenting a dear Friend – Emmanuel: (which means) God With Us.

Then, the right side features a brief, inspirational thought to ponder – followed by a few lines to record what the Lord impresses on your heart.

The design of Days 1-25 of Celebrate Advent inspires a response from your heart at Christmas that affects your life all year. Afterall, Jesus is interested in a meaningful relationship with you every day.

The design of Days 26-31 helps you consider how you will live in the coming New Year. Subsequently, these days help you set a fresh perspective by bringing elements you learn during Advent forward into the New Year.

You can gain new understanding into God’s plan. Since His plan includes you, learn to be the person He created. Accomplish your life purpose.

As Christmas opens opportunity to simply receive Emmanuel – just as the manger received the innocent Baby Jesus, your life can be the welcoming dwelling place of the infant King just as the stable welcomed His birth. Let Christ “grow up” increasingly in you as you determine “He must become greater; I must become less.” (Jn. 3:30)

God loves you so much! That’s why He became a human – born in a manger. His life purpose includes being our Sacrifice on the cross, our Savior, for all sins against God. Grown-up Jesus provides cover for all inadequacies. He also models how to live in close relationship with God. And furthermore, Jesus wants to be your companion every day and help you be the person He created. Consequently, God-in-human-flesh wants to help you accomplish your life purpose.

Your life is not an accident. God had you in His heart before creation. And Emmanuel wants you to know Him. – Jesus, the bridge over a sinful gap between God and man through the cross and empty tomb. He made a way to reconnect with you. It’s still on the table – a life of peace and joy God created you to have. Why not respond by celebrating Advent this Christmas?

You can have hope through God’s forgiveness – and hope to manage your inner life well – and hope for wisdom in every life situation. Make a life response back to Emmanuel. Enjoy life now – and eternal life with a simple life response to Jesus. Walk with God daily, even when times get tough. Baby Jesus proves God’s love for you. Essentially, He welcomes you – “Come near to God, and He will come near to you.” (Jas. 4:8 )

The goal of Christmas Advent is to draw close to God by faith – all because Baby Jesus grows up to re-direct humanity back to God’s original design. And once you make a life response, you can live inside God’s love and joy. What a privilege to do life with Emmanuel. (If you don’t know God yet, here’s helpful information on How to become a Jesus Follower.)

Looking for CHRISTMAS GIFTS? Our devotional and Bible study books are excellent Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers. They help people you care about stay in God’s Word, and they’re affordable. In fact, they keep on giving for years. 

I invite you to participate in a FREE course we are offering now. “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” You can jump in for tips and ideas to navigate busy Christmas days. You’ll find step-by-step strategies and practical ideas. The content shows how to enjoy a peaceful yet meaningful Christmas.

You may be the “Christmas Point Person” at your house. Be ready to create an atmosphere of excitement, richness, magic, and fun memories. Set aside stress and frustration, and connect with Emmanuel (“God With Us”) in a deeper way. See how to create time and energy to connect with people and special traditions.

If you experience sadness, depression, or grieving, there is even a session designed to help you find fresh hope, and a bit more joy.

So sign up for this FREE resource today! And “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” Go to this page: www.aliveandactivelife.org/courses.

* REMEMBER to order Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel. (paperback and ebook)

And then – the ebook Holiday Tool – Prepare For Christmas WIthout Missing It that features so many things we talk about in the FREE course. Break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration.

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

I’ve known a handful of people who know just what to say in any given moment. Their words are refreshing and fitting.  Afterall, “The right word spoken at the right time is as beautiful as gold apples in a silver bowl.” (Prov. 25:11) But I’ve also known people who definitely do not have that skill.  So, it’s reasonable to conclude – your words matter. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to express words of strong gratitude to family, friends, to God, and into your own soul. Today’s content explores how your words matter.

Think of someone who always seems to lift you up. They have the knack of directing words into a scenario – or into a heart – that helps channel the outcome into a healthy direction. That’s a desirable power! Did you know you have power to make words golden? In fact, your words can make a significant difference.

First, I suggest – take a look at Tear Into It. That article explains how and why we introduce Scripture dissection exercises every few weeks in our article rotation.

For today’s content, let’s tear into Eph. 4:29. Especially as we go into Thanksgiving, this message is full of instruction. Incidentally, did you know Scripture takes a strong position about what you say?

Eph. 4:29 says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Apparently, what comes out of your mouth matters to God. So, let’s look at each phrase of this verse and pull out helpful directives for Thanksgiving . . . and every day living.

With each Scripture dissection, we engage four focuses:

Simply put, this verse says your words matter. But they matter in very practical ways each day. The verse identifies what not to talk about. “Any unwholesome talk” should not come out of your mouth. But it also says what to talk about. Incidentally, it gives some pretty interesting and creative descriptions of what is good to say.

So, that’s what this verse says.

Let’s start with unwholesome talk. And – to do justice to this question, I’m pulling a variety of translations of this verse to see how they express ideas of unwholesome talk.

Well, those various translations (and there are many more) give a picture of what not to talk about.

At the same time, what to talk about looks more like this:

So, that’s what this verse means.

Beautiful, golden words bring honor, a positive outlook, and positive energy to a situation. Consequently, blessed is the person who trains daily to speak this way sincerely.

It’s noteworthy God’s Written Word is filled with golden words. And God’s Living Word – Jesus (the God-man) – always speaks wisdom, healing, understanding, compassion, hope, and power. The very idea that God spoke all creation into being is incredible. Consequently, shouldn’t your words match the flavor of God’s words? Afterall, you are formed in His image.

You have capacity to speak in ways that persuade, inspire, include, define, provide justice, and advocate for others. Why not bring some gold into every interaction?

Poorly chosen words create another kind of power. But it does not lift others up. Those words create tension, upset, and confusion. As you know, our world is full of terrible words. Yet, friendships, family, and community interactions are valuable. So, shouldn’t we bring our best words into those places?

You’ve known people who use terrible words. And they can make those words sound so good – smooth, slippery, slathered with too much of nothing-that-helps. Or they sound cutting, cruel, rude, and unkind. They sound self-serving and self-promoting.

Scripture is full of warnings about words. Prov. 29:20 says, “Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.” So, even hasty words are unhelpful.

Poorly chosen words mess with your heart, your attitude, and your purpose. And I can confidently say they also mess with another person’s heart, attitude, and purpose. You know what I mean from your personal experience when poor words have been spoken into your life.

You have power to avoid terrible words. Clip it! Hold your tongue. Go to prayer, even right in the moment, and humbly ask for God’s words in place of your own.

Yes, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to take inventory of your words. Subsequently, how thankful are you? How kind, gracious, solution-oriented? When things go poorly or others sin against you, do your words slip away from a platform of gratitude? Interestingly, even in conflict, a thankful heart has power to solve problems. And so, if another person responds poorly, you have the power to keep your own heart from sin.

God commands to give thanks in all things. (1 Thess. 5:18) So, that’s your platform of gratitude and word usage.

God’s Word says, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.” (Ps. 19:14) So, golden words don’t just flow out of your mouth. They flow from your thoughts and heart. Therefore, words have yet another power. They give away what’s going on inside you.

Desiring to please God with what you say is a gift you give back to Him. Besides being golden to Him, you become one of those people who just knows what to say.

This Thanksgiving, will you join me in taking inventory of words, attitudes, thoughts, and actions?

Jas. 3:2 says, “We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.”

Let’s make it our goal to be perfect as our Heavenly Father is perfect. (Mt. 5:48)

Now, I want to invite you to participate in a FREE online course we are offering during the month of November. It’s called – “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” You can jump in all month for tips and ideas to navigate busy Christmas days. You’ll find step-by-step strategies and practical ideas. The content shows how to enjoy a peaceful yet meaningful Christmas.

You may be the “Christmas Point Person” at your house. Be ready to create an atmosphere of excitement, richness, magic, and fun memories. Set aside stress and frustration that often accompanies the holiday season.

And instead, connect with Emmanuel (“God With Us”) in a deeper way. See how to create time and energy to connect with people and special traditions.

If you experience sadness, depression, or grieving, there is even a session designed to help you find fresh hope, and a bit more joy. So sign up for this FREE resource today! And “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.”

It’s not too late to sign up because you have to the end of November. Go to this page:  www.aliveandactivelife.org/courses.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is a wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare your heart for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful each day. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (paperback and ebook) It is featured in our FREE online course.

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It. It is an ebook that features so many things we talk about in the FREE online course in November. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook) It is featured in our online course.

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

“I’m just so tired of trials and challenges!” I’ve heard that exclamation, and I bet you have, too. Maybe you’ve said it. One thing is sure – we’ll all have trials and challenges in the future. We live in a broken world. But you can choose hope even in trials. This is today’s content.

We’ve all had battles with staying inside hope. I know I have. And you have, too. It’s a common “human thing.” Truth be told, people around the world are expressing hopelessness these days. Consequently, it’s a concerning “sign of the times.

Even in good situations, people can lose hope. So, what is this thing we call hope? And how do we hang onto it?

Well, here are some definitions dictionaries offer:

With these definitions, we can reasonably conclude hope is something we want and know it can be ours. That things will turn out OK. Hope also suggests you can live each day with something to look forward to with confidence. And you can believe for certain developments. You can trust for and even rely on certain outcomes.

But how does hope happen in a broken world? True hope looks different than we often picture.

Let’s look at where you are right now.

You can add more threats to this list that have a choke-hold on your hope. Perhaps you are in a good place now, but you have memories of distant hopeless times.

I’m sure you want to live inside hope – that invisible quality that has power to define your responses and perspective.

It seems to me, after living decades on this globe, hope is an invisible, desirable, critical element for healthy living. And it has power to carry you through trials.

Let’s look at Scriptures that talk about hope. Some are encouraging, and some expose the sad condition of human existence. Even so, God’s Word is packed with messages about hope.

Wow. Fifteen verses! And we barely scratched the surface about hope in Scripture!

The big claim of Scripture is this –

Whether in good times or bad, you can have strong hope because of Jesus. He’s the reason for hope. Incidentally, He’s the one who puts your hand into the hand of hope. Consequently, holding hands with hope is shatterproof if Jesus is in the middle.

You can choose hope even when trials pile up. Hope helps.

Incidentally, it truly makes a difference to choose hope. It’s like night and day in your soul. Even if your situation doesn’t get better or changes don’t come fast enough, hope holds you together through Jesus. This is because – Hope helps.

Bottom line, you have a “will.” You join everyone with the power to decide how you will face life – how you will welcome life.

Honestly? Your will is powerful.

However, your will is not powerful enough on its own. When you exercise your will by your own grit outside Christ, you may succeed for a time – even a long stretch. But, you will lack wisdom, perspective, and power critical to live a consistently healthy and godly life. Doing all the right things does not transform you into a new creation. (2 Cor. 5:17) So something additional needs to happen.

As you choose to trust Jesus for every trial, something shifts. God does what you cannot do inside your heart. But your part is to drive some stakes:

First – God is good.

Second – God loves you and has good plans for your life (that may not look like you picture).

Third –  God is everything He claims.

Fourth – Since God has no limit to His power on your behalf, you can do anything.

When you drive those four stakes, a release valve opens that allows God’s power to saturate your soul and your heart. You start to experience real hope – unlike any hope the world offers. So we can safely conclude – God’s hope helps.

As you do your part, God does His. Then – YES – you can trust God’s hope. Your portion is small compared to God’s part. Yet your part is quite significant. And, of course, God’s part is extremely significant. As you choose to partner with Him, His portion provides everything you need for life and godliness. (2 Pet. 1:3)

Trusting God is the safest risk in the universe. You take so many risks in your lifetime. This is a guaranteed good risk. Why? Because . . .

First – God is good.

Second – God loves you and has good plans for your life (that may not look like you picture).

Third –  God is everything He claims.

Fourth – Since God has no limit to His power on your behalf, you can do anything.

Now, I want to invite you to participate in a FREE online course we are offering during the month of November. It’s called – “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” You can jump in all month for tips and ideas to navigate busy Christmas days. You’ll find step-by-step strategies and practical ideas. The content shows how to enjoy a peaceful yet meaningful Christmas.

You may be the “Christmas Point Person” at your house. Be ready to create an atmosphere of excitement, richness, magic, and fun memories. Set aside stress and frustration that so often comes during the holidays. Instead, connect with Emmanuel (“God With Us”) in a deeper way. See how to create time and energy to connect with people and special traditions.

If you experience sadness, depression, or grieving, there is even a session designed to help you find fresh hope, and a bit more joy. So sign up for this FREE resource today! And “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” The course is already open to you. Go to this page: www.aliveandactivelife.org/courses.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is a wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful each day.  And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (paperback and ebook) It is featured in our FREE online course.

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas WIthout Missing It. It is an ebook that features so many things we talk about in the FREE course in November. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook) It is featured in our FREE online course.

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

Recently, we published “To Fail Is Not To Be A Failure.” I encourage you to read that article – or take a listen. It featured the life of Abraham Lincoln. He failed many times. But he wouldn’t give up. And he refused to think of himself as a failure. But today we consider a unique twist on failure. If you’ve embraced – “I’m a failure” – you need to know how to rise up when you’re down.

There are many reasons for being down. 

But another scenario causes being down: thinking you’re a failure. Sometimes, that’s not even intentional. 

People engage new ideas and tactics – just to rise up. But they feel empty, powerless, and hollow. Even fake. Interestingly, their view of themselves affects their choices. Consequently, they often end up in unhealthy cycles.

But – anyone can rise up when you’re down.

Often people see themselves as failures because they don’t feel valued – or loved. Yes, people need to be valued, loved, and encouraged. But, the good new is – you don’t need to worry about value and love anymore. Why? Because people don’t determine your value. God does. He secured your value forever. Plus – He loves you with everlasting love.

A special perspective is needed to rise up when you’re down. This perspective flows from Christ’s Love and Lordship. The strongest Jesus followers throughout centuries talk often about God’s Love and Lordship. 

Personally, I’ve found help by exploring God’s Love and Lordship. With this perspective, it’s easier to trust Jesus and not cave-in to doubt and fear – or what others think. 

By the way – doubt and fear are enemies of your value. But, they are friends of “being down.”

Having experienced both failures and successes, I’d like to share from my own life. Incidentally, I’ve noticed my perspective makes a difference “if” and “how” I move forward.

I thought I knew about God’s Love and Lordship before I got truly honest many years ago.

I kept doing what I didn’t want to . . . and couldn’t seem to permanently do what I was supposed to. Talk about frustration! Seasoned believer and all! I felt like a fake.  

During those early years of my Christian walk, I identified with what Paul wrote in Rom. 7:18b and 19. “For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.”

Finally, I decided to simply trust God like Job. Incidentally, he said, “Even if You kill me, I will trust You.” (Job 13:15) Actually, that’s quite a statement. Have you ever said anything like that to God?

I also decided to adopt the prayer of a man in Mk. 9:24 – “I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief!”

There is a connect point between God’s Love and Lordship. And when you choose to simply trust His Love and relax into His Lordship – you change.

I have a perspective exercise to help you trust God’s Love and relax into His Lordship.

First, did you know you don’t belong to yourself? Truly, you belong to God. His love for you is rich and deep. So, there’s little risk placing your life into His care. You will always be met with God’s Love and Lordship.

Of course, you must do something – “work out your salvation.” (Phil. 2:12) And that work begins by pro-actively trusting God’s Love and Lordship.

Now for the daily perspective exercise.

Simultaneously, start in the back of the notebook to record successes you experience, recognizing Christ is Loving Lord over successes, too. Record your thoughts as you recognize His Love and Lordship.

Somewhere in the middle of your notebook, your failures and successes will meet under God’s Love and Lordship. 

Interestingly, this exercise launches you into the perspective needed to rise up when you’re down.

If you’re a math-kind-of-person, here’s how this looks as a “mathematical word equation” –

Start with your failures.

Bring them under Christ’s Loving Lordship.

Claim a promise as you let go of them. In Christ, failure isn’t the real you.

+

Welcome your new identity of increasing successes by faith in Christ.

Embrace God’s Love and Lordship by faith.

Successes gradually increase as you trust God’s Love and Lordship, even in failures.

A friend was really down. So, when I told them about this exercise, they decided to try it to regain perspective. Subsequently, they committed to self-accountability using a notebook from the front – and from the back – both working toward the middle.

As they spent time in God’s Word, they used failures to rise up into God’s Love and Lordship. Notably, this required humble honesty to record every failure while also writing about small successes in the back of the notebook.

But something shifted as they wrote out – and believed – “Jesus is Lord” beside each failure. As they embraced His love, rather than previous “failure patterns,” they rose up from being down into successes. 

My friend changed from the inside out. Bit by bit burdens were lifted. Instead, they felt free as they engaged healthy self-accountability.

My friend also noticed fear started falling off as they claimed Scriptures over their failures and successes. Embracing truth was setting them free (Jn. 8:32) to enjoy the tender Loving Lordship of God.

After seventy days, my friend opened the front their small notebook and read failures to me. No wonder they were refreshed and excited. Christ’s Loving Lordship was pronounced over every failure. Simultaneously, the back of their notebook recorded successes they gradually experienced. Instead of consistent failures, hope was renewed. And they identified peace and joy rising in their heart. So, they learned to rise up when you’re down.

After asking their permission, I’m sharing a bullet summary of their “front journal” entries. They claimed Christ’s Loving Lordship over every failure. Much to their credit, my friend took this exercise of perspective to heart. I challenge you to this perspective exercise.

Here is what my friend wrote beside every failure they recorded during their 70 days of using this notebook. And this is the list they shared with me.

Jesus is Lord over – 

Now, I want to invite you to participate in a FREE online course we are offering during the month of November. It’s called – “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” You can jump in all month for tips and ideas to navigate busy Christmas days. You’ll find step-by-step strategies and practical ideas. The content shows how to enjoy a peaceful yet meaningful Christmas.

You may be the “Christmas Point Person” at your house. Be ready to create an atmosphere of excitement, richness, magic, and fun memories. Set aside stress and frustration that often happen during the holiday season. Instead, connect with Emmanuel (“God With Us”) in a deeper way. See how to create time and energy to connect with people and special traditions.

If you experience sadness, depression, or grieving, there is even a session designed to help you find fresh hope, and a bit more joy. So sign up for this FREE resource today! And “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” The course is already open for you to register. Go to this page: www.aliveandactivelife.org/courses.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is a wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful each day. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (paperback and ebook) It is featured in our online course.

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas WIthout Missing It. It is an ebook that features so many things we talk about in the FREE course in November. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook) It is featured in our online course.

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

You’ve heard of the song “It Had To Be You,” haven’t you? It’s a popular song composed by Isham Jones, lyrics by Gus Kahn, published on May 9, 1924. So, it’s an “oldie-but-goodie.” It’s been covered by many people, including Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble with Barbra Streisand. Well, I’d like to cover “It Had To Be You” in today’s content.

First, I suggest – take a look at our initial content that launched Scripture Dissection materials: Tear Into It. That article gives an understanding of how and why we introduce Scripture dissection exercises periodically in our article rotation.

Look up 2 Kings 4:8-37 in your Bible for a full story. For today’s purposes, here’s a bullet backstory of developments in my words.

Here are backstory bullets from 2 Kings 4:8-37:

There are always four categories we explore in Scripture dissection:

Besides the backstory we just bulleted, this Scripture says –

Additionally, this passage is saying every person makes choices that help determine the kind of person they become.

Interestingly, the story also nods at the incredible power of God. And it bears testimony to God’s humor and His deep care for details of lives.

You and I are not “unnamed” entities to God. Though your name may be anonymous in the world, your life is well-known and important to God. And He is reaching to you in all your life circumstances.

Reaching for God like this Shunamite woman pursued Elisha, portrays a strong desire for God. It means you trust Him enough to take all your scenarios to Him. Additionally, it means sharing your heart with Him in:

If you’re not fully there yet, no worries. Choosing God is a process that happens each moment. Subsequently, it’s by faith you exercise this kind of depth of soul. As you grab hold of integrity with resolve to go back to God continually, you practice godly character.

Additionally, to go after God with a heart that chooses to be content with only Him – even if you don’t get your wishes or dreams for this life – you’re saying – “From my heart, for all details of my life, it had to be You, God!” 

Are you aware someone else – God – is saying to you – “it had to be you?” Yes, He loves you deeply and places eternal value over your life. So, it’s a reciprocal relationship. It’s a “once-in-a-lifetime” treasure – a pearl of great price. (Mt 13:44-45)

God, Himself, values your life so highly He won’t settle for anyone else when it comes to your salvation, your daily walk by faith, your intimacy with Him, and your purpose on this earth.

God designed you to do specific things in your life time, even if you might consider them to be small things. You have been born to do good works that were established from before creation. Eph. 2:10 says you were, “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance . . . “

You might wonder what those good works could possibly be. It could be a big thing only you can do. But I suspect those good works are regular, simple, critical works each day that honor God. Those works point to Him. Plus, they prepare a platform for Him to reach into others’ lives with His love and power.

Sometimes you simply need to go after God and not let go. Simultaneously, do let go of everything else in life. Essentially, you say to Him – “it had to be You!” And you mean it.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you don’t include other people, activities, organizations, or purposes in your life. It means that Jesus is your First – Most – Best – and Only deep life passion. 

Now, I want to invite you to participate in a FREE course we are offering during the month of November. It’s called – “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” You can jump in all month for tips and ideas to navigate busy Christmas days. You’ll find step-by-step strategies and practical ideas. The content shows how to enjoy a peaceful yet meaningful Christmas.

You may be the “Christmas Point Person” at your house. Be ready to create an atmosphere of excitement, richness, magic, and fun memories. Set aside stress and frustration, and connect with Emmanuel (“God With Us”) in a deeper way. See how to create time and energy to connect with people and special traditions.

If you experience sadness, depression, or grieving, there is even a session designed to help you find fresh hope, and a bit more joy. So sign up for this FREE resource today! And “Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It.” The course opens for you to register on Wed., 11-1. Go to this page: www.aliveandactivelife.org/courses.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (paperback and ebook) It is featured in our online course.

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook) It is featured in our online course.

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

Every person I know has lived through some pretty tough challenges. So many stories, my own among them. And I bet you have stories, too. So, a question for you: when everything seems tumultuous, when you can’t see, or when you feel overwhelmed and tired, how do you get through tough times well? There’s help by exploring two ways to live.

In many countries, you choose how you’ll live. Subsequently, this includes –

But one thing is the same for everyone – tough times. This is when normal choices don’t always help. So, in tough times, you need a selective choice that keeps you balanced, steady, and healthy as a person.

Some years ago, I came across a helpful tool that changed how I think. And it’s become a “go to” resource called the Universes of Values Chart.*

This chart tool shows values of two ways to live. Knowing this information launches me forward in my walk with the Lord. Since this tool helps identify underlying issues, I share it with you as you navigate tough times.

Here’s the chart. And I will explain and explore how to use it below.

Sometimes tools look interesting, even really cool. However, they can be confusing and hard to use. This one is pretty basic, but “packs a punch.” When you apply the tool, it instantly helps you turn a different direction in tough times.

You’ll notice there are two “universes of values” represented in this tool. The Self-Centered Universe and the God-Centered Universe. Let’s start with the Self-Centered Universe.

Notice in the chart – the geometric shape of the Self-Centered Universe is a rectangle. So you can think of it this way. Rectangles have corners to back into and hide. Also, they have strong, straight lines – like walls. Arrows point inward, which communicates everything focuses on you and is coming toward you. In such scenarios, human instinct is to hide (corners) and raise up barriers (strong, straight lines).

There are concepts listed inside this rectangle. So, let’s explore and briefly describe how they might affect a person going through tough times:

But you aren’t doomed to live this way. You can break out! Let’s look at some Scriptures this tool offers for intervention and helps to break out of the Self-Centered Universe.

Is. 53:6 says a way out of turmoil and hopelessness had been provided. And it says help is immediately available. “We all, like sheep, have gone astray. Each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on Him (Jesus) the iniquity of us all.” 

Jesus knows people need help every day. We need salvation and forgiveness of sins. We need intervention. Further, we need encouragement, hope, and practical answers. That’s why all our brokenness and sin was put on Jesus on the cross. Because of this, you have a fresh start and can turn to God in every situation, even in tough times.

Have you chosen to break out and turn to God for help and hope in tough times?

Jas. 3:13-16 says, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, [from the enemy]. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Incidentally, this portion of Scripture shows the difference between godly wisdom and wisdom of the world. It tells how to live a godly, healthy life. Further, it tells what things tear you down, make tough times devastating, and to avoid those things.

How are you handling your tough times? Do you need God’s wisdom? He’s offering it.

Notice in the diagram above, the geometric shape of the God-Centered Universe – an oval. Subsequently, there are no corners to hide in. And there’s no place to stop and get tangled, to park with bad habits, or to engage downward-cycling thoughts. All the arrows point outward. So, this person is linked to a source of encouragement, good judgment, hope, and creative ideas. With deliberate intention, they focus on God’s faithfulness. Plus, they are a partner reaching to others as they trust God for their own needs.

Now let’s explore the concepts listed and briefly describe how they might affect a person going through tough times:

Did you know this can be your reality? You can break in to the God-Centered Universe.

Deut. 6:1-7 says you can “break in” to this kind of living. Even in tough times, you can do what honors and pleases God “so you may enjoy long life.” (vs. 2) That sounds like a good deal.

Interestingly, it also says you can obey His teachings “so it may go well with you.” (v. 3)

And finally, this passage tells you to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength,” (v. 5) and to tell everyone in your life about God’s ways in every situation – even tough times.

2 Cor. 4:16-18 tells you not to lose heart in your troubles, despite all your hard work – even in tough times. As you pursue what is unseen and eternal rather than what is seen and temporary, something starts to change inside you. So, increasingly, you become like Jesus.

There is an invisible toggle switch between the two universes. As you flip the switch, you instantly change from the Self-centered to the God-centered Universe. It only takes a split-second, so, yes! You can do this.

To flip your switch and get from the Self-Centered Universe of values to the God-Centered Universe, ask yourself good questions. And, this provides the application for this content.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. This book is our most-loved book. (paperback and ebook)

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busyness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook)

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

* UNIVERSES OF VALUES CHART – is adapted from: McDougall, Colin. Models for Disciple-Makers. Robbinsville: Eternal Truth Ministries, 2002. Print.

I want to share an incredible story about a man who figured out – To Fail Is Not To Be A Failure. See if you can guess who this person is. He failed many times, yet had critical impact on history.

When he was a youngster, his family was forced out of their home. He had to get a job at that young age to help them survive. Then his mom died. Some years later, he failed in his business. He then ran for a special position – and lost. Then he lost the job he had.

Hoping to improve his scenario, he pursued law school – but couldn’t get in. Then this fellow borrowed money to start a business – and ended up bankrupt, spending seventeen years paying off the debt!

Unbelievably, he ran for a select position again – and won! Consequently, he was also to be married, but his betrothed died. He had a nervous breakdown and was bedridden for half a year. Admirably, he got back up and tried for a better scenario. Here’s what that looked like:

After doing well in this new position for the term, he ran for the same job again – and lost.

Maybe finally realizing it wasn’t working, he tried a different kind of job entirely – and he was rejected. So he went back to the “same-old – same-old.”

President Abraham Lincoln knew in his heart he was not a failure just because he failed sometimes – actually, often. He simply refused to give up. Because he knew his life had value, and he had passion and skill sets, good ol’ Abe fleshed-out a valuable example –

Let’s talk about miscalculations and misses. Days are filled with these. Have you ever felt like Abe? Striving forward only to fail. It’s discouraging, and sometimes feels embarrassing. Maybe you’ve experienced some of these scenarios:

Those are a few examples. What you do next determines if – “to fail is not to be a failure.”

Experiences like ones in the list we just explored queue us up to consider Mr. Lincoln’s inspirational life. He is still considered one of the greatest men in history. But consider what he went through. His path to success was littered with failings. And look at his sufferings resulting from losses and misses. Interestingly, Mr. Lincoln would probably argue that much of his success was built on top of the framework of failure. Giving up was not an option.

Even though he failed, he applied some critical action steps as he kept pursuing opportunities. These are action steps he practiced:

Let’s look at each of these ideas.

What is passion? Dictionaries often say – “a powerful, compelling feeling, emotion, or desire.” So, how can passion be a tool on a path that also has portals and channels to some kind of failure?

The fact that you are capable of passion means you have a power similar to a power God has. He also has passion.

Some of the greatest energy in history has been passion. Even in current times, progress and betterment is supported by passion. Individuals like you push forward despite obstacles – and don’t give up – because of passion. I suppose you could also connect passion to conviction.

Just because you fail doesn’t mean you are a failure. In fact, failing is one of the ways people learn and grow. This is what Mr. Lincoln did. He gained so much valuable experience and information from failing. He failed forward! And it’s passion that keeps this process fresh and inviting.

Do you live with passion each day? Is passion one of your “powerful, compelling feelings, emotions, or desires?” Do you live with conviction?

As already mentioned, a benefit of seeing both sides of the “human effort” coin – success and failing – is valuable experience and information gained in the process.

You have been in both places, and so have I. To succeed is a powerful accomplishment. Yet, to fail is another kind of power. Simply put, you learn even more from failing – if you adopt three perspectives. These three outlooks are practical decisions you make. And they form a strong strategy in forward momentum:

Facing failing with focus, discipline, and resolve is a mind-set God gives.

Choosing to be a failure is a mind-set God does not give.

What kind of strategy have you developed and practiced? Does it include focus, discipline, and resolve?

There is a power so strong, it threads energy, strength, resilience, and forward-movement into your heart and daily life. This power is hope. It’s so effective, Scripture lists it as one of three most desirable qualities to possess – “. . . these three remain: faith, hope and love.” (1 Cor. 13:13)

Hope is a reason to keep going forward. It’s also the motive of a person who chooses to find valuable lessons in failing. And it further distinguishes the person who knows they are not a failure just because they failed.

1 Thess. 1:3 talks about hope. Let’s explore several versions with word variations to describe hope:

When you hope, you engage patience, unwavering, endurance, perseverance, firmness, steadfastness, unfailing, unwavering, unending, and sustaining.

You’ve heard the saying, “To err is human; to forgive is divine.” (Alexander Pope)

Failings of others can impact your life. Very often, you find yourself in the wake of someone else’s failings or deliberate sins.

To err is human – means everyone makes mistakes.

To forgive is divine – means some choose to adopt God’s ability to forgive and move forward. 

Forgiving is a three-prong concept.

To err and yet forgive is like getting a car wash. It’s a cleansing, a re-boot, a fresh start. And forgiveness opens the door to passion, strategy, and hope.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (ebook or paperback)

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook)

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app – or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

SNOPES SOURCE on Lincoln’s life.

Have you ever been surprised by a small thing that turned out to be a pretty big thing? I had that experience in my quiet time recently. Several “game-changer” ideas landed significantly as I read and pondered. Naturally, I’m eager to share these with you. Perhaps they will encourage you, too. Will you join me to explore this content about “a thin silence?”

As I began to process what I’d read in Scripture, the first sentence I wrote in my journal was – “how do I write about this?” I remember thinking – “Why didn’t I see this before all the decades I’ve been in Scripture?”

Much of the time in life, we wish for a “thick” layer of good things, blessings, positive developments. Unfortunately, every adult figures out life doesn’t always cooperate in this manner. So we are left feeling quite “thin.” Incidentally, we also hope for a nice “thick” padding of protection – a margin or buffer zone against the unfairness of life. Instead, we live behind a “thin” layer of defense and hope for the best.

What I discovered in my reading was striking. I want to talk about a thin silence – that place where we seem to live.

First, some backstory.

As we mentioned in Tear Into It – our introduction article to Scripture dissection, we will always engage four focuses. Again, I encourage you to go back to that material to see how we plan to tear into Scripture and bring out practical lessons for every day.

Elijah is afraid, fatigued, and discouraged. This famous contest winner – 450 (Baal prophets) against 1 (him) on Mt. Carmel – is running for his life with Jezebel after his head! It was bad enough when Ahab hunted him for three years. (Check out God’s Timing and God’s Humor Scripture Dissections.)

Unexpectedly, a unique visitor comes while Elijah’s holed-up in a cave. The Word visits him. As we’ve discussed often, The Word is the name of the Son of God before He becomes human and is named Jesus. So – Jesus visits Elijah on Mt. Horeb.

Jesus starts a process to help and heal tired, discouraged Elijah. The first question of His counseling session: “Why (do you think) you are here?”

Elijah considers his strong commitment to God, remembers all the evil he’s confronted, and then hits the root. His answer – “After all this, I’m the only one left, and they’re coming after me to kill me!”

Then – after an incredible, front-seat demonstration of earth, wind, and fire – Elijah finds God’s presence, stunningly, in a “thin silence” – a gentle whisper.

And finally, God wants Elijah to anoint his replacement. He also inspires hope for Elijah because He’s selected a remnant of faithful people who will keep serving Him – people “whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.” (v. 18)

This is most assuring to a prophet whose main responsibility is to proclaim God’s purposes to His people.

God assures Elijah he’s not a failure. His labors have been worth it.

How would you describe a thin silence. In this situation, the “gentle whisper” is significant. Compared to everything else (the contest, the evils of Baal, running for his life, fear/fatigue/discouragement, shattering wind, earthquake, and fire), God’s whisper is as piercing as a scream. His whisper is a message of strong love, unstoppable powerful, deep assurance, peace, calm.

The Word, Jesus, cares deeply about you. And He offers personal, renewing care when you need it. Additionally, He threads His power into your life in practical ways as you put your trust in Him.

Plus, God always preserves a remnant of faithful people for Himself.

Everything God demonstrates to Elijah, He intends as an offer to you. 

So, God sees you as His servant and friend. He knows when you need a thin silence, a gentle whisper, in such a noisy world.

God’s simple thin silence is all around you. Essentially, it’s your comfort when you feel “thin” in life – your safety when you only have a “thin” layer of defense. Thankfully, you can train yourself to enter His calm and quiet presence even in the middle of your difficulties.

The invitation of God is famously – “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” (Jas. 4:8) It’s His invitation into a thin silence. And incidentally, it’s the offer to let you see more of His inner heart.

God’s gentle revelations help and heal. The Son of God shows up in a thin silence – a gentle whisper to pull you closer.

With this incredible offer, why would you not respond with a definite “yes?” His thin silence is more powerful than a ripping wind, a shattering earthquake, a destroying fire. The Word wants to help and heal you from the inside out.

The right response to God’s thin silence is to humble yourself and accept His love! His gentle whisper is right near you!

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (ebook or paperback)

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook)

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

Marvel Comics puts lots of money into movies about superheroes. And – based on success at the box office – lots of people connect with these superheroes at some level. Not everyone is “into” superheroes. But most people can pinpoint at least one superhero they admire. Who is that superhero for you? This list will give you a start –

KINTSUGI – “The Japanese developed…a method of repairing broken pottery. Rather than throw shattered ceramic in the trash…useless…no value, a kintsugi artist gathers all the broken shards…mixes a special lacquer of gold or platinum and uses it…to adhere the broken pieces together…fills each crack with the expensive lacquer, putting each shard in its place. The result is a stunning work of art. The point…to showcase the object’s brokenness, yet to visibly highlight its repair into an entirely new piece…beautiful…more valuable, and radiant with gold and platinum.” (Joni Eareckson Tada)

Every superhero is a regular person with flaws – even weaknesses. However, their virtues (motives, skill sets, and strengths) more than compensate for their vices. I once heard it said that every person is a mixture of gold and clay with incredible beauty while also being less than perfect.

Gold + clay = you and me.

God created you in His image. Subsequently, you possess incredible glory, unique skill sets, problem-solving abilities, seeds of excellent character, creativity, and hope. Interestingly, God quite literally formed you from the clay of this earth with His own hands. You are a unique combination of –

God does not possess the weak qualities in this list. He possesses the strong ones. However, all people possess both weak and strong qualities.

Let’s explore what God intends with this kind of design.

God completes you. It’s like putting your hand in God’s glove. His design for your life includes the simple act of surrender while being enveloped by Himself. Incidentally, in His glove, you find perspective, power, strength, character, renewal, and resilience. A gloved hand is invisible, but it’s presence is very real.

Col. 3:3 says, “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” Your hand in God’s glove is you, tucked inside a protective force-field.

Since there’s nothing God can’t do, with your hand in His glove, there is nothing you can’t do. So, when you put yourself – your full essence and identity – into Christ, you become “super you.” Gloved, “[you] can do all things through Christ who strengthens [you].” (Phil. 4:13)

You become a regular person superhero when you are gloved. Interestingly, when you stay gloved, you fail less.

Think of yourself as an attractive, yet empty glove. You are helpless until a hand slips in. When you invite God’s Spirit to live inside you, His hand slips into your empty glove. Jesus helps you manage daily issues. In Christ, you possess strength and purpose God designed for you. On the other hand, without God’s vibrant life inside your glove, you are an empty, shell-of-a-person.

There’s no safer place to put your hand than in God’s glove. At the same time, no other person is worthy to fill your glove than the Lord.

Either way, you were designed to live gloved! And – that’s what a regular person superhero is. So – glove up!

Did you know your mind-set affects everything? Big stuff. Small stuff. Short-term. And especially long-term. So, what is your present mind-set?

Adopt a fresh mind-set by adopting God’s thoughts. Regular person “superhero-things” result from trading your thoughts for God’s thoughts. Is. 55:9 says, “. . . as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways . . . and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

So, what is a superhero mindset?

Superheroes have a mix of glory, frailty, sacrifice, and overcoming. They engage this mix to accomplish good. Consequently, that means they serve.

So, how can you gain a superhero mindset each day? 

Let’s look at Jesus when He lived on earth. He overpowered the villain, but died in the process. Yet, He successfully broke the power of sin. Your self-sacrificing hero came back to life again. And your sin lies in a heap – trampled.

Surely, Jesus has a big “S” on His shirt. Jesus is your Sacrifice, Savior, and Superhero. And because He took out your villain, He is also Successful.

Because Jesus paid the death penalty for all sin and took away your condemnation, you are free to live the life He designed. Similarly, since He took your guilt, you are no longer guilty. He became sin – so you could be free of it. (2 Cor. 5:21) Freedom is knowing the truth and being empowered by it. Jn. 8:32 says, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Incidentally, there’s more. Since your sin died with Jesus on the cross, it’s DEAD. That means you have another option. To be truly free means options to choose from. Because sin is rendered powerless – dead – you must render it powerless in your mind, motives, and future choices.

Consequently, if you confess to be a sincere Jesus follower, sin is not an option for you anymore. Why would you resurrect behaviors and habits that separate you again from God, who loves you deeply? Why not commit, instead, to His loving training in your new freedom? You can be an overcomer. You can be a regular person superhero.

Set your mind here. Be vibrantly alive in Christ even as you consider yourself dead to sin. Insist on this superhero mind-set, and stay in it. Remember: Jesus is your Sacrifice, Savior, Superhero, and He is always Successful.

Now, let’s look at you. We already talked about choosing a superhero mind-set. But it’s also critical to acknowledge the reality of “bad guys.” I’m confident you have villains in your life. Incidentally, Jesus made it possible for you to conquer all your enemies. He made His power instantly available for you. In fact, you can live in His power all the time. Your-hand-in-His-glove. His-Hand-in-your-glove.

This arrangement reflects your new freedom. In His power, you are a conqueror. Rom. 8:37 says, “. . . in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”

So, add some “S” words into your life. It’s time you strive to live in the power of His Word: be sincere, get serious, and surrender to the principles of Scripture.

Having all this information about your Superhero and about your options to be a regular person superhero – tell me – why would you live in bondage? And why would you allow effects of guilt to cut into your confidence? Why would you be overwhelmed with fear? Incidentally, do you see yourself as a victim? And why keep resurrecting sin habits, giving them power, while practicing something God pronounced dead? Think about this!

“S” words suggest you have more in you. Strive. Sincere. Serious. Surrender.

Many times, simply doing what needs to be done, you enter the superhero domain. You –

Then the domain of your life expands into influence and power to glorify God and bless your fellowman.

God created you to be powerful and free – your true created self. So, why not accept and explore the person God designed you to be? Scripture declares He’s had you in His mind before He created anything! Jer. 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.”

You are your true self by being you and doing what needs to be done each day. 

Since a regular person superhero battle is won or lost in your mind, make informed, strategic decisions by faith.

* REMEMBER – Holidays are coming quickly. Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel is wonderful, devotional tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. Short, simple, meaningful. And content principles are “keepers” every day of the year. If you order now, you’ll be ready to use on Dec. 1. (ebook or paperback)

Another great Holiday Tool is Prepare For Christmas Without Missing It. This tool has helped people break out of holiday busy-ness and into hope and meaningful celebration. (ebook)

Both books make beautiful gifts. Check them out in our online store.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

Do you remember the film, “Cast Away?” Tom Hanks plays a systems analysist named Chuck who is marooned on an island quite unexpectedly when his flight goes down over the Pacific Ocean. In this movie, you get a front-row seat on how a person might deal with loneliness. From hopelessness, to anger, to desperation, to finding a way. He’s alone on this island for four years! Meanwhile, he’s declared dead by family and friends back home. Chuck’s only friend is a volleyball that washed ashore from the plane wreckage. This ball becomes Chuck’s only friend: “Wilson.” Chuck becomes very familiar with the truth about loneliness. 

Loneliness is a condition common to so many people on earth. Truly, every person has known some kind of loneliness at some point in their life – people from young to old, famous to regular folks, higher education to lesser opportunity. In fact, I would say loneliness is, unfortunately, a human condition. And some suffer significantly from loneliness for various reasons.

Incidentally, did you know you can be in a crowd of people and still feel lonely? You can be surrounded by people – even people you enjoy – all day – and still experience pangs of loneliness.

One can learn a lot about a word – in this case, a condition – by looking at synonyms of the word. Some of the synonyms of loneliness are:

Have you ever felt any of those things? Do you remember a time in your life when the heartache of solitude was so strong, you felt you were literally withdrawn from people? It’s a sad kind of aloneness – a seclusion not desired. A kind of desolation or remoteness.

Loneliness is a condition brought about when lacking sufficient nurturing companionship. It can be depressing when deprived of support. Consequently, being in this condition too long can feel like living in an arid wilderness where no one else knows you exist.

Loneliness can also develop when a person closes off from others who would welcome relationship. Sometimes it can be a kind of “shut-down.” Coincidentally, the logic is – “if I protect myself from the hurts others might bring or disappointments of circumstances, I’ll be safer.” Sadly, the reality is the opposite – intense loneliness.

Most of the time, a person can address loneliness with specific action steps. Occasionally, the sadness of loneliness can remain indefinitely even after taking intentional good steps. However, a wise person will choose to not allow this condition, this feeling, this temporary season – to define them or to dictate their life choices.

How well do you manage loneliness in your life? What about others you know who struggle with loneliness? How well are they doing?

It’s time to look at loneliness through God’s eyes. God did not intend for people to ever live in this state. Rather, He intends people to have support, companionship, friends, and a social structure that nurtures well-being.

In addition to those things – God, Himself, weighs in on the loneliness issue on behalf of people. He literally makes very specific promises to combat loneliness.

And there’s more. When Jesus becomes a human baby, He does what no one else can. The “God-man” forms a bridge – a connection – to God. Since God cherishes each person on earth throughout all centuries, this includes you.

Fundamentally speaking, it’s critical to remember why God made people. He made you for Himself! And this arrangement flows from a heart of deep love for you. Further, God made mankind in His image to be glorious and rule the earth. The intention is partnership with Himself – and deep friendship. God intends to meet the intense need of loneliness in your heart.

I believe at the root, loneliness is the human heart longing for God!

The heart of God leans toward you always. “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.”  (Is. 65:24) This verse strongly hints – the split-second you lean toward God – He has already launched into action on your behalf. Wow.

God really, truly loves you deeply. His eye is always trained on you. “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.” (2 Chron. 16:9) God’s great heart longs that your heart would Reach Back to His love. He wants to help, guide, encourage, and bless you. And He desires your friendship!

“You have searched me, LORD, and You know me . . . when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar . . . discern my going out and lying down . . . familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You, LORD, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and You lay Your hand upon me.”  (Ps. 139:1-5) This is a lot of intimate knowledge about you! No one else on earth is that committed to and invested in you.

God knows your every thought, every longing, hopes and dreams. He knows where you are afraid and where you feel weak and incapable. He knows your sorrows . . . and any areas of sin. Yet, His love for you is steadfast with all this personal knowledge about you.

God makes relational initiatives toward you through Jesus. He wants to be Emmanuel to you every day of the year. Emmanuel literally means “God With Us.”

Choosing Jesus is knowing God is always with you.

If God is truly leaning toward you to answer before you call – and to hear you while you are still speaking, why are you hesitant to call to Him and tell Him about your life? Where does fear or doubt linger in your heart? What about personal agenda? These are important questions to ask. God doesn’t want you to be lonely.

God made you for Himself. Emmanuel means you never need to be alone. This is hope. And it’s a reason to rejoice, even in hardship. So –

You can make a life-response about loneliness by accepting God’s invitation to “do life” together. This is the truth about God and you.

Jesus made God tangible. He promises to never leave you. Deut. 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified . . . for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” 

Why not respond to His extravagant offer of relationship and address the root of loneliness? 

Pro-active action steps help manage loneliness. Here is a quick list –

       * For more on Emmanuel, check out my Advent book: Celebrate Advent: A Life-Response to Emmanuel. This is a wonderful tool to use Dec. 1-31 to prepare for Christmas. And the principles in the material are “keepers” for every day of the year. If you order now and even tell others about our “best-loved book,” you (and they) can be ready to start using this tool on Dec. 1.

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