Alive and Active Life

Intentions! We all have them. Sometimes we keep them and sometimes we don’t. I have come to realize success in keeping intentions somewhat depends on how you define the word – “intention.”

A peek in a good dictionary reveals the flavor of the word “intentions.” It mentions things like:

Generically, those meanings help define “intentions.” I decided to check out the word “intend” for added meaning and found interesting ideas (dictionary.com):

As I pondered these definitions, and considered the modern, common use of the word, I drew a conclusion. Perhaps the word “intentions” has morphed over the years from a strong goal and plan into a different, more current use. Nowadays, “intentions” seems to have a much less critical commitment connected to it. A person intends something, but there is always the option to “not intend it.” I think this new definition affects people significantly.

I’m going to toss an idea to you that I think is fairly credible. It’s the idea of your right hand. That’s right. Scripture talks about the right hand a lot. When it does, it’s referring to your power center. “The right hand is a symbol of ability, strength, and power, providing services of protection and resources.” ¹

So, whether you are right-handed or left-handed, it’s time to look at the idea of life patterns and habits . . . and your right hand. Simply: your right hand is the exercise of your will. It is yours to manage.

God talks about His right hand, too. And it’s also the exercise of His will. It’s His to manage.

Let’s look at some Scriptures that talk about the right hand. There are many! Do a word search sometime. The idea is the same as our previous discussion – the symbol, the center, the wielding place of power.

We are going to put the idea of right hand together with intentions. Did you notice in the above Scriptures that God uses His power, and it’s referred to as His right hand? Did you notice God’s love expressed for you? You may have also noticed some verses referred to your right hand. Now draw the conclusion. God intends to take your right hand with His right hand and give you what you lack. He intends to help you do what you are incapable of doing. But – you must have “buy-in” to make this your reality. God promises. No issue there. He is faithful and always keeps His promises. Where might the issue be, then? Do you trust God’s love enough to put your power center directly into His power center? Your right hand into His right hand? Are you willing to give Him control of your life?

Your life patterns are formed by thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions you choose each day. Your power center (your will) carries these out. So, really, the “right hand” is the place where your life patterns take root. Here, in that place, habits are created – or broken. You have the controls. Entrenched life patterns and habits may explain why you might be having some failures in progress toward goals you selected. These patterns can be in the very fabric of your life. You will need to understand them better to change them.

Before we explore how to change, I want to say something pivotal: Your right hand will never be what it was created to be until you surrender completely to God. That means die to self, become a living sacrifice, bring yourself and line-up directly under His principles. Everything in your life should sync with Scripture – like you sync your computer or device. As you place your right hand into God’s right hand, you are infused with God’s power. That’s the power you were meant to live with. If you sincerely do this with resolve (with sincere intention) you will begin to change your life patterns and habits.

You can turn your intentions into reality. Yes, you can change your life patterns and habits. But you need to take up the “older” definition of “intentions,” not the modern one – and you need to put your right hand into God’s right hand. It helps to select a Scripture promise to give you inspiration and strength. Search God’s Word for verses that apply to your situation. Claim these every day. God’s Word is the power of your right hand!

If you fail, do not waste time or energy on shame or feeling sorry for yourself. Immediately tell God (He already knows, but this is for you.) Confess any sin. Recommit to your process and your plan, and ask Him to continue to help you. Tell Him, “I believe You. You can do anything!” And then get going again.

I want to share a final Scripture mentioned previously. It’s a really great tie-in with the right hand and your intentions to take management over your life patterns and habits. May God give wisdom as you trust Him and work at taking responsibility, exercising resolve, intending – the way God defines “intention.” May you build your life habits and patterns in a way honors God, is congruent with Scripture, is healing to your own heart, and influential in a world that is looking for directions and help. God bless you!

“For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” (Is. 41:13) “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with MY righteous right hand.” (Is. 41:10)

¹ Celebrate Advent: A Life Response to Emmanuel, Day 9, B.Wolfe.

I’ve found life to be a mix of enjoyment, struggle, and problem-solving. It takes courage and management as fear pokes holes in your confidence and hurt threatens your heart. After living for awhile in this reality, a person realizes life isn’t always peace, rest, and unity. You realize you need to work it out.

Read More …

I’ve found life to be a mix of enjoyment, struggle, and problem-solving. It takes courage and management as fear pokes holes in your confidence and hurt threatens your heart. After living for awhile in this reality, a person realizes life isn’t always peace, rest, and unity. You realize you need to work it out.

Yes, this is a good life. Often, opposite kinds of conditions co-exist side by side. It’s challenging to manage them – to work it out even when the conflict of opposing realities form your reality. When challenges pile up, and you’ve worked hard with little noticeable progress, it’s hard to push forward. How do you maneuver back into hope? What you wouldn’t give for relief and peace!

I know it’s an “old go-to” and sounds religiously cliché-ish. But I’m going to say it anyway. In the thick of life’s complications, challenges, and co-existing extremes, you need Jesus! He knows what to do and is eager to guide you. He knows how to navigate through every life detail. Drawing close to God matters! It also matters to work it out! These two approaches to life really make a difference.

You can’t work it out without starting here. Working it out is more than addressing your daily problems. It’s building a strong, dependent relationship with God. Trusting and obeying God gets you into His reality. When you are close to God you learn how to develop a rich and meaningful life. In fact, it’s the only way to have an intentional life. Why?

Yes, you can work it out. Trusting God through obedience keeps your heart grounded.  Balanced. Every word that comes out of God’s mouth – even any discipline – empowers you to rise up into meaningful living. You can have faithful influence in this world. God steadies you as you live out His changeless principles. This is how you get traction to work it out.

God has a purpose for your life. You need to participate in your life. That might sound strange, but so many people don’t participate in their own living. They just exist. God wants to pour so much more into and over your life. His goal is to nurture you into blameless purity while keeping you from getting warped by evil still present everywhere in this world.

God wants you to be all He designed you to be. He has the best intentions toward you, and His sleeves are rolled up to help you. Your enjoyment of life and fulfillment as a person is wrapped up in relationship with God. He wants to bless your life as you interact – be “you” – in this broken world. But this takes agreeing with Him and participating in what He wants accomplish in your life. It takes trusting and obeying Him. It takes you working out your salvation each day by your choices.

So, at this point, we need to introduce the idea of partnership. God engages purposes for you by inviting you into partnership with Himself. He does this in three ways.

Since you are now a child in God’s royal family, your Father (the great King), shares His governing responsibilities and opportunities with you. This happens in the simple, ordinary ways of your daily living. It happens as you participate in your life. And it happens as you are real, transparent, and honorable.

God wants you to shine with His glory in all your life details. Ruling your daily domain for Him is your privilege. You can bring Christ into everything your life touches. This option flows out of your surrender to God – “who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” (Phil. 2: 13) Are you learning to partner with Jesus by courageously governing what is in your scope of responsibility and influence? Are you focusing to make a difference in other lives as you intentionally live your life each day?

Partnering with God also means managing your personal life better. Your thoughts, attitudes, moods, habits, schedule, health, words, entertainment, and demeaner matter. Rest matters. These all shift into positive energy as you work it out with God. Have you lined your perspectives up with God’s? Do you realize you are a steward even of your personal time, affections, and involvements? Why not partner with God to accomplish His desires in your personal world?

God does not skip over your heart’s desires just to take care of His own desires. Ps. 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” He cares deeply that you be fulfilled. God wants you to be who He created you to be. He knows you inside-out since He created you. Until you accept yourself and strive to participate in being who God designed, you will never find lasting peace. Have you accepted His design of your life? Why not explore the desires of your heart in ways that never occurred to you before?

Partnering with God means making a difference in the world. And this world desperately needs help right now! It’s a bit of a mess, and lots of people are suffering. If you let Jesus influence and transform you, what you do even in private functions as a shining star that points to Christ, the Lode Star. This is a kind of real-time personal life letter others can read each day. Our broken world needs your life story. People need someone who is willing to work it out. Why not be that someone?

Why not abandon yourself to God’s care like Jesus did when He lived on earth? He was a drink offering. In the Israelite sacrificial system, a drink offering was a choice wine that was poured out onto the dirt to be lapped up. No one enjoyed the beverage. It was just – gone! Soaked up by dirt. (Ever feel like that?) Jesus was a poured-out offering. Being willing to be a poured-out offering is participating in Christ’s work to overcome evil by accepting areas you can govern, by managing your personal life, and gaining your heart’s desires in new ways you haven’t discovered yet. This is making a difference in the world. God wants someone who is willing to work it out. It matters to God when you’ve been poured out.

Have you asked God to nurture His interests in your life? Do you trust His love for you? Why not partner with Him? What action steps will you engage as you “work it out” in the specific ways this article mentions? What can you do to make a difference in the world right now for hurting people in critical times?

On a personal level, are you managing your moods, words, habits, and actions? Perhaps you have been faithful, and you feel like poured out wine – yet you don’t see many results. You wonder if it was worth the price you paid each day.

You can trust God in being poured out. He cares. The question more accurately is – are you willing to work it out? Are you willing to be poured out for God? Why not commit to work it out?

Article developed from Phil. 2:12-18

I remember as a young adult thinking that somewhere along the way, I’d figure out how this life works. Several decades have passed. I figured some things out, but there is still so much I don’t know or understand – even more than when I was a young adult. Yet, I have learned to identify and go after some critical pieces I can manage to make life good.

Life is different than I first assumed when younger. Even values shift inside a person’s soul as time ticks by. You begin to see values that are low risk / high yield are worth going after. However, by the time you figure this out, many opportunities to make life good have long passed by. Eventually, one’s understanding catches up to reality.  Blessed is the person who goes after eternal values by faith even in youth. Yet, blessed is the person of any age who chooses God’s values by faith. Yes, the prizes of Scripture are for everyone. God specializes in redeeming losses.

We have to start here; there’s no other way. Jesus is simply the greatest gain in life. He is absolutely worth going after – the very prize of life! Scripture suggests Jesus is the “Pearl of Great Price.” (Mt. 13:45-46 – J.B. Phillips) To have Christ is to have abundant life, meaning, and purpose. Priorities originating from Him bring value to existence. He is the “connect-point” to God. Sharing life with Christ each day is the joy of being alive. Forming your life in the pattern He formed when He lived as a man on our earth is never a mistake! Jesus cares about you – all of you – every part of your design and personality. As your Creator and Designer, He loves the essence of what makes you “you.” There is no greater Friend. Jesus makes life good.

So, this is your part. Continually leaning into Christ is an intentional action you can practice every day in every detail of every life issue. Leaning into Jesus means coming close to Him. (Jas. 4:8) It means talking with Him through the day. “Pray continually.” (2 Thess. 5:17) And it means being still before the Lord. (Ps. 46:10) Waiting for Him is part of leaning into Him. (Ps. 40:1; Lam. 3:26)

This closeness with Jesus guides your heart even when nothing makes sense. At first glance, God’s reality doesn’t make sense. Your own thoughts and logic make more sense to you. This is when you humble yourself and select His reality over your own. It feels weird – even miserable as you make this choice early on and learn how to do it. But choosing God’s reality as laid out in His Word is your best, most logical choice. Very soon – or soon enough – you will see the wisdom of His ways, and you will be relieved. The more you walk with and enjoy Jesus, the more there is to take hold of. His surprises become yours. But you have to lean into Him. Jesus makes life good.

Jesus Christ loves you so much. In great wisdom, He has called you to Himself and given you a life purpose. You could say Jesus has “taken hold” of your life for Himself and for His great plan. Each day you discover all He has prepared, even while pilgriming through this broken world. Your life is not coincidental or accidental. God wants you to be His dear partner. So lean.

The scorch of life is painful and damages your inner heart. But it cannot steal the goodness of life unless you let it. God knows what’s happening. He feels your pain because His Spirit lives inside you if you have trusted Jesus. He is your empathizing Companion and Friend in hard times and all times.

So, what do you do? In the scorch of life is when you go after Jesus with all your passion. Lean into Him for comfort. Trust His love. Obey His principles. You’ll find Jesus heals your inner heart over and over as life tramples and damages it. You get to be whole – if you stay in Christ. Jesus makes life good.

To hold onto Christ means letting go of other things and people. Let go of hurts and sorrows. Leave mistakes and injustices in the past. Simply walk away from them and into the great heart of God. Scripture teaches to “put off” certain things and in their place to “put on” certain other things that make life good. (Col. 3:8-10) Let go of what you hold onto so tightly so you can grab onto new things God shares – like His deep love, comfort, and pulsing life that flows into your own heart. You can’t hold onto both. So, let go . . . because Jesus makes life good.

Let each day be fresh and new by living in the purpose God has for you. Yes, press into His purposes for you. That is a deliberate action you engage with eager expectation. It’s involvement. Participation. You have control over what you go after. Go after Christ, who IS your life.  Leave the irreparable past and embrace the irresistible future in Jesus. Press on toward the goal. Win the prize. Jesus makes life good.

God has called you. You can be free from the past and live a meaningful life every day as you stay close to Jesus. Let God define what your life looks like. Give your past to Him even as you trust Him with your future. Have you responded as a “living sacrifice?” Why not accomplish all God had in mind when He created your beautiful life? Your life purpose is your adventure to discover. Live thoughtfully and responsibly.

Your presence on earth in this timeframe is critical. God wants you to leave a mark, to have influence. He wants to bless others through you.

Is your central focus to have more of Christ and your desire to please Him? Are you leaning into Jesus? Have you let Him heal your scorched soul? Have you let go of old things so you can hold onto new things from Him? What kinds of things are you doing to carry out God’s Will? What will you do today to focus more directly on God’s purposes for your life? Be specific about changes you need to make. Who can you focus your prayers on and reach out to? When others they observe your life, do they see Jesus makes life good?

Article developed from Phil. 3:12-16.

Pretend with me. You are a child. It’s Christmas. The tree is up and decorated. Glow and sparkle fill the room with Christmas magic. Being a curious child, you have already checked out the landscape of presents under the tree. You noted the gifts with your name on them. And – you’ve counted them. Now you wait . . . and wonder . . . and hope! But the pretending stops and you are an adult again. You ask yourself – “are there gifts for me as a grown-up? Is there something special under God’s Great Tree with my name on it?”

Read More …

Pretend with me. You are a child. It’s Christmas. The tree is up and decorated. Glow and sparkle fill the room with Christmas magic. Being a curious child, you have already checked out the landscape of presents under the tree. You noted the gifts with your name on them. And – you’ve counted them. Now you wait . . . and wonder . . . and hope! But the pretending stops and you are an adult again. You ask yourself – “are there gifts for me as a grown-up? Is there something special under God’s Great Tree with my name on it?”

You do have presents with your name on them under the tree of life. God is the giver, and He really knows how to give good gifts. Jas. 1: 17 says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights who does not change like shifting shadows.” You can be sure His gifts are wonderful to receive – just what you always wanted – although sometimes it might not seem like it.

You already received God’s gift of grace when you trusted Jesus for salvation and forgiveness of sin. The thing about God is this: He is “so vastly wonderful, so utterly and completely delightful that He can, without anything other than Himself, meet and overflow the deepest demands of our total nature, mysterious and deep as that nature is.”2  (a quote from A.W. Tozer) It’s true. God’s gift is an on-going thing for the rest of your life. God is your best present ever! And that’s just the beginning. There’s more under God’s Great Tree. Aren’t you a bit curious? What’s under there for you? Custom-designed grace gifts have your name.

God showers His children with grace gifts continually. Every day, you could list a page of blessings present all around you – even co-existing alongside difficulties. God never leaves you without His blessings. Additionally, His grace gifts include special contributions only you can make in this world. Your contribution lets you engage your skill sets and passions. This is an incredible gift that authenticates you.

Your special grace gifts help build up others. You know – that word of encouragement, a note of comfort, a practical provision for a physical need, a creative and thoughtful expression from your heart. You can share God’s “Christmas gifts” all through the year with others. Why not participate in handing out God’s gifts from under His Great Tree – like people hand out gifts at Christmas. However, unlike Christmas, what is under God’s Great Tree doesn’t end December 25. His tree is loaded with gifts for you and for all His people every day of the year.

Receiving His gifts involves engaging faith, obeying what He teaches you, and actively growing each day in knowledge about Jesus. There’s lots of room for growth, and there’s lots of gifts under the tree for every month of the year. Eph. 4:13 says you can know Jesus and gain “the whole measure of the fullness of Jesus.” That’s breath-taking, my friend! Just think about it. You can know God in the fullness of Christ. The more you know Him, the more His grace gifts become yours. Further, the more mature and seasoned you become. The more familiar you are with God’s Great Tree.

Mature believers in Jesus use grace gifts to manage all kinds of circumstances in life, even very difficult ones. They push aside cunning, crafty, deceitful packages that look like gifts. Relationships become more precious to them as they speak lovingly and truthfully to fellow believers and family members. In all dealings, they seek to be more like Jesus, asking Him to transform them as they partner with Him. Plus, they simply want more of Christ. Their grace gifts from under God’s Great Tree literally help them live well – through good times and the worst of times.

Why not explore what’s under the tree to see what God has for you? As you get down on your hands and knees to investigate what’s under God’s Great Tree, you become:

You can live with peace and joy in your heart. You can also help others find grace gifts with their name under God’s Great Tree.

Scripture says Jesus took many captives and gave gifts to His people.” (Eph. 4:8) Very interesting expression! When people see Jesus for who He is, they can’t help but respond to His incredible nature. So, they draw closer, offering themselves willingly to Christ. That’s where you find yourself. Jesus said it best. “If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give it up for Me, you will save it.” (Mt. 10:39, TLB) Another translation says you will find it.

Ps. 34:8 says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” People who get to know Jesus find themselves wanting more of Him. His grace gifts whet your appetite for more.

 “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Pet. 4:10)

It’s never too late to get down on all fours and explore what’s under God’s Great Tree. Look for your name. When you see a new gift, open it! Then develop action steps to help you use your gift to help others. Live in the joy (yes, the child-like magic) of what you find under God’s Great Tree!

And have a Merry Christmas!

Article developed from Ephesians 4:7-16

The sequel book is ready for you! Order one FOR YOURSELF and as a CHRISTMAS GIFT. Click – More E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age. This study book takes you through Paul’s epistles all the way from Galatians through Philemon. Short daily sessions with practical action steps help you grow in your walk with God.

The first book, E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age, takes you through 1 and 2 Corinthians. These epistles truly are “Relevant in a Digital Age!” (book sub-title)

Another GIFT Idea! During COVID-19, we need help praying. 10 Days of Prayer During COVID-19 is a simple and effective tool that helps you pray specifically for 10 days. These prayer cards are filled with comfort and hope. You can use them on your device or print them for a physical card set. THIS SET WOULD MAKE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS GIFT!

Check out our books for a collection of wonderful resources that help people get into God’s Word and apply it in practical ways to daily life. Encouragement, helpful action steps, and lots of HOPE! Browse and order GIFTS for someone (and for yourself!) today!

OR listen from our website podcast library while you –

Approaching Christmas brings thoughts of a manger, a beautiful baby in white swaddles, Mary and Joseph, wisemen, shepherds, angels. Then add gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Now, pull this ancient beautiful story forward into the present and picture a bright, decorated evergreen tree, stockings at a fireplace hearth, goodies and wassail on a festive table. Family and friends are part of holiday plans – even during a pandemic. This year we add masks, social distancing, virtual visits for gift exchanges to share special moments. I’m sure you have explored creative options. Then there’s the beautiful Christmas music and cards or e-cards.

Do you stop to ponder what all this December celebration means and why you participate every year? What is the focus of a beautiful baby in a manger? Why did the little fellow receive visitors giving such elaborate gifts? Announcing a birth with angels is – wow. Why do people celebrate this birth with special moments and so much festivity?

My conclusion? This baby is very special. And this beautiful baby, Jesus, has a God.

What an odd statement! “Jesus has a God.” Christmas focuses on a beautiful baby. Yet, it’s profound to consider two things. This beautiful baby is God. This baby has a God.

Normally, we equate Jesus as God: the Son of God. But to say He has a God puts Him strangely on the same plain as you and me. Another “proof” of His incarnation can be put simply this way: Jesus is God (His God-ness), and He has a God (His humanity).

Name the most important thing in your life? What do you desire more than anything else? This thing would be something you think about very often, crave with your very heart, and pursue with all your resources. It could be a person, place, or thing. It might be an experience. Perhaps it’s an idea or concept. It’s possible this thing is your god. You do have a god. Every person does.

Scripture clearly communicates the “Heavenly Father” is Jesus’ God. (Gal. 1:3) Jesus desires God more than anything.

What or who is your god? Could your god be competing with God’s rightful place in your heart?

There is something else extremely important to Jesus –people! You and me. That’s why He became a beautiful baby. When He grew into a man, He took all humanity’s sins into His own body and died on a cross to pay the penalty for sin. That was His main purpose for coming, but it was not His end. He rose up from death, providing a path into eternal life for anyone who would follow Him. People are that important to Jesus. You are that important to Jesus. He loves you deeply.

Even though Jesus loves people radically, humanity is not His god. God is His God. Yet, we are a very high priority to Him. Before the creation of the world, God chose you to be His son or daughter. His plans for you are good, not evil, to give you a hope and a future. (Jer. 29:11)

Because you are deeply valued and loved, God wants you live a holy life knowing Him. He wants to be your God because He is the best thing for you.

Before Jesus quietly slipped into the human race one night in a manger, He was called “The Word.” (Jn. 1:1) At birth, He was called Jesus, which means “Savior,” and Emmanuel, which means “God with us.” This beautiful baby is the Living Word of God.

Jesus worships the one true God. And He shows you how to worship. Jesus beautifully portrayed worship and faith during His life on earth.

Rom. 8:34 says Jesus is at the right hand of God interceding for you and me – now! So, there is a man who is also God, and He’s praying for you! Jesus has invited you into rich fellowship with Himself and with Father.

God’s most lavish Christmas gift to you is His Son. Jesus connects you with the person you were created to be. Jesus makes it possible to recover your true identity. You can be you!

Jesus helps you live well. He fills pockets of sorrow with comfort. He balances grief with hope. You are the recipient of His good gifts that co-exist even in hard times. This Christmas, why not focus on His invisible gifts? Jesus is very present in your life.

In Christ, you have been given promises for your life. 2 Cor. 1:20 says all God’s promises to you are “yes” in Christ. Jesus modeled how to claim God’s promises by faith.

This beautiful baby forms a bridge from God to connect with you.

Jesus, who is human to His very middle, has a God. He also is God. The very existence of the grown-up beautiful Christmas baby is filled with wonder. This holiday month, I invite you to engage thoughtful contemplation about His gifts of love. Why not accept His invitation to be friends? Why not learn how to worship through your daily details, even when things don’t go very well?

Make this Christmas exceptional by joining the beautiful Baby to worship God.

Article developed from Gal. 1:1-14

The sequel book is ready for you! Order one FOR YOURSELF and as a CHRISTMAS GIFT. Click – More E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age. This study book takes you through Paul’s epistles all the way from Galatians through Philemon. Short daily sessions with practical action steps help you grow in your walk with God.

The first book, E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age, takes you through 1 and 2 Corinthians. These epistles truly are “Relevant in a Digital Age!” (book sub-title)

Another GIFT Idea! During COVID-19, we need help praying. 10 Days of Prayer During COVID-19 is a simple and effective tool that helps you pray specifically for 10 days. These prayer cards are filled with comfort and hope. You can use them on your device or print them for a physical card set. THIS SET WOULD MAKE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS GIFT!

Check out our books for a collection of wonderful resources that help people get into God’s Word and apply it in practical ways to daily life. Encouragement, helpful action steps, and lots of HOPE! Browse and order GIFTS for someone (and for yourself!) today!

OR listen from our website podcast library while you –

The other day, I received a note from a person who is refreshing and rare. They are committed to Jesus and walk with God. This person has chosen God’s priorities over their own agenda, and their life proves it. People like this quietly change the world as they faithfully live for Jesus. They are refreshing and rare. I want to be this kind of person.

Being alive is a privilege! God designed you to be dependent on Christ – synced with Him at your core. Joy and peace result from being connected with Jesus, even in times of sorrows. Plus, you gain purpose and wisdom.

Read More …

The other day, I received a note from a person who is refreshing and rare. They are committed to Jesus and walk with God. This person has chosen God’s priorities over their own agenda, and their life proves it. People like this quietly change the world as they faithfully live for Jesus. They are refreshing and rare. I want to be this kind of person.

Being alive is a privilege! God designed you to be dependent on Christ – synced with Him at your core. Joy and peace result from being connected with Jesus, even in times of sorrows. Plus, you gain purpose and wisdom.

I want to take a short side trail here. As you know salvation is completely free for anyone who trusts Jesus for forgiveness of sins and eternal life. He is “Savior.” However, Jesus is also “Lord.” People sometimes forget this part. In early Christendom, the two terms were indivisible – as if they were one and the same title. Now people have become accustomed to separating them. Some say they are “saved.” But their lives don’t resemble a child of God. This is a breakdown of understanding. Trusting Jesus means valuing His priorities, serving Him, and representing God. This is called “discipleship.”

So salvation is free, but discipleship costs everything you have to “work out your salvation.” (Phil. 2:12) It’s an all-or-nothing kind of idea. Paul uses the term “living sacrifice.” All of this! – is being a Christian. You can’t separate salvation and discipleship just as you can’t separate Savior and Lord. They are one and the same. Accepting this makes you refreshing and rare.

Apparently, Timothy – the young man in the New Testament – was this kind of person. Paul speaks highly of him, mentioning his faithfulness and friendship. This man had learned how to take care of Jesus’ interests above his own, even though he was young. Inexperience wasn’t a barrier. He decided to go all out and give his youth – and his entire self – to God.

Most people grow up to be the best person they can. They study and apply themselves to stretch into better things. They have their sights fixed on developing the best “me” within their reach. And they grow with experience and age. At every life season, you can be refreshing and rare by being “a surrendered you.” This is God’s plan.

An “R and R” person (refreshing and rare) has something to give. They are fully committed to God and spend time with Him daily. This unusual kind of commitment transforms them from the inside out. After all, having facetime with Jesus changes your heart and nurtures courage. Such a person leaves a mark in simple yet significant ways. They just live as faithful as they know how. Tenacious faithfulness and love for God endears them to God – and to others.

Let’s explore two critical qualities of a refreshing and rare person.

The above qualities get you closer to God and to being the person He created you to be. It always starts with putting God’s agenda first. Serving the Lord’s interests. Being a living sacrifice is “your true and proper worship.” (Rom. 12:1) This is God’s original design, and it is refreshing and rare.

I want to mention a guy in Scripture who lived this kind of committed life. His name is Epaphroditus. He almost died putting Jesus’ agenda first. Talk about a credible example of God’s love! He cared deeply about God’s love for His people and proved it by what he did each day. Self-sacrifice. God-focused. Other-serving. Thoughtfulness. Kindness. Consistently being who God made him to be with no apology or personal agenda.

May you find courage to be like Jesus in a world that needs Him so badly. This time in history – when the internet, social media, and immediate information is considered normal and desired – is filled with people that have needs and broken hearts. They need a Savior and Lord. They need someone who is willing to be refreshing and rare. Why not be that person? Help others be “R and R.” You can be more “R and R” each day.

Article developed from Phil. 2:19-30.

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The first book, E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age, takes you through 1 and 2 Corinthians. These epistles are “Relevant in a Digital Age!” (book sub-title)

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You know how it feels to be over your head in responsibilities, stress, or disappointment. Sometimes it’s just tough rising up to keep doing what needs to be done. People depend on you to do your part. And you need others to do their part, too. This is when you care for each other. Through caring, we participate in God’s love for each other. And we encourage one another to each do our part.

It’s always meaningful to participate in some kind of “community” care for each other. Doesn’t it warm your heart when you find out someone is thinking of you or even lifting you in prayer? Your heart feels rich that another person cares about your well-being and is taking time to speak your name in God’s throne room. Simple care can be the “boost” to get up and over the hump. A small kindness goes a long way in encouraging someone. A phone call, text, email, or snail mail reminds them they are loved and valued. An appropriate Scripture is a blessing you can pass on. Care for each other is a reflection of Jesus, a picture of His endearing love. People need this. You need this.

As you exercise kindness and concern for others, focus on people who need it – people the Lord lays on your heart. Then look for opportunities to show God’s concern in practical ways. What do they really need? You are exercising great compassion in another person’s life by focusing on them. Listen to God. He will guide you.

There is a great Scripture that gives good counsel for keeping the other person’s needs in mind. The verse focuses on words, but it is true for actions on others’ behalf, as well. 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.” That’s pretty profound. You match your words/actions to the needs of the other person. This means you will be alert and aware to what the other person needs more than what you think should be said or done.

You could be a lifeline another person needs in desperate hours. This world is hungry for God’s kindness. Why not flesh it out in practical ways and stir hope in someone’s heart? People in this highly trained, intelligent, techie generation (the i-generation) long to see who Jesus really is. “Does God exist? Does He even care about me? How do I know?”

It could be the person who needs care is in your own family. Whether it involves physical care, emotional assurance, a well-thought spiritual tidbit, or even loving instruction – your family should always come first in care.

Through genuine concern, you show the heart of God. In Jesus’ name, you participate in His love for people.

Participating in this kind of care can set you up to receive God’s concern through another person. As you are “real” with someone in their time of need, you open a door. Whether you receive from that person or not in your time of need, please remember something.

As wonderful as it is to receive from others, there are times the Lord, Himself, just wants to meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:19) Please accept God’s care by faith. His gifts and blessings are ready to be taken into your heart – from His own heart.

If no one seems to reach to you when you need it, don’t despair or become bitter. Jesus invites you into a unique experience of His love during those times. This is a very intimate exchange, and it heals, strengthens, edifies, validates, and protects you like no other person can. It’s Him and you!

The more mature you become in your faith, the more meaningful – and even preferred – this care is. Yes, sometimes you just need a person with skin on, and God knows that. Regardless, open your heart to be encouraged. If God provides someone for that or if He opts to provide it Himself, be ready to return a blessing. Bless the person who is blessing you. Bless God for blessing you.

Above all, be sure to keep your heart tuned to God first. The temptation is to let people occupy the place in your heart that belongs only to God. He tells His people, “Love the Lord you God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.” (Mk. 12:30) “You shall have no other gods before Me.” (Ex. 20:3) Is this command for God’s benefit? Hardly! This is to help us stay centered in His provisions and love.

Being content with what you have and where God has placed you is foundational. It’s a secret ingredient everyone is looking for – a longing of the human heart. Having faith in God’s deep care of your life means you have something genuine, and you have something worthwhile to pass on to others. You know He is for real and He answers prayer. His strength is yours by faith. You have experienced His renewal and healing. Having confidence in God who loves you is what you need. It’s what the world needs. Will you take this up for yourself? Will you share it with others?

Sometimes, getting through involves suffering for stretches of time. “It is commendable if you bear up under the pain of unjust suffering because you are conscious of God.”  (1 Pet. 2:19) Being conscious of God is 1. Being close to Him, 2. Loving Him, 3. Trusting Him, 4. Leaning into His love, 5. Eagerly receiving from Him. This is where you flesh out “I can do all things through Christ (no one else needed) who strengthens me.” (Phil. 4:13) This is where you become absolutely certain “my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19)

What can you do to reach to someone in your life? Have you asked God to open your eyes and show you who He wants you to care for? Remember to be practical in how you provide care. Let God guide everything you do to show care. He knows what the other person needs. Focus on their needs. Are you caring for others in Jesus’ name – or in your own name?

Do you know God in the deeper way of letting Him, alone, care for your needs? Are you trusting Him even when no one else reaches to you? Perhaps you should take this next step into maturity in your faith in Christ. Why not become a seasoned believer in Jesus? Then you will be absolutely credible to “care for each other” in this broken, hurting world.

Article developed from Gal. 4:10-23.

You can order now! Click – More E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age.

More E-pistles is a sequel study that takes you successfully from Galatians all the way through Philemon! The first book, E-pistles For An i-Generation: Relevant in a Digital Age, takes you through 1 and 2 Corinthians. Paul’s epistles are fascinating, applicable, encouraging, challenging, and filled with hope. They truly are “Relevant in a Digital Age!” (book sub-title)

Have You Ordered Yours? During COVID-19, we need help praying. 10 Days of Prayer During COVID-19 is a simple and effective tool that helps you pray specifically for 10 days. These prayer cards are filled with comfort and hope. You can use them on your device or print them for a physical card set.

Check out our books for a collection of wonderful resources that help people get into God’s Word and apply it in practical ways to daily life. These books and tools have encouragement, helpful action steps, and lots of HOPE in them! Browse and order GIFTS for someone (and for yourself!) today!

You can also listen from our website podcast library while you –