Christmas Music Again – We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Yes, I do realize that Christmas has passed, but to me all year it’s Christmas time.  As a believer in the one true God I am willing to celebrate Him every day, and I hope you feel the same.  So, I felt like concluding this series with one last Christmas song to ponder.  Read the words here of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and I’ll discuss it further below:

We wish you a Merry Christmas; 
We wish you a Merry Christmas; 
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 
Good tidings we bring to you and your kin; 
Good tidings for Christmas and a Happy New Year. 

Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; 
Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; 
Oh, bring us a figgy pudding and a cup of good cheer
We won't go until we get some; 
We won't go until we get some; 
We won't go until we get some, so bring some out here

We wish you a Merry Christmas; 
We wish you a Merry Christmas; 
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

I feel, that this is a good song to end with because to me it’s unending, just like the Christmas season.  We wish the world a Merry Christmas and bring everyone good tidings on a regular basis.  When we show others the love of Christ daily we’re really doing just that.  You can help an old lady cross the street and show His love.  You can help someone fix their computer, or counsel someone through a rough situation and show His love as well. 

Today as you start to progress into the new year I want to make sure everyone remembers that Christmas isn’t a once-a-year kind of thing.  Jesus isn’t a season, to me He’s a way of life.  I pray that you feel the same way and share that feeling with others.  Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year. 

Now go watch some football!

I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day

I first heard this song a few years ago when my friend Larry Lepard and I went to a Casting Crowns Christmas concert in Kentucky.  The entire trip was fun and the concert was really moving.  What hit me the most from the concert was this one song.  It’s become one of my favorite songs since hearing their version and I’ve had it planted firmly in my Christmas song rotation since then.  Read the words here and then I’ll discuss it further after:

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play
And mild and sweet their songs repeat
Of peace on earth, goodwill to men

And the bells are ringing
(Peace on earth)
Like a choir they're singing
(Peace on earth)

In my heart I hear them
(Peace on earth)
Peace on earth, goodwill to men

And in despair I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, goodwill to men

But the bells are ringing
(Peace on earth)
Like a choir singing
(Peace on earth)

Does anybody hear them?
(Peace on earth)
Peace on earth, goodwill to men

Then rang the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor doth He sleep
(Peace on earth, peace on earth)
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, goodwill to men

Then ringing singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, goodwill to men

And the bells, they're ringing
(Peace on earth)
Like a choir they're singing
(Peace on earth)

And with our hearts we'll hear them
(Peace on earth)
Peace on earth, goodwill to men

Do you hear the bells, they're ringing?
(Peace on earth)
The life the angels singing
(Peace on earth)

Open up your heart and hear them
(Peace on earth)
Peace on earth, goodwill to men

Peace on earth, peace on earth
Peace on earth, goodwill to men

To me this is one of the most powerful Christmas songs I’ll hear during the Christmas season.  I’m sure you could pull multiple different parts from this song, but for me I focus on the bells and their ringing, just like a choir singing.  If there is any time of the year that people are more open to the Gospel it’s now, especially a day like today.  The bells of the Gospel are always ringing, but there is a good chance that some may be hearing them now for the first time.  God is finding a way to get the lost to hear Him, just as He always does.  But there are people now hearing those bells and responding!

If that doesn’t get you excited as a Christian, then I don’t know what will.  God is ringing those bells and trying to get others to follow Him.  He is seeking that Peace on earth!  I don’t know about you, but I want to be a part of that!  And as you continue with your Christmas festivities and hear this song, I pray that you hear the words and that they affect your life.  I know they do mine every time I hear them.

Christmas Music Again – Feliz Navidad

If you know me personally at all, you know that this is by far one of my all-time favorite Christmas songs.  I have many great Christmas day memories, and many of them involve this great song playing in the background.  It’s more than just a great song though, as you’ll see by reviewing the words, and then I’ll discuss it more below:

Feliz Navidad 
Feliz Navidad
Feliz Navidad
Prospero Año y Felicidad.

Feliz Navidad
Feliz Navidad
Feliz Navidad
Prospero Año y Felicidad.
[ Lyrics from:

I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas
I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas
I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas
From the bottom of my heart.

[Repeats]

Now, I know when you look at this song it looks like a pretty simple song that just says the same thing over and over again.  Frankly, that is a pretty good summary of the song.  However, it’s when you hear the song that, in my mind, you get a true feeling for the song.  For me it’s the way that the words are said that truly makes it special.  It’s so upbeat and cheerful.  The person singing it is so happy about the fact that Christmas is here that they had to exclaim it over and over again.

This is the way I believe we should feel about being Christians.  We should want to exclaim it over and over again for the world to hear.  People hearing us should not just hear that we’re happy about being Christian, but they should also feel just how true those words are to us!

To me sometimes it’s the simple things like this song that really hit home.  Feliz Navidad!  Not only am I happy about the fact that we’re about to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, but I’m willing to exclaim it for all the world to hear.  When have you felt that way?  I pray that the rest of the Christmas season when you hear this song that you get to hear and feel the joy that this song brings.  Then I pray you are moved to share all of that with others.  Feliz Navidad!

Christmas Music Again – Mary Did You Know

Once again this week I’m delving into some of the great music of the Christmas season.  Many of these songs really hit home when you listen to the words, and today I have another one of those songs for you.  Please read the lyrics of this song and then I’ll discuss it further below:

Mary did you know that your baby boy would someday walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy would give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy would calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when your kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.

Oh Mary did you know 

The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will walk again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb 

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am.

-Composed By Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene

Just like with last week’s song “The Little Drummer Boy”, we have a song about someone who was willing to go along with God’s plan.  I don’t think anyone could tell me that Mary fully understood what she was getting herself into when she was told she was going to be a virgin mother.  She did know that the path she was going to go down wasn’t going to be easy.  She wasn’t married to Joseph, and yet she was pregnant.  The other people around her weren’t going to believe her as to, why she was pregnant, and yet she was willing anyway.

Mary is another great example for the world.  She didn’t know what God was getting her into, but she knew enough to trust His plan for her.  And without her willingness to go along with that plan all of our lives could have been different. 

How wonderful is it to be used by God?!  Well, if we keep coming up with reasons why we can’t or won’t do something for Him then we’ll never fully experience all the blessing that He has in store for us.  I pray that when you hear this song the rest of the Christmas season that you hear it a little differently and maybe, just maybe, you’ll be more open to allowing God to work in you and through you.

Christmas Music Again – Intro & The Little Drummer Boy

Back in 2010 I did a little series here in my blog on Christmas music.  I briefly touched on the subject and some of my favorites, and I feel this is the year to revisit that subject.  I hope you enjoy, and feel free to go back and re-read (or read for the first time) some of what I discussed way back two years ago!

When it comes to Christmas music I always have fond memories.  I always go back to Christmas morning when my parents always had the local radio station on, and they played pretty much the same tracks in the same order year after year.  Now I don’t say that in a bad way, as I can still name them off almost in order from the time I woke up to the time I left the room to go try out some of the new stuff.

So, in this month's blogs, I'm going to review some of those songs that I have loved to hear year after year.  I hope it’ll take you back to fond Christmas memories as well, and maybe give you a different look at some of these great songs.

Today’s song:  The Little Drummer Boy

First I’d like to start off with the words from the song.  I hope you will indulge me by reading them and then continuing on after:

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum
A new born King to see, pa rum pum pum pum
Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum
To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
When we come.

Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum
I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum
I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum
That's fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,
On my drum?

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum
The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum
Me and my drum.

What I really love about this song (other than its having a great bass line for those of us who sing bass) is the example that this little boy gives the world.  The boy was told to do something and he didn't question the orders, he just did as he was told.  He was told to show up and be there for something huge.  He didn't ask anyone if he should go, he just went.  He showed up to be there as instructed.  He didn't come with expensive gifts or anything else, he just showed up as he was.  He did the best he could with what he had and was able to fulfill what was requested of him.  What an example!

I think all too often we hear God calling us to do something, but we start to ask too many questions.  God leads us to pray for someone, and we ask why?  We hear God telling us to go somewhere, and instead of just going we wait to see if He will tell us why we are going.  Why can’t we just listen and do as instructed?  Why can’t we just go and show up and do as instructed without all the questions?

Today I want to encourage all of you to think about this song when you hear it this Christmas season.  The whole reason for the season is Jesus, and maybe when He is leading us to do something, well maybe we should just do it.  The little drummer boy not only listened, but he also made Jesus happy by being there and doing what came naturally.  I don’t know about you, but I want to be just like that little boy!

It's All Over

Have you noticed that the political ads have gone away?  I know, it happened a few weeks ago and life is already returning to normal.  You’ve got all the old ads back that you already wish were gone again.

What would you think if Christians and non-Christians had that kind of battle over the airwaves for the lost people of this world?  We could approve messages that attacked the other side, and they would do the same.  Do you think that kind of barrage would win over people for Christ?  If you said no, then why does it work in the political system?

If you said it’s all about gaining attention, then you are right.  And, I think as Christians we often don’t go out and make enough of a fuss about why people should support our candidate Jesus Christ.  Instead we let the other side tell the lost that our candidate can’t help them.  Our candidate isn’t worth supporting because He’s going to lose, at least according to the other side.

I don’t know about you, but I’m 100% sure that our candidate is going to win.  He’s not only going to win, but the other side isn’t going to have a chance in this election.  And I’m not afraid to support my candidate loud and clear for all to hear.  The question today is, are you as well?

It’s Not About What You Don’t Have, It’s About What You DO Have

This time of year it’s easy to look at all the deals on things we want at the various stores and want to buy almost everything.  We see all of the “stuff" that we don’t own and we instantly want it because someone we know has it and it’s really cool, or they are really cool.

The problem with that thinking is that there is only one thing that we need more of in our lives.  It is not something we’re going to find in an ad.  It’s not something you can buy at the store either.  What we need more of in our lives is God.  Yet, we tend to clutter up our lives with so any things that only keep us from connecting with Him.  We buy bigger and bigger TVs, better computers and gaming systems, Apple’s latest and greatest items, phones with the latest and greatest apps, and so much more.  All of which distract us more and more from God and our relationships with Him.

Now I’m not saying that we can’t go out and buy some of these things.  My point today is that we need to evaluate all of the “stuff” that we own and buy.  If we have so much that it’s keeping us from God, then we may need to reevaluate our real need for it all.   Don’t let all the “stuff” get between you and your relationship with God. 

If we are truly pursing all of the “stuff” of life how then can your relationship with Him grow?  It’s at least something to think about. 

Remote Control

So just about every day I use a remote control of one kind or another.  Most of the ones that I have at home are for the electronic devices like the TV, Blue Ray player, etc.  I’d also add into that a video game controller or computer mouse as they really are just sophisticated remote controls, right?

The other day when I was using a remote I started to think about how easy it makes my life.  Most remotes allow me to be lazy.  They keep me from having to get up but still get the things I am seeking.  Yet, spreading the word of God isn’t something I can do in that same manner.  Often I’ll just expect people to see me and know I’m a Christian and want to be like me.  What if instead I was active and went to them and showed them God’s love instead of sitting at home on my couch?  Would I reach more people for Him?

Today I just ask that you stop being lazy and start being active for Him.  Don’t just sit on the sidelines pushing buttons and expect things to work out the way you want them to.  Instead, get up and get going the way He wants you to.

Add A Date

So there are two really important dates in everyone’s lives.  Those obviously would be the day you were born and the day you die.  For those of us who have a relationship with Christ, that adds another important date to the calendar.  Right?

But here is my question to all my Christian friends:  Why don’t we celebrate this date every year as well?  Why don’t we put that out there as a Facebook status like we do our birthdays, anniversaries, birth of our kids, etc.  Are we all afraid of what others will think?  Are we embarrassed?  Oh, and don’t worry, I’m including myself here as well!

So, today I am starting a movement of sorts I guess.  If we are truly proud of the relationship with Christ that we have, then it’s time to proclaim it for the world.  It’s time to let everyone know how proud we are of knowing Him and that just may make others want that relationship as well.

Traditions

So, the other day I carved pumpkins with my family.  Our tradition has been for each of the kids to have their own pumpkin.  They get to design the look, scrape out the insides of those pumpkins, and help with the carving of that design.  It’s a nice little thing that we all get to do together every year.

One thing about traditions like that is that they bring families together.  They give the kids something to look forward to that they can rely on every year .  Our kids know that they’ll get some special family time every year at this time, and at many other times throughout the year.  Although we are very busy almost year round we still make our family a priority. 

You see, in order for a family to be strong you have to make time for one another.  You have to be there in the good and bad times.  You have to not only spend time together, but WANT to spend time together.  And that doesn't mean just in front of the TV all the time.  That can mean something as simple as playing a game together to doing a family campout   But whatever you do, make sure that your family is important to you and that God in the central focus of that family.

Overwhelming

I have to be completely honest with you all, life has been a bit overwhelming for me lately.  At home we’re involved in the normal busyness that you have when both parents have multiple jobs, and all three kids are involved in a variety of extracurricular activities.  At work we’ve had a lot of changes and extra work that has really put me behind at my normal day-to-day tasks.

Now I’m not here to complain about all that I have going on.  In fact  I want to do the total opposite of complain.  Instead I’m going to thank God for all the blessings that I do have.  I have a family that I love and that loves me.  My wife Traci is willing to have a hectic schedule in order to allow everyone to do all the things they do and still work two jobs to help us get out of the bondage of debt.  My kids are all gifted in many ways and want to continually develop their talents.  I’m also thankful to have a job when so many do not or are underemployed in this day and age.

You see, I could easily complain about all the stuff that is going on in my life.  Instead I’m going to embrace all of the blessings that God has given me and continue on.  I think that when we focus on God it can easily change that perspective.  If I were focused on the world then I’d complain all the time about everything and let it all keep me down.  Thanks to having God as my focus, I will still complain from time to time but instead will be thankful for the life that I live. 

I’d encourage you as well to examine your perspective on life today. Although I’m sure the sum of the parts can often be overwhelming for you as well as I, I’m also sure that if God is continually the focus, you can easily get through the day-to-day part of your life.  Allow God to work on your days and thank Him for all the blessings He has given you as well.

Keep the Focus

I will be the first to admit that the last few weeks at work have been rough.  We've been reorganizing personnel due to one of the doctors leaving.  In the midst of that we had a staff member with a family emergency and another turn in their two weeks’ notice.  As the manager of the office, the majority of the pressure to fix these issues has all been on me, making it extremely difficult to keep up.  So, in the back of my mind even when I am at home (or anywhere else really) I’m thinking about work.  I’m trying to sort out all of the changes and work through the process that is needed in order to get everything back to “normal”. 

As I’m going through this time I have had another thought cross my mind: If I didn’t have God walking with me through all of this could I handle it as well as I am?  Honestly, at the end of every day I’m exhausted, but would I go completely crazy without Him here with me?  Would all of this effect my mood more than it has.

You see, when a person’s ultimate focus is on God and everything else is a far-off second place then problems like these won’t take that person down.  God knows what I’m going through right now at work and knows that I am going to make it through this tough time.  He sees the light at the end of the tunnel even when I don’t and He is directing me there.  God knows that I’m going to be victorious in all of this so that He can revel in that victory.  It’s those realizations that allow me to get through.

This is just an example of what He is reminding me of lately, and I hope it’ll help you through whatever you are going through as well:

1 Peter 5:7-10

[7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

[8] Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. [9] Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

[10] And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. [11] To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

The Size of the Problem Doesn't Matter

Nothing is too great and nothing is too small to commit into the hands of the Lord.  - A.W. Pink 

I have no idea who the person who wrote this is.  Yet, this has been my philosophy in regards to prayer and so I wanted to share this with you. 

I often feel that Christians don’t pray about things because they feel that it’s not important enough.  They think that God just doesn’t have the time for such a small problem.

I’m here to remind you today that God wants to hear from you on every aspect of your life.  He is ready to help you tackle the large things in your life and the small things just the same.  Just because it’s small to you that doesn’t mean that it’s small to God. 

Pray daily on all aspects of your life.  Allow God to work in all areas not just what you think are the things for Him while you hold others back.  God wants to help you, so let Him!

Be Somebody

When we were kids we all had an idea of who we wanted to be when we grew up.  We had a thought as to what job we’d have, what kind of house we’d live in, how many kids we’d have, etc.  Yet, as we’ve grown up, many of us haven’t quite hit those lofty goals that we set for ourselves.  How many of us thought we’d be exactly where we are now?

I was thinking about this the other day while listening to the latest single from Thousand Foot Krutch called “Be Somebody.”  It's not regret for any of the decisions that I've made getting to where I am today, but instead the realization that God has me exactly where He wanted me from the start.  It’s remembering that His plan for my life was always going to be realized and that I am here for His glory.  I am here to do things in the world that He has always known I would do.  He never doubted where I’d be and has never been disappointed in the fact that this is where I am today.  

When you start to look at your life the way God does, as I have just done, how does that make you feel?  It’s not a mistake that each and every person is where he or she is in life because God knew you’d be there from the first second He thought of creating you.  You are here because He wants you where you are right this minute.  Be proud of the relationship that you have with Him and all that you are doing for His kingdom.  Keep striving to do more, as He knows you can do more.  Keep striving to strengthen the bond you have with God and continue to grow in your walk.  Just because He wants you here now doesn’t mean that He doesn’t want you to keep progressing to be the somebody He can use in new ways in the future.

Spiritual Medicine Cabinet

The other day I was looking through our medicine cabinet at home.  I have to tell you, we have a ton of stuff in there.  It’s almost like we’re prepared for anything; yet, whenever we need something, it seems like we don’t have anything to fill that need. 

Has your spiritual life been that way before?  You feel like you are fully stocked as you’ve read your Bible, you’ve prayed, and you've been to church.  You feel like you are fully stocked against anything that the devil may throw your way.  Then all of a sudden something comes up and those supplies are inadequate.

Why does that happen?  How can you feel prepared but instead not have what you need?  Well, this is one thing that I know; unless you are keeping up, those supplies can expire. 

Now you may be asking if all the Bible reading and prayer can expire at this point.  My thought there is that every time that you spend time with God there is something new that He is teaching you.  He speaks to me differently when I read the same Bible stories.  One time He teaches me about this part of the story and the next it’s something entirely different.  Also worship music can hit me in different ways depending on the circumstances which I’m in when hearing it.

So, my point today is that you should never feel fully prepared.  You should always be rotating the stock in your spiritual medicine cabinet to make sure that you have whatever is needed when the enemy attacks.  Keep on reading your Bible. Keep on worshiping God.  This will keep you ready and not finding yourself in need later.

What is all the Buzz About?

A few years ago my wife got the great idea of planting flowers along the driveway side of our house.  She was able to get some flowers from a friend of ours and we went about planting them in the before mentioned area.

One thing that I didn’t know about those flowers was how many bees they would attract when they bloomed.  It’s almost like someone is a beekeeper and has a hive only 2 feet from my house for about 3 weeks every summer.  And these bees aren’t just little things, they are the biggest bees I’ve ever seen!

These flowers remind me of another lesson I’ve learned in my spiritual walk.  It’s easy as a Christian to create a buzz and get people interested in God for a short period of time.  What is difficult is sustaining that buzz and helping those attracted gain their own spiritual walk with Christ. You can easily get a quick glance from those interested in something you are doing, but sustaining that interest is another story.

So, does that mean you shouldn’t get the world’s attention from time to time?  No.  In fact, that attention you gain is great.  Yet, the key is to have a plan for, what you are going to do once you have that attention in order to sustain it and convert it to a love for God.  You have to plan for success, as you never want to plan to fail, right?

Today I want to encourage you to continue seeking others for God and doing what you can to gain the interest of those around you who aren’t Christians in order to bring them to a relationship with Christ.  But, I also want to encourage you to have a plan for what to do with those interested parties once you’ve gotten their attention.  You don’t want to be like the flowers near my driveway that have bees, thankfully, for only a short time.  You want the bees in your life to come near, stay awhile, and get cozy with God!

A Lesson Being Learned

I’m often amazed by the lessons that God teaches me and the variety of ways that He does it.  Quite often He’ll use something that happens to a family member to remind me of a lesson I’d learned in the past or teach me something new.

The past four  weeks have been just such an example.  You see, four weeks ago Noah (my twelve-year-old 7^th grader) broke his wrist sacking the QB and making him fumble in the team’s first scrimmage with the 8^th grade team.  I was standing there on the sidelines watching the play and remember seeing him grab his wrist and say it hurt, but he kept on playing.  I noticed he wasn’t very effective but was still willing to work through the injury.

It was after the practice that we started to evaluate the injury together.  Almost immediately I went back to the time he had broken his arm a few years back and many of the symptoms were the same.  Thankfully I work run an office of four orthopaedic surgeons so I knew which questions to ask, and I quickly determined that he needed to see one of the doctors the next day.

The lesson that God has been teaching me is twofold.  First He taught me that knowledge really can be power.  In this case knowing the right questions to ask and knowing how to treat the injury allowed us to get the wrist taken care of right away instead of letting the injury continue to linger.  This also translates to my spiritual life, as the more I’m in God’s word and the more of it I know, the stronger I am when problems arise.  I know how to handle spiritual situations because He has provided me with the resources to diagnose an issue and take care of it.

The second lesson has been patience.  God has taught me to be patient and not allow my excitement to take over.  I realize that this injury of Noah’s, if not taken care of correctly, could linger the rest of his life.  I’ve come to the realization that 7^th grade football isn’t the end-all-be-all of his career, and that if his wrist takes longer to heal I will be ok with waiting (even if the rest of the parents on the team are not)!  God has reminded me of this lesson as it’s one that I continually need to be reminded of.  It’s His timing for my debt to be paid off, for someone I’m witnessing to gain a full understanding of the relationship they need with God, and with Noah’s wrist healing and his getting back on the field.

God continually uses situations and other people in our lives to teach us lessons.  Sometimes it is a huge mallet hitting us in the head, while other times it’s a simple tap on the shoulder.  Yet, there are always lessons to be learned in order for advancement in our spiritual lives to be attained.

Donuts

I know you can’t tell when you look at me, but I’m a big fan of donuts (Insert laughter here).  There is just something about the flavor of a donut that I love.  My favorite are a strawberry jelly filled that have a icing on top.  There are two main type of the classic round donut.  There are the regular ones with the hole in the middle and also the ones that have the filling in the middle instead. 

Have you ever seen your Christian walk like a donut?  When you are empty inside and missing God then you are like the donut with a hole in the middle.  At your core there is something missing, and you have an area that could be filled.  There is a void that He is just waiting to fill whenever you ask.  Believers are those that have allowed God to fill them and He has done just that.

So, what kind of donut would you rather be?  Would you rather be out there with a hole in the middle, or would you rather be filled?  If you know what you want to be, why not go out and try to find other donuts with a hole in the middle and get them filled as well?

Virus

Have you ever had a computer problem caused by a virus?  You know, one of those nasty things that infects your computer and tries to take over everything?  It really limits what you can do with the computer, and it can even eventually take over the whole thing.

The virus that is infecting your computer is trying to find a weakness in the computer’s defenses and use that weakness in order to spread.  As it spreads it takes over system after system until it’s run out of space to spread, often crippling your computer.

Do you realize that what I’ve described can also be the process behind how sin works in our lives?  Sin is Satan’s way of lowering our defenses in order to block out the good things that God wants us to have in our lives, just like that computer virus does to your computer.  Satan’s goal with sin is to use it as an entrance into your life and allow more sin into your life.  If Satan can get that one crack in the defenses he will eventually try to block you from the relationship with God that you’ve been building.

So how do you keep sin from getting into your life?  Let’s be honest, sin is a part of life.  You and I are not ever going to be perfect so there will be times when sin will enter your life even when you are vigilant in keeping it away.  So, the key, just like with your computer, is having a great antivirus program.  God provides us with  free access to the best program you could ever download:  The Bible!  Then He also sets other people in our lives that are there to support us and help us grow in our relationship with Him.  There are also small groups, Bible studies, worship music, friends, prayer and accountability partners, and so much more readily available for us at any time.  All provided by the God who loves us all and wants to make sure that we are always growing in our relationship with Him.

So, if you want to keep from allowing that virus known as sin a foothold in your life, it’s time to use the programs that God makes readily available to each and every one of us.  

Positive Memories

What do you see when you look back at your childhood?  Do you remember all the little arguments you had with your parents?  Maybe you remember that big fight you had because you didn’t get your way?  Oh, and I’m sure you remember that time at the store when they wouldn’t buy you that new cereal that just came out, the new cassette tape, or vinyl album?

I’m guessing that what you remember most is the good times that you had.  (I realize that not everyone has fond memories, but follow along here please.)  You remember the family trip you took, or the late night you spend talking with mom or dad.  Maybe you remember the first time dad let you have the car keys on your own, or the sporting events of yours that they attended?

My point is that parenting in my mind is about creating those positive encounters that our children will always look back on in a positive light.  They aren’t going to remember the argument you had about not brushing their teeth tonight, but instead they’ll remember the family trip to Cedar Point.  They will remember the fact that you helped them get better at their favorite sport, or at least attended their games. 

God calls us to be good parents, which can leave a lot to interpretation.  But there is one thing I know for sure.  Being with your children as they are growing up and showing an interest in the things they do and wanting to be with them is a big part of being a parent.  Focus on the Family says it like this:

Your presence matters. Children regard your presence as a sign of care and connectedness. Families who eat meals together, play together and build traditions together thrive.

If you want your family to thrive and your children to have those positive memories of their childhood, spend some time with them and create those memories.  It is another way we can make God’s kingdom stronger.

Time for a Decision

Through my many dealings with people I hear a variety of prayer requests.  Lately I’ve heard from a young lady who really wants her life to be different, but she doesn’t understand why God doesn’t fully answer her prayers.  I was praying through how to help this person when God had this thought pop into my head:  “You can be angry with God for what you don't have, or happy with Him for what you do have.”

What a decision that is!  I had never thought of my Christian walk this way but, man, does that hit home!.  Yet, what a true statement it is! 

In our society it’s become easy to be negative and so not accept that God really is working in our lives.  We don’t have things the way we want them, so we just assume that God isn’t helping us.  Instead, He is richly blessing us every day and we don’t even notice.

So, my question for you today is:  Can you accept that you now have to do the hard thing?  You have to decide to be happy for what you do have instead of being unhappy for what you don’t have.  I have a feeling that once you make that change that you’ll find yourself blessed even more.

So, give it a try!  What do you have to lose?

Alone Time

Last Thursday and Friday I took a trip with my friend Larry.  It was a quick trip down into southern Indiana where we had the opportunity to see a number of things related to the movie Hoosiers and the Milan team that inspired the movie.

As much as the trip was about going to see these attractions, it was just as much about spending time with a good friend.  We regularly contact one another about day-to-day happenings; however, we don’t normally get to spend much “face time” with one another when others aren’t around or for any real length of time.

I mention this trip because it can be used to emphasize the importance of reconnecting with God when you think that you haven’t been as close as you’d like to be.  Just as Larry and I did by going on this trip, sometimes you need some time away with God in order to make your relationship with Him stronger.  Sometimes you need to have that one-on-one time with God in order to talk with Him about things that you don’t have time to do in the midst of the day-to-day of your life.  Another benefit of that alone time with God is when you focus on Him, your chances of hearing what He has to say is only going to be stronger.

If you haven’t had that alone time with God lately, then maybe it’s time to get away.  You don’t have to go far to get that time in… as God is much closer than you think.

Background

From time to time I like to spotlight a song that really moves me in a spiritual way.  I know that often my tastes aren’t going to match up with those of some of the readers, but at the same time I feel that the right lyrics can really hit someone and make them look differently at their spiritual walk.

That is why I’m bringing up the song “Background” by Lecrae this week in this blog.  The first time I heard this song I enjoyed the beat.  At that point the words to the song didn’t really hit me, though they have since then.  See what I mean below:

It's evident You run the show, so let me back down.

You take the leading role, and I'll play the background.

I know I miss my cues, know I forget my lines

I'm sticking to Your script, and I'm reading all Your signs.

I don't need my name in lights.  I don't need a starring role.

And why gain the whole wide world, if I'm just gon' loose my soul.

And my ways ain't purified, I'll live according to Your Word.

I can't endure this life without Your wisdom being heard.

So word to every dancer for a pop star,

Cause we all play the background, but mine's a Rock Star.

Yeah. So if you need me I'll be stage right.

Prayin' the whole world will start embracing stage fright.

So let me fall back and stop giving my suggestions

Cause when I follow my obsessions I end up confessing.

That I'm not that impressive, matter of fact I'm who I are.

A trail of star dust leading to the Superstar.

After I actually heard the words to this song, it really hit me.  This is more than just a good tune, it’s a call to my heart to do the exact same thing.  There are many times in my life when I try to take control and not allow God to work.  I try to be the headliner in the story of my life instead of allowing God to take center stage.  I try to run the finances and I don’t allow God to bless the family.  I run the schedule of the day-to-day stuff instead of letting God take control.  And that list of things can go on and on over and over again.  I may not always try to take control, but I definetly do at least here and there.

So, is it time for you to play the background in your life?  Maybe you’ve tried to take control, but now realize that it isn’t your show to headline?  When we truly give up that starring role and allow God to take charge it is amazing the blessings we will realize.  The question is, are you willing to give up that control?

If you want to hear the whole song along with the lyrics check it out here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZosXYJYV8c

God bless!

From the Mouths of Babes

Sunday night my wife Traci and I were talking to one another at the dinner table while the kids were doing their own thing.  I can’t remember what the exact topic was at the time, but I do know that Traci mentioned about something being annoying or frustrating, and of course that is the moment that our youngest, Abby, walked into the room.  She looked at me with an inquisitive face.  I let her know something to the effect that sometimes mommy can get frustrated with things.  Abby’s response:  “Yeah, I know.  I live in this house.”  Then she walked away.

Now I mention this for more than just the comedic value.  (We were dying on that one.)  I mention it because it just goes to prove a very valid point that we hear all of the time.  Our kids are learning from us even when we don’t think they are.  Who knows what put that thought into Abby’s mind, and frankly it might not have been much.  But, what if we had been cursing when we didn’t think the kids were paying attention?  What if we acted one way at church and another at home?  What kind of reaction would the kids have then?

As a Christian you have to be the same person every day.  You never know who is looking.  One wrong step can give anyone the wrong idea of what being a Christian is all about.  This responsibility seems like a lot, I know.  But, I’ll take that over what Jesus endured for me any day.  What about you?

Correct The Message

If you have watched pretty much any TV show or have listened to the radio at all you’ve probably heard a ton of political ads being run for both of the presidential candidates.  We’re being told at every commercial break the things that the other candidate thinks is wrong with his opponent.  Now, I’m not going to get political with you here and tell you who to vote for, as personally I think you should just vote, and who you vote for is your choice.  Instead I want to point something out to everyone.

If you had heard the messages, then I’m guessing you are just as tired of them as I am.  Frankly I’m sick and tired of all the negative ads that both sides have been putting out, which has really begun to hurt the credibility of both sides in my eyes.  But, with that said, it has made me realize something when it comes to my spiritual life in regards to witnessing to others.  I think that a lot of time we point out to the people in the world all that is wrong with their way of life.  We tell them all that they are doing wrong and think that this is the best approach to winning lives for Jesus.  Yet, just like the negative political ads, this approach can often have the exact opposite effect.  Instead, the person we are witnessing to then gets turned off by the negativity and goes even further away from the one person in the world that can really change their lives. . .God.

How many more lives would we win for Christ if we focused only on the positives of what God can do for someone’s life?  Yes, it’s not an easy road for some to get here.  However, if the person being witnessed to  finds enough reason to walk with God, maybe they will make that decision!  If we shine the light away from telling people all they do wrong and focus on what God can do right, do you think we’ll win more lives for Christ?

When witnessing, what do you focus on?  Is it what they are doing wrong, or what God can do right?  If your focus is on the wrong it’s not a problem, as that is easy to change. 

Today is the day…and this is an election you want to win.  Go out and campaign – promoting all that God can do to all whom you witness to…starting today.

Crops

So this past weekend I took a trip to Defiance, Ohio to take my niece back to her parents after she spent a few days with us last week.  There are really only two ways to get to Defiance from Norwalk and both are through a lot of farm land. 

On this trip we took Rt. 281 as it gets us a little closer to our destination on the south side of town, and frankly it’s not a very busy road.  Usually while driving this route one is lucky to see a total of 50 cars during the drive.

While traveling home on Sunday I really looked at all the farm land.  There was a big difference in many of the areas that we were driving through.  Some of the corn along the road was much like the corn here around Norwalk, nice and tall and ready for harvesting.  But, there were also long stretches where the corn wasn’t even knee-high.  It wasn’t fully developed, and since my brother-in-law is a farmer himself, I know that the farmers are wondering if it will ever reach full maturity.

I bring up these crops because it does remind me of our spiritual lives.  In any area one can find some of us that are just starting to bud as a “crop”.  Just a little while down the road you’ll find some that are fully developed, and still further down the road you may find some that are not growing at all. 

The question is, how do you want God to see you as He passes you by on the road?  I know I want to always be growing, until right before He is ready to take me from here.  On that day I hope He finds me fully ready for harvesting.

Resilient

One of the great things we inherited when we bought our house was a clematis that is on the outside section of our driveway.  We can look at from our kitchen window.   Every year we get to enjoy the plant as it grows from nothing and then eventually produces these great flowers.

Well, this year there was a problem with the neighbors accidently thinking it was a weed and then chopping it off.  It was a lapse in judgment, and they were just trying to help; however, it did make us wonder if it would get to fully bloom once again this year.  I’m happy to report that the picture attached to this post was just taken on Sunday, and the clematis is fully blooming once again.

I mention our clematis today because it is an example of the resiliency that we all need in our spiritual walks.  There are many times in our lives where we’ve started to grow in one area or another and something comes up and stops all of that growth from the roots.  Yet, if we truly are looking for a full life with God, then we need to be like our clematis and start that growth all over again.  It’s that resilience that will allow us to continue to bloom for the world to see.

So, if you feel that your spiritual walk is being stopped for whatever reason, my encouragement to you today is to get back to work and continue to grow.  You will be rewarded, as will the rest of the world watching you grow.

Progress

As a person who really enjoys coaching my kids and their teams, there is one huge thing that I like to stress.  My goal is to have every kid make progress every season. Some kids will make a lot of progress, while others will only inch along. Yet, if they are making progress I am a happy coach.


I think God feels the same way with all of us.  He's happiest when we are making positive progress with our spiritual lives. Some of us will be making huge leaps in our spiritual walks while others will just be crawling. The most important thing is that we are all making progress every day.


Are you making progress? If not, maybe it is time to get back on track.   Get on track through prayer, Bible study, small groups, or even worship music.  Just get yourself back to making progress.