Monday October 25, 2010
“Overcoming a Critical Spirit”
Read James 4:1-12
Grandma used to say, “If you can’t say something good about somebody, don’t say anything at all.” How many have heard that saying? Yet, why do we find it so hard to live up to that old saying? James had his own ideas on the cause of a critical spirit. When he talked to a group of believers who were bickering, fighting and quarreling among themselves and being critical with one another, he said that it was a philosophy of life that is characteristic of the unregenerate mind and that it is a major ingredient of worldliness. Instead of a climate of peace necessary for the production of righteousness, James’ readers were living in an atmosphere that was anything but peaceful. And he boldly comes out and tells them, “I want you to stop it.” He was trying to jar them loose from their selfish way of life that was causing them to find something wrong with everybody and everything.
1. The Problem of a Critical Spirit: Most of the time we don’t even see the seriousness of a critical spirit until it has taken a toll on our spiritual lives and robbed us of our peace. We begin to realize that something is completely out of whack in our lives, but we can’t always put a finger on what it is. Different things may lead to a critical spirit. It may be caused by external things around us or it may come from internal thoughts and motives. James’ readers had fallen into the habit of criticizing one another and in verse 11 James says, “Stop speaking against one another.” He crushes any right his readers may have claimed to sit in judgment over others. He rules out the harsh, unkind critical spirit that continually finds fault with others.
A bishop was invited to dinner. During the meal he was astonished to hear the younger daughter state that a person must be very brave to go to church these days. “Why do you say that?” asked the bishop.
“Because,” she answered, “I heard Dad tell Mom last Sunday that there was a big shot in the pulpit, the canon was in the vestry, the choir murdered the anthem, and the organist drowned everybody!”
Not only does James speak of the destructiveness of a critical spirit but in Matthew 7:1-5 Jesus said to avoid it. Luke 6:37 says, “do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. verse 38 says for “with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Tuesday October 26, 2010
Why We Criticize
Read Rom. 2:1; Heb. 12:15; Rom. 12:2
Negativeness - A bad attitude and a negative view of life. A person may have unconfessed sin in their life or may harbor unforgiveness or bitterness toward someone who may have offended them.
Insecurity - Criticism is often a subconscious means to “elevate one’s own self image.” By putting others down, they are inwardly trying to feel more important or that “they know more.” Jealousy toward the spiritual victories of others is often the cause of criticism and belittling comments. Popular ministers of the Gospel are often the target of such tactics.
The Devil - As we may realize, the Devil specializes in influencing obsessive behavior. He may use any or all of the above channels, or other techniques, to influence a complaining or critical attitude to stir up turmoil and strife within the body of Christ . We must be on guard that none of us would be used as a tool of the Devil to bring harassment or discouragement upon our brothers or sisters through continual criticism, as the Bible warns us not to “give place” to the Devil. Remember that Satan is specifically called “the accuser of the brethren”. Are you an accuser of the brethren?
The Bible says that the reason that we are to come together as a church is, not to criticize, but to “exhort” (encourage) one another. “Cursing the darkness” won’t change anything, but we must light a candle and “expose the light” of God’s Word. By sharing the truth of God’s Word, and encouraging people to live in its truth, people will change. Love and encouragement is a “motivational force.”
Wednesday October 27, 2010
Judge Not……..
Read Matthew 7:1,2; James 2:13; John 8:7
Finding fault and being critical are some of the easiest things to do. They seem to come naturally to us. But Jesus told us not to judge "lest you be judged" (Matt. 7:1, NASB). We should obey His command.
Jesus then explained why a judgmental attitude is so dangerous: "God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them" (v.2).
When we judge, we invite judgment upon ourselves. The Bible says that "judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy" (James 2:13).
By judging others, we hide our own hypocrisy. For example, when the religious leaders brought a woman to Jesus who had been caught in sexual sin, they wanted to kill her. But Jesus responded, "If any of you have never sinned, then go ahead and throw the first stone at her". Nobody threw one.
God alone reserves the right to judge each person. As the Apostle Paul said, "Dear friends, don't try to get even. Let God take revenge. In the Scriptures the Lord says, `I am the one to take revenge and pay them back'".
Thursday October 28, 2010
Give Grace
Read Acts 3:19; Romans 10:9,10; Matthew 10:8
Have you learned to receive God's grace and mercy? This is the first step to overcoming a critical spirit. If you have never thanked Jesus for paying the penalty you deserve, do so now. Simply repent of your sins and turn your life over to Him. If you know Jesus as your Savior, thank Him for His grace and mercy. Thank Him for forgiving you of your sins. Thank Him for giving you a second chance at life. Now, offer grace and mercy to others, Jesus said, "Freely you received, freely give" . Instead of judgment, extend God's love to those around you, beginning with your family, your friends and your co-workers. Often those closest to us feel the harshest effects of our judgmental attitudes.
From now on when you feel the temptation to become critical, follow Jesus' clear instruction to take a close look at your own life first. Ask God to forgive you for your sins. You may even discover why you are so critical of others. Remember, it's easy to be critical. The faults of others are often very obvious to us. During these times we need to make sure we give grace instead. Thank God for those people and ask the Lord to bless them and reveal His will to them. It's really quite simple: God has granted you mercy. He has paid the debt for your sins. Now, the only debt you owe is to offer His love and mercy to others, for "mercy triumphs over judgment". Finally, be sure to spend time with God in prayer and study the Bible. As you read the Scriptures, ask God to help you to be patient with those around you. In time, you will change from a fault-finder to a grace-giver as you learn to live like Jesus lived.
Friday October 29, 2010
Overcoming A Critical Spirit (Part 1)
Read Proverbs 3:34
A husband and wife were leaving the office of a marriage counselor. The husband turned to his wife as they walked to the car: “Well, did what the counselor say about being considerate and not criticizing me finally get through your thick skull?” I don’t think that it did!!!
Overcoming a Critical Spirit: James gives us a way out when we find that a critical sprit has crept into our lives. It is not so important to analyze the cause but to come up with the solution. James is a book that is very practical. He says first of all that a critical spirit originates out of our own selfishness--wanting to have our own way so much that we will fight to get it. He tells his readers, “This is the way the world thinks--not the way God thinks.” His first point in overcoming a critical spirit is: Submitting to what God’s will was for them was the first step toward resolving the problem. It was the first step toward receiving the grace they needed to overcome the problem. Through saying “OK, God, I will go your way, it brought about the grace or unmerited favor of God that they could quit insisting on their own way and begin to see things in an entirely different light. The Message Bible says, “So let God work His will in you.” By submitting to God--saying OK to what He wants for you, you will be able to see an atmosphere of peace being restored through His grace operating in your life. Proverbs 3:34 says, “he gives grace to the humble”--the quality that helps to overcome the things that pull us down. Submission to God’s will leads to OBEDIENCE. It is not obedience but LEADS TO IT.
Submission to God is what the devil tries to hinder. He would prefer that we justify our critical actions and statements toward others by saying, “I had A RIGHT to say that.” Matthew Henry says, “Resolution shuts and bolts the door against temptation to be critical.” I RESOLVE to resist the devil and his suggestions. How do you do this? The Message Bible clarifies this by saying, “Yell a loud NO to the devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet YES to God and he’ll be there in no time.”
The Weekender October 30, 2010
Overcoming A Critical Spirit (Part 2)
Read Luke 15:20; Psalms 24:4;
The third way out of a critical spirit was another invitation to draw near to God. It was a response to what God had already done for them. The first step in man’s salvation was taken by God. To DRAW NEAR to God is itself a response to that prior call. Setting their hearts on having their own way, James’ readers have drifted away from God. Have you drifted away little by little this summer making other priorities more important? Come near to God and He will come near to you. In Luke 15:20 the prodigal son “got up and went to his father.” Just the same, God is waiting on our response. The heart that was distant must now become re-acquainted with Him.
Wash your hands you sinners. Purify your hearts....These two are a call for repentance--a change of direction. He calls them SINNERS because of the extent of their involvement in worldly attitudes and actions. They were making SIN A HABIT rather than it being an exception to the rule. Washing your hands symbolizes the OUTWARD actions. He is saying, “Clean up your act.” The Message Bible says, “Quit Dabbling in Sin.” If you are still doing these things, then quit. Change directions. Clean up your conduct. Along with that he is saying and clean up your INNER thoughts and motives toward others. Purify your hearts as well.
The next four are an emphasis on the SERIOUSNESS OF INTENT: Grieve: repent in misery--be truly sorry for your sins. Mourn: is a passionate grief that cannot be hidden. People will know that you really mean business. Wail: change the laughter into a wail. Gloom: joy to gloom. These all indicate the stages of all -out-repentance.
The Message Bible clarifies this a little more by saying, Hit bottom and cry your eyes out The fun and games are over Get serious, really serious Get down on your knees before the Master. It is the only way you’ll get on your feet.
James’ instructions brings with it a promise of successfully overcoming a critical spirit. Humble yourself before the Lord and he will lift you up. This process will get you back on your feet again. It will restore peace to your life once again. Getting over a habit of being critical is not an overnight happening. It is usually a process that takes time and a serious change of attitude.
Do you build people up or tear people down? When you are ready to criticize someone remember God’s law of love and say something good instead.
October 25, 2010
October 18, 2010
October 18-23, 2010
Monday October 18, 2010
Do You Still Retain Integrity?
Read Job 2:9;
“Do you still retain your integrity?” This is what Job’s wife said to him. In this process it is very important to note what she was saying to her husband. The term used by her was “tummah.” It comes from the word tom, meaning completion or perfection. She was saying that his completion was God and his faith was in God. She was challenging him to curse or forsake his faith in God and therefore die. He even in the hard places retained his identity with his Heavenly Father.
A statement that I give to people is: “If you lose integrity to your process you will destroy value to your product!” Only God can lead you through this process. This path is called the “Way of Peace.” However you must understand that God has gifts within the Body of Christ and that many times especially in the places where we are so messed up emotionally we need to hear from and through other people.
If we understood that God desires so much to lead us to the path that is the right way for us. Too many of us are in the spot where we are thinking that He doesn’t desire to help us in any way. However we must realize that He has an unending passion to be in our lives and this is proven by the death on the cross by His son Jesus.
Tuesday October 19, 2010
Remain In The Spirit Of Faith
Read 1 Corinthians 12:25
There are two relevant truths to this statement. Number 1 is that it is impossible to get up from your circumstances in life without God. The number two aspect is that it is impossible to please God without Faith. The evidence of faith occurs in two ways. First is what we are doing and second in what we are saying. James says show me your faith without your works.
You have to grow this faith you do this by “Hearing the Word of the Lord.” Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” He was quoting scripture when he said this, Deuteronomy 6:4. This was the time of His testing in the wilderness. Jesus was ministered to and cared for by the Angels at his testing and trying. We are members of the Body of Christ and by God’s design should be cared for by others within the Body.
Wednesday October 20, 2010
God’s Sovereignty
Read Psalms 48:1; 95:3,6;
The sovereignty of God may be defined as the exercise of His supremacy, His infinite rule, His authority and power. Being infinitely elevated above the highest creature in authority, nature, and being, He is the Most High Lord of heaven and earth and all creation whether angels or the heavenly hosts.
Basically, God’s sovereignty means that He is the Supreme Ruler who immanently and personally rules over all the affairs of the universe—and this includes our personal lives both as individuals and as a local body of believers. God’s sovereignty is a place of rest for the child of God, as well as a cause of worship
.
One particular place of rest and application in relation to God’s sovereignty and rule is His guidance and work to accomplish His purposes for our lives individually and corporately. Paul has this in mind, at least in part, in Philippians 1:6 when he says: “I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Realizing and acknowledging God is sovereign keeps on the path to peace.
Thursday October 21, 2010
Forgiveness…..Is A Choice!
Read Colossians 3:13
It is not uncommon for Christians to have questions about forgiveness. Forgiveness does not come easy for most of us. Our natural instinct is to recoil in self-protection when we've been injured. We don't naturally overflow with mercy, grace and forgiveness when we've been wronged. Is forgiveness a conscious choice, a physical act involving the will, or is it a feeling, an emotional state of being?
I believe forgiveness is a choice we make through a decision of our will, motivated by obedience to God and his command to forgive. The Bible instructs us to forgive as the Lord forgave us.
How do we forgive when we don't feel like it? How do we translate the decision to forgive into a change of heart? We forgive by faith, out of obedience. Since forgiveness goes against our nature, we must forgive by faith, whether we feel like it or not. We must trust God to do the work in us that needs to be done so that the forgiveness will be complete. I believe God honors our commitment to obey Him and our desire to please him when we choose to forgive. He completes the work in his time. As we walk in obedience to God, we walk on the pathway to peace.
Friday October 22, 2010
Walking In The Atmosphere God Is Releasing
Read James 4:8; 2 Chronicles 15:2; Genesis 32:24,25; Psalm 51:17
We are in a season when God is releasing more and more revelation, and He is opening up the heavens over us. We are discovering that nothing is impossible with God! He is releasing great favor and great blessing on us as we learn to live out of a place of rest. It’s easier for Holy Spirit to come when we are resting and at peace. His goodness and glory will come and our hearts of thanksgiving will change spiritual atmospheres. Do you change atmospheres? The presence of God extinguishes the darkness, if we carry Him into the situations we go into. Praise Him in all circumstances and God will bring breakthrough and blessing!
SPEAKING LIFE! “Eat from the tree of life and speak positively! Show mercy, show love, show kindness. Make sure the words you speak have life in them!” Sue prayed for several people to be healed at the end of the session and Rob came up to give testimony that instead of talking about having high blood pressure God had told him to talk about having blood peace – speaking life starts with the word we speak over ourselves!
The Weekender October 23, 2010
What Path Are You On?
Read 1 Kings 8:56
"Blessed be God, who has given peace to his people Israel just as he said he'd do. Not one of all those good and wonderful words that he spoke through Moses has misfired. May God, our very own God, continue to be with us just as he was with our ancestors—may he never give up and walk out on us. May he keep us centered and devoted to him, following the life path he has cleared, watching the signposts, walking at the pace and rhythms he laid down for our ancestors. 1 Kings 8:56.
Take today and reflect on the path you are on and then asked God to speak to you and show you if you are on the right path. Journal in the space below.
Do You Still Retain Integrity?
Read Job 2:9;
“Do you still retain your integrity?” This is what Job’s wife said to him. In this process it is very important to note what she was saying to her husband. The term used by her was “tummah.” It comes from the word tom, meaning completion or perfection. She was saying that his completion was God and his faith was in God. She was challenging him to curse or forsake his faith in God and therefore die. He even in the hard places retained his identity with his Heavenly Father.
A statement that I give to people is: “If you lose integrity to your process you will destroy value to your product!” Only God can lead you through this process. This path is called the “Way of Peace.” However you must understand that God has gifts within the Body of Christ and that many times especially in the places where we are so messed up emotionally we need to hear from and through other people.
If we understood that God desires so much to lead us to the path that is the right way for us. Too many of us are in the spot where we are thinking that He doesn’t desire to help us in any way. However we must realize that He has an unending passion to be in our lives and this is proven by the death on the cross by His son Jesus.
Tuesday October 19, 2010
Remain In The Spirit Of Faith
Read 1 Corinthians 12:25
There are two relevant truths to this statement. Number 1 is that it is impossible to get up from your circumstances in life without God. The number two aspect is that it is impossible to please God without Faith. The evidence of faith occurs in two ways. First is what we are doing and second in what we are saying. James says show me your faith without your works.
You have to grow this faith you do this by “Hearing the Word of the Lord.” Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” He was quoting scripture when he said this, Deuteronomy 6:4. This was the time of His testing in the wilderness. Jesus was ministered to and cared for by the Angels at his testing and trying. We are members of the Body of Christ and by God’s design should be cared for by others within the Body.
Wednesday October 20, 2010
God’s Sovereignty
Read Psalms 48:1; 95:3,6;
The sovereignty of God may be defined as the exercise of His supremacy, His infinite rule, His authority and power. Being infinitely elevated above the highest creature in authority, nature, and being, He is the Most High Lord of heaven and earth and all creation whether angels or the heavenly hosts.
Basically, God’s sovereignty means that He is the Supreme Ruler who immanently and personally rules over all the affairs of the universe—and this includes our personal lives both as individuals and as a local body of believers. God’s sovereignty is a place of rest for the child of God, as well as a cause of worship
.
One particular place of rest and application in relation to God’s sovereignty and rule is His guidance and work to accomplish His purposes for our lives individually and corporately. Paul has this in mind, at least in part, in Philippians 1:6 when he says: “I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Realizing and acknowledging God is sovereign keeps on the path to peace.
Thursday October 21, 2010
Forgiveness…..Is A Choice!
Read Colossians 3:13
It is not uncommon for Christians to have questions about forgiveness. Forgiveness does not come easy for most of us. Our natural instinct is to recoil in self-protection when we've been injured. We don't naturally overflow with mercy, grace and forgiveness when we've been wronged. Is forgiveness a conscious choice, a physical act involving the will, or is it a feeling, an emotional state of being?
I believe forgiveness is a choice we make through a decision of our will, motivated by obedience to God and his command to forgive. The Bible instructs us to forgive as the Lord forgave us.
How do we forgive when we don't feel like it? How do we translate the decision to forgive into a change of heart? We forgive by faith, out of obedience. Since forgiveness goes against our nature, we must forgive by faith, whether we feel like it or not. We must trust God to do the work in us that needs to be done so that the forgiveness will be complete. I believe God honors our commitment to obey Him and our desire to please him when we choose to forgive. He completes the work in his time. As we walk in obedience to God, we walk on the pathway to peace.
Friday October 22, 2010
Walking In The Atmosphere God Is Releasing
Read James 4:8; 2 Chronicles 15:2; Genesis 32:24,25; Psalm 51:17
We are in a season when God is releasing more and more revelation, and He is opening up the heavens over us. We are discovering that nothing is impossible with God! He is releasing great favor and great blessing on us as we learn to live out of a place of rest. It’s easier for Holy Spirit to come when we are resting and at peace. His goodness and glory will come and our hearts of thanksgiving will change spiritual atmospheres. Do you change atmospheres? The presence of God extinguishes the darkness, if we carry Him into the situations we go into. Praise Him in all circumstances and God will bring breakthrough and blessing!
SPEAKING LIFE! “Eat from the tree of life and speak positively! Show mercy, show love, show kindness. Make sure the words you speak have life in them!” Sue prayed for several people to be healed at the end of the session and Rob came up to give testimony that instead of talking about having high blood pressure God had told him to talk about having blood peace – speaking life starts with the word we speak over ourselves!
The Weekender October 23, 2010
What Path Are You On?
Read 1 Kings 8:56
"Blessed be God, who has given peace to his people Israel just as he said he'd do. Not one of all those good and wonderful words that he spoke through Moses has misfired. May God, our very own God, continue to be with us just as he was with our ancestors—may he never give up and walk out on us. May he keep us centered and devoted to him, following the life path he has cleared, watching the signposts, walking at the pace and rhythms he laid down for our ancestors. 1 Kings 8:56.
Take today and reflect on the path you are on and then asked God to speak to you and show you if you are on the right path. Journal in the space below.
October 10, 2010
October 11- 16, 2010
Monday October 11, 2010
Mirror, Mirror
Read Romans 8:9-11
Who would not like to be called the fairest or the bravest or the strongest or the kindest or the wisest of them all? Who would not like to wake up every morning and have the mirror give compliments? Too bad that only happens in fairy tales.
In real life mirrors do not praise us; they reveal the truth about us. They do not flatter us, they unveil us. There’s nothing like looking into the mirror to shock us back to reality. In fact have you ever really looked at yourself in the mirror? Several years ago God ask me to look in the mirror. Then He asked “what do you see?” I said okay God. Well I guess I see and okay guy! Then God said to me” pull off the mask you are wearing!” This startled me for a moment and I was frozen standing there at the mirror. Then He spoke again and told me to “pull off the mask you are wearing!”
Imagine what life would be like if we could stop stepping on stage all the time. Imagine if we could simply be real with God, honest with others and up front about the things that are really important to us. What if we could just be ourselves? Simply me! Simply you! Honest about our shortcomings. Genuine with our love. Transparent about our motives. What if we could remove all masks and just be who we are?
Tuesday October 12, 2010
Examine Your Motives
Matthew 7:1-5
Why do we criticize? There is usually some type of insecurity or character flaw in us that we are trying to keep from coming to the surface. There are two types of criticism, there is good and bad. Good (criticism which we rarely use) is insightful and is meant to bring well being. Bad criticism targets a person in the spirit of anger, frustration, impatience and irritation. Why do we criticize negatively? Bad criticism never is to change another. When we criticize we often find that the root is rage and anger and we use it to conceal a flaw or wrong in ourselves.
Criticism causes the person being criticized to feel resentment. When you criticize another's actions or behaviors, especially in a negative way, it arouses feelings of anger and resentment in most people. Criticism causes the person being criticized to justify his or her actions. It is a natural response for one to become defensive when being criticized. The most common form of defense is justification. When one justifies one's actions, they are convincing themselves even more that they are right. This brings the parties further from resolution.
There will be times when you feel that criticisms and complaints are necessary. Ask yourself first, what do I plan on accomplishing by criticizing? Very often the real answer will be "so I can feel better", in which case, the criticism or complaint is not necessary. If you wish to bring about a change in another's behavior, then you must practice the art of changing people without giving offense or arousing resentment. Criticisms and complaints lead to resentment and ill feelings that rarely bring about positive, lasting changes. Learn to control your emotions by practicing understanding and having empathy. By avoiding criticizing and complaining, you will be better respected in both your personal and professional relationships.
Wednesday October 13, 2010
Jealousy Is Not Reasonable
Read John 3:26-30
Though it is often said that jealousy or envy is the greatest form of flattery, when we are jealous/envious, interaction becomes quite tense. Someone who is truly experiencing these emotions is not thinking clearly. They are distracted by these negative feelings and are unable to openly communicate. Suddenly being jealous or envious of someone becomes an obstacle.
People who are jealous are not being reasonable. Whether you are the jealous one or the object of the jealousy, it's an unpleasant emotion that we perpetuate ourselves. It usually stems from a sense of low self-esteem and the misguided notion that we won't be able to achieve all the things we want. Feeling jealous or envious only makes us feel worse than we already do. When we move through the emotions of jealousy or envy we can become angry and rage can be projected towards the person we are envious of. Make an effort to shift your perspective away from what someone else has done and more towards God and what He has planned for your life.
Thursday October 14, 2010
Watch Your Words
Read Philippians 2:14; Proverbs 4:23; 18:21
Complaining is dangerous business. It can damage or even destroy your relationship with God, your relationships with other people, and even with your relationship with yourself.
It’s easy to complain. We likely don’t realize how much we do it. I believe it’s one of the most challenging things to overcome. Philippians 2:14 says, “Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining…” (The Amplified Bible). That’s a pretty clear command. And not something anyone can do in their own strength.
Are you speaking life or death? Remember that every word you speak has some kind of effect. Proverbs 18:21 says that our words have the power of life or death in them – the way we speak really does matter. So it makes sense that we should avoid complaining at all cost.
I think of complaining as the enemy’s language. When we do it, we open the door for him to come into a situation and cause trouble. On the other hand, praise and thanksgiving is God’s language. Through thanksgiving and praise we can find freedom.
It’s a difficult process getting to the point of having real freedom. But it’s worth it! We just need to accept that gaining spiritual maturity is going to hurt. Growing up in God is not comfortable. There are times of sacrifice involved. And there will be times when God will ask you to do things and you’ll feel that you can’t stand it – but He’ll give you the grace to do it. Something else that helps me is meditating on scriptures about watching the words of my mouth. Make it your goal to have a constant attitude of gratitude. Resist the temptation to complain and instead praise and thank God for who He is and all He’s done for you. By God’s grace and through His strength, you can overcome complaining and live each day with a thankful heart!
Friday October 15, 2010
Does Gossip Hurt Anyone?
Read Ephesians 4:29, 31-32
Joan the perfect little churchgoer wouldn't be caught dead with the National Enquirer on her coffee table. She doesn't need it. She has her own sources for the "inside scoop" about more local celebrities -- the pastor’s obnoxious wife, the five foot five wavy-haired newcomer whom Juanita brought to church last week, and the latest failing of the pastor she doesn't like.
What's wrong with that? We all talk about what's going on. After all, it's only harmless gossip.
Gossip seldom slows down, it suffers distortion as it passes from mouth to ear. We've all played the party game where the piece of news is whispered at the front of the line bears hardly no resemblance to the initial story by the time it is over with. Further, gossip is nearly always one-sided. It tries a case on the basis of the prosecution's evidence alone. And then, rumors get out of control and the damage cannot be undone. Even though we bear no grudge, we must be on the lookout lest we be sucked into passing the gossip along. Instant recognition of gossip is vital. We should stop the tale-bearer in mid-sentence, if necessary. We ought to challenge our Christian brothers, "Have you confronted the person with this?" To give ear to a nasty tale will not only injure our spirit but encourage gossipers to continue their destruction. We will either be part of the problem or part of the solution.
The Weekender October 16, 2010
God Is Always With You
Judges 6 and 7
Low self esteem comes from a poor self image and means you have no confidence in yourself. Yourself image is based on how you see yourself. Do you think you are a good, reliable, hardworking, honest or friendly person? Do you like what you see when you look in the mirror or do you believe others look better and dress better than you? Low self esteem feeds your negative thinking and causes you to believe the criticism others make of you. Do you take what others say and not speak up? This can cause you to lose confidence so it is vital to end negative thoughts if you want to build your self esteem. We mistakenly compare how we feel with how others behave. Inevitably, most others will behave more happily than we feel. So we conclude that no one else could feel as bad as we do. This creates a vicious circle and our self esteem drops further. Dwelling on the negative is like cancer. It grows and gets worse. It's pretty hard to force yourself just to think differently when you feel so negative.
In Judges 6 & 7, we learn how Gideon was found, cowering in fear and self doubt. He’s hardly a picture of confidence! Gideon, like most who lack confidence withdraws from the world, hiding away from the world. He is a picture of hopelessness in today’s terms; he’s a loser with seriously low self-esteem. An Angel of the Lord finds Gideon hiding like a chicken and calls him a mighty man of valor! The Angel tells Gideon to save Israel,” to go in the strength you have! “I could just imagine what Gideon was thinking. Go in the strength I have, can’t you see I am hiding. God tells Gideon He will always be with him and they would when the battle together.
The great lesson we learn from Gideon is that low self esteem is a hindrance and with God’s help and his belief in all of us we can step up to the plate and accept God-esteem. God’s grace allows you to do the impossible, when it is in his will! If you have a big challenge you need God confidence not self confidence. Most self-confidence evaporates like mist under testing and pressure. But you only need God to believe in you!
Mirror, Mirror
Read Romans 8:9-11
Who would not like to be called the fairest or the bravest or the strongest or the kindest or the wisest of them all? Who would not like to wake up every morning and have the mirror give compliments? Too bad that only happens in fairy tales.
In real life mirrors do not praise us; they reveal the truth about us. They do not flatter us, they unveil us. There’s nothing like looking into the mirror to shock us back to reality. In fact have you ever really looked at yourself in the mirror? Several years ago God ask me to look in the mirror. Then He asked “what do you see?” I said okay God. Well I guess I see and okay guy! Then God said to me” pull off the mask you are wearing!” This startled me for a moment and I was frozen standing there at the mirror. Then He spoke again and told me to “pull off the mask you are wearing!”
Imagine what life would be like if we could stop stepping on stage all the time. Imagine if we could simply be real with God, honest with others and up front about the things that are really important to us. What if we could just be ourselves? Simply me! Simply you! Honest about our shortcomings. Genuine with our love. Transparent about our motives. What if we could remove all masks and just be who we are?
Tuesday October 12, 2010
Examine Your Motives
Matthew 7:1-5
Why do we criticize? There is usually some type of insecurity or character flaw in us that we are trying to keep from coming to the surface. There are two types of criticism, there is good and bad. Good (criticism which we rarely use) is insightful and is meant to bring well being. Bad criticism targets a person in the spirit of anger, frustration, impatience and irritation. Why do we criticize negatively? Bad criticism never is to change another. When we criticize we often find that the root is rage and anger and we use it to conceal a flaw or wrong in ourselves.
Criticism causes the person being criticized to feel resentment. When you criticize another's actions or behaviors, especially in a negative way, it arouses feelings of anger and resentment in most people. Criticism causes the person being criticized to justify his or her actions. It is a natural response for one to become defensive when being criticized. The most common form of defense is justification. When one justifies one's actions, they are convincing themselves even more that they are right. This brings the parties further from resolution.
There will be times when you feel that criticisms and complaints are necessary. Ask yourself first, what do I plan on accomplishing by criticizing? Very often the real answer will be "so I can feel better", in which case, the criticism or complaint is not necessary. If you wish to bring about a change in another's behavior, then you must practice the art of changing people without giving offense or arousing resentment. Criticisms and complaints lead to resentment and ill feelings that rarely bring about positive, lasting changes. Learn to control your emotions by practicing understanding and having empathy. By avoiding criticizing and complaining, you will be better respected in both your personal and professional relationships.
Wednesday October 13, 2010
Jealousy Is Not Reasonable
Read John 3:26-30
Though it is often said that jealousy or envy is the greatest form of flattery, when we are jealous/envious, interaction becomes quite tense. Someone who is truly experiencing these emotions is not thinking clearly. They are distracted by these negative feelings and are unable to openly communicate. Suddenly being jealous or envious of someone becomes an obstacle.
People who are jealous are not being reasonable. Whether you are the jealous one or the object of the jealousy, it's an unpleasant emotion that we perpetuate ourselves. It usually stems from a sense of low self-esteem and the misguided notion that we won't be able to achieve all the things we want. Feeling jealous or envious only makes us feel worse than we already do. When we move through the emotions of jealousy or envy we can become angry and rage can be projected towards the person we are envious of. Make an effort to shift your perspective away from what someone else has done and more towards God and what He has planned for your life.
Thursday October 14, 2010
Watch Your Words
Read Philippians 2:14; Proverbs 4:23; 18:21
Complaining is dangerous business. It can damage or even destroy your relationship with God, your relationships with other people, and even with your relationship with yourself.
It’s easy to complain. We likely don’t realize how much we do it. I believe it’s one of the most challenging things to overcome. Philippians 2:14 says, “Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining…” (The Amplified Bible). That’s a pretty clear command. And not something anyone can do in their own strength.
Are you speaking life or death? Remember that every word you speak has some kind of effect. Proverbs 18:21 says that our words have the power of life or death in them – the way we speak really does matter. So it makes sense that we should avoid complaining at all cost.
I think of complaining as the enemy’s language. When we do it, we open the door for him to come into a situation and cause trouble. On the other hand, praise and thanksgiving is God’s language. Through thanksgiving and praise we can find freedom.
It’s a difficult process getting to the point of having real freedom. But it’s worth it! We just need to accept that gaining spiritual maturity is going to hurt. Growing up in God is not comfortable. There are times of sacrifice involved. And there will be times when God will ask you to do things and you’ll feel that you can’t stand it – but He’ll give you the grace to do it. Something else that helps me is meditating on scriptures about watching the words of my mouth. Make it your goal to have a constant attitude of gratitude. Resist the temptation to complain and instead praise and thank God for who He is and all He’s done for you. By God’s grace and through His strength, you can overcome complaining and live each day with a thankful heart!
Friday October 15, 2010
Does Gossip Hurt Anyone?
Read Ephesians 4:29, 31-32
Joan the perfect little churchgoer wouldn't be caught dead with the National Enquirer on her coffee table. She doesn't need it. She has her own sources for the "inside scoop" about more local celebrities -- the pastor’s obnoxious wife, the five foot five wavy-haired newcomer whom Juanita brought to church last week, and the latest failing of the pastor she doesn't like.
What's wrong with that? We all talk about what's going on. After all, it's only harmless gossip.
Gossip seldom slows down, it suffers distortion as it passes from mouth to ear. We've all played the party game where the piece of news is whispered at the front of the line bears hardly no resemblance to the initial story by the time it is over with. Further, gossip is nearly always one-sided. It tries a case on the basis of the prosecution's evidence alone. And then, rumors get out of control and the damage cannot be undone. Even though we bear no grudge, we must be on the lookout lest we be sucked into passing the gossip along. Instant recognition of gossip is vital. We should stop the tale-bearer in mid-sentence, if necessary. We ought to challenge our Christian brothers, "Have you confronted the person with this?" To give ear to a nasty tale will not only injure our spirit but encourage gossipers to continue their destruction. We will either be part of the problem or part of the solution.
The Weekender October 16, 2010
God Is Always With You
Judges 6 and 7
Low self esteem comes from a poor self image and means you have no confidence in yourself. Yourself image is based on how you see yourself. Do you think you are a good, reliable, hardworking, honest or friendly person? Do you like what you see when you look in the mirror or do you believe others look better and dress better than you? Low self esteem feeds your negative thinking and causes you to believe the criticism others make of you. Do you take what others say and not speak up? This can cause you to lose confidence so it is vital to end negative thoughts if you want to build your self esteem. We mistakenly compare how we feel with how others behave. Inevitably, most others will behave more happily than we feel. So we conclude that no one else could feel as bad as we do. This creates a vicious circle and our self esteem drops further. Dwelling on the negative is like cancer. It grows and gets worse. It's pretty hard to force yourself just to think differently when you feel so negative.
In Judges 6 & 7, we learn how Gideon was found, cowering in fear and self doubt. He’s hardly a picture of confidence! Gideon, like most who lack confidence withdraws from the world, hiding away from the world. He is a picture of hopelessness in today’s terms; he’s a loser with seriously low self-esteem. An Angel of the Lord finds Gideon hiding like a chicken and calls him a mighty man of valor! The Angel tells Gideon to save Israel,” to go in the strength you have! “I could just imagine what Gideon was thinking. Go in the strength I have, can’t you see I am hiding. God tells Gideon He will always be with him and they would when the battle together.
The great lesson we learn from Gideon is that low self esteem is a hindrance and with God’s help and his belief in all of us we can step up to the plate and accept God-esteem. God’s grace allows you to do the impossible, when it is in his will! If you have a big challenge you need God confidence not self confidence. Most self-confidence evaporates like mist under testing and pressure. But you only need God to believe in you!
October 3, 2010
October 04 - 09, 2010
Monday October 04, 2010
The Danger Of Complaining
Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-11
Paul writes In 1 Corinthians 10:1-11, that the children of Israel are our example and they died in the desert because of their idolatry, immorality and complaining. We don’t see complaining as a sin but Paul tells us that it was a sin that cost them their lives. What we say brings life or death. (Proverbs 18:21) We do not realize how offensive complaining is to God. These people who died in the desert were God’s people. They had been saved by the blood, baptized, and were delivered by the power of God and yet they died in the desert because of grumbling and complaining. This was not just a onetime grumbling session but a constant thing as we read the history of their journey in the books of Exodus and Numbers. They left the bondage of Egypt headed to the promise land but like little children on a vacation trip they were complaining about the driver, the food, being thirsty, and will we ever get there. It sounds a lot like us. We have been saved and should be forever grateful but we constantly complain about the smallest inconveniences. They should have been grateful for their salvation but instead they complained constantly about everything. Complaining is habit forming. Are you addicted to complaining? Let’s ask God to help us break the addiction. Make a commitment to make this month a no complaint month. Lord forgive me and deliver me from every complaining!
Tuesday Monday October 05, 2010
YOU’RE NOT CALLED TO BE A CRITIC.
Read James 4:11-12
Complaining is a form of Criticism and we are not called to be critics but servants. We have not been called to judge others but to help others. We have not been called to chart the course of life but to journey with God to the destination. Criticism does not help people it only puts them down and discourages them.
I believe these are some the reasons that cause us to complain and criticize:
Unhappy People complain. If you are an unhappy person nothing makes you happy. (Job 10:1)
You criticize and complain about others because you feel judged and putting them down seems to elevate your standing.
Most People complain because they don’t know all the facts.
Some People complain because they don’t understand the intent of the heart.
Many people complain because they think they know better and can do better.
People complain because they don’t realize that what’s happening is not the destination but only a temporary inconvenience on the road to the promise land.
Why do you complain?
Wednesday Monday October 06, 2010
TURNING FROM COMPLAINTS TO COMPLEMENTS
Read Ephesians 4:29-32
I have a replacement theology. I believe that the only way I can change something wrong in my life is to replace it with something good. Jesus went everywhere doing good. When you spend all your time doing the right thing you don’t have time to do the wrong thing. Webster dictionary defines complaint as: “expression of grief, pain, or dissatisfaction – a formal accusation against a person.” Webster on the other hand defines Complement as: “something that fills up or completes” Complaints bring us down but complements lift us up and fills us up. Let’s lift others and ourselves up through complements. Let’s try complementing people today! Let’s go on a complement search. Look for things that you appreciate in others today and tell them. Look for things you are thankful about and thank God for them. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Thursday Monday October 07, 2010
WHAT CAN I DO TO STOP COMPLAINING?
Read Matthew 12:34-37
Since complaining is so evil and destructive what are some practical steps that I can take to overcome this destructive habit? The rest of the week I will be giving 12 practical suggestions on how to overcome the complaint habit.
Suggestions:
1. Ask the Holy Spirit right now to help you? (Romans 8:26) You don’t have to do it alone. God will help.
2. Think before you speak. Ask if this is a complaint or a mplement? (James 1:19)
3. Change your attitude to gratitude. (Ephesians 4:23-24)
4. Mind your’ on business. Don’t listen to complaints and take up other people’s offences. (Matthew 15:12-14)
Try these and look for a change in your attitude this week.
Matt 12:34-37
34 “You nest of poisonous snakes! How can you who are evil say anything good? Your mouths say everything that is in your hearts. 35 A good man says good things. These come from the good that is put away inside him. An evil man says evil things. These come from the evil that is put away inside him. 36 But here is what I tell you. On judgment day, people will have to account for every careless word they have spoken. 37 By your words you will be found guilty or not guilty.” NIrV
Friday Monday October 08, 2010
GIVE SOME GRACE
Read Colossians 4:5-6
It is so easy to see what’s wrong and point it out but God has told us to see things different than the world sees them. God looks through grace filled eyes. Let’s put on His glasses and see the way He does. If anyone had a right to point out fault He did but He didn’t point out our faults but covered the fault with His Grace.
Today’s Suggestions:
1. Look at it from God’s point of view. (2 Corinthians 5:16-18)
2. When people mess up or things are not just right give a little grace and forgive and forget. (Ephesians 4:32)
3. Don’t look from the viewpoint of lack but look for opportunities and possibilities. (Ephesians 3:20-21)
4. Take every opportunity to tell people how much you appreciate them and what they do. Praise people publicly. Do they know how you feel? Tell them. (3 John 12)
Col 4:5-6
5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders. Make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let the words you speak always be full of grace. Season them with salt. Then you will know how to answer everyone. NirV
SATURDAY Monday October 09, 2010
Eph 1:11 We STOP COMPLAINING AND GET A PLAN
Read Ephesians 1:11
We were also chosen to belong to him. God decided to choose us long ago in keeping with his plan. He works out everything to fit his plan and purpose. NirV
God doesn’t complain but plans and then he works his plan. Complaints don’t change things but doing something about them does. In light of that thought let’s consider the last four suggestions for changing from complaining to complementing:
9. Go directly to the source and ask questions. Get the facts before you make a decision. Don’t comment on what you don’t know to be fact. (1 Corinthians 4:6, The Message Bible)
10. Get a plan and do something to solve the problem. Action always gets things done but complaining does nothing but waste time. (1 Peter 1:13)
11. Take satisfaction in who you are, what you are and where you are. (Psalms 17:15; 1 Corinthians 15:10)
12. Look for the good in everything and everyone.
"Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. 23 If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
(Matthew 6:22-23 The Message Bible)
Well, we made it to the end of the week. How are you doing? Do you see the change from complaint to complement happening. Remember nothing of lasting significance happens over night but true change takes time. Don’t quit but make a commitment to true change and trust God’s Grace to help you. I believe this will be a life changing month as we seek to do away with complaining in our lives and learn to praise God in all things.
(1 Cor 4:6 All I'm doing right now, friends, is showing how these things pertain to Apollos and me so that you will learn restraint and not rush into making judgments without knowing all the facts. It's important to look at things from God's point of view. I would rather not see you inflating or deflating reputations based on mere hearsay.)
The Danger Of Complaining
Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-11
Paul writes In 1 Corinthians 10:1-11, that the children of Israel are our example and they died in the desert because of their idolatry, immorality and complaining. We don’t see complaining as a sin but Paul tells us that it was a sin that cost them their lives. What we say brings life or death. (Proverbs 18:21) We do not realize how offensive complaining is to God. These people who died in the desert were God’s people. They had been saved by the blood, baptized, and were delivered by the power of God and yet they died in the desert because of grumbling and complaining. This was not just a onetime grumbling session but a constant thing as we read the history of their journey in the books of Exodus and Numbers. They left the bondage of Egypt headed to the promise land but like little children on a vacation trip they were complaining about the driver, the food, being thirsty, and will we ever get there. It sounds a lot like us. We have been saved and should be forever grateful but we constantly complain about the smallest inconveniences. They should have been grateful for their salvation but instead they complained constantly about everything. Complaining is habit forming. Are you addicted to complaining? Let’s ask God to help us break the addiction. Make a commitment to make this month a no complaint month. Lord forgive me and deliver me from every complaining!
Tuesday Monday October 05, 2010
YOU’RE NOT CALLED TO BE A CRITIC.
Read James 4:11-12
Complaining is a form of Criticism and we are not called to be critics but servants. We have not been called to judge others but to help others. We have not been called to chart the course of life but to journey with God to the destination. Criticism does not help people it only puts them down and discourages them.
I believe these are some the reasons that cause us to complain and criticize:
Unhappy People complain. If you are an unhappy person nothing makes you happy. (Job 10:1)
You criticize and complain about others because you feel judged and putting them down seems to elevate your standing.
Most People complain because they don’t know all the facts.
Some People complain because they don’t understand the intent of the heart.
Many people complain because they think they know better and can do better.
People complain because they don’t realize that what’s happening is not the destination but only a temporary inconvenience on the road to the promise land.
Why do you complain?
Wednesday Monday October 06, 2010
TURNING FROM COMPLAINTS TO COMPLEMENTS
Read Ephesians 4:29-32
I have a replacement theology. I believe that the only way I can change something wrong in my life is to replace it with something good. Jesus went everywhere doing good. When you spend all your time doing the right thing you don’t have time to do the wrong thing. Webster dictionary defines complaint as: “expression of grief, pain, or dissatisfaction – a formal accusation against a person.” Webster on the other hand defines Complement as: “something that fills up or completes” Complaints bring us down but complements lift us up and fills us up. Let’s lift others and ourselves up through complements. Let’s try complementing people today! Let’s go on a complement search. Look for things that you appreciate in others today and tell them. Look for things you are thankful about and thank God for them. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Thursday Monday October 07, 2010
WHAT CAN I DO TO STOP COMPLAINING?
Read Matthew 12:34-37
Since complaining is so evil and destructive what are some practical steps that I can take to overcome this destructive habit? The rest of the week I will be giving 12 practical suggestions on how to overcome the complaint habit.
Suggestions:
1. Ask the Holy Spirit right now to help you? (Romans 8:26) You don’t have to do it alone. God will help.
2. Think before you speak. Ask if this is a complaint or a mplement? (James 1:19)
3. Change your attitude to gratitude. (Ephesians 4:23-24)
4. Mind your’ on business. Don’t listen to complaints and take up other people’s offences. (Matthew 15:12-14)
Try these and look for a change in your attitude this week.
Matt 12:34-37
34 “You nest of poisonous snakes! How can you who are evil say anything good? Your mouths say everything that is in your hearts. 35 A good man says good things. These come from the good that is put away inside him. An evil man says evil things. These come from the evil that is put away inside him. 36 But here is what I tell you. On judgment day, people will have to account for every careless word they have spoken. 37 By your words you will be found guilty or not guilty.” NIrV
Friday Monday October 08, 2010
GIVE SOME GRACE
Read Colossians 4:5-6
It is so easy to see what’s wrong and point it out but God has told us to see things different than the world sees them. God looks through grace filled eyes. Let’s put on His glasses and see the way He does. If anyone had a right to point out fault He did but He didn’t point out our faults but covered the fault with His Grace.
Today’s Suggestions:
1. Look at it from God’s point of view. (2 Corinthians 5:16-18)
2. When people mess up or things are not just right give a little grace and forgive and forget. (Ephesians 4:32)
3. Don’t look from the viewpoint of lack but look for opportunities and possibilities. (Ephesians 3:20-21)
4. Take every opportunity to tell people how much you appreciate them and what they do. Praise people publicly. Do they know how you feel? Tell them. (3 John 12)
Col 4:5-6
5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders. Make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let the words you speak always be full of grace. Season them with salt. Then you will know how to answer everyone. NirV
SATURDAY Monday October 09, 2010
Eph 1:11 We STOP COMPLAINING AND GET A PLAN
Read Ephesians 1:11
We were also chosen to belong to him. God decided to choose us long ago in keeping with his plan. He works out everything to fit his plan and purpose. NirV
God doesn’t complain but plans and then he works his plan. Complaints don’t change things but doing something about them does. In light of that thought let’s consider the last four suggestions for changing from complaining to complementing:
9. Go directly to the source and ask questions. Get the facts before you make a decision. Don’t comment on what you don’t know to be fact. (1 Corinthians 4:6, The Message Bible)
10. Get a plan and do something to solve the problem. Action always gets things done but complaining does nothing but waste time. (1 Peter 1:13)
11. Take satisfaction in who you are, what you are and where you are. (Psalms 17:15; 1 Corinthians 15:10)
12. Look for the good in everything and everyone.
"Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. 23 If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
(Matthew 6:22-23 The Message Bible)
Well, we made it to the end of the week. How are you doing? Do you see the change from complaint to complement happening. Remember nothing of lasting significance happens over night but true change takes time. Don’t quit but make a commitment to true change and trust God’s Grace to help you. I believe this will be a life changing month as we seek to do away with complaining in our lives and learn to praise God in all things.
(1 Cor 4:6 All I'm doing right now, friends, is showing how these things pertain to Apollos and me so that you will learn restraint and not rush into making judgments without knowing all the facts. It's important to look at things from God's point of view. I would rather not see you inflating or deflating reputations based on mere hearsay.)
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