Give It Your All

poopedI agree with those who say that we should be passionate about our lives. In other words, are we living each day with regrets for what we didn’t do or are we giving it our all?
Colossians 3:17 states, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” What part of whatever, doesn’t mean total effort in everything we do throughout our day?
Jesus deserves our best effort. Think about it. When all has been said and done on this earth, it will be His name that everyone bows down to, right?
Be able to say when you look back on today, “Jesus, I did the best my current faith allowed me to in following You in everything I did.” It will bring peace to your heart and prayer to your lips for the next day’s increased faith to follow a little closer behind Him.
Set Free Now“W”w

Learning Takes Laughter

laughterI heard a story about a professional baseball player who was asked to switch positions while still playing at the major league level.
There are not too many people watching at the minor league level. But to struggle through change at the major league level, where there are not only 10’s of thousands of people watching, but there’s also sportswriters and cameramen ready to splash your greatest miscues for the entire sports world to see, is not easy on the ego.
The lesson is this: Learn to laugh at yourself. Even though it was not his intent, he knew he was going to make mistakes. The only way to keep sane in the process was to laugh and get better. Because of his attitude and work ethic, he is now recognized as one of the best at his new position by his colleagues.
1 John 2:1 says if you sin not when. It’s our goal to follow Jesus, but there will be times we’ll stumble. We can laugh at ourselves and grow up or kill ourselves and stay down.
Laughing doesn’t mean you’re taking it lightly. It simply means you’re not taking yourself too seriously. It’s all about Jesus. He will finish the job He started. Right?
Set Free No“W”ww

Like – No, Love – Yes

acceptanceBiblical acceptance means that you don’t have to like what others are doing, but you can lovingly tell them the truth while walking closer with Jesus together.
There is a plot of open ground that has numerous commercial white boxes containing beehives. I pass by them every time I’m on a prayer walk. I simply lower my hat and keep walking. Sometimes bees hit my hat or shirt. I’ve even been stung once. For some, this area would be off limits as they are deathly afraid of bees. Since I am not, it’s simply the most direct route to take.
We all have areas of great faith and victory and some where our faith is weak and failures occur. This is why I believe scripture instructs us to accept (Rom. 15:7), not judge, each other while praying for each others’ failures to become victories in Christ (Eph. 6:18).
Jesus accepts and prays for you and me. Does He like everything we do? Nope. Does He love and draw us closer to Him anyway? Yes.
May we have this attitude toward other believers that Jesus has toward us.
S“E”t Free Nowww

Careful of the Downhill

downhillWe had just climbed six miles with an elevation gain of over 2,100 feet. We enjoyed the sites on the way up and the wondrous views of both Riverside and Orange Counties from up top. Yeah, it was difficult. And yes, we were hot and sweaty by the time we took a break for lunch. But, the return back to our car was all downhill. Easy right?
Not so fast. For me anyway, going down was harder on my hip (genetics is a wonderful thing) and stress fractured left toe than it was going up! You’re good tired. You’re heading down hill. What could be better? Relaxing too much! You can get going too fast and put added stress on your joints.
When you’re on top of the world after a personal victory or seeing the Spirit work in a mighty way, be careful. This is when the enemy loves to attack. Elijah ran from Jezebel right after a huge God empowered victory. (1 Kings 18-19)
Jesus said to watch and pray for such a time. He wants you to continue praising Him for and walking in that victory.
Set Free No“W”ww

Straight Into Your Eyes

eyeTo stare love in the face and not believe it, how crazy is that?
While looking into his wife’s eyes, he heard, “I love you. I’ve always loved you.” His reply was quite shocking. “I hear you, but I just don’t believe it. How could anyone ever love someone me?”
This unloved feeling led to all kinds of dangerous choices down a path that would led to his eventual loss of joy, peace and life.
Love is a major need of every human being, male and female. We have a God who says, “I love you, even in your worst moments.”
Every time you see a dove, a cross, or any other biblical symbol, God is staring you straight in the eyes and says, “I LOVE YOU!” Your choices will show whether you believe it or not. Isn’t it time you do?
“S”et Free Nowww