Matthew 5:5 (NLT)
God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth.
Most people have no idea what the word “meek” really means. And most people, rather than looking up the word, simply read on. To do so, however, would do us a grave disservice. (Don’t be one of those people. Go look it up now!)
I never understood it either until I went searching. The word “meek” comes from the Greek word proas which means “to submit.” (Of course you already know this because you went and found the word in the dictionary a moment ago).
Submission is one of those difficult things for us humans. And perhaps the biggest reason for that is we have a false understanding of what is really is. When most of us think of submission we think weakness…a wife who has to bow at the feet of her husband because of that one (misinterpreted) Bible verse or the UFC fighter who is being beaten to a pulp by a superior mixed martial artist. Instead, we should equate submission with humility. Submission is nothing more than realizing that we’re unable to do anything on our own and “tapout” to GOD and his ways, trusting that his hands will mold our minds (thoughts, imagination, intelligence) into wholeness.
Since we tend to learn best through pain (see yesterday’s devotion), allow me to continue in that vein. My dad and I took a father-son trip out west several years ago where we attended a UFC fight. During the final match of the evening, two champions stood toe to toe for round after round. Finally, one locked the other into an arm bar, a submission lock on the arm which is usually followed by a tapout. Usually…For some prideful reason, the captured fighter refused to give up. Unwilling to release his opponent’s arm without a tapout, the aggresor continued to bend his opponent’s arm unnaturally at the elbow until their was this sickening pop you could hear all over the audotorioam. And still he stubbornly refused to give up. The referee has to step in and stop the damage.
Like helpless, restrained fighter, we all struggle with submitting our will, thinking, imaginations, and other parts of the mind to GOD. As Rich Mullins said, “We’d rather fight for something we don’t really want than take what He gives and we need.” However, when we find the strength to simply give up, we win JESUS. And we win in the long run. Remember in GOD’s kingdom, the first will be last and the last first.
Translation: the losers become winners!
Be a loser…and be molded by submission…
Application: Change your perception of submission. See it as you being humble before GOD not as a sign of physical or mental weakness.
Mindful Meditation: Practice submission. Clear your mind of everything. Lay it at the feet of JESUS. Allow him to have your thoughts for the next 10 minutes. Listen (not with your ears).
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
The Be-Attitudes #2 - Be Purged
Matthew 5:4 (NLT)
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
“Today we want GOD’s blessings without the pain of GOD’s purging.” - Charles Allen
After a gruesome work accident years ago, I almost found myself without a toe. Numerous surgeries allowed me to keep the toe, but ultimately I lost my nail for good. Unsure if it wouldn’t come back in grown time after time, they burned the nail bed with some sort of chemical or laser (I was reading a book at the time so I’m not sure which). On the follow up visit, the doctor examined it and said my mangled appendige was healing well. As I prepared to dismount the table, he withdrew this wicked looking toothbrush with wire bristles.
“We’ll just get your scrapping done and you can head out?”
“I’m sorry? Scraping? Why on earth would you take a wire brush to my tender foot?”
“You must slough off or scrape a burn wound to prevent the thing from becoming infected. Or you could end up losing the toe.”
What followed was the worst physical pain I’ve endured. As the horrific toothbrush peeled away the dried blood, dead cells, and a host of other bodily fluids and such, I took deep breaths and tried to find my happy place. Two more treatments followed, each ever so slightly easier than the one before. And each time, the scaring and searing pain became less and less until it finally healed.
My mind (thinking) experiences similar pain in my walk with JESUS. As we grow closer and closer to him, he purges our mind of the junk there- shame, guilt, the past, our lusts and jealousies, our passions and paranoia, our sick imaginations and filthy recollections, our ambitions and our need for significance. With his own wire brush, he scrapes our minds of the sinful infection and brings healing. Despite the unbearable pain involved initially, his loving and compassionate hands are freeing us from what we think is good to what is good. Because it comes from Him. His purging will not only spare your mind, but your soul as well.
Be purged…
Application: Know that GOD speaks through the pain of the valley as much as the peace of the mountain top.
Mindful Meditation: Focus on a painful thought. Now release it to JESUS. If it’s a pain brought about by your own pride or stubbornness, take action to resolve it.
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
“Today we want GOD’s blessings without the pain of GOD’s purging.” - Charles Allen
After a gruesome work accident years ago, I almost found myself without a toe. Numerous surgeries allowed me to keep the toe, but ultimately I lost my nail for good. Unsure if it wouldn’t come back in grown time after time, they burned the nail bed with some sort of chemical or laser (I was reading a book at the time so I’m not sure which). On the follow up visit, the doctor examined it and said my mangled appendige was healing well. As I prepared to dismount the table, he withdrew this wicked looking toothbrush with wire bristles.
“We’ll just get your scrapping done and you can head out?”
“I’m sorry? Scraping? Why on earth would you take a wire brush to my tender foot?”
“You must slough off or scrape a burn wound to prevent the thing from becoming infected. Or you could end up losing the toe.”
What followed was the worst physical pain I’ve endured. As the horrific toothbrush peeled away the dried blood, dead cells, and a host of other bodily fluids and such, I took deep breaths and tried to find my happy place. Two more treatments followed, each ever so slightly easier than the one before. And each time, the scaring and searing pain became less and less until it finally healed.
My mind (thinking) experiences similar pain in my walk with JESUS. As we grow closer and closer to him, he purges our mind of the junk there- shame, guilt, the past, our lusts and jealousies, our passions and paranoia, our sick imaginations and filthy recollections, our ambitions and our need for significance. With his own wire brush, he scrapes our minds of the sinful infection and brings healing. Despite the unbearable pain involved initially, his loving and compassionate hands are freeing us from what we think is good to what is good. Because it comes from Him. His purging will not only spare your mind, but your soul as well.
Be purged…
Application: Know that GOD speaks through the pain of the valley as much as the peace of the mountain top.
Mindful Meditation: Focus on a painful thought. Now release it to JESUS. If it’s a pain brought about by your own pride or stubbornness, take action to resolve it.
Monday, April 28, 2014
The Be-Attitudes #1 - Be Desperate
Matthew 5:3 (NLT)
God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
With my distorted mind, I used to think I was alone. Alone in my search for significance. Alone in my emptiness and depression. Alone in my desire for truth, inner peace, or meaning. Alone in my conflicting emotions, suicidal tendencies, and disillusionment with GOD. Alone in the human condition. Alone in my depraved, sinful heart. Alone in desperation…
Over the course of the last decade though, I’ve discovered I’m not alone. And furthermore, that desperation is quite possibly the most profound thought to grace our minds. Why? Because as the New Living Translation begins, “Blessed are those who recognize their need for GOD” and the Message paraphrase end, “…with less of us, there is more of GOD.”
Allow me a story to punctuate the thought:
There was once a young man who approached renowned teacher Siddharthama Gattama (better known as the Buddha). He desired to know the way to life and deliverance. The Buddha led him down to a river, where the young man assumed he’d be “purified.” As they waded into the water, however, his dream transformed into a nightmare. The Buddha snatched his head, dunked it under the water, and refused to allow him to surface. Finally, as the young man flailed pitifully, the Buddha released his grip, permitting him to gasp for air.
The Buddha then quipped, “When you thought you were drowning, what did you desire most?”
“Air,” the young man sputtered.
To which the Buddha replied, “When you want salvation as much as you wanted air, you’ll find it.”
Allow me to borrow (and edit) the final line. “When you become as desperate for the mind of Christ as much as you’re desperate for air, you’ll be gifted with it.”
Be desperate…
Application: Check your desperation level. Do you long for GOD as much as your body longs for air?
Mindful Meditation: Review your life. Look at where you used to be compared to where GOD has brought you. Make sure you say thank you.
God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
With my distorted mind, I used to think I was alone. Alone in my search for significance. Alone in my emptiness and depression. Alone in my desire for truth, inner peace, or meaning. Alone in my conflicting emotions, suicidal tendencies, and disillusionment with GOD. Alone in the human condition. Alone in my depraved, sinful heart. Alone in desperation…
Over the course of the last decade though, I’ve discovered I’m not alone. And furthermore, that desperation is quite possibly the most profound thought to grace our minds. Why? Because as the New Living Translation begins, “Blessed are those who recognize their need for GOD” and the Message paraphrase end, “…with less of us, there is more of GOD.”
Allow me a story to punctuate the thought:
There was once a young man who approached renowned teacher Siddharthama Gattama (better known as the Buddha). He desired to know the way to life and deliverance. The Buddha led him down to a river, where the young man assumed he’d be “purified.” As they waded into the water, however, his dream transformed into a nightmare. The Buddha snatched his head, dunked it under the water, and refused to allow him to surface. Finally, as the young man flailed pitifully, the Buddha released his grip, permitting him to gasp for air.
The Buddha then quipped, “When you thought you were drowning, what did you desire most?”
“Air,” the young man sputtered.
To which the Buddha replied, “When you want salvation as much as you wanted air, you’ll find it.”
Allow me to borrow (and edit) the final line. “When you become as desperate for the mind of Christ as much as you’re desperate for air, you’ll be gifted with it.”
Be desperate…
Application: Check your desperation level. Do you long for GOD as much as your body longs for air?
Mindful Meditation: Review your life. Look at where you used to be compared to where GOD has brought you. Make sure you say thank you.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Experiencing the Mind of Christ
Matthew 5-7 (Yes, the whole thing!)
Upon becoming a Christ follower and JESUS Freak a decade ago, I surrounded myself with like-minded people. One such person became my mentor. It was he that put me on the road to recovery, not by using 12 steps or even the seven Scriptural principles. He prescribed Matthew chapters 5-7, also known as the Sermon on the Mount. As he related, within the confines of this teaching was everything I needed to begin (and continue) a relationship with JESUS. The thing that got me into trouble the most back then was my thinking. YAHWEH, in his infinite mercy and grace, radically changed my way of thinking just by trying to live out the first 12 verses of chapter 5.Its now my duty to pass them on to you.
Today’s devotion is purposefully short. This is because I really want you to read these three chapters today. Like eating for the physical body, chew on chapter 5 for breakfast, six for lunch, and seven for supper.
By the way, as you read, keep this in mind. When it says, “Blessed…”, don’t just think of the word as meaning “happiness.” When translated from its original language, it refers to a oneness with GOD. So rather than it reading , “Happy are the poor in spirit”, think “One with GOD are the poor in spirit.”
Application: start today allowing your mind to dwell on what you’re reading. Pick one thing JESUS mentioned and adopt it into your thinking.
Mindful Meditation: Pick one verse that hit you hardest from today. Without worrying about the time or any other distractions, focus on it. Break it down word by word. Ask GOD to help you understand what it really means and how you can apply it to your life.
Upon becoming a Christ follower and JESUS Freak a decade ago, I surrounded myself with like-minded people. One such person became my mentor. It was he that put me on the road to recovery, not by using 12 steps or even the seven Scriptural principles. He prescribed Matthew chapters 5-7, also known as the Sermon on the Mount. As he related, within the confines of this teaching was everything I needed to begin (and continue) a relationship with JESUS. The thing that got me into trouble the most back then was my thinking. YAHWEH, in his infinite mercy and grace, radically changed my way of thinking just by trying to live out the first 12 verses of chapter 5.Its now my duty to pass them on to you.
Today’s devotion is purposefully short. This is because I really want you to read these three chapters today. Like eating for the physical body, chew on chapter 5 for breakfast, six for lunch, and seven for supper.
By the way, as you read, keep this in mind. When it says, “Blessed…”, don’t just think of the word as meaning “happiness.” When translated from its original language, it refers to a oneness with GOD. So rather than it reading , “Happy are the poor in spirit”, think “One with GOD are the poor in spirit.”
Application: start today allowing your mind to dwell on what you’re reading. Pick one thing JESUS mentioned and adopt it into your thinking.
Mindful Meditation: Pick one verse that hit you hardest from today. Without worrying about the time or any other distractions, focus on it. Break it down word by word. Ask GOD to help you understand what it really means and how you can apply it to your life.
Friday, April 25, 2014
Reflection
1. Scriptures:
Reread the Bible passages used in this week’s LifeTogether. Which one of these meant the most to you personally? Why?
2. Devotions:
List three things that stuck out to you during the week. Why did these grab your attention?
3. Applications:
Which of the applications are you having the easiest time with? The most difficult?
4. Nutrition Tips:
Which of the nutrition tips from this week have you (or will you) started?
5. Exercise Tips:
Two weeks ago, you were to write down several fitness goals for this month. Take an honest inventory. Are you on the path to reach those goals? Or have you already relented?
6. Prayer
Thank YAHWEH for seeing you through the week and continue to give him your fitness goals. Remember: He cares for you…even when it comes to your body conditioning and healthy eating.
Reread the Bible passages used in this week’s LifeTogether. Which one of these meant the most to you personally? Why?
2. Devotions:
List three things that stuck out to you during the week. Why did these grab your attention?
3. Applications:
Which of the applications are you having the easiest time with? The most difficult?
4. Nutrition Tips:
Which of the nutrition tips from this week have you (or will you) started?
5. Exercise Tips:
Two weeks ago, you were to write down several fitness goals for this month. Take an honest inventory. Are you on the path to reach those goals? Or have you already relented?
6. Prayer
Thank YAHWEH for seeing you through the week and continue to give him your fitness goals. Remember: He cares for you…even when it comes to your body conditioning and healthy eating.
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Gratitude For Health
Philippians 4:11 (NLT)
Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.
In a superficial world where our airbrushed role models are muscled men or toned women, it's easy to lose sight of what really matters- the health we do have. I understand you want to drop a few pounds (or a few dozen) or turn the spare tire into a washboard. But as I sit the doctor’s waiting room awaiting my battery of mission trip shots, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to YAHWEH for allowing me such excellent health. No, I don’t look in the mirror and see the body of Jesus Freak and CrossFit champion Rich Froning, or my martial arts hero Jason Statham. But I live virtually pain free, eat well, have no disabilities, full use of my legs and other parts. I only visit the doctor for my yearly physical. Today was a reminder that no matter what I think I should be- I’m healthy. And I know most of you who read LifeTogether devotions. You may have some health issues and I certainly don’t want to discount them. However, in the grand scheme of things, you’re healthy. You show up for worship services and gatherings. You’re able to visit a doctor or get the treatment you need. And not everyone enjoys such. Be thankful today for what you do have…not what you do not.
Application: Find contentment in the health you do have. Then, pray and push yourself to even better health.
Nutrition Tip: Sip water. Forget 8 glasses. All day,everyday. Stay hydrated. The minute you find yourself, the dehydration process has already begun.
Exercise Tip: Drop the dumbells. Use your body weight. Push, pull ups, speed squats, lunges, and core (ab) work are among the best respected and effective exercises. What do they all have in common? They work without weights. Push (and pull) yourself – literally-to better health.
Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.
In a superficial world where our airbrushed role models are muscled men or toned women, it's easy to lose sight of what really matters- the health we do have. I understand you want to drop a few pounds (or a few dozen) or turn the spare tire into a washboard. But as I sit the doctor’s waiting room awaiting my battery of mission trip shots, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to YAHWEH for allowing me such excellent health. No, I don’t look in the mirror and see the body of Jesus Freak and CrossFit champion Rich Froning, or my martial arts hero Jason Statham. But I live virtually pain free, eat well, have no disabilities, full use of my legs and other parts. I only visit the doctor for my yearly physical. Today was a reminder that no matter what I think I should be- I’m healthy. And I know most of you who read LifeTogether devotions. You may have some health issues and I certainly don’t want to discount them. However, in the grand scheme of things, you’re healthy. You show up for worship services and gatherings. You’re able to visit a doctor or get the treatment you need. And not everyone enjoys such. Be thankful today for what you do have…not what you do not.
Application: Find contentment in the health you do have. Then, pray and push yourself to even better health.
Nutrition Tip: Sip water. Forget 8 glasses. All day,everyday. Stay hydrated. The minute you find yourself, the dehydration process has already begun.
Exercise Tip: Drop the dumbells. Use your body weight. Push, pull ups, speed squats, lunges, and core (ab) work are among the best respected and effective exercises. What do they all have in common? They work without weights. Push (and pull) yourself – literally-to better health.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Running the Race
Philippians 3:12-16 (NLT)
I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. But we must hold on to the progress we have already made.
A couple of weeks ago, John (the Pastor, not the Baptist) spoke about endurance and used the aforementioned passage to get his point across. Reminded me not only of spiritual things, but our physical health as well.
In my humble estimation, there are three types of “runners” when it comes to health and fitness goals.
1. The Fireball (jump on a routine quick, then burn out before February)
2. The Too-Little-Too-Late (Wishy-washy, then they get busy but its too late)
3. Mr./Mrs./ Ms. Consistent (keep a steady, disciplined pace until the race is over)
1. Perhaps toes will get mashed here but the truth will set you free. The Fireball is the person who makes a host of new year’s resolutions, is the first in the gym for the first month of the year, eats somewhat healthier, and makes early positive gains. They burst out of the gate, then somewhere between late January and Valentine’s Day, they’ve fallen off the horse. Until next new year’s.
2. Another is the Too-Little-Too-Late type. They are those who wait until they’re old or having surgery and say something along the lines of, “I wish I’d taken better care of myself before getting to this point.” While its never too late to begin a healthier lifestyle, doing so earlier in life will give you a higher quality of life for more of your life. Don’t be one of those people imagining “what could have been” in a hospital or deathbed.
3. The Consistent one may not make new year’s resolutions, eat an all-organic diet, or beat down the doors of the gym, but makes small steps over time which make them healthy, well, and fit. They choose Subway over McDonald’s here; or play football with the kids in the yard instead of plopping down in front of the TV there; or cooking a meal for the family rather than ordering a pizza; or replacing worry and anxiety with a prayer and some deep breathing…And then they make the best choice again…and again…and again. Until it becomes ingrained habit. And before long, they’ve run the race. From start to glorious finish.
P.S. The same works with your spiritual life!
Application: Patiently endure. Take the uncomfort of life and push through it. With joy, knowing that Christ has done it also!
Nutrition Tip: Small changes lead to big gains. Love your mayo? Try the fat-free version. Like flavored sodas? Try the real juice. Love your burgers? Try using deer meat and turkey bacon. As my AA buddies say, “It works if you work it.”
Exercise Tip: Variety in the spice of life. Tired of doing push ups and squats? Switch your way of doing them. There are dozens of modifications to basic exercises. Place your hands/legs out wider. Then bring them close together. Put one hand/foot in front of the other. Check prayfit.com or other sites to get pictures of these variations.
I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. But we must hold on to the progress we have already made.
A couple of weeks ago, John (the Pastor, not the Baptist) spoke about endurance and used the aforementioned passage to get his point across. Reminded me not only of spiritual things, but our physical health as well.
In my humble estimation, there are three types of “runners” when it comes to health and fitness goals.
1. The Fireball (jump on a routine quick, then burn out before February)
2. The Too-Little-Too-Late (Wishy-washy, then they get busy but its too late)
3. Mr./Mrs./ Ms. Consistent (keep a steady, disciplined pace until the race is over)
1. Perhaps toes will get mashed here but the truth will set you free. The Fireball is the person who makes a host of new year’s resolutions, is the first in the gym for the first month of the year, eats somewhat healthier, and makes early positive gains. They burst out of the gate, then somewhere between late January and Valentine’s Day, they’ve fallen off the horse. Until next new year’s.
2. Another is the Too-Little-Too-Late type. They are those who wait until they’re old or having surgery and say something along the lines of, “I wish I’d taken better care of myself before getting to this point.” While its never too late to begin a healthier lifestyle, doing so earlier in life will give you a higher quality of life for more of your life. Don’t be one of those people imagining “what could have been” in a hospital or deathbed.
3. The Consistent one may not make new year’s resolutions, eat an all-organic diet, or beat down the doors of the gym, but makes small steps over time which make them healthy, well, and fit. They choose Subway over McDonald’s here; or play football with the kids in the yard instead of plopping down in front of the TV there; or cooking a meal for the family rather than ordering a pizza; or replacing worry and anxiety with a prayer and some deep breathing…And then they make the best choice again…and again…and again. Until it becomes ingrained habit. And before long, they’ve run the race. From start to glorious finish.
P.S. The same works with your spiritual life!
Application: Patiently endure. Take the uncomfort of life and push through it. With joy, knowing that Christ has done it also!
Nutrition Tip: Small changes lead to big gains. Love your mayo? Try the fat-free version. Like flavored sodas? Try the real juice. Love your burgers? Try using deer meat and turkey bacon. As my AA buddies say, “It works if you work it.”
Exercise Tip: Variety in the spice of life. Tired of doing push ups and squats? Switch your way of doing them. There are dozens of modifications to basic exercises. Place your hands/legs out wider. Then bring them close together. Put one hand/foot in front of the other. Check prayfit.com or other sites to get pictures of these variations.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Busy Bodies #2
1 Timothy 4:8 (NLT)
Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.
If you’re not too upset with me for giving you the rope to hang yourself yesterday, permit me a few observations in response to the questions.
1. We’ve all used the “I’m too busy” excuse. More than being too busy, we either don’t manage our time well or are just too lazy to exercise and eat right. No one- no matter who they are- is too busy to exercise. Even President Obama, arguably one of the busiest people in America, finds time to play basketball. So, quit wallowing in denial and making excuses. Get busy…for real.
2. With all of our technology, I’m sure there is some sort of way to check on how long you’ve been on Facebook per day. Write down the time you spent on Facebook, TV, or the internet today. Tonight, ask yourself if you were really too busy to exercise or eat right. Then try to look at me with straight face and tell me you couldn’t carve out 15 minutes to workout.
3. All of you were intelligent enough to know where I was going. If not, you’re in denial. Come out of Egypt.
4. Think of the important things in your life. Family. Church. Work. The Big Game. How do you make sure you don’t forget these things? You put them on your mind, you schedule time for them, you remember and act on it. Your workouts should be the same. Make it an appointment to exercise. Or cook your healthy meals ahead of time. By doing so, you’re less likely to miss it or make excuses.
5. Functional fitness is basic, body-weight only exercises you can do in minutes a day. They are things which will help you strengthen muscles you use everyday as you go through your routines. These exercises keep you in shape and injury free as negotiate such feats as moving boxes or house and yard work.
Application: When all your excuses run dry (which they will), admit your powerlessness to help yourself and ask GOD to help you manage your time better, make an effort to work out, and become all He would want you to be.
Nutrition Tip: Portion Sizes. Don’t Supersize your meals. Even if you’re not eating at McDonald’s. Whatever food is the centerpiece of your meal- let’s say a chicken breast- should be no bigger than the palm of your hand. Side items no bigger than your fist. Still hungry after the first plate? Drink another glass of water after your meal. It will trick your body into believing its full, thereby sparing you the extra calories, heartburn, and guilt later.
Exercise Tip: Introduce functional fitness into your day. Need a list of exercises fitting the criteria- you can Google it or go to prayfit.com. The Prayfit team have a wealth of nutrition and exercise information, as well as a captivating devotion of their own.
Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.
If you’re not too upset with me for giving you the rope to hang yourself yesterday, permit me a few observations in response to the questions.
1. We’ve all used the “I’m too busy” excuse. More than being too busy, we either don’t manage our time well or are just too lazy to exercise and eat right. No one- no matter who they are- is too busy to exercise. Even President Obama, arguably one of the busiest people in America, finds time to play basketball. So, quit wallowing in denial and making excuses. Get busy…for real.
2. With all of our technology, I’m sure there is some sort of way to check on how long you’ve been on Facebook per day. Write down the time you spent on Facebook, TV, or the internet today. Tonight, ask yourself if you were really too busy to exercise or eat right. Then try to look at me with straight face and tell me you couldn’t carve out 15 minutes to workout.
3. All of you were intelligent enough to know where I was going. If not, you’re in denial. Come out of Egypt.
4. Think of the important things in your life. Family. Church. Work. The Big Game. How do you make sure you don’t forget these things? You put them on your mind, you schedule time for them, you remember and act on it. Your workouts should be the same. Make it an appointment to exercise. Or cook your healthy meals ahead of time. By doing so, you’re less likely to miss it or make excuses.
5. Functional fitness is basic, body-weight only exercises you can do in minutes a day. They are things which will help you strengthen muscles you use everyday as you go through your routines. These exercises keep you in shape and injury free as negotiate such feats as moving boxes or house and yard work.
Application: When all your excuses run dry (which they will), admit your powerlessness to help yourself and ask GOD to help you manage your time better, make an effort to work out, and become all He would want you to be.
Nutrition Tip: Portion Sizes. Don’t Supersize your meals. Even if you’re not eating at McDonald’s. Whatever food is the centerpiece of your meal- let’s say a chicken breast- should be no bigger than the palm of your hand. Side items no bigger than your fist. Still hungry after the first plate? Drink another glass of water after your meal. It will trick your body into believing its full, thereby sparing you the extra calories, heartburn, and guilt later.
Exercise Tip: Introduce functional fitness into your day. Need a list of exercises fitting the criteria- you can Google it or go to prayfit.com. The Prayfit team have a wealth of nutrition and exercise information, as well as a captivating devotion of their own.
Monday, April 21, 2014
Busy Bodies #1
1 Timothy 4:8 (NLT)
Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.
Recently, several studies were conducted to see why Americans don’t exercise more, especially given the opportunities and blessings we enjoy here. The overwhelming number one answer was “I’m too busy.” (More on that momentarily).
A companion study with those all discovered that those who exercised regularly reported that they felt like they had more time in their day, not less.
Both studies are enlightening and interesting.
Allow me also to convict you this morning with the following questions. Ponder them, then answer honestly. And we’ll elaborate tomorrow.
1. Have you ever used the excuse, “I’m too busy” to avoid exercise (or eating right)?
2. On the same day as this excuse, did you find time to watch TV, surf the internet, or update your Facebook status?
3. Do you already know where I’m going with this?
4. Would you agree that unless we make exercise (and eating right) a priority- like making it an appointment- we will always fail?
5. Are you aware that functional fitness can be done in minutes a day with no gym equipment whatsoever?
Have fun. See you tomorrow.
Application: In order to meet our goals, whether physical or spiritual, we must be honest with ourselves. And others. Think deeply about these questions. Maybe you’ll discover the single greatest thing holding you back.
Nutrition Tip: Choose wisely. With our schedules the way they, we all eat out. And that’s okay…if we’re choosing wisely from the menu. Just because you stop for fast food doesn’t mean you have to stop for junk food. These days, almost every food joint has healthier menu options. Opt for those items. And choose water instead of the sugary beverage.
Exercise Tip: Take breaks. Many of us work in offices, job sites, or classrooms. Often, we get so involved in our work, we skip much needed breaks. Use your breaks to get up, move around, get some fresh air, stretch, meditate, or hit the gym (on lunch break). Its more productive for both your health and your job for you do take frequent breaks. (This is NOT an excuse to get on your Facebook page!
Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.
Recently, several studies were conducted to see why Americans don’t exercise more, especially given the opportunities and blessings we enjoy here. The overwhelming number one answer was “I’m too busy.” (More on that momentarily).
A companion study with those all discovered that those who exercised regularly reported that they felt like they had more time in their day, not less.
Both studies are enlightening and interesting.
Allow me also to convict you this morning with the following questions. Ponder them, then answer honestly. And we’ll elaborate tomorrow.
1. Have you ever used the excuse, “I’m too busy” to avoid exercise (or eating right)?
2. On the same day as this excuse, did you find time to watch TV, surf the internet, or update your Facebook status?
3. Do you already know where I’m going with this?
4. Would you agree that unless we make exercise (and eating right) a priority- like making it an appointment- we will always fail?
5. Are you aware that functional fitness can be done in minutes a day with no gym equipment whatsoever?
Have fun. See you tomorrow.
Application: In order to meet our goals, whether physical or spiritual, we must be honest with ourselves. And others. Think deeply about these questions. Maybe you’ll discover the single greatest thing holding you back.
Nutrition Tip: Choose wisely. With our schedules the way they, we all eat out. And that’s okay…if we’re choosing wisely from the menu. Just because you stop for fast food doesn’t mean you have to stop for junk food. These days, almost every food joint has healthier menu options. Opt for those items. And choose water instead of the sugary beverage.
Exercise Tip: Take breaks. Many of us work in offices, job sites, or classrooms. Often, we get so involved in our work, we skip much needed breaks. Use your breaks to get up, move around, get some fresh air, stretch, meditate, or hit the gym (on lunch break). Its more productive for both your health and your job for you do take frequent breaks. (This is NOT an excuse to get on your Facebook page!
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Live[r] in the Fast Lane
Isaiah 58:6-8 (NLT)
No, this is the kind of fasting I want:
Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people.
Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help.
Then your salvation will come like the dawn, and your wounds will quickly heal. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
YAHWEH amazes me everyday. Only GOD could have created our bodies with such intricate detail and symbolism. Take this for example…
When you invite JESUS into your life, the Holy Spirit (GOD-in-you) becomes your life. It encourages your spirit and purifies your life (among many, many other things). Your physical body has something remarkably similar- the liver! The liver is of vital importance to the human body. Despite not receiving the hype of the brain, heart, or lungs, the liver is just as important. It performs over 500 functions for the body, including filtering the bloodstream, removing toxins, processing carbs, fat, and proteins, and eliminating waste. Even the hardest skeptic would agree with me that we should nurture it. But how?
1. Eat right
2. Fast
In previous LifeTogether devotions, fasting has been discussed- but only through a purely spiritual view. Today, we’ll see fasting in another light, from a physical standpoint. Fasting, you will recall, is abstaining from anything that can, and does, take time away from relationship building time with YAHWEH. The vast majority of time, people fast food (no pun intended). This is both Biblical (fasting is mentioned over 70 times in the Bible) and beneficial. Fasting food not only allows you extra time to spend resting with the Redeemer in spirit; it also allows your body- and your liver in particular- to slow down and rest. To catch a break from having to digest and distribute all that food we cram down our gullet. Imagine your liver getting to taking a power nap and coming back stronger than ever, just like we have to do from time to time. Start with one meal or snack time. Spend that time praying. And watch as your whole life (body, mind, heart, and spirit) start aligning with that of GOD.
Application: Live life in the fast lane- for the benefit of your body and your spirit. Pick a meal to skip and pray or read your Bible instead. Thank GOD for changing your whole person to be more like Jesus.
Nutrition Tip: Digestive Probiotics. If you have stomach and/or digestive issues, invest in some Green Superfood Powder from GNC. Among its qualities, it contains digestive probiotics which will help you dispose of the junk in your system as well as alleviating medical ailments which plague many people. And without all those pills which treat the symptom not the problem!
Exercise Tip: Push yourself! Most people- even the athletic types- stop working much to early. Like your spiritual walk, which requires sometimes painful growth past your threshold, your exercise regimen should push you. If you lift, add a few reps. If you walk, go ¼ mile further. If you do 10 push ups, do 12. If you do Zumba, do one more Brazilian samba. Push yourself in all areas of your fitness and enjoy the results.
No, this is the kind of fasting I want:
Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people.
Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help.
Then your salvation will come like the dawn, and your wounds will quickly heal. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind.
YAHWEH amazes me everyday. Only GOD could have created our bodies with such intricate detail and symbolism. Take this for example…
When you invite JESUS into your life, the Holy Spirit (GOD-in-you) becomes your life. It encourages your spirit and purifies your life (among many, many other things). Your physical body has something remarkably similar- the liver! The liver is of vital importance to the human body. Despite not receiving the hype of the brain, heart, or lungs, the liver is just as important. It performs over 500 functions for the body, including filtering the bloodstream, removing toxins, processing carbs, fat, and proteins, and eliminating waste. Even the hardest skeptic would agree with me that we should nurture it. But how?
1. Eat right
2. Fast
In previous LifeTogether devotions, fasting has been discussed- but only through a purely spiritual view. Today, we’ll see fasting in another light, from a physical standpoint. Fasting, you will recall, is abstaining from anything that can, and does, take time away from relationship building time with YAHWEH. The vast majority of time, people fast food (no pun intended). This is both Biblical (fasting is mentioned over 70 times in the Bible) and beneficial. Fasting food not only allows you extra time to spend resting with the Redeemer in spirit; it also allows your body- and your liver in particular- to slow down and rest. To catch a break from having to digest and distribute all that food we cram down our gullet. Imagine your liver getting to taking a power nap and coming back stronger than ever, just like we have to do from time to time. Start with one meal or snack time. Spend that time praying. And watch as your whole life (body, mind, heart, and spirit) start aligning with that of GOD.
Application: Live life in the fast lane- for the benefit of your body and your spirit. Pick a meal to skip and pray or read your Bible instead. Thank GOD for changing your whole person to be more like Jesus.
Nutrition Tip: Digestive Probiotics. If you have stomach and/or digestive issues, invest in some Green Superfood Powder from GNC. Among its qualities, it contains digestive probiotics which will help you dispose of the junk in your system as well as alleviating medical ailments which plague many people. And without all those pills which treat the symptom not the problem!
Exercise Tip: Push yourself! Most people- even the athletic types- stop working much to early. Like your spiritual walk, which requires sometimes painful growth past your threshold, your exercise regimen should push you. If you lift, add a few reps. If you walk, go ¼ mile further. If you do 10 push ups, do 12. If you do Zumba, do one more Brazilian samba. Push yourself in all areas of your fitness and enjoy the results.
Friday, April 18, 2014
Reflection
1. Scriptures:
Reread the Bible passages used in this week’s LifeTogether. Which one of these meant the most to you personally? Why?
2. Devotions:
List three things that stuck out to you during the week. Why did these grab your attention?
3. Applications:
Which of the applications are you having the easiest time with? The most difficult?
4. Nutrition Tips:
Which of the nutrition tips from this week have you (or will you) started?
5. Exercise Tips:
Last week, you were to write down several fitness goals for this month. Take an honest inventory. Are you on the path to reach those goals? Or have you already relented?
6. Prayer
Thank YAHWEH for seeing you through the week and continue to give him your fitness goals. Remember: He cares for you…even when it comes to your body conditioning and healthy eating.
Reread the Bible passages used in this week’s LifeTogether. Which one of these meant the most to you personally? Why?
2. Devotions:
List three things that stuck out to you during the week. Why did these grab your attention?
3. Applications:
Which of the applications are you having the easiest time with? The most difficult?
4. Nutrition Tips:
Which of the nutrition tips from this week have you (or will you) started?
5. Exercise Tips:
Last week, you were to write down several fitness goals for this month. Take an honest inventory. Are you on the path to reach those goals? Or have you already relented?
6. Prayer
Thank YAHWEH for seeing you through the week and continue to give him your fitness goals. Remember: He cares for you…even when it comes to your body conditioning and healthy eating.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Asking For Health
Matthew 7:7 (NLT)
Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.
Honesty Check. Have you uttered the following prayer…or one similar?
“GOD, please help me lose weight so I can fit into that hot little bikini this summer…or GOD, please help me get ripped with a six-pack I can wash clothes off of.”
While these are obviously superficial and selfish prayers, they bring up a valid Scriptural principle: We have not because we ask not. GOD is ever faithful to deliver our needs. So then, let us return to our example prayer. Although rippling abs or a flat stomach for a bikini may not be necessities, the overall health and wellness of the body is. In optimal health, the body functions as it should, as it was designed to do. So here’s a thought. Maybe we should pray something along the lines of “ GOD, please allow me to enjoy the greatest health possible, so that I can serve you, savor activity time with my family, and use my body to help others. This is sincere prayer and because you are asking not out of selfish gain (or at least less selfish gain), he will be faithful to deliver. He promised. And he has yet to disappoint.
Maybe you won’t grace the cover of Men’s Health Magazine or Redbook, but you’ll be healthy, happy, and on your way to being whole.
Application: We can’t do anything- especially health and wellness wise- without help. Ask GOD first. Then ask one (or many) people to hold you accountable to your health and wellness goals. Don’t get upset if they call you out!
Nutrition Tip: Unless you’re fasting (which will be discussed next week), breakfast is of absolute importance. Name your breakfast, or lack thereof, and I can tell you much about your health. A healthy, nutritious breakfast leads to sustained energy and focus. Think oatmeal, eggs/egg whites, turkey bacon, and fruit. Or if you’re on the go, a fruit smoothie with stuff added. Shipley’s every morning will leave you dragging, bloated, and awaiting your next sugar hit. (My apologies, Wesley.)
Exercise Tip: As funny as this may sound, give GOD your workout. Pray that you condition your body without bringing it harm and use your workout time as another opportunity to worship. The following music will enhance your workout by pumping up your adrenaline level and allowing you to lift your hands in worship between sets: Thousand Foot Krutch, The Classic Crime, Flyleaf, Project 86, Blindside, and TobyMac to name a few.
Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.
Honesty Check. Have you uttered the following prayer…or one similar?
“GOD, please help me lose weight so I can fit into that hot little bikini this summer…or GOD, please help me get ripped with a six-pack I can wash clothes off of.”
While these are obviously superficial and selfish prayers, they bring up a valid Scriptural principle: We have not because we ask not. GOD is ever faithful to deliver our needs. So then, let us return to our example prayer. Although rippling abs or a flat stomach for a bikini may not be necessities, the overall health and wellness of the body is. In optimal health, the body functions as it should, as it was designed to do. So here’s a thought. Maybe we should pray something along the lines of “ GOD, please allow me to enjoy the greatest health possible, so that I can serve you, savor activity time with my family, and use my body to help others. This is sincere prayer and because you are asking not out of selfish gain (or at least less selfish gain), he will be faithful to deliver. He promised. And he has yet to disappoint.
Maybe you won’t grace the cover of Men’s Health Magazine or Redbook, but you’ll be healthy, happy, and on your way to being whole.
Application: We can’t do anything- especially health and wellness wise- without help. Ask GOD first. Then ask one (or many) people to hold you accountable to your health and wellness goals. Don’t get upset if they call you out!
Nutrition Tip: Unless you’re fasting (which will be discussed next week), breakfast is of absolute importance. Name your breakfast, or lack thereof, and I can tell you much about your health. A healthy, nutritious breakfast leads to sustained energy and focus. Think oatmeal, eggs/egg whites, turkey bacon, and fruit. Or if you’re on the go, a fruit smoothie with stuff added. Shipley’s every morning will leave you dragging, bloated, and awaiting your next sugar hit. (My apologies, Wesley.)
Exercise Tip: As funny as this may sound, give GOD your workout. Pray that you condition your body without bringing it harm and use your workout time as another opportunity to worship. The following music will enhance your workout by pumping up your adrenaline level and allowing you to lift your hands in worship between sets: Thousand Foot Krutch, The Classic Crime, Flyleaf, Project 86, Blindside, and TobyMac to name a few.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Good Stewards
Matthew 25:19-21 (NLT)
“After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of silver came forward with five more and said, ‘Master, you gave me five bags of silver to invest, and I have earned five more.’
“The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’
Since the beginning (as in “In the beginning”), GOD has called the human race to become good stewards. Over the earth. Over the animals. Over our time and talents. And over our bodies. The LORD blesses us with these bodies (and time and talents) not so that we’ll cling to them tightly until we return to him the same way. Jesus made it clear that we are to invest our time, talents, and bodies into Kingdom work. So, then, by being good stewards over our bodies we are fulfilling part of our calling. Being a good steward has everything to do with taking care of that gift. Fuel it with nutritious, whole foods from the bounty of the earth. Condition the body through exercise so you’ll have the natural energy to serve your family and others. Rest it so you can continue to minister without running on empty. Stretch the muscles and conduct breathing exercises or meditation to relieve stress and worry. Pray for overall health and wellness. Take care of the one, and only, body you've been given. Start today, looking at the body not as the container for your organs, but as a one-time gift to be valued and nurtured.
Application: One Life to Live. This is the only thing the soap opera industry ever got right. Or as my cousin Eminem once so eloquently rapped, “you only get one shot, do not, miss your chance to blow, this opportunity only comes once in a lifetime, yo!” Make the most of this life.
Nutrition Tip: Go Nuts! Nuts like almonds and pistachios are slam packed with healthy fats. So, rather than snacking on that grossly fattening and carb-laden candy bar, snag a handful of these nuts. Yes, they cost more than candy bars, but only in the short-term. Pay more for nuts now…or more in healthcare bills later.
Allergic to nuts? Find an alternative. If you want to be healthy bad enough, you’ll find a way to substitute.
Exercise Tip: Find a sport you’re passionate about and get moving! Then get others to join in. I’m not the biggest American football fan in the world, but if someone organized a Refuge Bowl in the field beside the church, I’d play. Or volleyball. Or whatever. Exercise and Fellowship. We’ll call it “BellyOffShip!”
Come to think of it, I’ll begin organizing the Refuge Cup, a soccer competition between Refuge and Arms of Mercy. Who’s in?
“After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of silver came forward with five more and said, ‘Master, you gave me five bags of silver to invest, and I have earned five more.’
“The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’
Since the beginning (as in “In the beginning”), GOD has called the human race to become good stewards. Over the earth. Over the animals. Over our time and talents. And over our bodies. The LORD blesses us with these bodies (and time and talents) not so that we’ll cling to them tightly until we return to him the same way. Jesus made it clear that we are to invest our time, talents, and bodies into Kingdom work. So, then, by being good stewards over our bodies we are fulfilling part of our calling. Being a good steward has everything to do with taking care of that gift. Fuel it with nutritious, whole foods from the bounty of the earth. Condition the body through exercise so you’ll have the natural energy to serve your family and others. Rest it so you can continue to minister without running on empty. Stretch the muscles and conduct breathing exercises or meditation to relieve stress and worry. Pray for overall health and wellness. Take care of the one, and only, body you've been given. Start today, looking at the body not as the container for your organs, but as a one-time gift to be valued and nurtured.
Application: One Life to Live. This is the only thing the soap opera industry ever got right. Or as my cousin Eminem once so eloquently rapped, “you only get one shot, do not, miss your chance to blow, this opportunity only comes once in a lifetime, yo!” Make the most of this life.
Nutrition Tip: Go Nuts! Nuts like almonds and pistachios are slam packed with healthy fats. So, rather than snacking on that grossly fattening and carb-laden candy bar, snag a handful of these nuts. Yes, they cost more than candy bars, but only in the short-term. Pay more for nuts now…or more in healthcare bills later.
Allergic to nuts? Find an alternative. If you want to be healthy bad enough, you’ll find a way to substitute.
Exercise Tip: Find a sport you’re passionate about and get moving! Then get others to join in. I’m not the biggest American football fan in the world, but if someone organized a Refuge Bowl in the field beside the church, I’d play. Or volleyball. Or whatever. Exercise and Fellowship. We’ll call it “BellyOffShip!”
Come to think of it, I’ll begin organizing the Refuge Cup, a soccer competition between Refuge and Arms of Mercy. Who’s in?
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Toxic Waste
2 Corinthians 7:1 (NLT)
Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.
Much like sin destroys the soul, toxins wreak havoc on the body. More than ever, our environment- no matter how positive we are- is contaminated with all sorts of unhealthy toxins. The good news, however, is this: Jesus wipes away the sin from our soul, and we can rid ourselves of many of the toxins affecting our health now. Start by using a portion of your next paycheck or the remaining balance on that Wal-Mart gift card to invest in a Brita water filter. I know, I know, you've been drinking Greenville’s dirt-tinged water for years and you’re “fine.” But with cities pumping more and more chlorine and other chemicals into its systems, clean, pure filtered water is the way to go. (Plus, you’ll save money on bottled water and rid the environment of more needless plastic). Another way to remove toxins also takes a financial sacrifice but is well worth it for your health. When possible, eat organic foods. Organic foods are those in which no harmful pesticides, chemicals, or hormones are used in its growing process, thereby making it pure and wholesome. Studies have shown that cutting foods sprayed with pesticides from your diet- even in small amounts- leads to greater health.
Application: Drink plenty of water for your body…and your soul. Remember that Jesus is the “living water,” which will never run dry. So, with apologies to Max Lucado, come thirsty.
Nutrition Tip: Speaking of water. If you despise drinking plain water, there are healthy additives you can mix in for taste. Lemon. Lime. Or a variety of other flavors. Just make sure the ingredients in those drink mix packs don’t negate the benefits of your water.
Go buy a water filter and a drinking bottle. It may embarrass your spouse when you carry it around (like it does mine, who often forces me into pouring my water into a “regular” water bottle) but you’ll keep you body hydrated. And a bonus benefit if you’re trying to lose weight, water keeps you feeling full. So you’re less likely to swing through that drive-thru for nasty foods and a sugary soft drink.
Exercise Tip: Interval Training. Running (without a soccer ball) bores me. And most other people. For both your sanity and the health benefits, run wind sprints instead of jogging for half an hour. The starting and stopping does more for your heart and lungs than a steady pace stretched out for a longer amount of time. And bonus: you can complete them during commercials and be back in before [ insert your favorite TV program here] comes back on.
Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.
Much like sin destroys the soul, toxins wreak havoc on the body. More than ever, our environment- no matter how positive we are- is contaminated with all sorts of unhealthy toxins. The good news, however, is this: Jesus wipes away the sin from our soul, and we can rid ourselves of many of the toxins affecting our health now. Start by using a portion of your next paycheck or the remaining balance on that Wal-Mart gift card to invest in a Brita water filter. I know, I know, you've been drinking Greenville’s dirt-tinged water for years and you’re “fine.” But with cities pumping more and more chlorine and other chemicals into its systems, clean, pure filtered water is the way to go. (Plus, you’ll save money on bottled water and rid the environment of more needless plastic). Another way to remove toxins also takes a financial sacrifice but is well worth it for your health. When possible, eat organic foods. Organic foods are those in which no harmful pesticides, chemicals, or hormones are used in its growing process, thereby making it pure and wholesome. Studies have shown that cutting foods sprayed with pesticides from your diet- even in small amounts- leads to greater health.
Application: Drink plenty of water for your body…and your soul. Remember that Jesus is the “living water,” which will never run dry. So, with apologies to Max Lucado, come thirsty.
Nutrition Tip: Speaking of water. If you despise drinking plain water, there are healthy additives you can mix in for taste. Lemon. Lime. Or a variety of other flavors. Just make sure the ingredients in those drink mix packs don’t negate the benefits of your water.
Go buy a water filter and a drinking bottle. It may embarrass your spouse when you carry it around (like it does mine, who often forces me into pouring my water into a “regular” water bottle) but you’ll keep you body hydrated. And a bonus benefit if you’re trying to lose weight, water keeps you feeling full. So you’re less likely to swing through that drive-thru for nasty foods and a sugary soft drink.
Exercise Tip: Interval Training. Running (without a soccer ball) bores me. And most other people. For both your sanity and the health benefits, run wind sprints instead of jogging for half an hour. The starting and stopping does more for your heart and lungs than a steady pace stretched out for a longer amount of time. And bonus: you can complete them during commercials and be back in before [ insert your favorite TV program here] comes back on.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Energy and Efficiency #2
John 12:25 (NLT)
Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.
Yesterday, we left with a dangling principle: when we use our energy (or anything else for that matter) for God, He multiplies it in return.
So number two is this: Whatever we give the LORD, whether large or small, he multiplies it and gives it back in greater quantities. Over and over again. I believe if we take an honest look at our lives, we’re witness to this.
Permit me to share a personal story. As you know from reading this devotional, I enjoy writing. Whether it be poetry, a novel, a memoir of my time at the shelter, whatever. I have to write. Whether or not people read it doesn't matter. Writing began as a catharsis during my time in recovery and hasn't stopped since. A few years ago, I saw my writing time cut to almost nothing. With a new baby and a family devoted to serving others through our church, shelter, and school, little time or energy remained for my writing. This bothered me so bad that I brought it up in a conversation with my mentor. Being the Godly, wise man he is, he shared with me the Scriptures above and told me to continue to be faithful to GOD first and that He would provide time and energy for my passion in due time. I gritted my teeth and followed his advice. Months later, I found myself with more responsibilities than I’d ever had before- yet I was writing more than I had in years! Not only that, I was able to factor in more family adventures and more time to run around the yard with the soccer ball exercising (and dreaming I finally led FC Dallas to their elusive MLS Cup and Supporter‘s Shield) . I’m not relating this to say “Hey, look how well I mange my time” but to lift my voice in saying, “Put GOD first in everything, devoting all of your energy to him, and watch as he miraculously adds time and energy to your days!” There is no better investment for you health.
Application: Make a commitment to give GOD the best part of your day- morning, afternoon, or evening. Do your devotion then. Read your Bible. Pray, both talking and listening. And watch as you give him a little, and he gives eternity in return.
Nutrition Tip: Be faithful to small changes in your diet. Eating organic whole foods can be both an adjustment for your body and your pocketbook. On your next trip to the grocery store, simply replace one or two of your “old” foods with something more nutritious. (Example: oatmeal with fruit rather than Fruit Loops). If you eat out often, steer toward Subway or a healthy salad and a bowl of chili at Wendy’s.
Exercise Tip: Sleep. Yes, I realize this is an odd tip when the devotional dealt with energy. But science (and experience) tells you the more sleep you get during the night, the better. Seven to eight hours is ideal, but let’s face it, many of us do good to get six. Sleeping though allows the body to “shut down” and “recharge,” thus helping us increase our energy levels.
Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.
Yesterday, we left with a dangling principle: when we use our energy (or anything else for that matter) for God, He multiplies it in return.
So number two is this: Whatever we give the LORD, whether large or small, he multiplies it and gives it back in greater quantities. Over and over again. I believe if we take an honest look at our lives, we’re witness to this.
Permit me to share a personal story. As you know from reading this devotional, I enjoy writing. Whether it be poetry, a novel, a memoir of my time at the shelter, whatever. I have to write. Whether or not people read it doesn't matter. Writing began as a catharsis during my time in recovery and hasn't stopped since. A few years ago, I saw my writing time cut to almost nothing. With a new baby and a family devoted to serving others through our church, shelter, and school, little time or energy remained for my writing. This bothered me so bad that I brought it up in a conversation with my mentor. Being the Godly, wise man he is, he shared with me the Scriptures above and told me to continue to be faithful to GOD first and that He would provide time and energy for my passion in due time. I gritted my teeth and followed his advice. Months later, I found myself with more responsibilities than I’d ever had before- yet I was writing more than I had in years! Not only that, I was able to factor in more family adventures and more time to run around the yard with the soccer ball exercising (and dreaming I finally led FC Dallas to their elusive MLS Cup and Supporter‘s Shield) . I’m not relating this to say “Hey, look how well I mange my time” but to lift my voice in saying, “Put GOD first in everything, devoting all of your energy to him, and watch as he miraculously adds time and energy to your days!” There is no better investment for you health.
Application: Make a commitment to give GOD the best part of your day- morning, afternoon, or evening. Do your devotion then. Read your Bible. Pray, both talking and listening. And watch as you give him a little, and he gives eternity in return.
Nutrition Tip: Be faithful to small changes in your diet. Eating organic whole foods can be both an adjustment for your body and your pocketbook. On your next trip to the grocery store, simply replace one or two of your “old” foods with something more nutritious. (Example: oatmeal with fruit rather than Fruit Loops). If you eat out often, steer toward Subway or a healthy salad and a bowl of chili at Wendy’s.
Exercise Tip: Sleep. Yes, I realize this is an odd tip when the devotional dealt with energy. But science (and experience) tells you the more sleep you get during the night, the better. Seven to eight hours is ideal, but let’s face it, many of us do good to get six. Sleeping though allows the body to “shut down” and “recharge,” thus helping us increase our energy levels.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Energy and Efficiency #1
Matthew 6:33 (NLT)
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
Scrawled on many a New Years Resolution list every year are entries such as: lose weight, relax more, get closer to GOD, have more energy…
Energy is a lot like time, in that it eludes us, slips through our fingers, gone before we have time to fully harness it. And with work, personal time, family, church, volunteering, and a host of other responsibilities , it's no wonder that most of us are running on empty. And we’re not alone. The market is flooded with things designed to boost our energy level- Red Bull “energy” drinks, B-12 shots, 5-Hour-Energy slugs, and so on. These “solutions” however, are temporary, lasting only long enough for the burst of caffeine to wear off and bottom you out. Then we feel worse and have to slam another. Addiction anyone?
So, does GOD care anything about our energy level and what we pour down our gullet to increase it? The answer is a resounding yes! He created us! He loves us! He cares about every minute detail of our lives. If not, he wouldn't have told us to love Him with all of our energy! (The Message paraphrase). Allow me to help you tap into greater energy with a few Biblical principles…
1. Love GOD first. No matter which translation we read, this principle is crystal clear. Place Jesus first and everything else falls into place. When we put all we are- our whole person (body, mind, heart, spirit)- in Jesus, He will add innumerable things, including a greater natural energy to worship Him and serve others. Our tendency is to think more service and worship will exhaust us further when in fact, as usual with the things of GOD, the opposite is true. We often find ourselves with even more energy. (Which will lead us to our next principle tomorrow.)
Application: Spend your energy today focusing on others: family, friends, co-workers, random strangers. When you lay your head down tonight, ask yourself if you were more (rather than less) energetic as usual.
Nutrition Tip: Discover natural energy. Contrary to what the Red Bull people would have you believe, a balanced diet and exercise regimen increases your energy level. By fueling our body with healthy foods and conditioning it into stronger growth, you’re gaining a lifetime of Red Bull feeling without the hangover and 3 dollar hole in your pocket.
Exercise Tip: Get up a few minutes early to get your workout in. Studies have shown that exercising in the morning while your body is rested helps you sustain energy levels throughout the day. Plus, bonus, it also increases productivity and optimism. Then, you won’t have to worry if you’ll have time later to make it to the gym or family obligations come up or you have to work late.
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
Scrawled on many a New Years Resolution list every year are entries such as: lose weight, relax more, get closer to GOD, have more energy…
Energy is a lot like time, in that it eludes us, slips through our fingers, gone before we have time to fully harness it. And with work, personal time, family, church, volunteering, and a host of other responsibilities , it's no wonder that most of us are running on empty. And we’re not alone. The market is flooded with things designed to boost our energy level- Red Bull “energy” drinks, B-12 shots, 5-Hour-Energy slugs, and so on. These “solutions” however, are temporary, lasting only long enough for the burst of caffeine to wear off and bottom you out. Then we feel worse and have to slam another. Addiction anyone?
So, does GOD care anything about our energy level and what we pour down our gullet to increase it? The answer is a resounding yes! He created us! He loves us! He cares about every minute detail of our lives. If not, he wouldn't have told us to love Him with all of our energy! (The Message paraphrase). Allow me to help you tap into greater energy with a few Biblical principles…
1. Love GOD first. No matter which translation we read, this principle is crystal clear. Place Jesus first and everything else falls into place. When we put all we are- our whole person (body, mind, heart, spirit)- in Jesus, He will add innumerable things, including a greater natural energy to worship Him and serve others. Our tendency is to think more service and worship will exhaust us further when in fact, as usual with the things of GOD, the opposite is true. We often find ourselves with even more energy. (Which will lead us to our next principle tomorrow.)
Application: Spend your energy today focusing on others: family, friends, co-workers, random strangers. When you lay your head down tonight, ask yourself if you were more (rather than less) energetic as usual.
Nutrition Tip: Discover natural energy. Contrary to what the Red Bull people would have you believe, a balanced diet and exercise regimen increases your energy level. By fueling our body with healthy foods and conditioning it into stronger growth, you’re gaining a lifetime of Red Bull feeling without the hangover and 3 dollar hole in your pocket.
Exercise Tip: Get up a few minutes early to get your workout in. Studies have shown that exercising in the morning while your body is rested helps you sustain energy levels throughout the day. Plus, bonus, it also increases productivity and optimism. Then, you won’t have to worry if you’ll have time later to make it to the gym or family obligations come up or you have to work late.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Reflection
1. Scriptures:
Reread the Bible passages used in this week’s LifeTogether. Which one of these meant the most to you personally? Why?
2. Devotions:
List three things that stuck out to you during the week. Why did these grab your attention?
3. Applications:
Which of the applications are you having the easiest time with? The most difficult?
4. Nutrition Tips:
Which of the nutrition tips from this week have you (or will you) started?
5. Exercise Tips:
Write down a list of your fitness goals for this month. Make them realistic but challenging. (For example, if you haven’t exercised since high school, you may set a goal of walking every morning, doing 10 push-ups daily, and cutting back to one soda a day.)
6. Prayer
Thank YAHWEH for seeing you through the week and give him your fitness goals. He cares for you…even when it comes to your body conditioning and healthy eating.
P.S. Don’t go out and splurge on a Happy Meal for meeting your goals this week. Choose Subway instead. And yes, I would love to join you. Thank you.
Reread the Bible passages used in this week’s LifeTogether. Which one of these meant the most to you personally? Why?
2. Devotions:
List three things that stuck out to you during the week. Why did these grab your attention?
3. Applications:
Which of the applications are you having the easiest time with? The most difficult?
4. Nutrition Tips:
Which of the nutrition tips from this week have you (or will you) started?
5. Exercise Tips:
Write down a list of your fitness goals for this month. Make them realistic but challenging. (For example, if you haven’t exercised since high school, you may set a goal of walking every morning, doing 10 push-ups daily, and cutting back to one soda a day.)
6. Prayer
Thank YAHWEH for seeing you through the week and give him your fitness goals. He cares for you…even when it comes to your body conditioning and healthy eating.
P.S. Don’t go out and splurge on a Happy Meal for meeting your goals this week. Choose Subway instead. And yes, I would love to join you. Thank you.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
The Spirit of Supplements
Ezekiel 47:12 (NLT)
...The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing.
When most of us think of supplements, we envision either condiments or dessert. Things to add taste or flavor to our meals. Ketchup, mayo, mustard, cake, pie, ice cream. But I’m referring to supplements such as vitamins, oils, and green food and protein powders. The purpose of such supplements, however, is not to increase taste so much as increase the nutritional value of what we shove down our gullet. Why are such things a good idea? Quite simply, because we’ve gotten away from eating whole, healthy, GOD-created foods and substituted them with greasy, processed, pseudo-food which may taste great but has little, if any, nutritional value. It’s the equivalent of throwing trash down your throat. In our relationship with Jesus, we don’t shove rubbish and sin into our spirits. So why do we do it to our bodies, which currently house the spirit? Supplement your spirit with the Savior; supplement your body with valuable nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants. Ditch the mayo, pop a vitamin (Flintstones anyone?)
Application: Change comes with small steps. Do a small thing today (popping a vitamin) which will make big opportunities for tomorrow (overall health and wellness).
Nutrition Tip: Start swallowing a multi-vitamin every morning. Unlike our caffeine packed coffee, a vitamin will provide an all day energy boost, without the caffeine crash later. Even get the kids involved. Just get past the superhero on the cover and make sure the vitamin has the recommended goods for kids.
Exercise Tip: Time Management. Time is valuable so incorporate functional fitness into your day. Pick you kids up and down several times when playing with them. Do a cardio or Zumba routine as you watch your favorite TV program. Do push-ups during the commercials for the bowl games. Walk briskly from one end of the church to the other (a long way by the way).
...The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing.
When most of us think of supplements, we envision either condiments or dessert. Things to add taste or flavor to our meals. Ketchup, mayo, mustard, cake, pie, ice cream. But I’m referring to supplements such as vitamins, oils, and green food and protein powders. The purpose of such supplements, however, is not to increase taste so much as increase the nutritional value of what we shove down our gullet. Why are such things a good idea? Quite simply, because we’ve gotten away from eating whole, healthy, GOD-created foods and substituted them with greasy, processed, pseudo-food which may taste great but has little, if any, nutritional value. It’s the equivalent of throwing trash down your throat. In our relationship with Jesus, we don’t shove rubbish and sin into our spirits. So why do we do it to our bodies, which currently house the spirit? Supplement your spirit with the Savior; supplement your body with valuable nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants. Ditch the mayo, pop a vitamin (Flintstones anyone?)
Application: Change comes with small steps. Do a small thing today (popping a vitamin) which will make big opportunities for tomorrow (overall health and wellness).
Nutrition Tip: Start swallowing a multi-vitamin every morning. Unlike our caffeine packed coffee, a vitamin will provide an all day energy boost, without the caffeine crash later. Even get the kids involved. Just get past the superhero on the cover and make sure the vitamin has the recommended goods for kids.
Exercise Tip: Time Management. Time is valuable so incorporate functional fitness into your day. Pick you kids up and down several times when playing with them. Do a cardio or Zumba routine as you watch your favorite TV program. Do push-ups during the commercials for the bowl games. Walk briskly from one end of the church to the other (a long way by the way).
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
The Be-Attitudes #9 - The Final Stanza
Matthew 5:11-12 (NLT)
God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about youand say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
Be the truth…
Application: Seek the meaning of the aforementioned phrase
Mindful Meditation: Today, dwell on this: I AM (Jesus) the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about youand say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
Be the truth…
Application: Seek the meaning of the aforementioned phrase
Mindful Meditation: Today, dwell on this: I AM (Jesus) the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Mirror, Mirror
1 Samuel 16:7 (NLT)
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
Life can be summarized in many one word conclusions. And one I tend to use a great deal is: “balance.” Yes, I know it sounds very eastern- religious of me, as if I've been consulting the Buddha too long. It's important as we become mindful of the health and wellness of our bodies that we find a balance. What is meant by this? When we stand in front of the mirror to brush our teeth every morning, we shouldn't look away in disgust, mumbling such phrases as, “I’m too fat, how can anyone love me, or I’ll never be able to be fit.” Nor should the opposite be true of us, leering at the mirror, stroking our six-pack, and flexing our muscles in admiration of our glorious image. Rather, we should be able to smile, say “I’m a child a GOD and a work in progress,” thank him for such things as your ability to stand in front of a mirror (legs) and be able to see your visage (eyes), then give him your body in the day ahead, as a living sacrifice. Then be patient with the change. Your health is important to GOD!
Application: Find balance today. Realize Jesus loves you just as you are…but also too much to let you stay the way you are.
Nutrition Tip: Add honey to the grocery list. There’s a reason this is a staple food at Arms of Mercy. Of its many qualities, perhaps its best are soothing stomach ailments (worry anyone?), preventing cancer, and reducing the risk of heart disease. It's also mankind’s oldest- and healthiest- sweetener.
Exercise Tip: Switch up routines. Get bored easy? Many a new year’s resolution bites the dust due to boredom. So keep your body guessing, and engaged, by switching your workouts often. Walk one day. Lift weights another. Chase the kids at the park. Kick the soccer ball around (its fun people, I’m telling you). Speed walk, rather than casual walk, through the mall. Jog, rather than riding the four-wheeler, to the deer stand. (If you kill something, muscle it back to camp. You won’t have to workout of for weeks after that!)
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
Life can be summarized in many one word conclusions. And one I tend to use a great deal is: “balance.” Yes, I know it sounds very eastern- religious of me, as if I've been consulting the Buddha too long. It's important as we become mindful of the health and wellness of our bodies that we find a balance. What is meant by this? When we stand in front of the mirror to brush our teeth every morning, we shouldn't look away in disgust, mumbling such phrases as, “I’m too fat, how can anyone love me, or I’ll never be able to be fit.” Nor should the opposite be true of us, leering at the mirror, stroking our six-pack, and flexing our muscles in admiration of our glorious image. Rather, we should be able to smile, say “I’m a child a GOD and a work in progress,” thank him for such things as your ability to stand in front of a mirror (legs) and be able to see your visage (eyes), then give him your body in the day ahead, as a living sacrifice. Then be patient with the change. Your health is important to GOD!
Application: Find balance today. Realize Jesus loves you just as you are…but also too much to let you stay the way you are.
Nutrition Tip: Add honey to the grocery list. There’s a reason this is a staple food at Arms of Mercy. Of its many qualities, perhaps its best are soothing stomach ailments (worry anyone?), preventing cancer, and reducing the risk of heart disease. It's also mankind’s oldest- and healthiest- sweetener.
Exercise Tip: Switch up routines. Get bored easy? Many a new year’s resolution bites the dust due to boredom. So keep your body guessing, and engaged, by switching your workouts often. Walk one day. Lift weights another. Chase the kids at the park. Kick the soccer ball around (its fun people, I’m telling you). Speed walk, rather than casual walk, through the mall. Jog, rather than riding the four-wheeler, to the deer stand. (If you kill something, muscle it back to camp. You won’t have to workout of for weeks after that!)
Monday, April 7, 2014
The Gospel of Health
Matthew 9:12 (NLT)
When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.
Whether you’re a baby believer or a seasoned saint, you've read the Bible. (At least you did today). Perhaps you read it out of a greater desire to know the lover of your soul, for guidance, for encouragement, for conviction, for entertainment, for peace, for empathy, or for a hundred other reasons. But I’d be willing to bet (if I did that sort of thing) that you haven’t picked up your Bible to see GOD’s health plan for your life. The Bible is a wealth of knowledge and information about how to make our lives healthy and well- straight from the One who created and healed our bodies. Within the confines of the Word is diet, nutrition, exercise, meditation, rest, supplements, and energy. During this month, as you desperately attempt to cling to your new year’s resolutions of weight loss and exercise machines, view the Bible not only as a road map for the soul…but the body as well. Drop the diet books. Pick up the Bible.
Application: Change your perceptions. Add “Health Book” to your descriptions of the Bible.
Nutrition Tip: Eat small fruit. (Figs, grapes, berries, pomegranates). Loaded with fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, these tasty GOD given miracles control blood pressure, healthy weight, and prevent memory loss. Now you can remember more of the sermon!
Exercise Tip: Warm up before stretching and exercise. Getting your heart rate up and your blood pumping before stretching, jogging, or heavy lifting will prevent injury, which is the guilty party in ending many a new year’s workout program.
When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.
Whether you’re a baby believer or a seasoned saint, you've read the Bible. (At least you did today). Perhaps you read it out of a greater desire to know the lover of your soul, for guidance, for encouragement, for conviction, for entertainment, for peace, for empathy, or for a hundred other reasons. But I’d be willing to bet (if I did that sort of thing) that you haven’t picked up your Bible to see GOD’s health plan for your life. The Bible is a wealth of knowledge and information about how to make our lives healthy and well- straight from the One who created and healed our bodies. Within the confines of the Word is diet, nutrition, exercise, meditation, rest, supplements, and energy. During this month, as you desperately attempt to cling to your new year’s resolutions of weight loss and exercise machines, view the Bible not only as a road map for the soul…but the body as well. Drop the diet books. Pick up the Bible.
Application: Change your perceptions. Add “Health Book” to your descriptions of the Bible.
Nutrition Tip: Eat small fruit. (Figs, grapes, berries, pomegranates). Loaded with fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, these tasty GOD given miracles control blood pressure, healthy weight, and prevent memory loss. Now you can remember more of the sermon!
Exercise Tip: Warm up before stretching and exercise. Getting your heart rate up and your blood pumping before stretching, jogging, or heavy lifting will prevent injury, which is the guilty party in ending many a new year’s workout program.
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Introduction to "The Whole Person"
Mark 12:30 (NLT)
And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.
We, as human beings, are fearfully and wonderfully made. Made by, and for, YAHWEH and his glory. Intricately designed and woven both of the earthly and the eternal. Natural and supernatural. The moment we become a compassionate thought in the omnipotent imagination of the Creator, we are…and will ever be. For we are a spirit, an unseen but very real part of our being. The part that will live forever, whether in loving completeness with Jesus or an agonizing hell of what-ifs away from his Presence. Wrapped around the unseen eternal are two other unseens though they, like the body encasing them, will one day pass away- the heart and mind. The heart, for our purposes, is the emotions and feelings that make the human condition unique. The mind then is our intelligence, thoughts, and motivations. It's these two which connect the spirit with the final entity which makes us a person- the physical body. That which we can touch, taste, smell, hear, and perhaps most importantly to us, see! All of these, carefully constructed together, make us a whole person.
Not only do these four “parts” make us a complete person, Jesus makes us a whole person by renewing us from the inside out. We become truly whole…and healed.
Complete.
Spend the remainder of your LifeTogether time today praying. Praise YAHWEH for who he is and what he’s already done for you. Then ask him to remake you over the next four months into a whole and healed person. Not so much Extreme Makeover as Eternal Makeover.
And remember…a great journey- no matter how long- begins with one step. Now put one foot in front of the other.
And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.
We, as human beings, are fearfully and wonderfully made. Made by, and for, YAHWEH and his glory. Intricately designed and woven both of the earthly and the eternal. Natural and supernatural. The moment we become a compassionate thought in the omnipotent imagination of the Creator, we are…and will ever be. For we are a spirit, an unseen but very real part of our being. The part that will live forever, whether in loving completeness with Jesus or an agonizing hell of what-ifs away from his Presence. Wrapped around the unseen eternal are two other unseens though they, like the body encasing them, will one day pass away- the heart and mind. The heart, for our purposes, is the emotions and feelings that make the human condition unique. The mind then is our intelligence, thoughts, and motivations. It's these two which connect the spirit with the final entity which makes us a person- the physical body. That which we can touch, taste, smell, hear, and perhaps most importantly to us, see! All of these, carefully constructed together, make us a whole person.
Not only do these four “parts” make us a complete person, Jesus makes us a whole person by renewing us from the inside out. We become truly whole…and healed.
Complete.
Spend the remainder of your LifeTogether time today praying. Praise YAHWEH for who he is and what he’s already done for you. Then ask him to remake you over the next four months into a whole and healed person. Not so much Extreme Makeover as Eternal Makeover.
And remember…a great journey- no matter how long- begins with one step. Now put one foot in front of the other.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
The Revolution Will Be Devotionalized (3 of 5)
Differing Dharma
John 15:5-7 (NLT)
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!
Everyone has their thing. Something they don’t share with the world. Or at least with very few people. Not a sin mind you, but just a piece of yourself you don’t blare. For some, its jazz music. For others, its reality TV. For me, it monks.
I am fascinated my monks. Of all sorts. I read books about them. I listen to albums full of their chants (the Christ following ones). I ponder their wise sayings. I respect the discipline of their vows. I practice meditation techniques I learned from their orders. I would even be a monk if GOD hadn’t called me out of my personal silence and into the world.
One of the most profound thoughts I’ve come across is from an ordination ceremony, in which a particular branch of monks say they are “going forth into homelessness.” What a thought! And this gets me to thinking that the dude who came up with that saying is wise. His words live on after his death. Then my mind will return to the Bible and the words of Jesus. Unlike the words of the old wise men or the Buddha himself (Siddhartha Gautama), when I read the words of Jesus, I’m listening to the Living GOD. The words resonate with eternal power and significance, with wisdom well beyond my feeble mind yet simple enough for one with child-like faith. Stepping further into joy, I not only read them, but meditate on them, then live them out. And therein lies the difference between my Buddhist friends and myself: Jesus is the Way, the (only) Truth, and the Life.
Namaste.
John 15:5-7 (NLT)
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!
Everyone has their thing. Something they don’t share with the world. Or at least with very few people. Not a sin mind you, but just a piece of yourself you don’t blare. For some, its jazz music. For others, its reality TV. For me, it monks.
I am fascinated my monks. Of all sorts. I read books about them. I listen to albums full of their chants (the Christ following ones). I ponder their wise sayings. I respect the discipline of their vows. I practice meditation techniques I learned from their orders. I would even be a monk if GOD hadn’t called me out of my personal silence and into the world.
One of the most profound thoughts I’ve come across is from an ordination ceremony, in which a particular branch of monks say they are “going forth into homelessness.” What a thought! And this gets me to thinking that the dude who came up with that saying is wise. His words live on after his death. Then my mind will return to the Bible and the words of Jesus. Unlike the words of the old wise men or the Buddha himself (Siddhartha Gautama), when I read the words of Jesus, I’m listening to the Living GOD. The words resonate with eternal power and significance, with wisdom well beyond my feeble mind yet simple enough for one with child-like faith. Stepping further into joy, I not only read them, but meditate on them, then live them out. And therein lies the difference between my Buddhist friends and myself: Jesus is the Way, the (only) Truth, and the Life.
Namaste.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)