Logan Stout

No Struggles

2012-01-31T06:25:00.001-08:00

1-31-2012 by Boyd Bailey

No Struggles

“They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills.” Psalm 73:4-5

Having no struggles at all will never happen in this lifetime. Non-existent struggles are not possible, until you graduate to heaven’s struggle-free environment with your Savior. The nice and the naughty alike struggle, though outwardly they may seem void of vexation. The righteous and the wicked both struggle to varying degrees. No one is exempt from struggles.

Yes, there may be seasons of minimal conflict; however struggles are on the way. You are either struggling, about to struggle or have just finished struggling. Indeed, everyone from monks to the mafia struggle. Therefore, don’t spend your life trying to insulate yourself from struggles. Instead, prepare spiritually for the snares of an unseen enemy.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12).

You will stress out more from trying to avoid struggle, than you will from accepting its reality. This is not to say God would have us solicit struggle into our lives. But He does understand that struggles are meant to send us to Him. Struggles look for a Savior, and Jesus is our friend in our fight against those struggles.

Furthermore, envy can erode your eternal perspective by giving you a false impression of others who seem to live life without struggles. This is inaccurate and ill conceived. No amount of money or power can completely drive struggle from someone’s life. In fact, it may compound struggles because of the complexity of choices that wealth creates.

Someone’s large amount of discretionary time may, on the surface, make them seem like they are without struggles, but they are not. There are still the internal struggles of sin and self against God’s best. And there are the external struggles created by other people’s choices and circumstances that are out of your control. Accept struggle as the Lord’s way to grow you in His ways, for His glory. Struggles send you to pray for yourself and others.

Paul requested prayer, “I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me” (Romans 15:30).

Who can I join in their struggle through personal and persistent prayer?

Related Readings: Genesis 32:28; Hosea 12:3-4; Philippians 1:30; Hebrews 12:3-5

Soul Nourishment

2012-01-30T06:23:00.001-08:00

1-30-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Soul Nourishment

“My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” Psalm 42:2

Spirit-filled Christians have a craving for Christ—there is an insatiable desire for intimacy with their Savior. Activity and busyness, even for God, can taste like sawdust to the soul, but sitting at the feet of Jesus revives the spirit and satisfies our deepest longings to be known and loved by the Lord. Like water hydrates the body, only heaven hydrates the heart.

Our innermost being hungers and thirsts for spiritual food, but do we take the time to shop at God’s grocery store? Are we hunting for healthy soul food or we snacking at the world’s table with a diet that is detrimental to the eternal? Our Master Jesus has a menu made up of spiritual nutrients that nourish the soul. His filling food is accessed by faith.

“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35

Just like the body routinely looks for three meals a day and plenty of refreshing liquids, so your soul yearns for spiritual sustenance. Without the required daily input of needed nutrition—the neglected soul starves for lack of attention. The diseases of discouragement, fear, unforgiveness and hopelessness attack and defeat the spiritual immune system of an intimacy deprived and sick soul.

However, you contribute to a healthy heart by designating a meeting place of prayer with God. Go there often and drink in the Lord’s love, forgiveness and wisdom. Feed by faith at the feet of Jesus at a smorgasbord with the secret sauce of a saved soul. Grace feeds the heart of a grateful soul that has been graced by God. Pain and conflict fatigue faith to the point of parched lips, but praise and worship to Jesus drinks from His deep well of glory.

Your God, the father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is alive, ready and willing to fill your hungry heart with faith, and satisfy your thirsty soul with eternal security. Heaven always prepares a delicious meal that is beautifully presented in prayer. Wake up and worship the Lord—mid-morning, snack on Scripture—listen to the Lord at lunch—mid-afternoon, meditate on your blessings—at dinner discuss His faithfulness—and thank Him as you retire in the evening. A soul nourished by God meets with God and is eternally satisfied.

“My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” Psalm 84:2

Lord, how do you want to nourish and feed my soul with Your heavenly banquet table?

Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 15:12; Isaiah 61:10; Mark 12:30; Luke 1:46

Strength in God

2012-01-29T06:40:00.001-08:00

1-29-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Strength in God

“David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God.” 1Samuel 30:6

God is your source of strength. Other sources will run dry, or lose their effectiveness. Strength outside of God is temporary at best, and cannot be depended upon. You may find strength for a while through your sheer determination and will power, but eventually, your own efforts will dissipate in power. A life striving in self-directed strength will expire without an ongoing infusion of the Lord’s strength. He is our life, yet we sometimes neglect our built-in energy source.

Sheer busyness or fear may have caused you to unplug from your eternal source of strength. Your faith doesn’t need to remain impotent. Indeed, by faith you can plug into the socket of your Savior Jesus. He has been there all the time. Though your life may have been on an excursion away from eternal interests, now is the time to reconnect with God.

Do not allow the cares of this world to choke out the hope you have in Christ. You can find strength in Him, without having to look far at all. Sometimes we search for strength in all the wrong places and then sheepishly come back to God. There is no need to circumvent Christ. You can’t improve on Jesus. Fall at His feet, and He will pick you up and fill you with His power.

The power of God is unparalleled in conquering fear and discouragement. You may have lost a loved one through death. Their influence in your life was immense. You will miss them sorely. Their faith was a rock of reassurance for you. But, now is the time to tap into the same strength that caused the faith of your friend to flourish. When you dig down deep with the Lord, you do not come away empty. He fills you to the brim, even to overflowing!

God is your burden-bearer and your strength-giver. Do not neglect to allow His Spirit to ignite your strength to love. Ask Him to enlarge your heart of love, so that He can love more through you. God takes your almost empty heart and fills it fully with His strength. This is the paradox of His power: Your weakness and emptiness mean that you have depleted self and are now in a position to be fully filled by Him. Ironically, now you are in a position of strength.

This is how God works. He empties us of ourselves, so that He can fill us with Himself. So, your tentative and weak state is really to your advantage. Humility and even fear position you to be strengthened in the Lord. Therefore, stay in the Lord. Moreover, He gives you strength so that you can do the same for others. Your newfound strength in Him is not meant to remain sterile—rather, it’s meant to be viral.

Your strength in the Lord is for the sake of others. God’s strength is meant to be unleashed. It is designed to serve the destiny of others. There are weak people all around you who are vulnerable to preying imposters of the faith. It is your authentic strength of character, residing in Christ, that is attractive to them. They discern this in you and desire to be strengthened by the Lord. So, allow them to lean on you for a time. Your being there for them is like a blood transfusion of God’s strength. Their faith has become anemic through adversity, and God is using you to build up their eternal immunities. Strength in the Lord provides energy into eternity. Tap into it daily, for your sake and for the sake of others!

Put Into Practice

2012-01-28T05:04:00.001-08:00

1-28-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Put Into Practice

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24

The purpose of learning truth is so that it can be used. Unused truth expires and becomes stale. When you hear truth and put it into practice, you are wise. When you hear truth and ignore its application, you are foolish. Foolish is the man who acknowledges truth outwardly but never applies it inwardly. His foundation for faithfulness is fragile, so when the winds of adversity swirl and blow, his character collapses under the crushing power.

Someone may show up for the Bible study or attend a soul-stirring retreat and hear truth but never change for the better. How can this be? This happens when people do not follow through with what they know to be right and true. There is a disconnect between their head and their heart. The discipline to stop bad habits and start new ones is rationalized away with convincing excuses. We deceive ourselves by saying, “I don’t have enough time,” “I am not spiritual enough,” “I will get around to this one day,” or “God will understand if I wait.” John described self-deception’s affect on truth: “We deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8b).

Truth and deception can never coexist. So, jettison deception, and apply truth now. If you wait, you will wander from its application. Right now is the wisest time to receive His gift of grace and to engraft it into your life. You are responsible for the truth you have received. Therefore, steward it wisely. Use it before you lose it, and become a practitioner of truth.

Lastly, apply truth in doses that can be ingested into your character. Do not be overwhelmed by multiple things in your life that need to change. Choose one thing, such as loving your spouse with abandonment and sensitivity. Paul said in Ephesians 5:25 that the husband should “give himself up” for his wife. Without saying a word, serve in secret so your spouse can experience your unselfish care and concern. Get into their world by loving them at their point of interest. It may relate to entertainment, cooking, or yard work. Whatever it may be, serve them in ways that tell them you care. At work, you have the opportunity to put the radical teaching of Jesus into practice by treating others as you want to be treated (Matthew 7:12 NASB).

Think of a colleague who let the team down and is in need of forgiveness. If you were in their shoes, you would appreciate this gift of mercy. You can put into practice the Golden Rule because you are golden now that God has graced your life. God has filled you with His grace so you can live a gracious life. Focus on building the foundation of your life and your character one brick of truth at a time. This architecture designed by the Almighty will endure. Leave a lasting legacy in your children by putting into practice what you know to be truth. The teachings of Jesus are truth. Therefore, believe and apply. Put His principles into practice, and persevere.

Wisdom Seeks God

2012-01-27T06:11:00.001-08:00

1-27-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Wisdom Seeks God

“The Lord looks down from heaven on humankind to see if there are any who are wise, who seek after God.” Psalm 14:2

There could be a large life-changing decision looming. It may relate to the timing in childbearing, the opportunity for a move and a new job, the sale of a business, a spiritual commitment, graduate school or treatment options related to a health issue. The Lord looks down from heaven for wise ones who will seek Him for the best answers. He doesn’t look down with disdain, but with determined love, compassion and insight.

The Lord seeks out those who seek Him. He gazes all over the globe in one grand glance ready to grant grace and truth to trusting souls. He looks for the once zealous Christ follower and entreats him or her to come back to the basics of belief. He watches for the wise that hail from humble circumstances or the learned who want to lean into the Lord. He looks to unleash His love, dispense discernment and convert sinners to saints.

“But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

So, do you first seek your heavenly Father for divine direction? Is Christ central in the calculus of your decision-making? If so, you will discover God’s best in God’s time. But you cannot rush the revelation of God’s will for your life. Your understanding will follow once His work of grace has grown your trust and transformed your relationships. Jesus wants you to know Him deeper, before He leads you further. Clarity comes in intimacy.

Perhaps you pray, “Lord what would you have for me in this season of life?” Wisdom prays and then listens to the Lord’s still small voice. His will is a series of small steps in obedience that begin today. Do the next right thing, and then watch Him bring His will together like a beautiful work of art composed of a 1,000 brush strokes. You are wise to seek the Wisest One—Jesus—first in simple salvation and second as a faithful follower.

“But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deuteronomy 22:39

What area of my life requires me to patiently seek the Lord for wisdom and clarity?

Related Readings: Psalm 33:13; 138:6; Proverbs 18:15; Acts 17:27; Romans 3:11

Help Hold Steady

2012-01-26T07:05:00.001-08:00

1-26-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Help Hold Steady

“When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset”. Exodus 17:12

It is necessary we hold steady for our Savior during hard times, but we can’t always do it by ourselves. We need “Aarons and Hurs” who hold up our hands of faith to heaven. Spiritual battle is too bruising to go at it alone, as physical and emotional fatigue set in if we are isolated. But even a community of three can lift us to the Lord for strength and encouragement.

I have to often ask myself, “Who am I submitting to for encouragement and accountability?” “Am I sitting on the rock of Jesus, and am I supported by His servants?” We hold steady when we are focused on the Lord, and engaged in the prayerful presence of His people. No need to panic, but to persevere in prayer and trust God’s control for things out of your control. Hold steady by holding up open hands to heaven, and He will fill you with faith.

“When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.” Acts 11:23

Moreover, who can you help to hold steady during changing times? Who in your circle of influence can you seek out to support? Offer them your time to process the problems they are facing, and they will never forget your care in their time of need. Tough love may be needed to challenge their fearful thinking and passive behavior. Do not give up on frantic friends, but help them forge ahead by faith.

Pray with them and for them to lift their hands to the Lord for help. You are a catalyst for Christ’s comfort and care. Lead them to depend on Him, and they will hold steady in Him. You have been encouraged and held accountable, so you can encourage and hold accountable. Hold steady with the help of others, so you can help others hold steady for their Savior’s sake. Jesus says, “Freely you have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8b

“Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place. Psalm 28:2

Who can help me hold steady when I grow weary—who can I hold steady in the Lord?

Related Readings: Job 16:5; Psalm 10:17; Acts 15:32; Colossians 4:8

Solicit Prayers

2012-01-23T19:07:00.001-08:00

1-23-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Solicit Prayers

"Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon." Hebrews 13:18-19

The need for prayer is not just a private matter, but also one that requires public awareness. Prayer is personal and it invites the engagement of other Christ followers. Personal needs aren’t meant for concealment like a castaway on a deserted island. Instead, during uncertain circumstances, communities of believers rally together in intercession on behalf of their brothers and sisters. Prayer is a platform to say: “I care”.

We are not to wait on others to ask for how they can pray for us (though this is a good habit for caring Christians); rather we are to request prayer. Yes, it sounds selfish, but it’s not. It is the opportunity to allow another to be blessed, as they approach heaven on behalf of your healing. Our pride is put in its proper place when we humble ourselves to ask for prayer.
“Then Abraham prayed to God, and God healed Abimelek, his wife and his female slaves so they could have children again.” Genesis 20:17

Prayer is not about you or me—it is about the faithfulness, the power and the glory of God. It is short-sided and selfish not to let others know of our hurts, failures and fears. To confess the need for prayer is to say, “I can’t, but Christ can.” It means you and I submit to the spiritual support of friends and family who know and love Jesus. Your heavenly Father smiles when He sees His children come around one another with sincere petitions.

Like wagons in the old west that circled together in the face of danger, so the Body of Christ gathers around one another when confronted with the enemy of persecution, the dread of disease, the embarrassment of moral failure and the fear of a financial meltdown. What need in your life needs to be known, so that other Christ followers can come around you with powerful solicitations to Jesus? God knows, but His children also need to know.

“Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do.” “I have heard you,” replied Jeremiah the prophet. “I will certainly pray to the LORD your God as you have requested; I will tell you everything the LORD says and will keep nothing back from you.” Jeremiah 42:3-4

Lord, who do I need to ask for prayer on my behalf and to whom can I offer prayer support?

Related Readings: Job 42:9-10; Psalm 122:6; Acts 20:36; Romans 15:30

Divine Direction

2012-01-22T06:50:00.001-08:00

1-22-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Divine Direction

“I know, O Lord, that a man’s life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.” Jeremiah 10:23

We do not own our lives. We have been bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20). Jesus’ sacrificial blood purchased our freedom from the fire of hell, sin, and death. By faith, He owns us. A great exchange took place when you first believed in Jesus. What’s yours became His, and what’s His became yours. The life of Christ became your life. It is not your life to define, but His. He has wrapped a wonderful definition around who you are in Him. You are a child of God. You are secure because your Savior keeps you. You are valuable because the Lord values you. You are protected because the Almighty owns you. The Bible is God’s glossary of how to define yourself.

Scripture gives you a family tree of faith for you to trace your religious roots. It is a mirror of how God sees you. He sees you as accepted in His Son, though you suffer rejection from others. Cherish and enjoy daily the acceptance of Jesus. Moreover, your mistakes are His opportunity to affirm His acceptance. There are still consequences to your sin, but He is always available to receive you back because you are His. He accepts and receives back His own.

Furthermore, He directs His own (Isaiah 48:17). God’s desire for you is to understand and follow His plan for your life. Praise God it’s a step-by-step process and He directs your steps! Some days you may feel like it is three steps forward and two steps back, but do not be discouraged or dismayed. God is still directing your steps, though at times they seem tedious and laborious. The Lord leads you in lockstep with His steps. In His steps is the wisest way to walk. Do not run ahead thinking you have to set a record for speed or quickness.

In fact, quick steps may cause you to backtrack and have to re-learn what God was trying to teach you. Walk patiently with Him, and watch Him work. The Holy Spirit is your step director. You are in His step class for instruction in His word and exercise in faith. Learn how to let the Lord direct your steps. Prayerfully listen to the quiet prompting from His spirit. Stop when you need to stop. Speed up when you need to speed up. Slow down when you need to slow down. God directs the steps of a submitted and surrendered man or woman.

Stubbornness is hard to direct (Psalm 81:12). Pride resists direction, and independence attempts to self-direct. Listen to your spouse or close friend. God may speak His next steps through them. Self-direction is like traveling alone to a new destination without a map or an orientation to your surroundings. It is futile and frustrating. It leads to fatalistic thinking. God-directed steps, on the contrary, are a pattern of peace. You can rest in His far-reaching perspective and otherworldly wisdom. He gives divine direction that determines His will for your life. Step by step, He leads you. You can trust that His way is the best way. Be patient. Watch Him work in spite of adversity and a lack of resources. Avoid a two-step with yourself. Stay in step with your Savior. Allow your Maker to define your moves. Lockstep with the Lord is the wisest way to walk. Resist directing your own steps. Trust in your walk with Him. Allow His direction to define your steps.

Life Giving Peace

2012-01-21T06:50:00.001-08:00

1-21-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Life Giving Peace

“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” Proverbs 14:30

Peace produces life for a life surrendered to God. But it is in conflict with Christ that a life’s internal harmony is replaced with unrest. However, the fruit of peace is life: life giving energy in relationships, life giving words at work, life giving attitudes at home and life giving community with other Jesus followers. Spiritual peace gives physical life.

If peace is such an essential ingredient for life, why can it be so allusive? Guilt has a way of grinding away at the goodness of God that lies dormant in a heart unaffected by discipleship. Conversion to Christ does not guarantee that His peace will have preeminence, but it does position us for easy access to His grace. Like an orphan adopted by loving parents—acceptance of our heavenly Father’s love creates peaceful security.

“Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.” Psalm 85:10

What competes with your peace? Has your peace-less heart contributed to your unhealthy emotional and physical condition? Pride fights against peace, because it can’t rest until it proves itself to be right. Greed is an enemy of peace, because it cannot be content unless it has a little bit more. Fear tosses and turns us awake in bed because it forgets faith’s calm.

Fortunately, your heavenly Father is your peace provider. Your welfare is His primary care and concern. There is no circumstance, individual or spiritual enemy that has the power to rob you of the Lord’s long-standing serenity found in your savior Jesus. Indeed, use His peace as a shield against Satan’s schemes of discouragement and disappointment. You don’t have to look far for life giving peace; it is already yours in God’s son Jesus.

“Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave Me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for My Father is with Me. “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:31-33
How can I better apply the life giving peace of God that I already possess in Jesus?

Related Readings: Psalm 119:165; Isaiah 54:10; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Ephesians 6:23

Suffering Teaches Obedience

2012-01-19T07:02:00.001-08:00

1-19-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Suffering Teaches Obedience

“During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverent submission. Son though He was, He learned obedience from what He suffered and, once made perfect, He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him.” Hebrews 5:7-9

Very few Christians invite or enjoy suffering, but it is during this somber season that obedience to Almighty God ascends in superiority to sincere saints. Sorrow seeks to torment a soul’s trust in its Savior Jesus. Self wants the attention when afflicted, but it’s the glory of God that deserves the recognition. Obedience to Christ is the central concern.

Yes, with fervency we cry and weep to the One who saved us—the One who will save us—and the One who can save us from our momentary affliction. But the Lord’s school of suffering is meant to shape us into sharp students of His word and instant applicants of His principles for living. Our graduation occurs once we transition into His glorious presence.

“But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:13

What hurts your heart or afflicts your body? If it is a break up, then break down before your heavenly Father and He will comfort your loss. If cancer is attacking your body, then cast your cares on Christ for He will sustain you through this scary time. Obedience is meant to thrive, not dive, during difficult times. So, aggressively seek the Savior of your soul.

Obedience stretches our faith to forgive where we have been offended. It leads us to kindly accept those who harshly reject us. We obey, because Jesus obeyed in reverent submission. Even as the privileged Son of God, He learned obedience from what He suffered. Suffering is a prerequisite to being made perfect in compliance to Christ. Thus, embrace your disease or emotional upheaval as an opportunity to let His light shine.

“So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” 1 Peter 4:19

Where is the Lord teaching me to be obedient during my time of suffering?

Related Readings: James 5:10-11; 1 Peter 4:1-19; 5:1-10; Revelation 2:10

Falsely Accused

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

1-17-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Falsely Accused

“The high priest stood up and said to Him, “Do You not answer? What is it that these men are testifying against You?” But Jesus kept silent. Matthew 26:62-63a (NASB)

It is hard and hurtful when you are falsely accused. Someone may cast doubt on your character, or type cast your motives in an inaccurate way. People who falsely accuse represent a variety of motivations. Perhaps it fuels a feeling of superiority and power; the desire to control may be all consuming, or they may be on a crusade to clean house. Their worldview is the worse case scenario, and you may be the target of their attacks.

False accusers issue criticism not compliments, problems not solutions, directives not collaboration, and blame not responsibility. If you are the object of false accusations it is imperative you not lower yourself to use similar innuendos and insinuations. By faith you can stay above the fray of false accusations, as their consequences eventually come.

“At the king’s command, the men who had falsely accused Daniel were brought in and thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. And before they reached the floor of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones.” Daniel 6:24

Jesus understands false accusations, as He was abused mercilessly; but He remained silent and submitted to His Heavenly Father. It is in the heat of unfair questions, or senseless slurs that we remain surrendered to Jesus. The Holy Spirit will help you handle the heat of false accusations. Remain in Christ, and by His power you will keep your cool.

God is at work in a much bigger way than one person’s outlandish agenda. Pray for your accuser, serve and love them for Christ’s sake. They are probably unaware of the harm they are inflicting on themselves and those around them. Value the relationship though you do not feel valued. In prayer and forgiveness you release the feelings of anger and defensiveness. Unjust charges will come when you follow hard after Jesus, so die to your need to be right, and trust God to work out His will—His way—in His time.

“Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me” (Matthew 5:11, NASB).

Who is falsely accusing me that I need to love and release to the Lord?

Related Readings: Numbers 35:24-28; Deuteronomy 19:15; Matthew 27:12

Pay Down Debt

2012-01-16T06:33:00.001-08:00

1-16-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Pay Down Debt

“The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7

A nation, business or home built on debt is owned and controlled by outside forces. There is no freedom or liberty to be found in leveraged ownership, only obligations and payment plans. Debt is unemotional and uncaring when it decides to call your loan, or make new demands you are unable to fulfill. Debt is deceptive in its ability to draw us into its pleasures in exchange for our time, energy and focus.

Short-term borrowing is subtle, because it can easily become a shortcut that only satisfies our immediate gratifications but with long-term ramifications. I have missed God’s best because I got in a hurry, and thought I had to make things happen, so I presumed on the future. Ease of credit can lead us to grow impatient with prayer and make purchases pre-maturely. However, blessings come from waiting on God’s prayerful provision.

“LORD, I wait for you; you will answer, Lord my God.” Psalm 38:15

Thus, start immediately and implement a plan to pay down your debt. Begin by paying off the credit card with the smallest balance, and cease from spending with the convenience of credit’s plastic purchases. Eradicate your mortgage by the time your children start college and you will have added margin for their extra educational expenses. Delayed gratification is a discipline God blesses. Like a hiker with a light backpack, without the weight of debt you are able to freely follow the Lord’s call.

Turn to Christ instead of credit, and watch Him create opportunities you never conceived. Waiting to pay in cash is an exercise in faith, and a refraining of the flesh. A smaller home and older car, with peace and contentment, is much better than more, with regret and restless nights. Debt free living liberates your life and increases your generous giving. Therefore, pay down debt so you are free to love and serve others more effectively.

“Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law” (Romans 13:8, NASB).

Where can I begin to aggressively pay down my debt and increase my giving?

Related Readings: Isaiah 30:18; 64:4; Micah 7:7; Hebrews 11:8-12

Start Young

2012-01-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

1-11-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Start Young

“For you have been my hope, O Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth.” “Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.” Psalm 71:5, 17

Start young learning the ways of the Lord. This is your wisest and best investment. Youthful learning is leverage for the Lord. Start young so you do not have to wade through the muck and the mire of disobedient living. There is no need to stray and go your own way for you may end up back at the point where you originally drifted from God. Stay the course of Christ while you are young, and this will catapult you into an obedient adult. Youthful dependence on God results in an adult who depends on God.

Even as those older in the faith falter in fear, your heavenly Father frees youthful hearts to attempt big things for Him. Courage and conviction fertilize well a young and hungry heart for God. The Holy Spirit is calling faithful young people to further His Kingdom. Listen to the heart of your heavenly Father and do what He says. Yahweh is calling His youth to something much bigger than themselves.

“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12, KJV).

Help the youthful start early in their engagement with God. Teach them, train them, model for them, and then send them out to serve on the Lord’s behalf. Youth do not need to be overly protected, but set free to think big for God. The larger the vision the larger their God, therefore present to them a God-sized challenge. Expect great things from young people who have a heart to follow hard after God.

Do not underestimate their ability to be a catalyst for Christ. Release them to exceed your accomplishments in half the time. Pray for God to scatter young people across the connected planet. Now is the time to send them out in the power of the Holy Spirit. Use today’s resources to prepare for tomorrow’s results. Youth need not be coddled with the status quo, rather challenged to break out of their boxes of unbelief to change the world.

“Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, "I find no pleasure in them” (Ecclesiastes 12:1).

What young person has God brought into my life to invest in with time, wisdom and encouragement?

Related Readings: Numbers 11:28; Job 13:26; Psalm 25:7; 2 Timothy 2:22

Hard Work

2012-01-08T07:36:00.001-08:00

1-8-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Hard Work

”We worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we did not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘If a man will not work, he shall not eat.’” 2Thessalonians 3:8b-10

Hard work is honorable. It gives a man or woman respect for themselves and others. God is honored as well when you work hard. Be careful not to subscribe to a false theology that uses God in place of hard work. God, of course, is at work on our behalf, but not without our sincere and focused efforts.

However, it is much more than the simple “God helps those who help themselves” mentality. God has a grand design, and you are a part of His greater work. Your part is faithfulness and hard work. God’s part is leading you into wise decisions, which produce the right results as He receives the glory. As followers of Christ, the quality and quantity of our work is a reflection on God.

Do not become the Christian whom everyone avoids because you are lazy and always making excuses. Be the Christian who is attractive because your work is excellent. People can depend on you, and you go the extra mile even when it is not your responsibility. For the good of the team and the glory of God, you work hard. You may even deserve other benefits, but you refuse them during this season for the sake of the bigger picture.

Indeed, hard work keeps you out of trouble. When you are busy working hard, you do not have time to behave badly. Gossip and complaining are absent from the lips of a hard worker. You simply do not have the time or energy to go there. It may be the sweat of your brow or the perspiration of your intellect, either way, work hard. Manual labor and mental toil both require hard work. Carefully avoid condescension toward others because their work role is different than yours. Blue collars need not bad mouth white collars, nor should white collars treat blue collars as if they were inferior. We all need each other, and we all need to work hard.

Your hard work may produce wealth and abundance. Because society values your skills and services, you may even have an overabundance. Make sure you keep your success in perspective. Keep your heart tender toward God. We seem to pray more when we have little than when we have much more than we need. Allow the fruit of your hard work to drive you to your knees in thanksgiving to God. Express your gratitude through generous giving. Hard work has its benefits; make sure to steward them well.

Moreover, teach your children hard work. A child who is given everything can become soft on sin, discontent, demanding and ungrateful. Hard work teaches children the value of a dollar. It builds a discipline that will serve them throughout their lives. They learn how to work with and relate to people. Hard work is a must for a child to grow into
a healthy human being.

Lastly, keep your motive right as you work hard. Keep your focus off the money. Reward and compensation will come if the work is done with excellence. Stay the course, working hard, loving your family, and taking care of your health. Execute your hard work for the glory of God. He is your boss. You are working for Him. Work hard. Work hard so that you can eat. Then you will be a blessing and not a burden to others!

Real Net Worth

2012-01-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

1-6-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Real Net Worth

“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge”. Colossians 2:2-3

Our financial net worth need not define who we are. If it does, we become fickled, fearful, faithless and enslaved to economic security. Our worth is not wrapped around Wall Street or Main Street, but the Streets of Gold. For followers of Jesus, what He believes about us defines us. I can become fixated on my personal balance sheet and murmur in disbelief, or I can believe what Jesus says about me—precious, highly valued, a king and a priest.

My worth is defined by the wonder of His grace, His unconditional love and His gift of eternal life. Money does not make the man, man makes the money, but most importantly our Master Jesus Christ marks us. The fingerprints of God are forever embedded on our body, soul and spirit. He bought us, so He owns us through the blood of His son Jesus. Our born again birth certificate reads, “Christian”. We are highly valued in heaven.

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:13

Christians have a much greater cause than cash and earthly kingdoms. There is a Kingdom, not of this world, whose goal is to glorify God. You are valuable, not by how much money you have, but by how much your Master has you. Your Savior Jesus defines you as a forgiven child of God who, by faith, is filled with the Holy Spirit for good works.

Guilt is replaced by grace, fear flees in the face of faith, pride melts under the influence of humility, and hope has its way in the heart of surrendered Christians. Therefore, define your net worth by the things Jesus deems valuable, and you are rich indeed. Count your many blessings, not your coins, and you will become content. You are of high net worth if ‘Christ in you’ is your hope in glory. Your real net worth is His eternal riches.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9

What is my net worth as defined by what Jesus says are the most valuable assets I have?

Related Readings: Ephesians 1:11-14; Hebrews 10:19; 11:26; 1 Timothy 4:8

One Thing

2012-01-04T06:14:00.001-08:00

1-4-2012 by Boyd Bailey

One Thing

"I'm asking God for one thing, only one thing: To live with him in his house my whole life long. I'll contemplate his beauty; I'll study at his feet." Psalm 27:4, The Message

There are rival voices in the mind of a Christian that compete for the ear of God. It may be a voice of concern over a wayward son or daughter. Another voice cries out for healing of a diseased body. A sincere voice asks to know God’s will and direction for living. All of these voices vie for the Lord’s attention and are close to His heart. But there is one request that collates all of these needs—to enter into the presence of Jesus in prayer.

We need the personalized presence of Christ like a hiker reaching a mountain summit needs oxygen. It is in this place of praise that we see the beauty of His holiness and we study at His feet. The doors to His house of worship are always open to our hungry heart and inquisitive mind. We enter into His courts because He is the One Thing we need. As we live with our Lord we emulate His ways. His warm hospitality is like heaven on earth.

“He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” John 9:25

What is the one thing that drives your life? If nothing else gets accomplished in a day, what captures your affection and attention? These answers define your priorities. What you focus on is what you become. For example, if it’s money, then status and stuff become your goal. However, if heaven’s agenda is your daily “to do” list, then you will say no to those things unnecessary to God’s goals, and yes to furthering His plan.

Consider a monthly audit of your calendar and checkbook with a trusted friend or two. Ask them to hold you accountable in how you spend your time and money. Look for alignment around Almighty God’s agenda for your life. Does your giving support your church and ministries that serve people in Jesus name? Is your time a trusted resource for relationships that need your counsel? Ask the Lord for one thing: to live close with Him.

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14

How do I need to rearrange my schedule, so that I can slow down and enjoy Christ’s company?

Related Readings: Psalm 62:11; Mark 10:21; Galatians 3:2; 1 Peter 3:8

God's Game Plan

2012-01-02T19:55:00.001-08:00

1-3-2012 by Boyd Bailey

God’s Game Plan

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

The new-year invites emotions of excitement in expectation of what God has in store for the next twelve months. There may be relief after experiencing a very difficult year-full of frustrations, failures, fear and loss. Or a sense of gratitude may be flooding a satisfied soul by seeing God work in incredible ways. Perhaps ringing in the new-year is a combination of celebrating Christ, while trusting Him for a hopeful future.

Wise followers of Jesus want what God wants for their family, faith and friends. We want His plan for which relationships to invest in over the next year. We ask Him who needs our attention, our prayers and our encouragement. It may be a struggling college student, a single parent on the brink of giving up or a friend emotionally and physically crippled by illness. God’s plan prioritizes people: their joys, their hurts, their faith, and their finances.

“Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” Ephesians 6:7

What else does the Lord have in store for you this year? Perhaps He is leading you to step into a new job opportunity. It may be a completely new career arena that requires new relationships and a new application of your current skills and past experiences. Are you willing to fully trust Christ with your job? Jesus was a carpenter by trade and a respected Bible teacher by training. Is He calling you to be better equipped in the Word of God?

The Lord’s prosperity may or may not include money. His plan of prosperity for you is hope filled and faith focused. Your gratitude to God brings emotional prosperity that expresses itself in generosity. Your fear of God’s glory brings spiritual prosperity that expresses itself in praise and worship. Your acceptance of God’s love and forgiveness brings relational prosperity that expresses itself in patience and grace toward others.

“The nations will fear the name of the LORD, all the kings of the earth will revere your glory.” Psalm 102:15

The Lord Jesus brings you healing, not harm. His plans for you include fulfilling work, real rest, and significant friendships, forgiving family members, laughter, weeping and trusting Him. You gain perspective on His plan through humble prayer, understanding and applying biblical truths, and collaborating with other Christ followers. Ask God to guide you in His game plan for the upcoming year. He will. He will but He wants you first.

“And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.” 2 Corinthians 8:5

What does the Lord’s game plan of prosperity look like for my family and me?

Related Readings: Deuteronomy 28:11: Job 36:11; Psalm 4:6; 37:11; Luke 16:1-15

Big Vision

2012-01-01T11:58:00.001-08:00

1-1-2012 by Boyd Bailey

Big Vision

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1

God has a big vision. It’s enormous. He wrote the book on vision. He is the original visionary. God’s vision is so large that we are unable to wrap our minds around its implications. Even if we had infinite lifetimes to live, we couldn’t completely comprehend God’s vision. He launched His initial vision with creation. Creation was His baby. This was God’s opportunity to express Himself through the creation of the earth, the sun, the moon, the stars, plants, animals, sky, water, and most importantly, man.

Man was the crown jewel of God’s creation, because he was created in the likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). Man was the image of God, a mirror of his Maker. Our Lord is an extraordinary visionary. He takes nothing and makes something. He lifts up what seems to be insignificant dirty dirt, and breathes life into it so it becomes a beautiful human being.

God is the expert at taking colorless capability and crafting it into a technicolor transformation. His vision is macro. He illustrates His creativity and complexity through the creation of earth and all it contains. His vision is also micro, because He has created no two people the same. Each plant and animal is unique in its own special way. Above all else, His vision is personal for every single individual. God has a vision for your life that is larger than you think. We tend to limit the Lord’s vision with our unbelief and fears. We get so caught up in our day-to-day responsibilities that we forget to focus on the father of vision, Jesus Christ.

Therefore, lift your heart and mind to the Lord, and ask Him what His vision is for your life. By faith, do not be afraid to stretch yourself into seeing things as He does. What we see as obstacles, He sees as steppingstones. What we see as limitations, He sees as His provision. What we see as fear, He replaces with faith.

Do not grow tired of doing well. Tackle life with the energy and excitement of someone consumed with a fresh vision from heaven. Ask the Lord to baptize your vision under the water of His wonder. Ask Him to take your old, stale vision and bring it alive with faith and hope. Raise the bar of your belief so you are bold to ask things of God you have never asked, to believe things from the Lord you have never believed, and to do things by faith that you have never done. Go to the one who is Lord over all visions, and ask Him to infuse yours with life and largeness. Do not let your education, income, relationships, or past failures limit you in your pursuit of His vision for your life. Indeed, your failures are His opportunities to flourish a fresh vision for your family and you.

Lift up your eyes from the obvious, and look for the opportunity that stands next to you. Give yourself permission to “think outside the box” of the ordinary, and trust God with the extraordinary. Vision is most effective when updated and stretched. Do more than dust off an old vision. Pray for the Holy Spirit to birth a God-sized vision in your soul. It may mean moving. It may mean changing careers. It may mean more education. It may mean admitting failure, and starting over. Whatever it means for you focus on God and His vision for your life. He knows how to create a life-changing vision. By faith, ratchet-up a more robust vision. Look to the Lord of vision and craft your vision around His. He has big vision.

A Sustainable Life

2011-12-29T06:16:00.001-08:00

12-29-2011 by Boyd Bailey

A Sustainable Life

“The Lord sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground.” Psalm 147:6

God sustains the life of the humble. There is a heavenly determination that is dispatched to Christ’s humble servants. Because the Holy Spirit holds you up, you participate less and less in undesirable circumstances. Christ is counter to our culture for He lifts up the lowly and meek, and casts down the proud and exalted. So the humble remain faithful knowing they will receive the Almighty’s affirmation and recognition in His good timing.

We serve unseen for our Saviors’ sake, and not to be seen for our sake. It is our reverence of Holy God, humbleness in our own eyes, and gentleness toward our fellow man that sustains a life blessed by the Lord. Our Savior supports us when we apply humility over a promotion at work, projecting an image of control, or having to win arguments with antagonists. It’s choosing the low place that places us in a position to be used by God.

“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:11, NKJV

Jesus sustains your humble heart by disarming discouragement and disappointment. It is hard for humility to have hurt feelings, because its concern is for others first. A natural outflow of humility is demonstrated by service to hurting people. Humility is Christ’s conduit for healing hearts, relationships and homes. Indeed, both the giver and receiver are healed by God’s grace. The Lord sustains you in your humble service for this is no time to worry about shameful ways from the past or cowardly gossip in the present.

You press on because the One who placed the stars in the sky honors the light of His humble son, Jesus, illuminating your saved soul. Christ in you is having a humble attitude waiting to respond. Release your conflicting emotions to Him, and He will respond through you in meekness and love. Your humble heart is supported by God’s sustaining power for His purposes. He sustains your unpretentious Christian faith, by His unwavering grace.

“The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.” I Samuel 2:7

What area of my life do I need to humble myself and trust God to sustain me?

Related Readings: Nehemiah 9:21; Psalm 3:5; 41:3; 55:22; Proverbs 18:14

Understanding Grows Trust

2011-12-28T06:16:00.001-08:00

12-28-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Understanding Grows Trust

“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ…” Colossians 2:2

We tend to trust those who understand us. Understanding is a bridge to belief and intimacy. This is one reason it is wise to first seek understanding of the Lord’s ways. When we seek to understand our Savior we see the path of His Providence more clearly and we trust in Him. Understanding scouts ahead of God’s will looking for opportunities to follow Him.

One facilitator to gaining understanding is fear of the Lord. This is foundational for faith, salvation and growing in grace. An education in eternal consequences requires humility, attention and application. We seek to understand the Lord and thoroughly trust Him, so we can better understand others. When others feel understood they are open to influence.

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:7

So seek first to understand others, and you will earn the right to influence them because they trust you. Listening leads to learning what another thinks and feels. For example, mature emotional intelligence requires sensitivity to your spouse’s dreams and desires. Your seeking to understand your children and team members contributes to tremendous relational deposits. Expectations without understanding lead to frustration.

Children need to know you care as you correct their behavior. They trust you have their best interests in mind when they believe you understand them. In the workplace, understanding is quick to collaborate and slow to dictate. There is a respect for other’s thoughts and opinions that is patient and fair. Understanding creates community.

Are you overdrawn in your relational requests? Do people trust you, or are they suspect because you draw conclusions without clearly understanding the context? Take the time to understand, and trust will transfer into a growing relationship with God and others. Ask God first for understanding and He will reveal the truths found in His son Jesus.

“To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his.” Job 12:13

Where do I need to apply better understanding, so I can build trust and competence?

Related Readings: Exodus 31:3; 1 Kings 4:29; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Philemon 1:6

Spiritual Stability

2011-12-27T06:45:00.001-08:00

12-27-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Spiritual Stability

“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.” James 1:6-8

Spiritual stability comes from thinking properly about the things of God. His ways are like the secure moorings of a ship that is docked safely and secure in its harbor. And His Spirit is like the wind that propels the billowy sail of a boat in need of movement in the right direction. However, doubt can creep in like a selfish bandit and steal away thoughts of security. It is at this testing point of trust that a calm child of God relies on Christ’s character.

Jesus is all knowing, all-powerful and ever present. He is a rock of stability, a fortress of protection and a cleft of comfort. The Lord’s love is everlasting; His peace reaches beyond comprehension and His wisdom is liberal in its doses. Regardless of a disciple’s storm—sickness, loneliness, sadness, debt or rejection—there is a hopeful option. Pride is like a hard grape that requires circumstances to crush the fruit, so it can become fine wine.

“Say to the Levites: ‘When you present the best part, it will be reckoned to you as the product of the threshing floor or the winepress.” Numbers 18:23

Do you feel fearful of your job security? Do you feel abandoned by your boss, who left you exposed to be the scapegoat? It is during these intense times of career instability that you can have spiritual stability. Outwardly relationships and finances may be swirling out of control, but inwardly you can submit to the control of Christ. Stand firm in your faith, because He who has called you is faithful. Jesus is trustworthy, so trust without wavering.

The winds of adversity will try to veer you off Christ’s course, but stay the course. On sunny days it’s much easier to see a clear destination up ahead, but with raging storms, the human eye is severely limited. Thus, the Lord gives you an eternal instrument panel that is interpreted through intimacy with Him. Trust that what He says is true and where He says to go is good. Jesus gives spiritual stability when doubt assaults your faith.

“He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.” Proverbs 17:27, NKJV

What doubts can I give over to Christ and in turn receive His spiritual stability?

Related Readings: Psalm 107:30; 131:2; Isaiah 7:4; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Peter 3:16

First Christmas

2011-12-24T05:30:00.000-08:00

12-24-2011 by Boyd Bailey

First Christmas

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manager. Luke 2:11-12

The focus of the first Christmas was Jesus. It was His day. There was no competition from commercialism seeking economic gain. The gifts were given to Him. God was the recipient of gratitude and generosity. He was glorified on this day of salvation for all who would come to believe in Jesus as God’s only Son. There was an appreciation for the Almighty’s descent into the decadence of humanity. There was no feuding from other faiths jockeying with each other for time in the Savior’s spotlight. On the contrary, there was a religious respect and humble worship from those who traveled great distances from their diverse origins of belief. On this day, Jesus unified sincere seekers of truth.

The first Christmas, however, was not without controversy. Politically, He was a lightning rod (some things never change). Government leaders felt threatened, as if a traitor had infiltrated their influence over the masses. Involuntary spies were sent to validate His presence. Once His birth had been verified, the powers-that-be went to work. Insecurity and fear drive people to commit irrational acts, and it was no different back then. So what started as a celestial coronation for the Prince of Peace ended with jealous leaders taking severe and deadly action. The Christ-child was driven from their pitiful, but powerful presence. They destroyed other God-fearing people in the process. The community was cast into chaos when Christ was removed from their culture.

We can learn from the first Christmas, to keep Christ central in worship and society. He is the wonder of our worship. He is the reason for our giving gifts. It is because we celebrate His birthday that we pause to pray, reflect, and plan to follow His will in a more robust and intentional manner. Our Master came to earth and made Himself like man. He took on the form of a servant, though He could have crowned Himself as King. He pointed us to the love and forgiveness of His heavenly Father. The Christ-child was born of a virgin. He was God who dwelt among us; but sometimes we forget Him, even on His birthday.

One reason we have failed to keep Christ in Christmas is we have failed to keep Him in some of our churches. Why should the culture embrace the Christ of Christmas, when some of our churches have marginalized their Master? Let’s start by inviting the Almighty back into our churches with fresh and revitalized reverence in worship, evangelism, and discipleship. Let’s prayerfully and responsibly “lay hands” only on leaders who fear God, hate sin, love people, and teach the Bible. Christmas is losing its luster for the Lord because Christians have forgotten to fear God.

His birth is only significant if His death and resurrection are significant. The Christ of Christmas becomes compelling when we, as followers, flock to Him in faithfulness and obedience. Let all of us who name the name of Jesus revisit Him in the awe and worship of that first Christmas. Let’s exclaim, with enthusiasm to a hurting world, that He has come to heal broken hearts and revive sick souls. We unapologetically celebrate His birthday with passion, because God is with us. He is transforming us into the likeness of His Son. Let’s make this Christmas like the first Christmas. Let’s invite the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with forgiveness, joy, hope, peace, and love while we worship our Lord together. The first Christmas fuels our faith and recalibrates us to Christ.

Gift of the Spirit

2011-12-22T06:03:00.001-08:00

12-22-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Gift of the Spirit

If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:15-17

Obeying the commands of Christ is tied to enjoying the comfort of the Holy Spirit. Comfort is made manifest from the gift of the Spirit in a fertile heart of faith. Conversion to Christ embeds His eternal Spirit in the heart of His disciple. A benefit of belief in Jesus is the gift of discernment from His Spirit. Unpacked at salvation and propagated in prayer—the Holy Spirit is the eyes and ears of heaven for all who walk faithfully with Jesus on earth.

It is not uncommon for some Christ followers to misunderstand or ignore this guarantor of the Godhead. Perhaps fear of a few corrupt charlatans keeps some Christians distant from the dynamic effects of the Spirit’s work in and through them. Indeed, the Holy Spirit seals new believers at salvation and secures their faith journey through the schemes of Satan. This gift from our heavenly Father is meant to lead us into Christ-like character.

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Ephesians 4:30-31

The Holy Spirit is grieved when we do not represent Christ well to the world. When Christians assault each other with verbal barbs it deeply disappoints the heart of God. We are spiritually stuck if we grieve the Spirit by not going to the Lord in confession and repentance with our sins of omission and sins of commission. How can we ask our heavenly Father for a blessing when we have not been a blessing to fellow believers?

Fortunately, once you come clean with Christ and others, the Holy Spirit is unleashed to lead you into a revelation of truth. He shows a seeking spouse the next step to love their life mate well. He gives clarity to a team in need of direction, when all agendas are put aside in deference to what’s best for the organization. The Holy Spirit hunkers down in a humble heart and extends grace. The gift of the Spirit gives you wise guidance.

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:13

What is the Holy Spirit saying to my heart, regarding the way I need to relate to difficult people?

Related Readings: Isaiah 63:14; Luke 12:10; John 3:34; Galatians 5:22-23

Lifts The Fallen

2011-12-19T05:41:00.001-08:00

12-19-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Lifts the Fallen

The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. Psalm 145:14

It is hard to get up when you have fallen, especially if there is extreme fatigue and fear. Relationally you may have fallen in your marriage, because of unfaithfulness. Financially you may have fallen, because of the deceit of debt. Morally you may have fallen, because of a series of unwise decisions. Spiritually you may have fallen, because the cares of this world choked out your confidence in Christ.

Fallen people are vulnerable to giving up, but are in reality some of the best candidates for God’s grace. You may have been pushed down by the proud and dominant. This is man’s method of control, but the Lord is always there to lift and uphold you. What God lifts up He supports, sustains and restores for His purposes. Indeed, He lifts us up, so we can be His instruments of encouragement to lift up others.

He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. Psalm 40:2

Like fallen comrades in war, we have an obligation to come along side and see how we can help fallen friends. It may be a tourniquet of trust or a canteen of care that gives life. Look around you and observe those who have fallen and need lifting up. Be aggressive to administer God’s grace at their point of need, for this grows the faith of the fallen.

Banks and borrowers are drowning in debt. Single parents are not sure how they will provide for their children. Widows and widowers wonder what the future holds. A friend or relative is out of work, embarrassed and losing hope. You can best lift up the fallen by first leading them to lean on the Lord. Buy them bread, but bring them a Bible.

He [Jesus] said, "Yes, and I can be even more explicit. You're hopeless, you religion scholars! You load people down with rules and regulations, nearly breaking their backs, but never lift even a finger to help. Luke 11:46 (The Message)

Pay their rent, but invite them into your home for a meal. Show them how to live life that is truly life, by serving them. Christians are on call to care in a crisis. The fallen need faith that their Heavenly Father loves them. He loves for He is love. The old hymn declares, “Love lifted me, love lifted me, when nothing else could help, love lifted me.”

He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. "For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world. I Samuel 2:8

Who in my life is needy, whom I can lift up on behalf of the Lord?

Related Readings: Psalm 3:3; 113:7; Luke 1:52; James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6

Personal Peace

2011-12-16T06:12:00.001-08:00

Personal Peace by Boyd Bailey

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace. Ephesians 2:13-14a

Jesus Christ is a personal Savior who brings a personal peace. One of the advantages of knowing Jesus is knowing His peace; a peace that passes all understanding. A person outside of the Lord is exposed to the unsettling elements of evil that eliminate any thought of peace. Indeed, personal peace is a by-product of personally engaging God.

Are you at peace in your life in general and your work in particular? If not, submit to the Prince of Peace (Jesus) and allow Him to shepherd you through your valley of trepidation. You may not know what the future holds, but you know who holds the future. Because Christ is peace, do not overlook His inventory that already resides in your heart by faith.

Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.
Job 22:21

Once we were far off without faith and in fear, but now we have been brought near to God by the belief in His son’s blood for the payment of our sins. Salvation in Jesus is a peaceful position for all who appropriate their role as a child of God. It’s when we try to substitute the peace of God with the shallow promises of the world that we get anxious.

Your heavenly Father promises you peace in His son Jesus. There is no need to go any further than faith in Him. Yes, peace can be allusive within an alluring and noisy culture, but Christ is at peace in you. Unfair family members may cause you to fret and an unreasonable boss may cause you to sweat, but in the sanctuary of your soul there is peace. So, don’t substitute faith in Christ with a false peace; instead rest in His promise.

I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants— but let them not turn to folly. Psalm 85:8

While you rock your feverish little one to sleep, lean into the Lord’s peace. When your mind races in frantic worry, resolve in your heart that the promise of God’s peace is irrevocable. When the stock market dives at every economic uncertainty, dive deeper into the security of your Savior Jesus. Personal peace is a product of being with the one who is peace. Your Prince of Peace awaits to escort you into His calming courts of peace.

You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. Acts 10:36

In what area of my life do I need peace of mind from the Prince of Peace, Jesus?

Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 20:30; Isaiah 9:6; Romans 15:13; 33; 1 Corinthians 14:33

Leaders Have Followers

2011-12-15T06:10:00.000-08:00

12-15-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Leaders Have Followers

“Follow me and I will make you fishers of men…” Matthew 4:19

People followed Jesus. This was a key indicator of His leadership, because leaders have followers. Small groups sought Him out for discipleship. The masses mobbed Him for His miracles and authoritative teaching, and individuals clamored for His hope and healing. So I have to ask myself, “When I look behind me are people following?”

People follow those they respect; whom they regard as a trustworthy person of character, and a person of competence who executes strategy with excellence. However, as with Jesus, followers can become fatigued and fall away during times of trials. Leaders are sometimes left alone to bear their cross, die on the cross and be resurrected to the renewal of a vast vision. Leaders like Jesus will experience unpleasant days. But, it is during these days of dire straits that the Spirit gives us strength.

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10

Furthermore, Jesus was a tough leader on occasion. He said hard things during hard times. For example, He told an insubordinate Peter, “Get behind me Satan” (Matthew 16:23). This was a test of his motivation and faith. It is during these defining moments that you either lose a good person, or gain a great one. Moreover, Jesus’ style of leadership was loving and patient. He was not in a hurry to heal the hurt of Mary and Martha’s grief, but when He ultimately arrived, He cared deeply (John 11:32-33). Leadership is about being in the right place at the right time for the right reasons.

Therefore, do not react hastily in fear, but respond patiently in faith. Your family is your laboratory for leadership, so serve them well and serve them often. Look around you at work and seek to understand the needs of your team—take the time to look behind and ask, “Is anyone following me?” Above all, be a faithful follower of Jesus, no matter what.

Then he [Jesus] got into the boat and his disciples followed him (Matthew 8:23).

When I look behind me, can I honestly say others are enthusiastically following my leadership; if not, why?

Related Readings: Exodus 18:25; Numbers 27:18; John 12:42; Hebrews 13:7

Management Compliments Leadership

2011-12-14T08:30:00.001-08:00

12-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Management Compliments Leadership

And he [Jesus] directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. Matthew 14:19

Jesus was a leader worth following, but He was also a manager who managed well. He understood the importance of an orderly process, and He implemented it effectively. Management is the method for executing the mission. Leadership ensures the enterprise is on the right strategic path. However, leadership will languish without good management moving critical initiatives forward toward their milestones.

Wise managers clearly define who, what, when and where. There is an attention to detail that supports the overall objectives of the team. Managers diagnose problems, and then bring solutions to bear that remove obstacles and reclaim progress. Managers implement methods that support the success of the organization. Managers manage productive processes. Like the Lord in His creation, they bring order and discipline to the enterprise.

Dominion and awe belong to God; he establishes order in the heights of heaven. Job 25:2

Successful managers are almost obsessive about clear communication and mission critical measurements. They constantly ask, “Does the team understand their responsibilities and deadline for results?” “How can we be better at what we do?” “What are the leading indicators telling us, and how do we need to adjust?” As a manager you are a steward of God’s time, money and resources at home and at work.

So, seek the owner Jesus for His wisdom and expectations related to people and process. Good managers make people their priority while still managing below budget. Your task may seem impossible, but you can trust the Lord to multiply your efforts and resources in creative and innovative ways. Stay faithful to manage well and you will be in a position to be entrusted with much more.

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. (Matthew 25:21, NLT)

How would I improve as a manager if I served people more at their point of need?

Related Readings: Genesis 39:2-6; Nehemiah 2:11-20; Luke 12:42; 16:1-8

God's Vision

2011-12-07T05:33:00.000-08:00

12-7-2011 by Boyd Bailey

God’s Vision

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” Matthew 28:19

Jesus was a visionary leader. He communicated His vision with compelling clarity, and before He ascended back to heaven He commissioned a stunning strategy for its fulfillment. He told His disciples to start as His witnesses in Jerusalem and then progress to Judea, Samaria and the uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8). We can see from Jesus’ example that clearly defined milestones move the mission and vision toward maturity.

Visionary leaders have the innate ability to keep a pulse on the present with faith in the future. They create an immediate urgency balanced with a stabilizing focus on the most important priorities. Visionary leaders do not vacillate, but instead inspire followers with their consistent calling to the cause. They show the way on a shared journey of faith. In time spent with your team, it’s wise to lead them one step closer to owning the vision.

“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams” (Acts 2:17).

How have you embraced your God given vision for your life? What energizes you toward the eternal? Remember a large vision for the Lord leaves a legacy. The more you are able to invest in faithful, capable and diverse leaders the more you leverage your vision. Under the influence and power of the Holy Spirit they will expand the vision exponentially.

It may be your family vision of ‘trust and obedience’ carried over into multiple generations. It could be the mentoring of men and women whose influence spreads like a relational virus to those they pour into as result of their vision to ‘give back’. Or, it may be an enterprise built to last on the Lord’s precepts and principles.

Whatever your vision stay true to its original intent. In the short term it may sputter and stall, but remain faithful and watch it flourish within the flaming fires of faith. The vision of God is a force that keeps you focused on the eternal. Worship the God of the vision, not the vision, and you will experience eternal significance. It is a faith stretcher that causes you to come back to Christ in humble dependence and trusting obedience.

Jesus says, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20).

Where am I in the faith process of implementing God’s vision for my life?

Related Readings: Genesis 46:2; Daniel 2:28; Acts 16:10; Revelation 1:9

Soulful Rest

2011-12-05T05:15:00.000-08:00

12-5-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Soulful Rest

“This is what the Lord says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, 'We will not walk in it.'" Jeremiah 6:16

The soul longs for rest in the Lord’s love and security. It’s when a body’s activities and emotional capacities run ahead of its soul that distress begins to define a disciple. Rest for the inner life is required for the outward life to leave behind an eternal impression on those it encounters. Indeed, God speaks inwardly with truth and trust to listening hearts.

We each confront crossroads in our everyday lives that invite a secular frame of mind or a scriptural mindset. The new way may seem nice, but behind its modern mask is confusion, clutter and contempt for Christ. The old way may seem stale and sedate, but when applied prayerfully it is refreshing, rejuvenating and relationally healthy.

“If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you” (Exodus 33:13a).

For example, the Lord may be leading you to adopt an abandoned child, but you feel pressure from society and even from some family members not to follow through. But you know adoption is a way to represent your heavenly Father’s love to a lost, discarded and confused child. God’s way is to go through each open door in faith and obedience. Your soul stays sensitive and alive when you bring hope and love to another needy soul.

Or, your crossroads may be a career opportunity that seems exciting one moment and terrifying the next. You know the Lord’s track record of faithfulness has been flawless with your family, but fear causes you to “what if” yourself into procrastination. Perhaps He is saying to cut loose your umbilical cord to the culture and embrace Christ’s new call. Your soul is searching for significance beyond the secular into spiritual integration.

“He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).

Soul rest comes with regular doses of doing nothing or doing routine acts of something. Just as a body’s muscles stretch and grow with exercise, then rest, a soul’s spiritual stamina stretches and grows with strident service, then quiet contemplation. A soul needs to “be” more than it needs to “do”. “Doing” without “being” shrivels your soul, but “doing” from “being” fattens your faith. Thus, walk in the good way with God in soulful rest.

“Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him” (Psalm 62:5).

What activities do I need for my “doing” to flow from my “being”, so my soul can rest?

Related Readings: Psalm 62:1; 116:7; Matthew 11:29; Hebrews 4:1-6

God's Messenger

2011-12-02T05:46:00.001-08:00

12-2-2011 by Boyd Bailey

God’s Messenger

David said to Abigail, “Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me. May you be blessed for your good judgment...”
I Samuel 25: 32-33a

God dispatches His messengers daily. You can expect a regular word from the Lord through others. They may represent His envoy of much-needed encouragement, or they may engage you with a regiment of rebuke. Whether He sends His messengers with a positive or a negative word, it is critical that you concur with their instruction. Your emotions may be driving you in one direction because you have been treated unfairly, even inflicted by a gross indiscretion. But God’s messenger is imploring you to take the more reasonable road of understanding and forgiveness. Just because you have been wronged, does not mean you are to wrong. Anybody can do that; it takes strength of character to not retaliate.

God is in control. So leave your transgressors in His hand. Let the Lord deal with them in His timing. God’s messenger may be telling you to wait. This opportunity staring you down does not deserve your acceptance. Your pride and ego have nominated you to the task, but you know in your heart it is not the wise thing to do. Listen to God’s messenger and avoid a year of regret. Money and status are not worth jeopardizing your marriage and your health. There will be other opportunities, much better ones that will fit in your next season of life. It is easy to ignore, reject, or argue with God’s messenger, but think twice before you debate with Deity’s representative. They are ambassadors of heaven, reaching out to you on earth. He has things under control and desires His very best for your life.

Many times, God’s messenger comes in the form of a friend who knows you all too well and has seen some of your destructive patterns over the years. He has your best interests in mind. Their desire is for you to learn from your unwise decisions of the past and flourish in the future. They are taking a risk with their friendship because they care. If they were self-serving, they would shut up. So, listen to God speaking through your friend, especially when it is not what you want to hear. He also speaks, frequently, through your spouse. They love you, and yes they may be fearful and insecure, but it is because they don’t want you to miss God’s very best.

Do not allow ego and pride to blind you to their warnings and concerns. They may not understand all of the ins and outs of business, but they do understand the Holy Spirit’s promptings. This is a level of discernment, which God has wisely given to them as your gift. Make sure you receive it and use it well.

Lastly, reward God’s messengers. This is behavior that deserves recognition and appreciation. You reward the behavior you want repeated, and you rebuke or ignore the behavior that you want to cease. Do more than say you agree. Instead, make a big deal over their determination to deliver the truth. Instead of blowing off the messenger of good will, invite them into your circle of influence. Promote those who persist in pitching the facts. God’s messengers can be trusted because they bear news from your heavenly Father. Therefore, take seriously their words, and act accordingly. Listen actively to God’s messengers, and in turn, become one.

The Bible says, “He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise” (Proverbs 15:31).

Delayed Understanding

2011-12-01T04:52:00.001-08:00

12-1-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Delayed Understanding

Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” John 13:7

God’s will is not always understood in the moment, but in retrospect it becomes clear. This is the design of the faith walk: remain faithful today, even though understanding may not come until tomorrow. Delays in the comprehension of circumstances seem like a divine detour, but it is a fruitful path for the Lord to show Himself trustworthy and wise.
Be comforted for Christ is doing a deeper work—even if on the surface it seems shallow, insignificant and unnecessary. The details of how He takes the time to prepare us for His next assignment may seem redundant, but counter intuitive actions are not learned in one lesson. The idea that greatness comes from being a servant to all takes time to transform a heart. Jesus does not allow us to move on until humility truly moves in.

“Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble” (Daniel 4:37).

A delayed understanding of God’s ways is not meant to delay our action in opportunities to serve. For example, we can’t immediately see the bigger meaning in the scare of an inconclusive blood test that leads to more invasive physical exams, but later we grow in our love for the physicians and nurses who care for us. Delays are God’s parenthesis for Him to produce good fruit in and through us. So we serve well while we wait to know.

Do you feel trapped or caught in a no win situation? If so, what is the Lord trying to say? How can you grow as a student in Jesus’ school of unselfish service? Ask Him to convert your counterproductive frustrations into fuel for focus on the well being of others. You may have it hard, but someone else has it worse. Turn to the all knowing one in the middle of the unknown. The Holy Spirit will reveal His ways when you are ready.

“Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD” (Psalm 27:14).

Therefore, stand today in the security of your Savior Jesus, as He is your rock and reassurance. Understanding may not come until after your window of obedience. His love is not delayed, only your ability to totally comprehend His grander plan in the larger landscape of life. God’s delays are designed to accelerate your love for and trust in Jesus.

“Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts” (Isaiah 26:8).

Where do I need to remain faithful in the middle of a season of delayed understanding?

Related Readings: Lamentations 3:24-26; Micah 7:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 John 5:20

God Memories

2011-11-30T07:43:00.000-08:00

God Memories by Boyd Bailey

“I remember the days of long ago; I mediate on all your works and consider what your hands have done”. Psalm 143:5

God memories help us to remember what is really important in life. The Lord’s wonderful works come in a variety of expressions. For example, we may have seen His hand at work during our conversion experience while attending church or an old fashioned revival meeting. Or, maybe His answer to prayer arrested our hearts during a contemplative conversation with Christ along a quiet creek bed.

Our meditation on the Almighty’s activities activates our heart with faith and hope. It is when we ruminate on His righteous acts that we tend to feel secure and certain. When our own work leads us to wander, we can still wonder at the works of His hands. He can work through our works in spite of our works. A mind always on the move needs the maintenance of God’s memories to meditate and muse on His encouraging acts.

“They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them” (Nehemiah 9:17).

Therefore, look through your minds eye and see in hindsight how heaven has directed your days. His Holy Spirit may have led you to say no to one career opportunity because He had a more significant option in mind. The Lord may have closed one door of higher education, and opened another you would not have scripted, but it was precisely how you met your life mate.

You saw His works in a little baby He may have blessed you with, to nurture and love. Or it may be the memory of being with a grandparent, and experiencing God’s canopy of creation together. It was here you heard the wisdom of the Lord, and felt unconditional love and acceptance. Use these God memories to galvanize your faith, and to make you more like your memory maker Jesus.

“So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory…” (2Peter 1:12-13a).

What God memories would I do well to reflect on with gratitude and hope?

Related Readings: Psalm 42:4; Ecclesiastes 12:1; Isaiah 46:9; Ephesians 2:12

Activity Versus Results

2011-11-29T06:42:00.001-08:00

11-29-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Activity Versus Results

“A wise man who built his house on the rock… A foolish man who built his house on sand”. Matthew 24:b, 26b

Activity can become competition to the best results, because sincere but inappropriate actions can lead to the wrong outcomes. It is not important to be busy in a lot of things, but to be focused on a few essentials for success. On the surface of a busy life it can look like good things are being accomplished, but below the genuine intentions is the sandy foundation of unacceptable results. Less is more when measuring right results.

At work, for example, be on guard against reams of information that lack interpretation and analysis. Too much data can become a deterrent to making a decision and moving forward. Also, look out for those who are blindly busy, but are going nowhere fast. The busiest people may be the most unproductive people, because there is no time for evaluation and improvement. Diligence that partners with the right strategy and execution leverages the most effective results. Actions aligned with the best overall plan produce long-term sustainability; so build on the rock of right results.

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the heart. To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice” (Proverbs 21:2-3, NKJV).

Furthermore, take the time to evaluate your life and work to God’s game plan. An ongoing audit of your actions will help you reap right results. Behaviors like honesty, humility and accountability will lead to the fruitful results of respect, trust and wisdom. You are saved by grace, but you keep your job by results. Ask your boss or board what results they want to see from you and your team, and then execute accordingly. Give a bi-weekly account of specific measurements, so adjustments can be made as is necessary.

You build on the solid rock of results when you put into practice a smart and prayed over plan that invites accountability. Work hard, but examine your actions under the authority of God and man. Wise activities lead to a life and work that, by God’s grace, withstand the winds of worry and the storms of insecurity. Let God and others guide you, and you will go a long way with the substance of rock solid results.

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).

Who can I invite into my life, and ask to evaluate the activities I need to cease, the ones I need to continue and the new ones I need to start?

Related Readings: Job 32:1; Proverbs 12:15; Acts 15:38; 1 Corinthians 3:6; 4:6

Extend Kindness

2011-11-27T07:39:00.001-08:00

Extend Kindness by Boyd Bailey

“‘Don’t be afraid,’ David said to him, ‘for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.’” 2 Samuel 9:7

Kindness is a “killer application” for the Christian. It is “killer” in the good sense of the word. Kindness kills fear and replaces it with hope. It kills insecurity and replaces it with security. It kills rejection and replaces it with acceptance. It kills pride and replaces it with humility. Kindness kills the bad so that the good can have room to grow. Like the effect of a powerful herbicide on unwanted weeds, kindness cuts to the root of sin and injects it with grace and love.

Indeed, the kindness you extend to others springs from a variety of motivations. As a follower of Jesus, what compels you the most is the gargantuan kindness that He has bestowed on you. Undeserving, you were captured by the kindness of God. He captured your mind and in the process flooded it with kind thoughts toward others, even your adversaries. He captured your mouth and filled it with kind words of affirmation and encouragement, extending to those thirsting for verbal kindness. He captured your behavior and converted it to be others centered, so now you are guilty of random acts of kindness.

Everything about you has the potential to exude kindness, because God is and has been kind to you. You can count on the kindness of God leading you and others to repentance. Kill others with kindness, and watch God bring them alive. It is the uncanny and counterintuitive nature of kindness. We have the capacity to be kind, because we have received His mercy as a “gift in kind.”

Gratitude to God for His kindness is a sterling reason for us to extend kindness to others. However, gratitude also results from our horizontal relationships. You feel compelled to be kind to a family member or a friend, because of the kindness they extended to your child or your spouse. You can’t help it. Kindness and gratitude are first cousins. When you are grateful, you search for ways to extend kindness to people. It may be a graduation gift, your presence at a wedding, or a handwritten thank-you note. You want to support those who support you and those whom you love.

Kindness has this powerful effect on people: It makes them care. It is the gift that keeps on giving. It seems you cannot pay forward enough with kindness. No one has ever complained of receiving too much kindness. You cannot overdose anyone on kindness. On the contrary, it is healing and wholesome. Kindness is a picture of Christ. It is not only godly, it is God-like. Therefore, diffuse the rumblings of harsh words and replace them with kind ones.

Otherwise, you may say the right words but in an unkind way and defeat your purpose of being open and honest. People cannot hear what you say if how you say it is unkind. A kind delivery of hard words has a much higher probability of acceptance. Kindness comes from a grateful and prayerful heart that is focused on Christ. You cannot help but be kind when you are captured by divine kindness. Extend the quality of kindness, which has been extended to you. For Christ’s sake, we can be kind to one another. The kindness of God invites an extended stay. This is the kind of kindness we all desire and deserve in Him.

Grateful Praise

2011-11-23T04:51:00.001-08:00

Grateful Praise by Boyd Bailey

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6

‘Praise the Lord’ is not just a celebration of gratitude to God, and reverent worship of our King, it is also a command. Jesus directs us to worship our Heavenly Father in ‘spirit and in truth’ (John 4:23-24). The pinnacle of praise found in this last Psalm is an exhortation to praise Him in His sanctuary. It is with music, instruments, dancing, spiritual songs and hymns that we praise Him.

The church’s chorus of praise to Christ rises high above to the courts of heaven. In reverence and thanksgiving we praise Him for His mighty acts: His creation for its beauty and majesty, His redemption for its forgiveness and freedom, and His holiness for its purity and power. Praise to the Lord reveals the Lord.

“Stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at evening” (1 Chronicles 23:30).

You praise Him for His glory, but in the process you receive the benefit of His blessings. Praise solicits the blessing of His security and peace. It is in the act of adoration of His character that you are comforted by His care and compassion. Praise produces peace that flows from a prayerful and sincere heart for God.

There is a calm confidence that comes from crying out to Christ in praise and worship. It is the battle cry for believers as they engage the enemy in everyday life. Just as the Lord instructed His children to praise Him in preparation for and during battle, so you are wise to apply the weapon of praise as you encounter the world, the flesh and the devil. Praising the Lord is your pronouncement of His sovereign security in your Savior Jesus. Praise Him while you have breath, and you will bring glory to God.

“After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.” (2 Chronicles 20:21).

Grateful praise to God gets your heart in the right mood and your mind confident in Christ. A transaction of trust takes place when you take time to praise and thank the Lord. Make it your holy agenda to worship your Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, with a grateful heart and His work of grace will transform you into His likeness. Grateful praise brings glory to God and genuine joy to His children. Praise Him and so will other needy men.

“The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him” (Exodus 15:5).

What challenge am I encountering that invites me to aggressively praise the Lord?

Related Readings: Deuteronomy 32:3; Ezra 3:10-11; Psalm 40:3; 103:1-2

Righteous Rebuke

2011-11-22T06:06:00.000-08:00

Righteous Rebuke by Boyd Bailey

“Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it.” Psalm 141:5

A righteous rebuke wins the respect of the teachable and trusting. It is seen as an act of love and concern. We all need people in our lives who challenge us with truth. Bold messengers motivated by kindness and correction make us more effective leaders, spouses, parents, friends and followers of Jesus. The unrighteous smile upon us with cruel flattery; while the righteous do not rest until words of admonition are offered.

We invite instruction from those with integrity because we trust their intentions. Fools resent reproof, but the wise profit from its sometimes stinging sensation. A righteous rebuke is sweet to the soul, like pleasant perfume it refreshes and renews. It is a loving act. Immature gossips talk about others; only mature friends talk directly to others.

“It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools” (Ecclesiastes 7:5).

So, listen to those who want to love you through tumultuous times. It is better to have two people around who tell you the truth, than ten who tickle your pride and enlarge your ego. Take the time to listen to godly counsel and then act accordingly. Gracious men and women do not grow weary of candid friends, rather they thank God for them.

Your spouse sees things you don’t, so pay attention and act. Your children care enough to come with their complaints, so lovingly listen to them. The constructive feedback from friends is wise, so admit where you were wrong. At work, serve your team by listening to and implementing their excellent ideas. Survey your customers and then adjust toward their needs. Wise are leaders who see others as the Lord’s instrument of instruction.

“Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you” (Proverbs 9:8).

Above all, it is Almighty God’s loving discipline and righteous rebuke that leads to wise living. So gladly repent when you feel a twinge of conviction from the Holy Spirit. Like a child who respects the flames of a fireplace by backing away, so wise and humble is the child of God who steps back from being blistered by sin. A rebuke followed by earnest repentance leads to the sweetest lasting fellowship with Jesus and trusted friends.

“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent”
(Revelation 3:19).

Who do I need to invite into my life as a candid and trusted advisor?

Related Readings: 2 Samuel 12:1-14; Psalm 39:11; Proverbs 17:10; Mark 16:14

Poisonous Words

2011-11-18T04:36:00.001-08:00

11-18-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Poisonous Words

“They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s; the poison of vipers is on their lips.” Psalm 140:3

Poisonous words come from a proud heart. In our original state of sin, Satan, the old serpent, infected us with the venom of injurious words. We have to watch what we say, or we may regret what we say. A person in their anger tends to say what their parents said in their anger. It is a vicious cycle of cynicism that only Christ can break.

Instead of lashing out with language that stings or is even slanderous, there needs to be a cooling down time for calm and clear thinking. Frustration tends to feed judgmental behavior. When our throat is dry and our blood pressure is up, it is not the best time to speak, because poisonous words pronounce judgments driven by anger and emotion.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly” (Proverbs 15:1-2)
If you have been bitten by bitter words, then apply the balm of first bowing down to Christ. Jesus has just what the wounded soul and hurting heart needs. The Holy Spirit helps you discern how you can become better, and He gives you the patience and humility on when to wait, or when to confront. Victims of poisonous words need the serum of their Savior’s love and forgiveness. When applied liberally and regularly it allows you to handle harsh words with an understanding and non-defensive attitude.

Followers of Jesus are men and women of ‘no reputation’. It is God who gets the glory and grants a good name. So, go to the Lord when your pride has been punctured by poisonous words, and ask Him for faith to forgive and grace to extend pleasant words. Don’t stew when you have been stung by slander; rather apply the ointment of God’s grace.

Moreover, pleasant words work out the hurt and replace it with hope. Words like, “I love you, I believe in you, how can I help, how can I pray for you?” bring out the best in those in need of soul nourishment. Emotions venture back out in vulnerability within a safe environment of encouragement. Offer often pleasant words that feed hungry hearts.

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24).

What are some pleasant words like, ‘How can I help?’ that I can apply to a wounded relationship?

Related Readings: Proverbs 12:25; 15:4; Zechariah 1:13; Acts 20:2; 1 Peter 5:12

God Knows

2011-11-17T05:39:00.001-08:00

11-17-2011 by Boyd Bailey

God Knows

“O Lord, you have searched me and you know me”. Psalm 139:1

God knows everything about us. He knows our dreams, fears and failures. He knows our noble thoughts, and He knows our foolish ones. He knows, but He knows with an eye toward eternity. His motive for the use of this exhaustive information is intimacy with His creation. Indeed, His infinite knowledge is an invitation to know Him.

He understands our nature and character way beyond our comprehension. He searches the soul for our sakes, not His, for He already knows. We do much better when we sense our Savior is watching. So, our first step in accountability is to daily ask the Almighty to search and diagnose our heart. His sensitive searchlight helps us to see our motives and methods from His perspective.

“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).

God knows you need a job, but He wants you to persevere in the process of prayerful networking. God knows you need a spouse, but He wants you to hold high your standards of conduct and character. God knows you need a house, clothes or a car, but He wants your faith focus to stay on Jesus and not stuff. God knows your every want, need and desire, so ask Him to embed His wishes into your wants.

Through prayer, fasting and godly counsel, invite the Holy Spirit to align your expectations with an eternal agenda. You trust in the Lord even when you are unable to completely comprehend His understanding, because He is God. But in time He reveals just what you need to know. You know that God knows, and that’s all you have to know.

“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:31-33).

You can rest in the assurance that the Lord will meet your needs, maybe not your wants, and He knows what’s best. Like a parent’s love for a child, your heavenly Father loves you in spite of your imperfections. When He sees Jesus as your Savior and Lord, He sees the perfection of His son. He knows this is what you need most, for Christ is all you need.

“God, who knows the heart, showed that He accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us” (Acts 15:8).

How does it make me feel to know that God knows everything about me, yet loves and accepts me unconditionally?

Related Readings: 1 Samuel 2:3; Psalms 44:21; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Philippians 4:10-13

Everyday Relationship

2011-11-16T06:21:00.001-08:00

11-16-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Everyday Relationship

"I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep and My sheep know Me— just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father—and I lay down My life for the sheep.” (John 10:14, 15 NIV)

Jesus desires an everyday relationship with those He has given eternal life. Like a sensitive shepherd individually cares for his sheep, so Christ cares for His flock of followers. Daily a wise sheep herder looks to keep the sheep from harm and leads them into green pastures. Similarly, the Lord watches out each day for the interests of His children whom He protects and provides.

If we wander away from the influence of our Great Shepherd Jesus, we risk exposure to evil elements. However, as we remain in the shadow of His long supportive staff, we benefit from His benevolence and His capacity for good. Each day we have the opportunity to engage eternal resources for His Kingdom purposes. So, pray that everyday with Jesus is sweeter than the day before.

"Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway" (Proverbs 8:34).

Listen for the Lord’s voice and He will speak truth that you can treasure in your heart. He initiates marching orders daily so His disciples know where to go, what to say and how to behave. As your body calls out three times a day for food’s nourishment, so your soul’s appetite growls for God with a hungry heart. Feed it by faith and enjoy its fullness.

What competing voices vex your mind and emotions? Is it a voice of fear from within, a voice of criticism from without or a voice of disbelief from below? Indeed, it is the voice of assurance and affirmation from above that provides everyday encouragement to your life. The voice of the Lord vows to be your delight and bold advocate. So, listen intently to the one voice that is guaranteed to give you life and hope.

“Love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life” (Deuteronomy 30:20a).

Daily you have the opportunity to rest in the Lord or get worked up. He longs to walk with you and talk with you. As you face big decisions and create future plans, Jesus is ever ready to grow in a loving relationship with you. Perhaps you slow down and see Him for who He is: holy, wise and joyful. He speaks through His word, His creation, His children, His circumstances and His Spirit. Everyday with Jesus is sweet and satisfying.

“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens” (Psalm 68:19).

How can I let the Lord love me each day, so I can in turn love others with His love?

Related Readings: Job 37:5; Psalm 95:7; Luke 9:23; Hebrews 3:13

Poor and Needy

2011-11-15T05:17:00.001-08:00

11-15-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Poor and Needy

“But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay.” Psalm 40:17

Mature and growing disciples of Jesus understand their utter dependence on Him. A man or woman of high position has to come low before the Lord to learn of Him. Money cannot buy the blessing of God. It’s only in going before Him in brokenness that spiritual riches can be received. A needy soul needs a Savior to see it through troubled times.

We don’t wait and go to God after we have it all together. Instead, we enter into His presence poor in our ability to change circumstances and people. We long for the Lord’s help sooner than later, because we understand He has the right answers. The world’s solutions prove sterile and ineffective compared to the wisdom from intimacy with Jesus.

“I thank and praise You, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, You have made known to me what we asked of You, You have made known to us the dream of the king” (Daniel 2:23).

Are your actions independent of Almighty God or are you solely dependent on Him? Jesus stands at the door of your life, not just for salvation, but for ongoing fellowship. So, humbly invite Him into the home of your heart, even when it’s cluttered with confusion or messy from mistakes. You need the Lord’s help to handle life’s hurts.

The first Adam thought he needed more knowledge from a tree in order to live for God, but the second Adam (Jesus), knew He needed to die on a tree to live for His heavenly Father. Your Savior Jesus lifts up your surrendered soul to see the light of His love. He takes your submission and aligns your heart around His will. His poverty makes you rich.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).

Thus, cease from striving in your own strength and surrender to the Spirit’s resources. Confess your inability to be a loyal friend without an infusion of faith. Recognize you are poor and needy as a parent, but in Christ, you are a more than competent caregiver for your children. Relational and health issues, or problems at work are opportunities for God’s grace to grace your attitude and actions. Spiritual riches await the poor in spirit.

"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule” (Matthew 5:3, The Message).

Where specifically in my life am I poor and needy for the Lord’s spiritual riches?

Related Readings: Psalm 109:22; 1 Corinthians 1:18-30; 2 Corinthians 1:12

The Lord's Servant

2011-11-14T05:39:00.001-08:00

11-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey

The Lord’s Servant

“Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord…” Psalm 134:1a

Servants of the Lord have one goal, and that is to serve at the pleasure of their Master Jesus Christ. It is an honor to represent the vision, mission and values of heaven. Servants of God are quick to praise Him. They show respect by blessing His name, and loathe the thought of disrespect in cursing His name. Followers of Jesus think well and speak well of Him. He is the object of their affection, the adoration of their worship.

Servants of the Lord bless the one from whom all blessings flow. They speak well of their Master. Wise servants understand that the purpose of serving God is not just accomplishing the work, but representing Him in their work. Therefore, toil in trust and do not give up for Christ’s sake. You are a servant of the Most High, so hold your head high and your heart low. He keeps His covenant of love for those who long for Him.

“He said: “LORD, the God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven or on earth—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way” (2 Chronicles 6:14).

Servants of the Lord also serve those their Master loves and accepts. There is alignment around the Almighty’s interest in people and their needs. He feeds and clothes the poor, so you feed and clothe the poor. He forgives and frees those who sin against Him, so you forgive and free those who sin against you. He seeks and saves the lost with the glory of the gospel, so you seek and save the lost with the glory of the gospel.

Unrecognized service seems insignificant, but it is the most significant. What others don’t see, God does, and He rewards accordingly. The Lord blesses those who bless others on His behalf. Servants of the Lord are significant Kingdom builders, so stay put in your service on His behalf. The best service leads others to understand the way to be saved.

May others see you in this same way, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved” (Acts 16:17b).

How can I serve the Lord with gladness, and bless Him and others in the process?

Related Readings: Nehemiah 1:11; Psalm 85:8; Isaiah 56:6; Acts 4:29; Revelation 22:6

Patient Love

2011-11-12T05:40:00.001-08:00

11-12-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Patient Love

“Love is patient.” I Corinthians 13:4

Love, by nature, is patient. This is why those couples who are “in love” exhibit an inordinate amount of patience in the beginning. What is said, what is done or not done has extra grace embedded in the relationship. Lovers believe, “I will let you down. You will let me down. I will act immaturely. You will act immaturely. I will struggle with fear. You will struggle with fear.

We both need patience, for love is “patient.” If there is no evidence of patience in a relationship, then there is a love deficiency. Love expresses itself in patience. For example, you serve your children because you love them. They are sometimes silly and prone to foolishness, but you still love them. Because you love them, you are patient with them.

This may become more of a challenge when you relate this thinking to relationships outside of your family. A work associate, a stranger, or especially someone outside the faith, is harder to love. You barely know them. Therefore, how can you love them? The most difficult to love is someone who has offended you. We tend to lose our patience with those who are offensive. So, here is an important distinction to make.

You love someone, not because they necessarily deserve it, but because they are created in the image of God. Jesus loved them so much He died for them. You can disapprove of their behavior and still love them. Your willingness to tolerate delay may keep the relationship intact. This is love. This is patience. Your calmness and self-control may be the very thing needed to stabilize the situation. Wake up loving, go to bed loving, and love in between. This environment of love will nurture and produce patience—lots of it.

God understands this because He is love. Therefore, He is the epitome of patience. If anyone has the right to lose His patience, it is God. Everyday He deals with billions of sinners, many of whom are demanding their way. Some are oblivious to God. Some are harsh and angry toward God. But because of His great love for mankind, His longsuffering endures rejection and apathy.

He feels compassion, not defiance, toward someone—lost in his or her sins—flailing away in criticism toward Christ. His love expands rather than contracts in the face of your failures. His capacity to love is greater than ours and his propensity for patience is also greater. But followers of Jesus have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them to love through them. The state of an unredeemed sinner is a limited love. The condition of a saved sinner is Christ’s capacity to love.

Thus, you have the potential for a higher degree of patience. Allow Christ to love through you, and watch your patience grow and expand. Do not fall into the trap of an angry rebuttal. People and situations tend to cool off tomorrow. You still confront, but in the right timing and in the right way. Invest in patience, and the pay off is exponential. Express patience, and everyone is in a better state of mind to discuss the facts. Love the unlovable. Love the undeserving. Love the impatient. Love keeps your motive pure. Love feeds a healthy perspective.

By your love you can be patient, because love is patient. Jesus patiently loved the unlovely. The Bible says, “Jesus looked at him and loved him…” (Mark 10:21a).

Be Courageous

2011-11-10T08:33:00.001-08:00

11-10-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Be Courageous

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13

Courage is an asset Christ dispenses to His disciples. It is the ability to stand for what’s right in the face of what’s wrong. It is an attitude of hope for someone struck down by illness, who chooses to look up and glorify God in life or death. Courageous Christ followers set boundaries for business or leisure travels and avoid activities that lead them into temptation. Courage is the gumption to get on God’s game plan and not give up.

Alertness to courage dismisses dullness to sin and replaces it with energy for eternal matters. Courage from Christ gives confidence in the face of conflict. It provides a quiet assurance that Almighty God is in control and He will carry out His purpose in His time. The Lord gives sufficient courage to stand firm in the faith and remain faithful to Him.

“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (Philippians 1:20).

So, what are you facing that requires you to courageously come through? Is death staring you in the face? Take courage, it is your ticket to transition to be with Christ. Has a financial free fall crushed your net worth? Take courage, Christ is King, not cash. Is there a conflict at work or home that consumes your thoughts? Take courage in your mediator and master Christ Jesus. Courage is a gift from God that gets you through difficulty.

Courage comes in various forms and functions. It may be a phone call from a trusted friend who listens and affirms your character. A single scripture from the Bible may ring true to your spirit and, in the process, ratchet up your faith. The chorus from a praise song to Jesus can become a capsule of courage, that when ingested in worship soothes your soul. It may be a prayer, a smile, a kind word, a check or a sermon that bolsters belief.

“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13).

You receive courage so you can give courage. Encouragement is a gift that keeps on giving, not meant to be stored up and ignored. Like manure it can waste away stacked up in a barn or it can be spread around and make things grow. How do you know if someone needs encouragement? You know they need encouragement if they are breathing. Be courageous in Christ and infect others with courage. Indeed, courage creates courage.

Where do I need to trust Christ for courage? Who do I know who needs my encouraging word and works?

Related Readings: Joshua 10:25; 2 Samuel 7:27; Mark 6:50; Acts 27:22-25

Battle Fatigue

2011-11-06T06:42:00.001-08:00

11-6-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Battle Fatigue

“David went down with his men to fight against the Philistines, and he became exhausted.… But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him.” 2 Samuel 21:15b, 17a

“Doing life” is a heavy battle to endure. There are days fatigue takes your faith to its breaking point. You grow weary of financial struggles. The pain of separation has sapped every ounce of energy from your being. The pressures at work have crushed your spirit. It seems like one additional problem could send you over the edge. You may be suffering from spiritual battle fatigue. This is the time to regroup and engage in the encouragement of other Jesus followers.

Spiritual battle fatigue is the time you are the most susceptible to sin. Now is not the time to add another initiative, or you could flail away, faithless and vulnerable to unwise decision-making. Indeed, there are friends in your life whom you can trust for counsel and direction. It is imperative for you to get under their accountability. Accountability is something given by you. So, use this time of exposure to submit to their support and good advice. If you plow ahead, however, you are taking unnecessary chances.

Exhaustion blurs the mind and deceives the heart. When you are spent is not the time to confront conflict. A tired life faces conflict at a disadvantage. Either you lash out in anger over the injustice you are feeling, or you lose your patience and judge others prematurely. Do not be embarrassed to admit that you need a break. This is a time to explicitly trust others for a season and not to teeter on the edge of exhaustion.

People are waiting in the wings to rescue you. Yes, it is humbling to think we need to be rescued. But without the assistance of a friend or relative, you may very well collapse under the weight of the burden you are bearing. Confess your need and accept their help. Everyone will be blessed as a consequence.

Battle fatigue also requires reengagement with God. Your sweet time with Jesus is required to gain back your strength in Him. Your inner resolve is renewed by focused time with your heavenly Father. He understands the demands of your world. He is there to renew your mind with the truth of His Word. He is sensitive to your damaged heart, and with His comfort and love He will extract the fiery darts of the enemy and bring healing. He recognizes your frail faith and is positioned to inject it with hope and peace.

God specializes in “soul care” by giving rest and refuge to exhausted lives. Moreover, while God is strengthening you, Jesus is fighting for you. He is the righteous warrior par excellence! The battle scars of Christ were born out of heated moments of engagement with Satan himself. Jesus understands the wiles of the devil. He has met him face to face and has overcome Him by the Word of God. And so shall you.

Indeed, you have the privilege of submitting to the Lordship of Jesus so that He can fight for you. In your own strength, especially in your place of exhaustion and fading faith, you are no match for the unseen enemy. He will use mind games and emotional sabotage to get you to give up on God. Now is the time to call upon the name of the Lord. He will save you from yourself. He will save you from Satan. He will save you from sinners. He will save you from success. He will save you from exhaustion.

God is your righteous rescuer, who is poised to invade the enemy’s territory. Do not be shy to invite Him into the battle with you. Your faith may be waning, but men of flesh and blood are not the foe. Spiritual battles require spiritual resources. Therefore, seek His face and apply His resources well!

Hardships Endured

2011-11-04T03:56:00.001-07:00

11-4-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Hardships Endured

“O Lord, remember David and all the hardships he endured.” Psalm 132:1

Hardships are meant to point us to heaven. It is our hope in heaven that helps us through turbulent times. Yes, it can try our trust in the Lord, but He is our one constant support. The foundation of circumstances may shift under our feet from economic earthquakes, but these temporal tremors need not distract our focus on the eternal.

Christ does not change. His desire is to change us into becoming more like Him. His promises and character are consistent and a rock of refuge. In our pain it is ok to plead with God for relief, and to remember the sufferings of His son Jesus on our behalf. After all, it’s the merit of Christ’s afflictions and death that we are able to approach the Lord for life and love.

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5, KJV).

Furthermore, see hardships as heaven’s hammer to chip away pride, ego, false beliefs and unbecoming behavior. We are all a work in progress in need of the Lord’s loving but convicting light to shine on our shortcomings. You can endure this downturn in financial fortune, because your security is in your Savior, and not your net worth.

You will endure this bruising of your reputation because, like Jesus, you are a man or woman of ‘no reputation’: “But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:7, KJV).

David endured hardships because he was so busy doing the work of the Lord he did not have time for anxious speculations. Therefore, be consumed with Christ and executing His agenda. You will find little time for worry when all you want is to worship, love and to obey the Lord. Use hardships as an excuse to engage heaven’s resources for His glory.

Follow the example of Jesus in enduring hardships, “…who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2b-3).

How does Christ want to change me during these changing times?

Related Readings: Psalm 69:7-10; Proverbs 18:14; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Revelation 2:3

Stilled and Quieted

2011-11-03T07:09:00.001-07:00

11-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Stilled and Quieted

“But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.” Psalm 131:2

The raging waves of the world’s worries crash against the shore of our soul. At work it may be missed deadlines, or mismanagement of money. At home it may be miscommunication, or a monster of a child. At school it may be the misconduct of others, or the misfortune of feeling alone. Life is loud, and, sometimes, its deafening tones tune out our trust in God.

Only in silence can our soul be resuscitated by our Savior Jesus. He works wonders when we wait before Him. We are clamorous without Christ, but by grace our soul is subdued and soothed. Calm and contentment come forth by faith, when we are stilled and quieted before Christ. One example is the emotional word picture of parental love.

“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem” (Isaiah 66:13).

A mother is a comfort to her weaned child, even though she has denied him or her comfort. So as you linger quietly with the Lord in anticipation, it may not be what you want, but what you need that He gives you. You may want to leave, but He knows you need to stay. You may want to start a ministry, but He knows you need to run a business. You may want to marry, but He knows you need to mature more in your faith and grow more stable in your finances. You may want to get, but He knows you need to give.

You may want a promotion, but He knows you need to learn faithfulness and contentment where you currently work. The Holy Spirit may be weaning you off of someone or something, so you will only want and need Him. So, still and quiet your soul by inviting your heavenly Father’s warm embrace. You can sleep well when He holds you.

Therefore, by God’s grace, remain childlike in your faith and character. Keep your heart humble and honest under heaven’s hope. Like a child looks to it’s mother for comfort and security, look to your Savior Jesus for His quiet confidence and strength. A heart kept by Christ, lives for Christ. Settle your soul in stillness and solitude with Jesus.

Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).

What routines can I integrate into my daily life, so I can be still and quiet before Christ?

Related Readings: Job 6:24; Psalm 23:2; Isaiah 30:15; Mark 6:31; 1 Thessalonians 4:11

Clean Slate

2011-11-02T06:48:00.001-07:00

11-2-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Clean Slate

“If you, O Lord, keep a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared. Psalm 130:3-4

With our Savior Jesus, there is a clean slate when we bring our sin to the cross. God placed our sin on His son for our salvation. Sinfully exposed, we are at the mercy of Almighty God. His holiness helps us better understand our helplessness outside of heaven. So our King Jesus extends a full pardon to all who believe, for it is His prerogative to forgive.

Forgiveness is at the forefront of our heavenly Father’s thinking. The power of pardon is permanent with God, and He is ready to forgive in an instant. So go to God with guilt, and leave lust and lies with Him, because He saves and forgives to the uttermost. Invite the grace of God to govern your actions and attitudes. Freed-up people free others to enjoy the fruits of forgiveness.

“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5).

Moreover, a clean slate from sin is even more reason to fear God. This is the fruit of faith, because you have experienced His redeeming love. The fear of God results from gratitude for the grace given to us by God. There is robust respect and awe for the Almighty, because He does not rain down judgment. God’s grace leads us to have such a holy regard for Him that we fear grieving Him with continued sin.

Therefore, because you have been forgiven much, forgive much. It is not possible or healthy to keep score with those who have hurt you. So, pardon your parents and your pastor, forgive your friends and enemies, and let go of unmet expectations. Your fear of God and gratitude to God facilitates forgiveness with your fellowman.

Since Christ has given you a clean slate you can extend a clean slate to those by whom you feel slighted. Wipe clean the slate of sin with the grace of God that has been given to you, and watch Him, by faith, paint a beautiful canvas of forgiveness and love. You can start over with someone, because your Savior Jesus believes in second chances.

The Bible says, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).

How can I best express my gratitude to God for His pardoning of all my sins?

Related Readings: 1 Corinthians 13:5; Hebrews 10:22; 2 Timothy 1:9

Cut Free

2011-11-01T06:52:00.001-07:00

11-1-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Cut Free

“But the Lord is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked”. Psalm 129:4

Christ cuts us free from the cords of wicked oppressors. It may seem like the wicked have won at times, but this is the testing of our trust. The obstinate may be an entity of God’s discipline to break our pride and smooth the edges of our ego. Then we can see those who oppose righteous ways as an instrument of the Lord to instruct us in how to live by faith.

You may have a family member whose faith is a façade. If so, serve them with authentic and unselfish living. Pray their pretentious life will lose its appeal, and they will be cut free from a caricature of Christian living. We have been cut free by Christ, freed to serve Him and others. Freedom is for those who live by faith and not by sight.

“For we live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).

Furthermore, the Lord has cut you free from frivolous and irresponsible living for a life of faith. No longer do you have to roam around like an unsure beast, stuck in a purposeless predicament. You have the resources of heaven to help you understand the way. You are cut free from cynicism to hope, from insecurity to security, from greed to generosity, from resentment to forgiveness, and from worry to peace.

Christ has cut you free from circumstantial faith (based on the economy or anything uncertain), to a trust rooted in unchanging truth; Jesus Himself. So do not allow the cords of your circumstances to choke out your belief in God. By faith invite the sharp scissors of your Savior to slice through your situation, and set you free to live and love the Lord, others and yourself.

Jesus says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).

Does a secret (or not so secret) sin hold you back from enjoying all that Jesus has to give you? If so, seek out His forgiveness and healing. Submerge yourself in the security and accountability of other Christ followers. You can be unencumbered by earthly weights that hold you down like a helium balloon that’s unable to lift off from its ties to the ground. Therefore, go to God and receive His grace that allows you to fly by faith!

“But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life” (Romans 6:22).

From what attitude or actions do I need Christ to cut me free?

Related Readings: Acts 13:39; Romans 6:7-20; Hebrews 9:15; Revelation 1:5

Effective Accountability

2011-10-30T06:49:00.000-07:00

10-31-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Effective Accountability

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”
Proverbs 27:17

Accountability is essential for the follower of Jesus Christ. We are accountable to God and man. Accountability comes in many forms, but the results are the same. The outcomes of accountability are integrity to our commitments and follow through in God’s will for our lives. We all do better when others are watching.

The details of your life may be blurry to most. But, when you surround yourself with trusted advisers, by faith you give them the reading glasses to your heart and soul. They see and understand your motives—the good and the bad reasons why you do what you do. Unencumbered, you share with them your struggles, sins, and fears.

Accountability is a safe and trusting environment. Through it you slow down and take the time to allow the hard questions—questions that deal with your time in God’s Word, your thought life, your financial health, your marriage, your work, and your time, to name a few. Nothing is off limits or sacred to the truly accountable. Accountability is most effective when you sincerely submit to others. It’s no good if you limit your accountability to individual silos, because you can hide behind these linear relationships.

It is when you invite collaboration and a small group perspective that you open yourself up to a 360-degree evaluation. It is easier to fool the one than the whole. Find a small group of four or five with whom you can grow old together—people who can smell you blowing smoke miles away when it is only a small cloud on the horizon. They can read you because they really know you.

They know your tendency to drink too much, to blow up in a fit of rage, or to take your wife for granted. They know how your unguarded strength can become your greatest weakness. They help you keep these pitfalls in check, but they also affirm your progress and success. Accountability is as much a positive reinforcement as it is a negative warning or rebuke. Ultimately, true accountability partners point you to God.

God is the standard. His Word holds the rules of the game. When an issue is under debate, biblical principles veto anything that smells of foolishness. Submission and obedience to God is the foundation and the goal of accountability. He is still there when no one is watching. He understands the motives of our hearts when we ourselves are confused.

Fear of God is good and effective accountability. What you say and do does matter. It matters for today and it matters for eternity. Your respect and love for God becomes so strong that you want to do His will no matter what. Your desire to grow in His character is what drives your life. This type of God-conscious living grows your accountability over time. You discover God’s expectations on your life that you never knew existed.

And, you become freed up to know that in some areas you have imposed limits on your life that God never intended. You have limited yourself with self-imposed restraints that are not a part of God’s accountability. Effective accountability with God requires time and transparency. Seek His face and ask what needs to change in your life. Let others know what God is teaching you and ask for their mutual accountability. Submit to God, caring friends and your spouse. Accountability leads to freedom. Be set free!

Distress Call

2011-10-28T13:00:00.001-07:00

10-28-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Distress Call

“ I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me”. Psalm 120:1

Some people die a thousand deaths of distress, as it highjacks their hope. It may be the material distress of overwhelming financial pressures. It may be physical distress of a body that is accelerating down a path of pain and disease. Relational distress can be traumatic and dramatic, as couples feel confined to a crazy cycle of confusing cynicism. The rough edge of a cruel tongue can sting and sabotage your quiet confidence.

So what are the next steps when you, or someone you love is drowning in distress? Some people want to discuss their distress and accept help willingly. Others struggle to preserve their independence and behave, at least outwardly, as if nothing is wrong. Distress can define you with a humble dependency on God, or it can drive you into a shell of self-pity, that ignores Him and others. It is a facilitation of faith that provides the best benefits.

“David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God” (1 Samuel 30:6).

Therefore, learn to lean on the Lord during lean times. Go to God first when you are unfairly treated and abused. Wisdom appeals to the Almighty in prayer for insulters, instead of insulting back in prayerless reactions. Critical cries to people undermine your character, while compassionate cries to Christ embolden your soul. A child flees first to their father or mother when they are in need of comfort, love and forgiveness.

So, your heavenly Father is poised and prepared for your passionate petitions. Prayer to Him is rewarding and profitable, as He will not hear the lie against you, but He will hear your prayer against the lie. His Holy Spirit assures you that He hears, and He cares. He is attentive to every detail of your distress, so rest in His reassurance and your soul will settle down. Above all else, use distress to enjoy your dependency on God.

“You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat…” (Isaiah 25:4a).

How does distress define me? How do the Lord’s answers reassure me?

Related Readings: 2 Samuel 22:7; 2 Chronicles 15:4; Psalm 4:1; Mark 14:33;
2 Corinthians 2:4

Captive Thoughts

2011-10-25T06:47:00.001-07:00

10-25-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Captive Thoughts

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

Thoughts need to be taken into captivity. They are dangerous left alone to their own devices. Untamed thoughts can be alluring and illusive at the same time. They can lead you down the path of lies and destruction, or they can lead you into the open fields of truth and life. Left unattended and without boundaries, thoughts can become reckless and harmful. You become what you think, not unlike your body becomes what you eat.

There is a direct correlation between thinking and doing. Sloppy thinking leads to sloppy living. Disciplined thinking leads to disciplined living. The mind can be a beautiful agent of the Lord or a seductive siren of Satan. It is the beautiful mind of Christ that you seek above all else. But this will only happen with intentionality. Your mind must first pass through the “boot camp” of obedience. This is basic training in thinking.

The purpose of your thinking is obedience to Christ. If this outcome is not clear, then you are set up for failure. Obedience to God is the bottom line of Christian living. Without obedience to God, we have no authority or credibility. Hence, our understanding and application of truth becomes tainted and watered down. Obedience gives you the momentum to confront the enemies of truth.

Indeed, atheistic and agnostic arguments will assault and challenge your Christ-centered beliefs. Your biblical worldview will collide with worldviews diametrically opposed to grace and forgiveness. Your belief in absolutes will be ridiculed and roasted over the fires of relativism and humanism. Therefore, prepare your mind by understanding the nuances of your faith. Why do you believe what you believe? How is Christianity relevant? What historical facts point to the resurrection of Christ?

But captive thinking is more than an apologetic of the Christian faith. Captive thinking is pure thinking. Obedience to Christ can be expressed in an unadulterated commitment to Him. A pure mind is compelled by an intimate relationship with Jesus. He is the groom and we are the bride. The bride is enamored and in love with her new husband. She is captivated by her man. She wants to please and serve him like no other. It is a love relationship that won’t quit! It’s the same as we fall deeper in love with Jesus.

We want to think what He thinks, do what He does, go where He goes, listen to what He listens to and watch what He watches. Your eyes are the sentries to your mind. They stand on guard ready to act in a moment’s notice. Do not overwhelm your eyes with the self-inflicted wounds of lust and licentiousness. It is hard enough for them to guard your mind without your capitulation to sin’s exposure.

The Devil’s demons sit on your shoulder feeding you bad information, but they are powerless. They cannot make you do anything. The demons can speak lies, but they are impotent in their ability to make you behave badly. Learn to recognize the origin of these twisted thoughts, and then quarantine them into God’s hand. Thus, you give the captured thoughts of the enemy to God. God can handle these prisoners of pain.

In contrast, release the captured thoughts of truth and purity into your life. Wise and pure thoughts lead to wise and pure living. As a result, your obedience to Christ is alive and well. Sometimes taking thoughts captive is like herding cats, but stay on point. Do not drop your guard or relax your efforts. Your “Waterloo” is your mind. Stay vigilant to bring each thought into captivity. This is battle one!

Kingdom Citizenship

2011-10-23T03:26:00.000-07:00

Kingdom Citizenship

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ…” Philippians 3:20

Followers of Jesus Christ are not citizens of this world. This life is a pass through, as we are on temporary assignment as agents of God. We serve on foreign soil, for heaven is our home. Kingdom citizenship is easy to forget; we sometimes begin to act as if this is as good as it gets. But the best this world has to offer is of no consequence compared to even the least of what heaven has to offer; a sumptuous meal here is much better there; wonderful worship here is no comparison to the chorus of angels there; raving relationships here cannot hold a candle to the absence of sin and sorrow there; the beauty of God’s creation here foreshadows the incomprehensible glory He has prepared there; the struggle of sickness here releases to 100% wholeness there.

The enjoyment of stuff here is laughable in comparison to the value of His heavenly rewards, and the comfort of the Holy Spirit here is but an appetizer before the feast that is the countenance of Jesus. Things are much, much better back home in heaven. This is where our hope lies, ultimately and fully. Do not become enamored of, taken in by, or too comfortable with this world. It is passing by and we are passing through. The land of our origins is full of God and free in Christ. We can hold our head high because our King Jesus, rules in majesty, holiness, and grace. We are privileged to serve under the flag of His kingdom, and we represent the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

Yes, you are an ambassador for Christ, so it is necessary for you to remain on earth for now, for the sake of the gospel. You represent your Lord for others; so do not take your ambassadorship lightly or flippantly. Keep top of mind your responsibility to be a good citizen in the Kingdom of God. You can constantly be aware of opportunities to represent God’s concerns, and draw others into His kingdom.

People are attracted to God because they see Christ manifested in your life. They want to apply for citizenship in the Kingdom of God. Their visas from this world are torn, tattered, and limited to the temporal need of constant renewal. This is not the case when you immigrate to the shores of heaven. Your papers are good for eternity because you are now a citizen of an everlasting kingdom. Kingdoms of this world come and go but the Kingdom of God is now and for evermore.

The Kingdom of Heaven is not without battles, so fight the good fight for the glory of God, and for the souls of men and women, boys and girls, and the unborn. The war is already won; so let others know they do not have to remain prisoners of sin. They too can become kingdom citizens right now. While you remain on earth, invite as many others as possible to submit to the Almighty’s reign. Be humble, bold, and joyful of the fact that your citizenship is in heaven.

The Bible says, “But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the Living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly…”(Hebrews 12:22).

Wise Companions

2011-10-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

10-21-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Wise Companions

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20

What does it mean to have quality of life? Good health? Harmony at home? A happy heart? Financial security? Freedom of speech and worship? A fulfilling career? Grateful and content children? A meaningful marriage? A life of significance? Peace with God? Probably some of these elements and more make up a life worth living—a quality life.

The quality of our life is determined by the quality of our relationships. Who we spend time with is who we emulate. If we spend time with those wise in their finances, and if we pay attention, we can become wise in our finances. If we are intentional in our faith, we will worship with those of great faith. Our life is a reflection of our relationships.

“Therefore I urge you to imitate me. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church” (1 Corinthians 4:16-17).

So, how is your relational portfolio? Are you diversified with people who bring value to all aspects of your life? Conversely, are you intentional to invest time and interest in those who look to you for guidance? Quality of life flows from not just receiving wisdom, but from giving wisdom. Wisdom works both directions for the good of the relationship.

Furthermore, be careful not to excuse bad behavior because you are trying to relate to questionable company. Draw a line far away from eroding your character’s creditability. You can influence others for good, without being bad. In some situations, what you don’t do defines you more than what you do. Use business trips and vacations to model faithfulness not foolishness. Stand for what’s right, when others agree to what’s wrong.

“Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33).

Above all, quality of life results from your relationship with Christ. He is life itself and everything good in life flows from Him. When you grow in your personal relationship with Jesus, it affects the growth of your other relationships. Relationship building in heaven builds relationships on earth. Ultimately, Jesus is the life to model and follow. The resurrected life of Christ gives you the spiritual stamina to experience a quality life.

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this”? Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe…” (John 11:25-27a).

Who are the wise people I spend time with? Am I investing in quality relationships?

Related Readings: Psalm 56:13; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Philippians 2:1-4; 1 John 1:7

Today's Gift

2011-10-20T08:33:00.001-07:00

10-20-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Today’s Gift

“This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it”. Psalm 118:24

Everyday is a new gift from God, created by Him and for Him. The dawning of each day displays the light and love of the Lord’s creation. Christians celebrate Sunday, the first day of the week, as a reminder of the Almighty’s achievements, namely the resurrection of Christ. However, the work week does not need to be focused on worldly agendas alone.

Seize today as a trust from Almighty God, and steward it with a sense of divine destiny. Perhaps you pray over a blank sheet of paper (or computer screen), and then list by faith how you believe the Lord wants you to focus your time. Follow through with the difficult assignments first, execute some easy ones, and then trust God and others with the tasks out of your immediate control. Today has enough time for you to accomplish His agenda.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).

Furthermore, receive God’s gift of today with generous joy and gratitude. Life does happen, some days it is much more difficult to be thankful than others. There are times when the seeds of sorrow are sown under the dark clouds of confusion, but don’t allow fear of the unknown to steal your joy and imprison your peace. Hope in the Lord means you can anticipate His faithfulness during dark times, so be still and listen for His voice.

Today is an invitation to focus on and rest in the faithfulness of your heavenly Father. Adam’s sin nature brought a day of sadness, but Christ’s sinless nature brought a day of gladness, so live in the moment for your Master Jesus. By faith and with grateful anticipation, unwrap His gift of today, and behold the beauty of its possibilities. Be glad you have only one today, and by God’s grace live it to its fullest.

“O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today…” (Nehemiah 1:11a).

So focus on the next right thing today and do not become paralyzed for fear of tomorrow. Today is the only day you have to live, learn and come alive. Seize the day for your Savior Jesus and watch Him do a wonderful work of grace. Progress comes in God’s timing and in His way. A day dedicated to Christ has more possibilities than a 1,000 days unrecognized as a gift from heaven. Unwrap God’s gift of today and worship the giver.

How can I receive God’s gift of today with peace, contentment and joy?

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning” (James 1:17).

Related Reading: Genesis 24:12; Deuteronomy 11:13; Proverbs 22:19; 1 Timothy 3:16

Great Mercy

2011-10-19T10:09:00.001-07:00

10-19-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Great Mercy

“For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth FOR EVER. PRAISE YE THE LORD.” Psalm 117:2 KJV

The mercy of the Lord reaches out to the vilest sinner. The breadth of His grace has no boundaries; therefore we are compelled to erupt in gratitude to God. His mercy is all encompassing, of the basest evil and grander than the greatest offense. The Lord’s mercy fails not, daily like freshly baked bread, it is warm and appetizing to all who partake.

Mercy is twice blessed; it blesses him that gives, and him that takes (Shakespeare). God’s mercy is foundational for all our comfort, and His truth is fundamental for all our hope. It is our mandate from God to be merciful to mankind; as it makes us more like Jesus. In Christ Jesus, God has shown us great merciful kindness. He made us alive in Christ.

“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:4-5).

Furthermore, as a follower of Jesus you have daily moments to model and minister mercy. It may be a restaurant server who messed up your order, be merciful. You get cut off in traffic, be merciful. You are embarrassed in front of your friends by harsh and unfair criticism, be merciful. Your child fails miserably, be merciful. Mercy is kind.

Anyone who does not meet your lofty standards or proud preferences doesn’t deserve to be crushed under pressure of your merciless microscope. Pride is defensive, impatient and merciless. Humility is trusting, patient and merciful. Indeed, emulate the Lord’s longsuffering and you will live a much more pleasant and abundant life.

“So speak and so act, as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:12-13, NASB).

So, enjoy the benefits of mercy: forgiveness, kindness, benevolence, acceptance, healing, peace of mind and reconciliation. Mercy is your friend who does not seek to make enemies. Be merciful as your heavenly Father is merciful and you will experience mercy. By God’s grace righteous actions can be reciprocated, so be merciful for Christ’s sake.

“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36).

Where would I be without the mercy of God and others? Who do I need to extend that same mercy with forgiveness and acceptance?

Related Reading: Deuteronomy 4:31; Daniel 9:9; Matthew 5:7; Hebrews 2:17; Jude 1:22

Heart Sick

2011-10-18T07:01:00.001-07:00

10-18-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Heart Sick

“Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. I am sick at heart. How long, O Lord, until you restore me? Return, O Lord, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love.” Psalm 6:2-4 NLT

The human heart is fragile and can easily fracture under the weight of disappointment and fear. Questions lurk in the background waiting to assault someone’s confidence: Am I good enough? Am I attractive enough? Am I smart enough? Am I wealthy enough? Am I secure enough? Am I mature enough? Outside of Christ there is never enough is enough.

We struggle with these insecurities when we suffer rejection from those we thought loved and accepted us. Our trust is tortured when we experience severe relational let down. After all we ask, “Wasn’t this the one I was supposed to marry?” Or “Wasn’t I in line for the promotion, but my colleague was rewarded instead of me?” “Why do we have to sell our dream home after all these years of hard work?” Heart sickness depletes our energy.

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12).

Emotional and spiritual weakness dims the rays of hope that once lightened our path. But in our despair, we can’t forget that Jesus is there. The Lord’s compassion does not fail. It does not fail in its appearance and it does not fail in its application. Like a massage to a strained muscle, a warm whirlpool to a twisted ankle or a stern splint to a broken bone—God brings comfort and healing to a suffocating soul. He restores hope to the uttermost.

Is your faith moody and unpredictable? Are you hurting? If so, seek out the healing hand of your Heavenly Father. Let go of the pain of rejection and forgive the one who turned their back on you. Turn your eyes upon Jesus and look to His healing hand. Your sick heart needs the reassuring serum from your sympathizing Savior. Hope heals the heart.

“And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:5).

Moreover, care for those who feel crushed under their circumstances. Be patient with their complaints, as they need the support of your comfort and concern. Like the trauma of a car accident, they may be scared and shaken. Pray with and for them to trust God and to place their hurting heart in His hands. Indeed, be a spiritual cardiologist for Christ.

“Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones” (Proverbs 15:30).

How can I apply hope in the Lord to my sick heart? Whose heart can I comfort in prayer?

Related Reading: Lamentations 5:17; Psalm 31:24; 62:10; Acts 2:26; Ephesians 1:18

Be Present

2011-10-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

10-17-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Be Present

"When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:30-32

It is easy to walk with Jesus day in and day out, but take Him for granted. He travels with His children, but are we always aware that He is there? It’s especially true in the pages of Scripture, where our Holy Lord Jesus shows Himself in all His glory. The written word of God ignites our faith and the Holy Spirit illumines our mind and heart to see Christ.

Are you present in your current season of life? Or, are you wishing away where you are for where you want to be? It is scary to think the Lord may be speaking in the now, but our preoccupation with the past or future can cause us to miss His heart. Indeed, God speaks in the present what He wants us to know now. He is with His children, even when we are unaware. To behold His glory requires living in the moment with Him by faith.

"We beheld his glory, the glory of the only begotten of God." John 1:14

The Holy Spirit is ever present to present Jesus in His all sufficiency. He is sufficient to see you through a nagging health issue. He is sufficient to guide you through relational ruptures. He is sufficient to make straight the way in your job search. He is sufficient to make beautiful an ugly situation. Jesus is all sufficient, for all times, in all ways, and most notably in the here and now. Thus, cling to Christ in your current circumstances.

To be present is to be silent and listen to the Lord and to listen to those who speak truth. A husband’s engaging presence with his wife is a gift of peace and security to her. A wife’s engaging presence with her husband is a gift of respect to him. Your full attention in the moment communicates genuine concern. Indeed, the Lord is ever-present with you, so you can be present with those He brings your way. Being ever-present is God’s gift.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1b).

Therefore, learn to practice His presence in the middle of traffic or in the pressure of a deadline. Listen to the Lord, before you speak for the Lord. Moreover, be all there where you are in conversation with good or bad company. Allow Christ to adjust your attitude to selfless serving and active listening. Your presence illustrates Christ’s presence. It’s not what you say, but how you hear with compassionate ears. Being present is a present.

“Then I was constantly at his side. ?I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind” (Proverbs 8:30-31).

How can I enjoy the presence of God and give the gift of my presence to others?

Related Reading: Psalm 31:20; 51:11; Hosea 6:2; 1 John 3:19

Lose Heart

2011-10-14T07:05:00.001-07:00

10-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Lose Heart

“For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary”. Galatians 6:8-9 NASB

We lose heart when we linger too long in our own strength, instead of the Lord’s. The heart cannot handle a ministry or work that features the flesh, juxtaposed to a life submitted to and scripted by the Holy Spirit. Living in the flesh flushes out faith and replaces it with fatigue, frustration and fear.

Spirit filled living on the other hand harnesses the resources of heaven, as it taps into the treasure troves of God’s mercy and grace. Prayer is the Lord’s potent prescription for not losing heart. Petitioning Providence allows us to process out faulty thinking, replace it with insights from the Almighty, and to persevere.

Jesus says, “to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1 NASB).

Another way to battle soul fatigue, and not lose heart is to do good. Do good in daily doses, and your determination will come roaring back like a lion. It is small acts of goodness sewn together that create a beautiful blanket of blessing. You do good when you pay bills on time, and show up for work on time. You do good when secrets are not kept from your spouse, for doing good also means not doing bad.

Do good together, and there is a much higher probability you will stay together. Doing good done well, is detrimental to dumb decisions. You grow strong and not weary when your prayers to God propel you forward in mercy. You lose heart when you stop giving away your heart. Yes, it is a risk to love well, but you gain God’s “well done” and you receive a heart of grace and gratitude. You gain a full heart by emptying your heart.

The Bible says, “Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart” (2 Corinthians 4:1).

What good deeds does God want me to do in the power of His Spirit?

Related Reading: Matthew 5:16; 1 Timothy 2:10; 5:10; Hebrews 10:24; 1 Peter 2:12

Harvest of Happiness

2011-10-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

10-13-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Harvest of Happiness

“When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting.” Psalm 126:1-2, 5

Happiness is found in our heavenly Father. It comes from seeing the big picture of where He has brought us, to where He is taking us. If happiness were contingent on cash and comfort, then the modern world would be one laughing lot. However, without heaven as the end in mind, contemporary conveniences actually work against authentic happiness.
Stuff without our Savior, becomes seductive and controlling for its cause. But joy fills our heart when we think of the Lord’s deliverance from our captivity in Christ-less living, into a life of significance. Happiness is the result of giving, not getting, of serving, not being served, and from leading people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
“Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people” (Philemon 1:7).

Therefore, go forth into life and sow seeds of gratitude and generosity, and you will reap a harvest of contentment and fulfillment. You will garner gladness, as you keep God and others as your goal for doing good works. Sow the seeds of acceptance and forgiveness, and you will reap a harvest of acceptance and forgiveness.

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life” (Galatians 6:7-8).

Most people tend to treat you as you treat them, and you can trust the exhausting exceptions with the Lord. Take a risk and get emotionally involved with the needy, and you will be happy you did. Surface living is for the shallow, scared and unhappy ones. So get below the facade and feel their pain, weep and watch God work through your tears, as you pray persistently for your prodigal. There is a harvest of happiness waiting, as you sow the seeds of selfless service on behalf of your Savior.

The Scripture teaches, “Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you” (Hosea 10:12).

Who can I joyfully serve and bring a harvest of happiness to all involved?

Distant God

2011-10-12T08:51:00.001-07:00

10-12-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Distant God

“O God, do not remain silent; do not turn a deaf ear, do not stand aloof, O God.” Psalm 83:1

Sometimes the Lord seems a million miles away; prayers go unanswered, loneliness assaults the heart and fear grips the mind. His arm is not shortened, but is able to save, however at times His tender touch cannot be felt with absent faith. Indeed, faith can become AWOL (missing) for any sincere child of God. It’s when the feelings of abandonment absorb the soul that a soul must stay abandoned to its Savior Jesus.

Has a temporary tempest in your trust caused you to tread lightly into the Lord’s presence? It is scary when the winds of adversity blow beyond our ability to bear them. But our Almighty God is the one who causes whirling winds to cease and hurricane gales to go silent. What we cannot control, He can. what we cannot understand, He does, and when we cannot trust, He gives us the faith, hope and peace in Christ to carry on.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Take heart, the one who created you and the world around you, has not left His providential post. Like a military sentential that protects the people as they sleep, so the Lord does not sleep or slumber, but stays alert against the enemy on your behalf. If you feel aloof from the Almighty, then run toward Him not away from Him. The presence of Jesus awaits the hungry heart that does not give up on God. Go to Him for He is with you.

Perhaps you ask effective prayer warriors to intercede on your behalf for intimacy with the Almighty. Do not be embarrassed that the Lord feels absent; instead ask His children to come alongside you for support and encouragement. You can see Christ in normal Christians, and they are not far away. Enjoy His presence while you are in their presence.

“Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:46-47).

Are there any hindrances in your heart that may be creating a crevice in your fellowship with Christ? Examine your attitude, actions and words to make sure unrighteousness is not distancing itself from the righteous One. Confession of sin creates clean hands and a pure heart that usher you into the throne room of God’s grace. Go here often and you will feel His presence in sweet forgiveness and renewing of your faith. He’s close by to care.

“LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their hear” (Psalm 15:1-2).

How can I pursue God with a pure heart and trust that His presence is within me?
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 31:6-8; Psalm 63:1; 139:7-10; Romans 8:37-39

Process Anger

2011-10-10T06:44:00.001-07:00

10-10-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Process Anger

“Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his spear, but David eluded him as Saul drove the spear into the wall. That night David made good his escape.” 1 Samuel 19:10

Process anger, or it will control your attitude and your actions. Anger is a self-fulfilling prophecy of destruction, as it destroys peace and quiet and ravishes relationships. Anger is acidic, for it eats away at your credibility, your health, and eventually your ability to function successfully in life. Anger is an ugly emotion, as it easily embarrasses itself, and humiliates others for sport. It has a way of expressing itself at the most inappropriate times. For example, one outburst of anger can turn a pleasant family drive to church into one full of fear and intimidation.

Work environments build walls of distrust because of seething, and unresolved anger. Relationships never get beyond the surface because of the fear of anger’s rejection. No one wants to be around an angry person. The Bible even says, “Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy” (Proverbs 27:4).

Where does anger come from? There are probably a variety of sources. One is the result of not being loved and/or of not loving. When a heart is perpetually unloved, it has a void that is first influenced by—and then filled with—anger. On the contrary, a heart full of love has no room for anger. Love melts anger the way the sun melts a milk chocolate bar at the beach. Cold anger is no match for the warm flames of love.

Love responds with understanding, instead of seeking to argue or defend itself. Love learns to forgive instead of storing up resentment in someone who has been deeply disappointed. Love moves on instead of seething in the stew of what should have happened. Love matures over mistakes made, while anger whines in immaturity.

Furthermore, anger incubates in a hurting heart. A heart raw with emotion is a candidate for anger. Suffering may be hurting your heart and you can’t take it anymore. Your heart is crushed and wrung out by pain. You are extremely vulnerable to the influence of anger, so let the compassion of Christ heal your heart. Invite the Lord to love on you, and process your pain in prayer. Listen intently to the Lord, for He really does care. He loves you right in the middle of your mess. Invite the love of Jesus to do surgery on your soul. After the Almighty has loved on you, let others love on you. Love is salve for your soul, as you need the love and prayers of people to help you process your anger.

Moreover, you may be the brunt of another’s angry outbursts, but do not take their anger personally. See that person as Jesus does, and extend forgiveness. Anger may be the defense mechanism another uses to keep you at bay. But kill him or her with kindness instead. Initiate forgiveness seven times seventy, and pray for this person to be loved by God and by you. Anger is an ugly mask, so unveil it with acceptance. Anger is your excuse to love and accept, not to fight and flee.
The Bible says, “A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control” (Proverbs 29:11).

Model The Way

2011-10-07T07:24:00.000-07:00

10-7-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Model the Way

You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 1:6

Parents are in a unique position to model the way for living to their children. The role of father and mother carries a humbling responsibility to be a parent worth following. Whether someone likes it or not—they are the Lord’s authority over their little ones—and it’s imperative they take seriously their obligation to steward well their parental roles.

What a privilege to present Christ to our progeny in our speech, actions and attitude. Indeed, our words carry weight when our actions align with Almighty God’s expectations. The Lord looks for parents to depend on Him for wisdom and direction—so it plants the same seeds of dependence on God in the heart of a child at home. A parent regularly prays for Christ’s provision—thus the son or daughter desires to do the same.

“Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding” (Proverbs 4:1).

A child is most motivated to walk wisely when their loving parents live it out before them. A parent learns patience in prayer and passes on this pattern of longsuffering to their sons and daughters. A child or teenager who observes their father and mother serving the poor, caring for aging parents and giving generously to where God is working—wants to do the same. The best way for a young boy or girl to learn is to serve alongside their parents.

Jesus is not looking for perfect parents, but for fathers and mothers who will live by faith and not by sight. The Lord longs for parents whose public profession of faith matches their private conduct and character. Your child may or may not remember what you say, but there is a high probability they will become who you are.

Therefore, seek the Lord together first as husband and wife—and then as a family. God will give you the grace to model for your children a life of love and forgiveness. Pray with them and for them to walk in the truth—while trusting in the Lord. Do not underestimate the power of your influence on your little ones. You are God’s representative of righteousness to their tender hearts. Be a compelling example for Christ.

“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children” (Proverbs 17:6).

How can we be an example to our children that causes them to love Christ?

Related Readings: Isaiah 38:19; Jeremiah 32:18; Malachi 4:6; Luke 2:27

Disciplined Exercise

2011-10-06T06:40:00.001-07:00

10-6-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Disciplined Exercise

I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. 1 Corinthians 9:27a (NLT).

For the most part, Jesus walked everywhere he went; He had built-in exercise in His daily routine. Indeed, the comforts of modern society are actually in conflict with creating an exercise regimen. Discretionary time is filled with less important activities to the detriment of keeping the body in a condition to be a blessing and not a burden.

For example, when someone stays up late to watch television, they typically sleep later the next day. If the morning is the best time to walk, run, lift weights or engage in aerobics, then the probability of exercise is much lower. A disciplined life understands the need to calendar activities that compliment one another. Disciplined exercise requires you to plan ahead.

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Yes, some followers of Jesus are more disciplined than others, but His Spirit empowers all who ask for self-discipline with a spiritual source. A disciple of Jesus, by nature, leans into the Lord motivated by discipline and determination. A disciple without discipline is like a mother without compassion, unnatural. So, see exercise as a stewardship of God’s gift of health and train your body to obey and serve the will of God for your life.

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever” (1 Corinthians 9:24-25).

There are those who turn exercise into an idol, and miss the point of good health, as an offering to Jesus Christ. It is not for our own vanity that we get into shape; rather it is for the glory of God. You invest an hour a day in physical training so that you can most effectively balance the day at work, home and leisure. It is better to pay a trainer or gym a modest fee now, than to wake up in the hospital one day with a catastrophic bill.

How does your fitness determine your service for God? Do you take it for granted or do you see it as a gift from the Lord to be managed well? Your health, good or bad, is a platform to pronounce the faithfulness of God. You do not seek attention for yourself, but use the interest of others to interest them in eternal matters. Point people to Jesus as you prepare His earthly temple for a life of love and worship. Thus, exercise for eternal purposes.

“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).

How can I create a routine in my life that incorporates disciplined exercise for God’s glory?

Related Readings: Daniel 1:5; Proverbs 5:23; 1 Timothy 4:8; Titus 1:8

Exchanged Life

2011-10-03T06:38:00.001-07:00

10-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Exchanged Life

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24

There is a great exchange that takes place when a person places their faith in Jesus Christ. Their old way of living is replaced with living for the Lord. Their old way of thinking is replaced with thinking on the truth of Jesus. Their old way of speaking is replaced with speech that is sprinkled with the grace of God. The old has passed, the new has come.
The life of Christ becomes the life of the follower of Christ. No longer are we led down the dead end road of unrighteousness, but we are set free to journey down the less traveled road of righteousness. We give up what we could not keep, our life on earth, in exchange for what we can keep, eternal life in heaven. To a watching world it seems foolish to give up for God, but what we get from God, forgiveness, peace and love, is true life.

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory” (Colossians 3:1-4).

Have you surrendered yourself to your Savior Jesus? Have you given over to Him trust in your own goodness and good deeds in exchange for His holiness and His Spirit-filled power? This great exchange of the temporal for the eternal is what gives you the capacity to grow in grace and to become a person of great faith. However, an effective exchange requires the receiver to have faith in the giver. God is a generous giver who can be trusted.

Maybe you have believed, but have lost your way and you need a refresher in righteousness. Perhaps repentance has become a foreign language for your heart and mind. Let loose of your old life of fear and doubt and replace it with your new life of trust and security. Put off pride and put on humility. Put off anger and put on forgiveness.

“In Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. In Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christ, having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised with Him through your faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead” (Colossians 2:10-12).

Make this great eternal exchange and do not waste another day. No one has ever regretted receiving from Almighty God His agenda for their life. The Lord wants you in exchange for Him. Jesus wants your life in exchange for His life. He wants your troubled heart in exchange for His tender heart. He wants your fears in exchange for His peace and calm.

“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved” (Romans 10:9-10).

Have I exchanged my old lost and selfish life for Christ’s new life of love, forgiveness and service to others? If not, why not now?

Related Readings: John 17:3; Romans 5:12-21; Galatians 2:20; 1 John 5:13; 2 Timothy 1:9-10

Resting Place

2011-09-23T07:43:00.001-07:00

9-23-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Resting Place

“God will speak to this people, to whom he said, “This is the resting place, let the weary rest”; and, “This is the place of repose”—but they would not listen. Isaiah 28:11b-12

Everyone needs a place to rest, a time to rejuvenate and restore your soul. A soul without rest is vulnerable to doubt, disease, and dread. Without soul care, you risk being ineffective for the long term. So, allow your soul to catch up with your activity through rest. A restless soul loses hope and perspective.

Stop right now and take an audit of your soul. Is it strung out and anxious? If so, rearrange your schedule for rest before it rearranges you. A non-restful pace is unsustainable, and a restful place is necessary to persevere. Do not fall for the false feeling that activity somehow equals progress or success. Without rest, you are going nowhere fast. If you intensify the pace, you are going nowhere, faster.

Rest allows you to recalibrate your priorities and replenish your cistern of creativity. Your work rhythms may require a day with no scheduled appointments. Indeed, each resting place looks different, depending on your need. For example, your resting place may be the quiet screened porch, where you relax with a cup of coffee and a good book.

For someone else, a resting place may be a comfortable couch, where they nap to the steady beat of raindrops pelting the rooftop. It can be the park where you walk with your best friend, a secluded drive in the countryside, or an adventurous exploration of the great Pacific Northwest. Whether your resting place is the beach, the mountains, or in front of a good movie, make time to engage with it. God speaks to you in your place of rest. This is one of His favorite spots to shape your soul.

Furthermore, your resting place allows you to resist temptation. Fatigue causes you to stumble and fall through life. If you are working through exhaustion, you may be missing God. A lethargic life struggles to listen to the Lord, and a heart worn down from weariness has a hard time hearing His voice. A depleted spirit is not primed for discernment, and decision-making during duress can be dreadful.

Therefore, go away to a resting place. Find God and find yourself under the canopy of His creation. A resting place is your protection from yourself, from evil influences, and from lost perspective. Above all else, your resting place reveals God in a refreshing way. His program takes on a new priority in His place of rest. Your confidence is resurrected. Your trust takes on a new level of intensity. Your patience leads to a deeper understanding of what it means to wait on the Lord.

A resting place is for your sake and His. It is necessary to experience God’s very best for you and your family. Discover your resting place in prayer, and go there often. Repentance follows rest, and robust relationships result from rest. Your best and most creative ideas emerge from relaxed meditation on your Master. Wisdom resides in rest.

Christ's Calling

2011-09-22T06:48:00.001-07:00

9-22-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Christ’s Calling

“Come follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him.” Matthew 4:19-20

Disciples of Jesus are called by the Lord to minister in their home and in the marketplace. However, Christ does call some of His followers to vocational ministry. It is a calling that many times comes to ordinary men and women who accomplish extraordinary results. Who does He call out? Christ’s call comes to those who have a hungry heart for God.

Like Paul you might of been suddenly smitten by a revelation of Jesus as Lord, or you were like David who gradually went from feeding sheep what’s perishable to feeding God’s people the imperishable. Wherever Christ’s calls, His first command is to love God and then to love people. A calling without love is like a car without gasoline. It may be attractive on the outside but it’s not going anywhere. Thus, love large where the Lord has called you.

Furthermore, He has called you to endure hardships, “You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary” (Revelation 2:3). Christians are not immune to conflict. In fact, your faith at times invites difficulty. So, don’t seek to shelter your life from adversity; rather position yourself in obedience to Christ’s calling. It is out of your regular routine of serving Him that you will see what He has in store next.

Yet, be sure you minister first to your spouse and children. Don’t be like the cobbler who has no shoes for his family. Your creditability for Christ is seeing your faith lived out with those who know you the best. What does it profit a man if he saves the whole world and loses his family? A calling to family first frees you to evangelize and disciple with God’s favor. His calling aligns with His commands, so service for Him is seamless.

Above all, the Lord is looking for those already engaged in His word, growing in their character, and active in sharing their faith. His calling comes to Christians who desire the Holy Spirit to conform them into the image of Christ. Your humble imitation of Jesus comes out of your intimate walk with Him. He calls those with whom He can trust. So don’t look only for your calling, but look for Christ and He will reveal His calling to you.

“I, even I, have spoken; yes, I have called him. I will bring him, and he will succeed in his mission” (Isaiah 48:15).

What is Christ’s calling for my life? Am I steadfast in loving the Lord and people?
Related Readings: Acts 9:10; 1 Corinthians 7:17; Hebrews 5:4; Revelation 7:14

Peace Promise

2011-09-21T05:43:00.001-07:00

9-21-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Peace Promise

I will listen to what the Lord will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints—but let them not return to folly. Psalm 85:8

God promises peace to his people. It is a peace produced in heaven and delivered on earth. God’s peace provides us just what we need, not just enough to get us through life, but enough to excel in life. The peace of God propels us to go places we would have otherwise avoided, if we didn’t have the assurance of His peace. God’s peace plan for His people is accessible at all times. When we fail to forge our faith around His plan we forfeit peace.

God’s process is to listen first, then act. Because God hears us, we are eager to hear Him. Hearing the voice of God vanquishes our fears and validates our peace. Grace waits to hear God, and then proceeds in peace. The disciples waited on the peace of Jesus. The Spirit engulfed them, then they preached, performed miracles, and ministered to the people (John 20:21-23).

God’s peace proceeds from a heart of obedience. It is inaccessible to the disobedient. Obstinacy to the ways of God does not gain the peace of God. It is when you make peace with God that you garner the grace and peace of God. Paul said it well: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand (Romans 5:1-2a).”

Peace is for the purposes of faith, not folly. Peace cannot be prostituted for personal gain. It is all about God and His game plan. We forgo peace when we go astray. We give up peace when we go our own way. However, if you find yourself in trouble, trust Him. His peace accompanies a humble and trusting heart. In the middle of your storm, listen to His voice say, “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39 KJV). Calm comes with Christ. Joy comes from Jesus. The Lord gives lasting peace.

Let the Lord in on your peculiar predicament. He already knows and cares. Confusion only continues when you try to work it out without Him. However, the peace of God does not require your total understanding. It transcends your troubled heart. It will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Man’s peace depends on treaties that can be broken. God’s peace depends on your relationship with Jesus that cannot be broken. Man’s peace is momentary. God’s peace is enduring.

Listen to the voice of man, and you may delay the peace process. Listen to the voice of God, and you will accelerate the peace process. God provides peace to His children. His provision of His peace awaits your access. Therefore, pray and wait on His peace. His peace precludes fear. Listen intently to the Lord. His voice can be trusted. Appropriate His peace promise.

Safe Environments

2011-09-20T04:11:00.001-07:00

9-20-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Safe Environments

“Your brother has come,” he replied, “and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.” Luke 15:27

Our soul seeks out safe environments. We are attracted to people we can trust, who accept us for who we are instead of who we need to be. Safe environments give us security and peace. We can bare our souls because we know we are in a place of confidentiality, and do not fear rejection. A business meeting with a rigid agenda, pretense, and pride is not a safe place in which to be yourself.

Those who foster safe environments seek first to understand, and there is no rush to judgment, but there is a rash of love. In safe environments, we’re still loved, especially when we are unlovely. Parents have the privilege of providing a safe environment for their teenagers transitioning into young adulthood. This can be a trying time for everyone, as your children are not babies anymore, so they do not want to be babied and controlled.

By God’s grace, you have trained them for such a time as this. This is your teenager’s time of transition into maturity and he or she may have to make a bad relational decision in the process. This is how he or she grows and learns. Therefore, as parents, it is imperative you keep the home environment safe and non-combative. Continue to speak the truth in love, but do so graciously with great patience and after much prayer. If your teenager doesn’t feel safe at home, they will find safety and acceptance somewhere else; so create attractive environments.

Safe environments are also necessary for Christ-seekers. People in a search for authentic faith need someplace to ask questions without being rebuffed for their elementary inquires. More mature believers have the opportunity to be there for those on their faith journey, but becoming judgmental is ruinous to safe environments, as it crushes with condescending attitudes. So, be careful not to impose your high standards on a person or situation, and in the process endanger the safe environment. Share your own failures and struggles, as this builds bridges to the heart. Safe environments are void of pedestals of pride. Consider a Bible discussion in your home, and follow it up with a fun activity. Make Christianity attractive, not boring. Safe environments draw people to Christ.

Above all else, seek out a safe environment with your Savior. Your Lord longs to linger with you. He deeply desires to listen to your dreams and fears. In your safe place with Jesus, you are loved completely. Your heavenly Father feels your pain. In your safe place with Him, you are positioned to receive His love and blessings. Your safe environment with God may be early in the morning with a cup of coffee, the Bible, and your journal. It may be late at night before your head hits the pillow and begins its silent reflections. It may be on your lunch break in the shadowy sanctuary of a tree. It may be a walk in the woods, a jog on a treadmill, or a run across a maze of sidewalks. It may be a quiet occasion in the mountains or an engagement with eternity at the beach.

God gives you safe environments for your soul’s refreshment. It is there you can cry, laugh, complain, thank, create, give, listen, and ask. Christ celebrates when you go to Him, and receives you just as you are, needy for love and acceptance. Safe environments are necessary for communication and trust. Therefore, create and enjoy safe places, and go there often for your sake and the sake of those you love.

The Bible says, “You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety” (Job 11:18).

Thanksgiving to God

2011-09-19T06:48:00.001-07:00

9-19-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Thanksgiving to God

“You will be made rich in every way so you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God... Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” 2 Corinthians 9:11, 15

Gratitude to God is a natural overflow of generosity. The gift of His salvation through Christ is indescribable! He gave when we did not deserve. He still gives, even though we are undeserving. His gift of liberty is freeing. His gift of health is healing. His gift of relationships is rich. His gift of peace is calming. His gift of wisdom is confidence. His gift of the Holy Spirit is comforting. His gift of finances is security. His gift of Himself is reassuring and humbling.

Gratitude explodes from our hearts when we are reminded of His generous gifts. They are incomparable and incomprehensible! Thanksgiving to God is a tremendous opportunity to unleash joy. This is one of the fruits of gratitude. We have “Joy, joy, joy, joy down in our hearts,” because He came down to earth and into our hearts. This is an occasion for a righteous, even raucous, celebration.

Gratitude to God can be a moment-by-moment expression. Even in the middle of the worst of circumstances, your thanksgiving to God is appropriate and needed. Look beyond your current condition to your heavenly hope. He has prepared a place for you, and His preparations are not shabby! They are just what you need and desire.

So, your thanksgiving is for what He has done in the past, His current provision, and what He has prepared for you in the future! God’s generosity is without competition. His liberality in giving wins out every time. You can be very, very grateful for this. Let thanksgiving escape from your lips often. Use it to put out the fires of fear and worry before they spread too far. Thanks be to God, for you are made rich!

Yes, in Christ you are made rich. You have everything needed for this life in Christ. As a consequence of your management of His riches, you can be ridiculously generous. This is the natural result of thanksgiving. Because of your deep gratitude to God, you are called and compelled to give. Gratitude invites you to generosity. You cannot experience authentic thanksgiving and not see it birth giving. It is a beautiful process. Because God has given to you, you give to others. At the moment you receive the gift of God, generosity is conceived in your heart.

This is why your heart feels pregnant with thanksgiving. It will explode without the regular birthing of generosity to others. This expression of gratitude results in action. It is tangibly and regularly giving to people for whom Christ died. The poor need food, a job and Jesus. Orphans need parents, a home and Jesus. Divorcees need acceptance, healing and Jesus. The angry ones need gentleness and Jesus. The confused need clarity and Jesus. The bankrupt need financial wholeness and Jesus.

The opportunities abound that invite your generous expression of gratitude. Gratitude is one of God’s prescriptions for discontentment. The two cannot comfortably co-exist. Thanksgiving keeps the credit for your accomplishments on God and others. Without either you would not be in your current position of influence and success. Gratitude is generous. Gratitude is content. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

Prepared For Wisdom

2011-09-16T06:45:00.001-07:00

9-16-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Prepared for Wisdom

“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2

The mind and the heart require humble preparation before they can receive wisdom and process it properly. Otherwise, without the influence of humility, knowledge promotes prideful thinking and hardens the heart. Information can increase intelligence, but it only creates educated fools—unless a heart of humility rejects any attitude of superiority.

Humility hunts down arrogance and, like a skilled trapper, locks it up in a protective cage of prayer and praise to Christ. It’s very difficult for pride to reproduce itself in an environment full of faith in God and empty of ego and self—it shrivels up for lack of attention. We are positioned to receive wisdom when humility harnesses our heart for Him. When we enter into the yoke of Jesus—His gentleness and meekness rub off on us.

“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29).

Wisdom follows humility like a caboose follows a locomotive, but when the two are reversed the spirit of wisdom stalls on the tracks of trust in self. The ways of the Lord require a regular emptying of earthly desires, so heaven’s wisdom has room to work. Resist the temptation to fill your mind with information without immersing your heart in humility. The idol of being awed by intelligence competes with your reverence for God.

Vain and conceited is the Christian that has an inflated view of his or her self. It is one thing to know truth and it is a whole other level of maturity to responsibly apply and live out truth. The proud are proud of their grasp of truth—while the humble are humbled by the character required to steward wisdom well. Humility erases pride’s illusions of intellectual grandeur and sketches in the need for our Savior Jesus as the backdrop.

“We sometimes tend to think we know all we need to know to answer these kinds of questions—but sometimes our humble hearts can help us more than our proud minds. We never really know enough until we recognize that God alone knows it all” (1 Corinthians 8:1a-3, The Message).

Indeed, humility opens the floodgates of God’s faithful release of wisdom. He trusts the humble to use wisdom for His purposes and not their own. Humility can handle wisdom, because it becomes a tool to lead others to trust Jesus. The truly wise understand that the more you grow as a follower of Jesus—the less you really know of what’s known. The Lord grows wisdom in a humble heart and teachable mind—so stay true to both.

“Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul” (Proverbs 2:9-10).

How can I cultivate of heart of humility that stewards well God’s gift of wisdom?

Related Readings: Proverbs 2:2-10; 7:4; Ecclesiastes 2:3; Isaiah 10:13; Luke 2:40

Good Goers

2011-09-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

9-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Good Goers

He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ Luke 10:34-35

What does it mean to be a good goer? It involves giving time and resources. As we roll up our sleeves and doing whatever it takes to meet the need in front of us. Our head assesses the situation, diagnoses the need and our heart engages our calendar and our checkbook. Good goers understand the correlation between serving and greatness.

Jesus said, “…whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:43b-45).

Good goers have the gumption to get involved and even get messy if needed. They initiate service to others in the name of Jesus. They don’t wait for the needy to come to them—instead they are quick to show up and serve. It may mean going to someone from church and leaving an anonymous gift to relieve pressure from their huge medical bills. Perhaps the Lord is calling you to short or long-term missions to love the poor and needy.

It could be keeping the lawn of a neighbor who travels a lot, or paying a mechanic to repair the car of a single mom. Being a good goer for you could involve opening your home to a prodigal who is trying to find their way, but they desperately need an environment of love, hope and acceptance. Good goers have the uncanny ability to look around them, and, like a radar, lock onto those who need a helping hand.

The Lord Jesus could have demanded to be served, but on the contrary served. He did not use His position for Himself, but for others. He “…made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant” (Philippians 2:7).

It is bold and unnatural to make yourself nothing for the sake of others, but this is the way of Christ. He takes your nothing and makes it something of great significance. However, as you follow Jesus, you are on the track for greatness, because you will engage your time and money for others in His name. So break free from feeling like you can’t get involved and become great for God, by going to where it’s messy and serve.

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh ; rather, serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13).

Who is God calling me to serve—those that others are passing by unnoticed?

Related Readings: Proverbs 11:24; Ephesians 6:7; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; 1 Peter 4:11

Holy Spirit Awareness

2011-09-13T07:18:00.001-07:00

9-13-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Holy Spirit Awareness

“While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” Acts 19:1-2

In some Christian circles God the Father and His son Jesus Christ get all the attention, while the Holy Spirit—like an unruly stepchild—is ignored. Some followers of Jesus—out of ignorance or fear—fail to acknowledge and engage the Holy Spirit’s work in their life. They are stunted spiritually, because they miss the Spirit’s revelation of wisdom.

The Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit), all play significant roles in growing believers into the likeness of Christ through godly wisdom. He is gracious to give us wisdom through grace from God the Father—through relationship with God the Son—and through revelation from God the Spirit.

God the Father gives wisdom to those who ask in faith, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt” (James 1:5-6a). Trusting children of God have access to wisdom from their generous heavenly Father.

Christ is the wisdom of God, “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24b). So to know Him is to know and understand godly wisdom. The life of Jesus illustrates for us wisdom and His teaching educates us in wisdom. Indeed, it’s in relationship with God the Son that Christians are able to grow in godly wisdom.

God the Spirit reveals wisdom to those who love Him; “These are the things [wisdom] God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God” (1 Corinthians 1:10). The Holy Spirit gives us discernment to know the difference between authentic wisdom from the Almighty and the wisdom of the world.

The Holy Spirit validates your belief in Jesus and confirms your commitment to Christ, by giving assurance to your soul. As you pray the Spirit ushers you into the presence of your heavenly Father, and with peaceful delight communes and communicates on your behalf. So, rest in the humble harness of the Holy Spirit and engage heaven’s help.

The Holy Spirit’s work is not meant to be mystical and weird, but practical and real. He provides comfort when you hurt, conviction when you stray and direction when you are unsure. Therefore, daily, enter into the fullness of the Spirit by confessing, repenting and receiving the Spirit’s fullness—be aware of what God has already given you by faith.

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God” (Romans 8:14-16, NKJV).

How can I be more fully aware of and enjoy the fullness of the Holy Spirit in my life?

Related Readings: Zechariah 4:6; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5; Ephesians 1:13-14; 1 John 5:6-8

A Sustainable Lifestyle

2011-09-12T06:35:00.001-07:00

9-12-2011 by Boyd Bailey

A Sustainable Lifestyle

"Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me." Psalm 54:4

A lifestyle is sustainable when the Lord is the sustainer. Behind every sustainable life is dependence on a Savior: to help in time of need—to provide calm in a crisis—to give perspective when feeling pressure and to slow down someone who is way to busy. The grace of God gives sustainability to a life paced by prayer and energized by faith in Jesus.

Are you involved in so many good initiatives, only to find yourself unable to keep up with your commitments? Is your pace of life without margin—unable to really invest in those who need you the most? Indeed, it is extremely important to take periodic audits of our pace of life and make sure we make room for real relational investments. A life is unsustainable, if it is always darting from one good deed to the next with no down time.

“Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live; do not let my hopes be dashed” (Psalm 119:116).

Sometimes it takes a restoration of joy in following Jesus to realign our hearts in rest with Him. Joyless living is drudgery and only contributes to fatigue and exhaustion. However, the Lord upholds His own—by His presence and the wisdom of His word. He is ever present to energize a seeking soul with His solace of strength, peace and perseverance.

Like a wilderness hiker without a backpack of supplies and no compass—is a life that wanders around without the sustenance of Scripture and the leadership of the Holy Spirit. A sustainable life has Almighty God as its architect and belief in Jesus as its builder. He sustains those who regularly seek Him with a pure heart and a teachable mind. He helps the humble and lifts up those who worship Him in Spirit and in truth.

“The LORD sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground” (Psalm 147:6).

Are you old? The Lord is your sustainer in your later years. Are you sick? Your Savior Jesus sustains you on your sick bed. Are you an orphan? You are not outcast, but a precious child of your Heavenly Father. Are you a widow or widower? You are not alone, but loved by the Lord. Are you in a new country, away from home? Jesus is trustworthy in your transition. Are you afraid? Christ is a prayer away to provide comfort and care.

Lastly, a sustainable lifestyle happens in community with other followers of Jesus. Faith comes alive when it is exercised in the presence of other people who love the Lord. You feel support, love, compassion, prayers and wisdom from the Body of Christ. The Lord is your help and His people are His helpers. A sustainable lifestyle comes from Christ.

“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word” (Hebrews 1:3a).

How can I sustain my lifestyle in the power of the Spirit and not in my own strength?

Related Readings: Job 36:19; Psalm 119:175; 146:9; Isaiah 46:4; 50:4; 59:16

Pride's Downfall

2011-09-08T07:21:00.000-07:00

9-8-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Pride’s Downfall

But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. 2 Chronicles 26:16

Lust for power is as insidious as it sounds. It is a dysfunctional drive that demands blind loyalty with nothing in return. Power hungry leaders are insensitive and short sighted as they take whatever means are necessary to accomplish their egocentric ends. They become entangled in their own web of wanting more control and find themselves trapped in a malaise of manipulation.

Power has built-in arrogance that needs to be confronted with honesty, humility and truth. Moreover, it is unnatural for the spiritually minded to need power. They give it away to avoid greedily getting more. The devil used the promise of power to tempt Christ, however Jesus knew that Satan’s temptation was a ploy that appealed to His pride.

“Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only’’” (Matthew 4:8-10).

Indeed, the lust for power does not exclude any industry or organization: politics, religion, business and ministry all have to deal with the stewardship of power and responsibility. So, how do you manage power or does it manage you? Only when you give it away are you free from its control. The more influence and authority you have the more wisdom and accountability you need from the Lord and trusted advisors.

You cannot keep power in its proper place without the principles of God’s Word prescribing your behavior. This is why it is extremely easy to work for a boss with character. You trust them and you believe they have yours and the company's best interests in mind. This is why in marriage a woman can trust and follow a man of conviction, because she believes in him and trusts him to be accountable to God.

Furthermore, if you apply humility to your heart, power will not go to your head. Just as pride comes before a fall (Proverbs 16:18), humility comes before promotion by God. Therefore, use power as an excuse for persistent prayer and honest feedback. Give it away—for then it loses its prideful control and you avoid an embarrassing downfall.

“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 14:11).

How can I stay accountable as a servant leader and not follow pride’s downfall?

Related Readings: Psalm 10:4; Proverbs 8:13; 11:12; Isaiah 2:11-17

Divine Test

2011-08-29T14:19:00.001-07:00

8-30-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Divine Test

“When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.” John 6:5-6

Life is full of tests. There are a series of tests through the years of formal education. A test is required to receive a learner’s permit—then a driver’s license. There are personality tests, vision tests, hearings tests and blood tests. There are tests of endurance in mountain climbing, mental tests for marathon runners and tests for alcohol intake. Like it or not—tests measure current progress—and they are an indicator of future direction.

More specifically, the Christian life is a series of divine tests. These are moments along our path of faith that our Heavenly Father wants to reveal to us what’s really in our heart. This raw revelation can be rewarding or it can be a reality check of regression. Either way His tests are meant to motivate us forward in a step of growth in grace and love.

“The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deuteronomy 13:3b).

Moreover, your Master Jesus already knows your heart—He just wants you to know—so you will deeply desire to know Him. Yes, the Lord may puzzle His people at times, but only so they can experience Him through His generous provision and pervasive power. Your divine test is an opportunity to rest in Christ and allow Him to forge your faith. As a red-hot furnace burns away impurities and brings forth its essence, so tests do for us.

“The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart” (Proverbs 17:3).

What tests do you face? A test of patience—wait well on the Lord and others. A test of financial security—trust that you have all you need now and for the future in Christ. A test in giving to those in need—take the first step and watch Jesus multiple your gift beyond its capacity. A test in obedience—act immediately with joyful service. A test of physical and emotional health—find solace and strength in your Creator’s care and love.

You will excel in your divine tests by trust in God and service to those in greater need. Tests are relative based on your life circumstance—there are always others whose pain is deeper, whose suffering is more severe and whose trials seem insurmountable. Thus, see your divine test as an opportunity to trust the Lord to provide for you and for those He is calling you to love. You pass His tests, so you can pass on His hope to others being tested.

“Do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness” (Hebrews 3:8).

What is the Lord teaching me in my time of testing; that I can pass on to help others?

Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 29:17; Psalm 26:2; 139:23; Acts 15:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:4

Divine Appointments

2011-08-26T07:12:00.001-07:00

8-26-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Divine Appointments

“When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans).” John 4:7-9

Christ connects us with people for His unique purposes. It could be an occasion to meet someone for the very first time; it may be a causal acquaintance or a familiar friend. Regardless of the relational connection it is important to ask the Lord how to bless the one in our presence and be open to receive a blessing from them.

Our calendar of appointments can become a prayer list for us to ask for wisdom from God, as we seek to serve others over a meal, coffee/tea or in a meeting. It’s uncanny how we can be in a needy situation and our Savior sends someone that becomes His hands and feet of faith and hope. They provide a kind and encouraging word or an insight that gives us courage and direction to do the right thing. Thank God for His inspiring ambassadors.

“Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him” (John 11:45).

When you collaborate with a co-worker do you see them through the eyes of Christ? If so, you might perceive from their past a frightened five year old whose parents divorced, or now, an insecure adult whose identity is tied to what they do, instead of who they are. It’s in face-to-face encounters that your faith is able to express itself with compassion. Hurting, hard hearts desire Jesus—when they know they have been cared for like Jesus.

Therefore, watch for God to orchestrate opportunities for you to introduce His love. Anyone you encounter throughout the day is a candidate for your intentional interest. Your neighbor, hairstylist, cashier, server, vendor and mechanic need your smile. People are not a vending machine waiting for a transaction to be taken; rather they are created in the image of God waiting for someone to show them His grace and truth.

Someone may be startled even suspect of your interest in their life—prepare for this, but do not allow another’s hesitant heart to keep you from extending genuine comfort. You never know how the seed of a kind word, a listening ear, a practical idea or an encouraging prayer will germinate and grow in one seeking soul. Divine appointments are much bigger than your agenda—so, see daily encounters through the lens of eternity.

“I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete” (2 John 1:12b).

How can I each day, prayerfully discern the divine appointments God sends my way?

Related Readings: Genesis 24:12-14; 1 Corinthians 16:7; 2 Corinthians 1:15; 1 Peter 2:12

Confident Confession

2011-08-25T08:40:00.001-07:00

8-25-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Confident Confession

“During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 5:7-10

God established His son Jesus as high priest in heaven and on earth. You can be confident of this because the Almighty gave His solemn oath, never to change His mind. Therefore, political incompetence, or economic earthquakes cannot shake the security you place in your Savior Jesus. He stands before you as priest with divine ordaining.

The Bible says, “Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess” (Hebrews 3:1). His priestly order begins and ends with Himself, for only He is eternal. He sits in glory in complete character atoning for you by the merit of His blood sacrifice on the cross.

Therefore, bring your soiled soul to your Savior for confession and cleansing. Christ is your most reliant confidant with whom you can entrust your clouded consciences. Say to Him what you feel and He will acknowledge your feelings, while reminding you of the truth. Indeed, you go confidently to Christ in confession of sin and repentance toward changed behavior.

Authentic confession leads to repentance, because you agree with God over the severity of sin. The Psalmist experienced this, “I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin” (Psalm 38:18). There is no taking advantage of the system, because you see sin breaking the heart of God. So, move quickly to confess small sins, so they do not become big sins.

Furthermore, let trusted accountability partners know of your quiet confessions to Christ. This protects you from becoming the self-righteous one who rails against another’s unrighteous acts, while harboring in your heart the same secret sin. For example, tell your spouse when someone seeks to seduce you with flirtatious forays. This frees you from the fear of being found out and invites them to support your emotional and physical fidelity.

Above all else, do not cover up your indiscretions. Come clean with Christ and come out in the open with your contemporaries. People are quick to forgive honest and real-time repentance, but have little patience with those who are found out, and still do not take responsibility. Be an endearing example of confident confession to Christ, and have a clear conscience with your fellow man. Jesus is your high priest, who heals and forgives!

“Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin” (Psalm 32:5).

What sin is the Lord asking me to confess, repent of and receive His forgiveness?

Related Readings: Psalm 110:4; Proverbs 28:13; Daniel 9:8; Mark 1:5; Romans 4:7

Prayer Saves Time

2011-08-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

8-24-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Prayer Saves Time

“So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him… “Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison.” Acts 12:5, 17a

Prayer is a timesaver. It saves followers of Jesus from unnecessary seasons of anxious worry. It saves an employer from a wrong hire and the valuable investment of time, money and training in someone who does not stay around for very long. It saves a dating couple from a naïve emotional engagement to marriage without counting the cost of a lifetime commitment to love, to respect and to serve each other. Prayer waits for God’s best.

The flesh forces issues when prayer is void in the relational process. A person who is self-motivated, but not Spirit led exerts a lot of energy, but can waste a lot of time. A prayerless approach to life and work can easily end up in a focus on the urgent to the neglect of what really matters. Prayer protects you from the clenches of another’s crisis.

“I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.” So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer” (Ezra 8:22-23).

Is prayer the primary focus in your decision making process? Do you rest in the realization that He can be trusted to reveal the way you should go? Do you realize that His truth—though at times counterintuitive—saves you time in the long run? What the Lord is saying may not make sense now, but later as you look back it becomes clearer.

It is not a copout to first pray before you commit—indeed it is a wise filter for decision-making. Our Lord Jesus smiles when His children take the time to save time, by waiting on His understanding in prayer. The prayerless crazy cycle of overreacting in fear and anger only prolongs the pain, while patient prayer applies heaven’s healing process.

So the Lord’s wisdom reminds us: Are you considering a career transition? Then ask God, what role in my work can I bring you the most glory? Are you facing a difficult financial decision? Then ask Christ, how should I manage Your resources as a wise steward? Are you estranged from a friend or relative? Pray, what can I do to love them in Jesus' name? Time is a gift from God that requires prayerful use and not fleshly abuse. So, pray well.

“While I was still in prayer, Gabriel, the man I had seen in the earlier vision, came to me in swift flight about the time of the evening sacrifice. He instructed me and said to me, “Daniel, I have now come to give you insight and understanding” (Daniel 9:21-22).

How can I create a culture of prayer in my life, my family and my work?

Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 32:20; Job 42:8; Luke 21:36; Acts 10:9

Sweat and Success

2011-08-23T06:31:00.000-07:00

8-23-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Sweat and Success

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Hebrews 6:10-12

Many times there is a direct correlation between hard work and success. It is not a prerequisite to success, but it increases its probability. Yes, you can work hard on the wrong things and fail miserably, or you can labor lazily on the right things and still not get the job done. Or, you may have the privilege of building on someone else’s sacrifice, but it still requires your focused intensity and investment of time and thinking.

Jesus stated it well, “I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor” (John 4:38). However, for most, perspiration and persistency is the preamble that constitutes success.

If you only talk about what you are going to do, spiritual and smart people will begin to grow suspect. The Bible says, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads to poverty (Proverbs 14: 23). Avoid behavior that is full of busyness, but void of progress. Work hard at the things that matter and your work will matter. For example, be punctual for appointments, even early. Your attention to being on time communicates respect and value to the other parties. Hard work begins with a focused and responsible attitude.

Be thorough and painstakingly detailed in your research and reporting, and then turn in only your best work by the team's agreed upon deadline—make sure you are dependable, especially when times are difficult. Never give up and you will, at the very least, see your character profit in ways that only comes by the sweat of diligence and determination.

Paul said, “We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it…”(1 Corinthians 4:13).

Moreover, define success as your Savior defines success. Are you filled with your own ambition, or is it your ambition for others to excel? Successful men and women are secure and wise enough to surround themselves with those who are smarter, and who are gifted and skilled in complimentary ways. Wise leaders lead others to labor hard by their personal example. Intensely focused work inspires intensely focused work.

Furthermore, you can be a success and make $30 a month in the coffee fields of Ethiopia, or be a seasoned executive in London with a salary of $30,000 a month. Success is not defined by your net worth (this is only a result of the market's assigned value), but rather by the content of your character and the quality of your relationships. God rewards hard work. This has been His plan from the beginning. So, labor long and hard for the Lord and others. You are a success when you seek to be successful for your Savior’s sake!

“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).”

What area of my work do I need to increase my intensity and focus?

Related Readings: Ezra 5:8; Luke 5:5; 1 Corinthians 15:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:12

Unprofitable Profit

2011-08-22T07:05:00.001-07:00

8-22-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Unprofitable Profit

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mark 8:36-37 NKJV

Profit is good, if it produces the right results, but profit is bad if the results are unwise. The world, the flesh and the devil offer an exchange that is enticing to the eye, but it starves the soul. The world offers power in exchange for a compromise in character. The flesh offers self-indulgence in exchange for discipline and service to others. And the devil through his deception offers fortune in exchange for neglect of family responsibilities.

Even Christians can get sucked into society’s strong solicitations—like standing too close behind a giant box fan—they feel the pull of unfaithfulness. Less their soul be shredded, there must be intentionality toward a heart pure with motives that honor the Lord and a mind that’s wise in it’s application of truth. Wise people pursue the Lord first and do not chase profits that compete with Christ. God’s gains give real life to the soul not death.

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first” (Mark 10:29-31).

Every human has a soul that deeply desires spiritual nourishment from Christ. The soul is what distinguishes men and women from animals, plants and the rest of God’s creation. In the soul resides our will, emotions and eternal essence. It’s from this spiritual seat that Christ desires to rule over our surrendered life. A submitted soul sees God by faith, but a rebellious soul is lost and blind to His ways. Peace is the profit of a soul secure in Jesus.

Is your soul alive or dead to the Lord’s call on your life? Do you seek Him or are you attracted to and preoccupied with the ways of the world? Perhaps you take an audit of your actions and honestly evaluate your pursuits. Do your activities promote soul care? Has your soul been converted to Christ or is it still controlled by the culture? It’s eternally profitable when your soul takes the time to drink often by the deep waters of God’s grace.

Life’s wise exchange is abundant living and eternal life in heaven, not earthly endeavors with a hopeless future separated from the Lord. Even in your service for the Lord, do not use it as a substitute for your devotion to the Lord. Gain what you cannot lose—God’s grace—and lose what can be lost. Seek profitable profits in pursuit of knowing Christ.

“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience” (Colossians 1:9-11).

What pursuits does the Lord have for me in this season of life?

Related Readings: 2 Corinthians 2:17; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:16; 1 John 2:16

Prayer Is Work

2011-08-19T07:02:00.001-07:00

8-19-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Prayer is Work

“Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis.” Colossians 4:12-13

Prayer is not a passive undertaking—rather it is an energized exercise of faith. Status quo believers only tip God with prayer, but eager followers of Jesus are compelled by an intense commitment to pray. Spiritual sweat flows from the pores of a soul earnestly engaged with eternity. There is a desperate dependency that devoted Christians display.

Adversity has a way of bringing us to our knees in utter reliance on our Lord. Prodigal children bring parents together in prayer. Death convenes communities and families in prayer. Misunderstandings, mistreatment and misguided motives move hearts to pray. These aggressive prayers respond to rough circumstances with a need for holy help. But there is another type of laborious prayer that petitions Christ on behalf of others.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should” (Colossians 4:2-4).

Serious students of prayer know how to intercede on behalf of their brothers and sisters in the faith. They pray boldly for their friends and family to stand firm in the will of God—not wavering in face of the world’s trials and temptations. Plead for those whose body writhes in pain—go before God and pray for His healing. Maybe on Monday you pray for missionary friends, and Tuesday pray for truth to transform your child’s thinking.

Perhaps on Wednesday you gather your family together in prayer for our nation and leaders to follow the Lord’s principles as defined in the Bible. On Thursday consider praying for those outside the faith: friends and neighbors who need to know Jesus. Friday can be prayers for your church, a ministry and their need for encouragement and financial support—offer Saturday prayers for the poor and needy, and on Sunday pray for those who gather in worship to be ignited by the Holy Spirit to live by grace through faith.

Devote yourself to aggressive and grateful prayers—and all the while anticipate what Almighty God wants to do in and through your life. Remain steadfast in your allegiance to heaven, without worrying about what you can’t control. Earnestly pray for others and you will experience the joy of unselfish service and the exhilaration of Christ’s replies.

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops” (James 5:16b-17).

How can I increase the intensity of my prayers in a faith focused for others and their needs?

Related Readings: 1 Kings 18:36-39; Matthew 6:5-6; Acts 3:1; 16:13

Prayer Brings Clarity

2011-08-18T10:35:00.001-07:00

8-18-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Prayer Brings Clarity

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.” Psalm 143:8

Are you confused about what God has next for you in your life, work and relationships? Do you feel trapped in your aloneness—unsure if anyone really cares or not? It is in these moments of doubt and uncertainty that Jesus deeply desires to have communion with you and care for your soul. A lack of clarity is a calling card for Christ to show up and show you the way.

The human mind needs help to understand the ways of God. Without the Holy Spirit’s illumination we default to untruthful thinking and wrong assumptions that lead to confusing conclusions. For example, someone may not feel loved—and it is in the absence of love that fear and distrust set up shop. One who struggles to think they don’t deserve to be loved is wise to bow in prayer and receive their heavenly Father’s loving embrace.

“Show me the wonders of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes” (Psalm 17:7).

Sometimes there is a lack of clarity of what to do at work. Everyone is eager to work hard; they just want to make sure they are occupied on the right things. How unfulfilling to sweat long and hard, only to discover your diligent service was around an unnecessary project. Perhaps in these awkward moments the leader and team swallow all pretenses and pray. Seek the Lord’s face first—then face with confidence whatever challenges arise.

Prayer is not a punch card that gives us credit in heaven, or a last resort when everything else has gone wrong. Prayer is first, last and along the way—the process of aligning with Almighty God’s agenda. He already has the plan laid out for His children. Our part is to patiently wait and listen for Christ’s clarity—as He is not the author of confusion.

“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints” (1 Corinthians 14:33, NKJV).

Where is the Lord calling me to prayer, so that He can bring clarity and peace?

Related Readings: Ezekiel 11:25; Zechariah 1:9; Acts 10:28; James 3:16

Prayer is Planning

2011-08-17T06:53:00.001-07:00

8-17-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Prayer is Planning

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21

Prayer taps into the purpose of God. The human heart can conceive and birth ideas, but what is the Lord’s best direction to follow? This is the beauty of being led by the Spirit and not driven by the flesh. It is in commune with Christ that Christians can be clear on next steps in their service for God. Indeed, prayer is preeminent in the planning process.

Prayer positions an individual and a group before God in utter dependence on Him for how to understand and carry out His plan. It’s when we rush ahead in bold, but blind determination that we miss out on engaging an eternal agenda in the process. Yes, the Lord can and does work through our immature maneuvers, but why not wait on Him in prayer and save ourselves time, money and emotional angst in the process?

“He gave him the plans of all that the Spirit had put in his mind for the courts of the temple of the LORD” (1 Chronicles 28:12a).

What are you facing that requires prayerful planning? Job relocation? Financial solvency? Marriage communication? A healthy family? Physical and emotional stamina? Spiritual growth? Ministry clarity? Relational growth? Church service? Time for rest? Be intentional to get ahead of the planning process with prayer and watch God’s peace reign.

How do you begin to enter into a prayerful planning process? Start by asking the Lord to purify your motives: praise Him and avoid the praise of people—seek alignment of your will with His will—all for His glory and not for your hidden agenda. A prayerful planning process is powerful, because it produces results way beyond your capacity. Prayerful planning invites the Lord to lift the agenda into His arena of blessing and favor.

So, slow down so you can speed up later—confident of a plan consecrated to Christ. Stay diligent in a process of prayer and discernment along the way: what’s good from what’s best. Ask Jesus to renew your mind, so your thinking is based on Almighty God’s abundance and not societies scarcity mentality. Prayer is planning that produces eternal outcomes.

“All this,” David said, “I have in writing as a result of the LORD’s hand on me, and he enabled me to understand all the details of the plan” (1 Chronicles 28:19).

What problem or opportunity do I face that requires a persistent, prayerful process of planning?

Related Readings: Psalm 40:5; Proverbs 16:1-9; Romans 1:13; 2 Corinthians 1:17

Undivided Heart

2011-08-16T06:17:00.000-07:00

8-16-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Undivided Heart

Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. Psalm 86:11

An undivided heart unites around the will of God. The heart is our headquarters for His purposes. It is here that humility reigns with focus and clarity, but pride’s rule divides. The attributes of its scepter are awe and intimidation. Pride divides, while humility unites. It is our undivided devotion to God that determines our other devotions. It excludes some and creates others. So as your faith becomes more focused, you become more focused. You do fewer things well, instead of many things mediocre.

Your life becomes a laser beam of implementation in the Lord’s best. People may wonder why your efforts are increasingly intentional. You can tell them that God is teaching you to focus. Like an infant, you are growing beyond the milk of your salvation to the meat of His Word. Hebrews 6:1a teaches, “Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity…”

An undivided heart is a student of the Lord’s for life. There is no “arriving” in this life. We don’t know it all until we are in the presence of the Almighty. Indeed, the wise remain learners of the Lord’s teachings their whole life long. An undivided heart craves teaching that goes beyond the surface of salvation and into the depths of dependence on God. The mature understanding of God gets to the heart of the matter. It is in this place of integrity where you divide your heart in disobedience, or unite it in obedience. An undivided heart places you on a path marked by His truth. It is walking in His ways.

Walking is a lifestyle. It is a way of doing things. Obedience to God’s truth becomes a habit of living life with an undivided heart. Your undivided heart propels you along His prayerful and proper path. He walks with you in the valley of death (Psalm 23:4) and on the mountaintop of life (Matthew 17:1-3). A faith-focused heart invites your heavenly Father in. It is a fulcrum for your faith.

Therefore, avoid double minded duties. God hates double-mindedness (Psalm 119:113). Only when you draw near to God can you deal with double-mindedness (James 4:8). Double-mindedness is a first cousin of a divided heart. Instead, unite around Christ and His teachings. Make His behavior the baseline for your life and work. It may mean engaging professional services that align more with your values.

It may mean changing to a church that unapologetically teaches God’s Word. It may mean breaking off a relationship that divides your heart and conflicts your mind. A united heart does not avoid the difficult path of obedience. It submits to its Savior and models Him. Though you may be torn, make sure to trust by praying, “Not my will, but Your will be done.”

Child Training

2011-08-15T07:36:00.001-07:00

8-15-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Child Training

“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Child discipline and child training are similar, but different. They are similar because the desired outcome for both is a child with a heart for God and love for people. The end goal for each is a Christ-like character. But there are some real differences between the discipline and training of your child. Discipline is more reactive; training is proactive. Discipline many times is a consequence of negative behavior, while training seeks to develop positive behavior. Training educates the child on the “why” behind the “what.”

Discipline is more concerned with the “what.” Training is motivated by teaching the child “how to fish,” not just “giving them a fish.” Discipline in some ways is easier and takes less time. Training is more involved and takes hands-on effort from both parents. Discipline is focused more on the short term, while training looks toward the long term. They both overlap and both are vital to the healthy upbringing of your child.

Ultimately, you are training your child to be a responsible and God-fearing adult. Think of the training as on-the-job. You can tell your child to do something, and they may forget. You can show them how to do it, and they will probably remember. However, when they experience it for themselves in hands-on fashion, there is a much better chance of follow through. This is at the heart of training.

You help your child experience life under your apprenticeship. You are there to teach them, encourage them and mentor them. Yes, they will fail along the way, but you will be there to help pick them up. It takes parental wisdom, because you do not want to rescue them prematurely either. God may be in the process of teaching them a valuable lesson.

Take driving an automobile, for instance. This is freedom for the teenager and fear for the parents. The grown-up child can finally spread his wings in two tons of steel going 55 miles per hour. His peripheral vision is blurred and it’s hard for him to remember the speed limit. In the meantime, the parents’ prayer life is escalating to new levels of intensity along with the price of their insurance premiums.

Learning to drive a car can be a great training time. This can become quality time for the dad and the child. Yes, have the teenager take a defensive driving class, but it is just as important to have them take a daddy driving class. Perhaps you buy them a mechanically sound, used “practice car.” Instruct them in the basics of proper yielding and how much a speeding ticket costs. Let them experience the responsibility of paying for the insurance. This is great training in the realities of life.

Lastly, train them to “stand alone.” Standing alone means they have the confidence in themselves and the trust in God to do the right thing even when their friends don’t. Give them leadership responsibilities around the home like chores, care for animals and planning trips. Teach them how to think. Let the Word of God be their training manual. Reward them for applying its principles. Help them discover their passion and what they do best. Encourage them to follow God’s calling, even when it makes you uncomfortable. Take the time to train your child today and they will be trained for a lifetime. Train well!

Reflection of God

2011-08-11T06:50:00.001-07:00

8-11-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Reflection of God

You are resplendent with light, more majestic than mountains rich with game. Psalm 76:4

Followers of Jesus are a reflection of Jesus. This is who we are. Just as the moon is a reflection of the sun, we are a reflection of the Son. God’s son shines through our soul and reveals Himself in our behavior. His beam of light blankets our life like the sun’s reflective rays on a sunbather exposed to a hot summer day. God created light (Genesis 1:3). He is our Lord and the Lord of light. He invites us to walk in the greater light of His love, not the lesser light of our lust. The light of His love longs to lead us into a portrait of His character. His passion is for us to be poster children of His grace. So focus on being like Jesus, and don’t be driven by doing for Jesus. People are drawn to a life that reflects the Lord. A reflector needs only to be in an optimal position to reflect.

When we are in right relationship with our heavenly Father we are right for reflection. All hindrances to bright lighting are destroyed when we stay surrendered to our Savior. He lights up a life that is submitted to Him. The lampshade of sin is removed when we confess to Christ our desperate dependence on Him. He handles our influence and effectiveness as we are positioned properly in Him. Because we are in Christ, we are in the light. We shine because our Savior shines through us, and His bountiful beams of light bounce off of our beautiful behavior. We should be translucent so that His light shines through us. Character allows the light of the Lord to reach into the darkest crevices of our world. You are the light of the Lord (Ephesians 5:8).

When we forgive, we reflect Jesus. When we care, we reflect Christ. When we cry over the condition of Christ-less souls, we reflect what our Lord experienced when He wept over the lost condition of His people (Luke 19:41-42). When we feed the hungry, cloth the naked, administer medical care to the sick, or house the homeless, we reflect Jesus. When we speak a word of encouragement, we reflect Christ. When we are kind instead of cross, we reflect Christ on the cross. When we give generously, we reflect God. When we build hospitals, schools, churches, or provide clean water, we reflect the Lord. When we are honest, kind, selfless, patient, loving, and good listeners, we reflect the Lord. When we are accountable and enforce accountability, we reflect Almighty God. When we take the time to lovingly speak truth, we reflect the Lord. When we fulfill our commitments, we reflect Christ. Reflecting God means we resolve to be who we are in Christ.

Lead others into the light of the Lord. Use your home to illuminate His love. Your home can become a little bit of heaven to those whose lives are a lot like hell. Invest time and money in those who cannot or will not give back. Orphans, single parents, the jobless, the homeless, adulterers, divorcees, and the poor all need the warmth of God’s love. Some find themselves in a Christ-less condition. They are cold and needy. They may feel God has forsaken them in their dark and depressed state. So reflect God to them. Be a responsible citizen in the Kingdom of light (Colossians 1:12).

Listen Well

2011-08-10T12:38:00.002-07:00

8-10-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Listen Well

Hear, O my people, and I will warn you—if you would but listen to me, O Israel! Psalm 81:8

Sometimes we only listen to what we want to hear. Our listening becomes selective. The worst type of lazy listening ignores the Almighty’s voice. If we drift into this insensible state we become deaf to God. Maybe this is happening to you. Christ’s commands are falling on deaf ears. The sign language of your Savior is signaling you back to His holiness, His love, and His care. Jesus taught the wisdom of listening to God. He said in John 6:45, “It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.' Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.” It is in your educational exchange with eternity that you draw closer to Christ. He is your teacher.

Furthermore, listening lures us to the Lord. Like well-positioned and attractive bait in front of a curious fish, our heavenly Father hooks us with truth. Often, He uses godly messengers to get across His personalized message. John states it well: “We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood (1 John 4:6).” It is this active listening to the Almighty’s ambassadors that we gain discernment into what to do or what not to do. It is your spouse, your teacher, your parents, your pastor, and your godly friends who speak on behalf of your Savior. Other vague voices may be louder and more persuasive, but do not succumb to their proud pleas. Listen instead to those who know you and love you, and who you know want God’s best for you. Listen well to their warnings.

If you continue down the road of resistance to radical listening, then God may give you over to your desires. He doesn’t waste His time with those who won’t listen. He doesn’t cast the pearls of His wisdom among stubborn swine (Matthew 7:6, KJV). He shares with those who steward well their listening. The Lord longs to engage your heart through the stability of Scripture. His Word screams truth. So avoid reacting to the last lingering voice you encounter. Instead, listen well in your encounters with Christ. Listen well to His pensive and pure voice through those who represent Him. Selective listening is smart when it defaults to Deity. Turn down the volume on the Christ-less culture that carelessly but confidently cries out for conformation of its creeds. There is only one voice that demands your undivided attention: Almighty God’s. Therefore, be selective by listening well to what your Savior says. His words are what matter most!

Good Examples

2011-08-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

8-8-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Good Examples

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1

Good examples are rare but rewarding. Some are hard to find because they are discreet and busy about doing the right things. Though good examples are few and far between, they can be found. They can be found in matriarchs and patriarchs. They can be found in new believers and old believers. They can be found at work, on the golf course, in the boardroom, at a Bible study or in church.

Good examples can be found, but it is important that you pray and go to school on them. Pray to God for good examples to cross your path; then you will have the privilege of watching them “up close and personal” or from a distance. Regardless of their proximity, it is wise to learn from their lives.

You can learn a ton just by looking. Look for how they invest their time and money. Look for the way they love God and respect their spouse. Look for their intentionality in loving non-Christians. Be a character watcher. Watch their patience and forgiveness in the middle of a firestorm of criticism and adversity. Watch for the confession of their sin and shortcomings with a heart toward repentance. Watch them fear God and serve people. As you watch, there is a good chance you will become like them. You are tremendously influenced by what you watch. Watch good examples.

Moreover, read their writings. Understand their thinking and question their habits. Find out what they do and why they do it. Once you discover their “best practices” for living, begin to incorporate them into your life. Of course, integrate these disciplines only as you are ready and as it is appropriate. Be yourself, while you learn from someone else. You are still sold out to Christ first, so only follow the good example of one who follows Him. You are not in a fan club for man. Instead, you have a lifetime membership in Christ’s Kingdom.

Jesus is your best example. However, relating to Jesus is sometimes hard, because He was without sin. Yet, He is the standard. If you are in doubt about a behavior or attitude, emulate Jesus. Jesus will never let you down or lead you astray. The saintly characters of the Bible are good examples to follow as well. Abraham’s faith is compelling. The boldness of Moses gives courage. Joseph’s integrity is inviting. His forgiveness is refreshing. David’s brokenness is pure and holds eternal consequences.

Esther’s loyalty is inspiring. Solomon’s wisdom is life changing. Hannah’s trust is without compromise. Jonah’s zeal is challenging. Elijah’s dependence on God is a faith builder. Job’s perseverance is rewarding. Jeremiah’s compassion is humbling. Isaiah’s eloquence is heavenly. The Minor Prophets reveal a major need to fear God. The Psalms of David comfort. Jesus is Jesus. Paul perseveres. Peter preaches. Luke writes. John loves. Zacchaeus reaches out to sinners. Mark didn’t give up. These are all good examples.

Indeed, there are other modern-day good examples. There is Billy Graham’s integrity, Mother Teresa’s service to the poorest of the poor and John Paul’s leadership. Be inspired by good examples. Be encouraged by good examples. Be taught by good examples. Be motivated by good examples. Be set free by good examples. Be a good example. But, make Jesus your best example!

Resolution Brings Relief

2011-08-05T06:53:00.001-07:00

8-5-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Resolution Brings Relief

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:24

Resolution brings relief to all parties, for it is able to resolve the problem or dispute. Without resolution there is a ‘disconnect’ and turmoil that leads to distrust. People feel heavy hearted and unable to move forward 100% focused, because of unresolved conflict hovering over their life. Christians can be the culprits, because they tend to smile when in fact their faith is frowning.

It is easier to talk about someone than to talk with him or her, so the object of scorn is left unaware of their fault, thinking everything is ok. But the way of Christ requires courage of conversation, so behaviors can be corrected and relationships made whole. You cannot focus on God in faith, if there is a relational fissure within your family, work associates or friends. Resolution takes time to revisit, clarify, forgive and reconcile.

Therefore, go humble yourself and gain freedom through relational reconciliation. There is nothing worse than feeling disconnected from your spouse, parents or peer. But your humility and willingness to be honest is healing. Do not be afraid of rejection, and resist projecting a combative conversation.

Instead, with a posture of peace, give caring feedback and then lovingly listen to what is said and not said. Help pull out the frustrations, fears and insecurities from the one who has wounded you. The world fights back, but those who name the name of Christ are patient and forgiving. Saul felt this disconnect with the Lord, Samuel and the people, so he cried out, “Now I beg you, forgive my sin and come back with me, so that I may worship the LORD” (I Samuel 15:25). Indeed, relief is sweet.

Pray for an outcome of real reconciliation. You will not rest until you are able to coexist in harmony with your heavenly Father and with those He has placed in your life. It is not worth striving to maintain an unreal image, or to prove yourself right when you have been wronged. Long-term resolution comes with authentic reconciliation, facilitated by a clear comprehension of reality. When you love others unconditionally in the place where they live, you invite grace into the relationship. Reconciliation erupts when you treat others like you want to be treated (Matthew 7:12).

Furthermore, the fruit of reconnecting with someone is unhindered worship of God, for unencumbered praise of God engages us in eternity here on earth. You cannot force another to reconcile, but by God’s grace you can continually create an environment of acceptance and understanding. So first go humble yourself, seek resolution, experience relief, and celebrate with Christ in the freedom of worship!

Who is the Lord prompting me to seek resolution with over a past or current conflict?

Related Readings: Luke 12:58; John 17:11; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20; Colossians 1:20

Secret to Success

2011-08-04T07:20:00.003-07:00

8-4-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Secret to Success

"He [Uzziah] sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success. 2 Chronicles 26:5

It should come as no surprise that success, as God defines it, comes from seeking Him. For the follower of Jesus, doing the will of God is the highest degree of success. As you follow God’s will, you are successful. Success is not something waiting for you sometime in the future. You have already achieved success if you are walking in step with your heavenly Father.

If you’re not in step with Him, you may have an outward shell of success, but inwardly and relationally you are a failure. Seeking God is a volitional and relational act. It is consciously and regularly seeking to understand your Creator. Seeking God is to know Him. Seeking God is to love Him. Seeking God is to praise and worship Him. Seeking God is confessing and crying out to Him. It is enjoying the comfort of your heavenly Father.

It is practicing the presence of Christ in you. You seek God at church, at home, at work, and with your friends. There is no place where He is not sought, other that in hell itself. What a privilege and perk for Jesus people, anytime, anywhere, and for any reason, to be able to seek God. Therefore, seek Him just as aggressively during the calm as you do in the chaos. Jesus doesn’t want to just be your crisis manager; He wants to be your Lord, who leads you into wise living.

The Bible says, “…seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deuteronomy 4:29).

You cannot seek God in isolation. This involves the counsel and advice of those much the wiser—godly and mature believers in Christ. Seeking God involves validation from the wise. In danger is the man or woman who attempts to seek God without submitting to godly teaching, mentoring, and discipling from gifted leaders of the faith. You learn to fear God from those who fear God; you learn to love God from those who love God; you learn to forgive from those who forgive; you learn to pray from those who pray; you learn to serve from those who serve.

Seeking God comes from seeking the godly. Avoid hero worship. No one except Christ deserves this level of admiration. A wise way to understand God is to understand the godly. Hang out with those you want to be like. This is why church and community is vital to seeking God. You cannot seek God while not seeking out the right people.

Scripture teaches, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out” (Proverbs 18:15).

Seek God in His Word. The Bible is God’s anthology and it is the revelation of Jesus Christ. Scripture is the first and last word on God. It defines Him, so it can define you. Know His Word, and you will know Him. Read it. Memorize it. Meditate on it. Learn it. Above all else, apply it. Success is a result of seeking God. Therefore, seek Him more often than not. “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6). Seek God in the scriptures and you will be successful.

Out Give God

2011-08-03T09:30:00.001-07:00

8-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Out Give God

"Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity." Luke 6:38, The Message

It is impossible to out give the Lord, because He augments any gift given in Jesus’ name with His almighty influence. He can take a penny and make it a dime. He can take a dime and make it a dollar. He can take a dollar and make it a hundred dollars. He can take a hundred dollars and make it a thousand. Eternally motivated gifts grow exponentially.

He can take one life surrendered to Jesus and influence a family. He can take a family under the Lordship of Christ and influence a church, a ministry and a community. He can take a Christ-centered community and influence a state. He can take a state that stands for God's standards and revive a nation. Indeed, He has taken a nation founded on His principles and influenced the world. One submitted life is leverage in the Lord’s hands.

"The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor" (Proverbs 22:9).

Would you be interested in an investment with a 100% guaranteed return on investment? In God's economy this is how He multiples gifts given for His glory. He takes our ordinary faith offerings and converts this act of worship into extraordinary eternal results. Money is not an end in itself, but there are times that nothing warms the heart like cold cash. Look to give toward movements that manage His financial resources well.

When you give in Jesus’ name you are giving to Jesus. The Lord is the righteous recipient of your good and generous gifts. Would your giving motivation and amount be any different if you gave to Jesus in person? Would your heart and posture bow in holy reverence and gratitude? Yes, giving is an act of worship to holy God—not because He needs anything—but because we need to recognize our need for Him and His reward.

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done” (Proverbs 19:17).

Your master Jesus matches your giving with His incredible resourcefulness and rewards. The Lord has chosen to meet the needs of His people through His people—and He even uses unbelievers to care for believers. And to those outside the faith, it’s the kindness of God through godly people that leads to repentance. Your gracious gift, combined with God’s grace, is a conduit for people to know Christ. You cannot out give God, but your generosity joins Him in bringing people into the saving knowledge of His son Jesus.

“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:10-11).
Where is the Lord calling me to join Him and aggressively give in the name of Jesus?

Related Readings: Psalm 146:7; Matthew 14:17-21; 2 Corinthians 8:2; Hebrews 6:10

Selfish Taking

2011-08-02T07:02:00.001-07:00

8-2-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Selfish Taking

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:3-5

Selfish taking demands its own way—there is a sense of entitlement that’s behind its behavior. The desire may be to buy something now, or drink something now, or travel somewhere now—with no regard to the relational ramifications. We fall into this reckless relational routine when we have to have what we want—when we want it—regardless.

Fortunately for us there is a more mature approach that is modeled by our Master and Lord Jesus Christ: selfless giving. Christ could have demanded anything He wanted, but He chose to give up His earthly expectations and use His authority to benefit others. Jesus became a servant and served to the point of giving His very life, so that those who believed in Him could have life. Selfish taking takes life, while selfless giving gives life.

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).

Do your relationships lack authentic intimacy? Do you struggle to go deep with God? If so, ask a trusted friend to audit your actions related to taking versus giving. Are they energized when they are around you, or do they feel depleted? You can get what you want and be alone, or you can defer your desires and enjoy intimacy. Selfless giving gets over itself and sees how to really relate to and engage another at their point of need. You give up your right to receive and you position yourself to give for Christ’s sake.

What you want may not be a wrong desire, but for the sake of growing intimacy in your relationships be willing to delay your gratification for another day. Humility invites vulnerability and venerates relationships built on trust in Christ. Honoring another’s needs over your own needs, leads you both into understanding and intimacy. The Lord takes your surrendered expectations and exalts you for His service—for His glory!

“For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body” (2 Corinthians 4:11).

Who can I serve by giving to their needs, instead of taking for my needs?

Related Readings: Proverbs 11:24; Zechariah 7:9; John 13:14; 34; Romans 12:10

Moral Fatigue

2011-08-01T07:26:00.001-07:00

8-1-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Moral Fatigue

“Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:8-9

All Christians are subject to moral fatigue—tiring under the burden of doing what’s right. The culture does not always commend moral efforts, but on the contrary, it is often the decent people who are marginalized or made fun of because of their efforts to follow their faith. Even family can contribute to one’s weariness by not appreciating, but ignoring another loved one’s integrity. So, how do Christians remain faithful when their moral fortitude begins to fade?

Like a fatigued farmer who engages the elements and still sows seed in prepared soil, in spite of the harsh conditions—so committed Christians stay true to sowing to please the Spirit—regardless of rejection and the temptation to quit. Each follower of Jesus will enjoy heaven’s great harvest or will be embarrassed and judged for lack of a fruitful life. So we sow to please the Spirit—even when it seems unproductive—for here is faith’s test.

“But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold” (Job 23:10).

There is a recompense of reward reserved for those who persevere in righteousness. It may be in this life or the one to come, but we can be assured that Almighty God’s justice will prevail. If the Christian life was always easy everyone would want in, but the Lord in His infinite wisdom made the way of His will a faith journey that requires spiritual standards. The folly of the flesh leads to fatigue, but the Spirit’s insights leads to stamina.

Are you morally fatigued? Do you question if doing good deeds really matters? If so, ask yourself why you do what you do? If it is to please the flesh then you will live in chronic weariness, but if your motive is to please the Spirit you will find energy beyond yourself. A life well lived finds a way to remain faithful, especially when obedience doesn’t seem to matter. Christ’s followers who sow to please the Spirit are hopeful of a coming harvest.

Therefore, stay faithful as you sow to please the Spirit: sow seeds of forgiveness and receive a harvest of intimacy; sow seeds of acceptance and receive a harvest of friendship; sow seeds of prayer and receive a harvest of faith; sow seeds of generosity and receive a harvest of abundance; sow seeds of abstinence and receive a harvest of purity; and sow seeds of faithfulness and receive a harvest of eternal rewards. Spiritual sowing and reaping builds moral muscle. Strong are the saints who are faithful—while waiting on the harvest.

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6).

Where am I morally tired and vulnerable? What good moral seeds can I sow to the Spirit?

Related Readings: Job 4:8; Psalm 126:5; Proverbs 11:18; Hosea 8:7; 10:12; 2 Corinthians 9:6; James 3:18

Attitude Adjustment

2011-07-30T05:24:00.001-07:00

7-30-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Attitude Adjustment

“For seven days they celebrated with joy the Feast of Unleavened Bread, because the Lord had filled them with joy by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria, so that he assisted them in the work on the house of God, the God of Israel. Ezra 6:22

Attitude is everything; it can lift you up or bring you down. It is a barometer of your heart. If your heart is not right, your attitude will suffer. Attitude is critical because it influences your course of action. If your attitude is negative, then your words and your behavior will be too. There is a difference in being a realist about negative circumstances, and living with a chronic bad attitude. Naïve are those who ignore warning signs of trouble, and carry on, oblivious to the storm clouds of sin.

However, your attitude is rooted in who you are in Christ, so there is no need to be fearful, guilty, or insecure. The attitude that Jesus exhibited was one of humility and servant leadership. His attitude reflected submission to His heavenly Father, which resulted in service, generosity, and love for people. Jesus was joyful and hopeful, because He rested in the will of God. Do not allow others’ bad attitude to influence yours. Be the attitude influencer instead. Greet a frown with a smile, crush criticism with affirmation, and listen patiently until fury loses its steam.

A positive attitude will eventually outlast and overpower a negative one. Most of all, pray for those who thrive on negativity. Pray for them to be set free from their hurt, anger, guilt, and insecurity. God has you in their lives to reflect the Almighty and to encourage an attitude adjustment through Him.

God is the genesis of a right attitude, and He is the right attitude sustainer. He wants His attitude to be our attitude. This is why you need a daily attitude alignment from your heavenly Father. Each day, your attitude gets knocked around and abused by life. If left unattended, your attitude will drift into wrong thinking, harsh words, and bad behavior. Self-pity and anger can begin to replace selflessness and forgiveness. With just a little bit of daily tweaking, your attitude stays in line with His. It is subtle, but sometimes attitudes need to be adjusted moment by moment.

Lastly, slow down and pray when you feel your attitude eroding. When you’re in the midst of a bad attitude, don’t make important decisions; the time isn’t right for that. You will regret every decision you make during a time of emotional upheaval. Be patient, and wait until your anger has subsided, your heart is cleansed, and your attitude is objective.

Almighty God is into attitudes that trust Him and which reaches out to others with compassion and understanding. Open-minded and reasonable attitudes lead to rich and robust relationships. Anyone can be negative; so don’t just be anyone, be different. Allow God to shape your attitude on the anvil of His heart. An attitude molded by God is infectious and transforming. Allow Him to change your attitude, and then trust Him to change another’s.

The Bible says, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5).

Adversity Accelerates Awareness

2011-07-28T11:29:00.001-07:00

7-28-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Adversity Accelerates Awareness

On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Acts 8:1

Adversity accelerates awareness, because it creates an intense focus around what matters most. It may be your job that needs alignment around your gifts and skills. Your current role is frustrating, fatiguing and not getting the desired results. It may be your finances are suffering. When there is abundance, bad habits can be overlooked, but with lean times, individual expenditures need justification through the lens of wise stewardship.

Furthermore, it could be that your faith has become flabby and comfortable, however hard times have a way of heightening awareness of your heavenly Father. The Lord longs to love you during this low time, so surrender and receive His invitation into intimacy. Be able to say, “Speak [Lord], for your servant is listening” (I Samuel 3:10b).

Indeed, adversity accelerates your felt need for Almighty God. His bountiful blessings may have bored you into just belonging, without engaging in the next step of robust belief. It is good to have gone this far with God, but get ready in this next season to be transformed—for grace does not allow you to remain the same.

The grace of God deserves complete governance over your heart and mind. This happens as adversity burns away the deceptive dross of independent living. It’s ironic that good times contribute to autonomy from the Almighty, while bad times demand dependency. So sharpen your focus on your Savior, by faith. Maybe go away on a silent retreat, just to listen to the Lord. Be a passionate learner during lean times. Follow the example of Jesus: “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God” (Luke 6:12).

Lastly, see adversity as the Almighty’s way to accomplish His will. Without it, good people can stay huddled around a small vision, instead of initiating a larger one for the Lord. Trials push you to be creative, expand capacity, and consider options out of your comfort zone. God’s will is not meant to frustrate you, but to stretch you, so venture out into uncharted territory trusting Christ.

Be grateful that God allowed this hard time, so that your heart of faith could grow. If you react in fear, you may one day regret not seizing the moment with your Master Jesus. Therefore, use this season of suffering to scatter His influence. Stay invested in others and God will open the right doors at the right time. Persecution proliferates prayer. Indeed, adversity accelerates awareness on His behalf. This was Paul’s prayer request: “And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains” (Colossians 4:3).

What has the Almighty made me aware of during my time of adversity?

Related Readings: Genesis 28:16; Leviticus 5:5; John 6:61; Acts 10:28

Character and Competence

2011-07-26T07:32:00.001-07:00

7-26-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Character and Competence

“And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them” (Psalm 78:72)

Authentic leadership is a mixture of character and competence. You cannot have one without the other and provide healthy leadership. Competence without character is like a magnificent ivory-white ship’s sail that lies collapsed without wind. Character without competence is like a strong gust of wind without a billowy sail to capture its effect. Both are required for the level of leadership that God expects. Character is the linchpin of leadership. It is truly the measure of a man.

Your character is your union card: It earns you the right to participate in leadership. Your depth of character determines your breadth of leadership. Character is forged on the anvil of life’s experience. When your obedience to God intersects with life, character is developed. It is through a relationship with Christ and a relationship with people that you understand and develop character. God’s Word defines character, and living life is your opportunity to apply character. You can choose to be a character, or you can seek to live a life of character.

God’s will is the latter. People want leaders that are dependable. Someone they can trust. They want leaders that are available to listen and understand. A leader of character follows through on commitments and does what is right even when it costs him personally. You can have average skill with exceptional character and still be an extraordinary leader. This is how God works. He works from the inside out. Sometimes your great abilities get in the way of a definitive work of character in your life. Anything you have is because of the grace of God, so thank Him for your abilities and allow Him to mold His character into your life.

Competence on the other hand gives you a platform to exercise your character. You are gifted and skilled a certain way. It is imperative that you understand how you are wired. This self-awareness is your ticket to improvement. What you know today is not sufficient for what you need to know tomorrow. This is why competent leaders are ever learning. Current circumstances and future opportunities beg for your education. Skilled leaders ask lots of questions of those who have walked before them. They research and read about other successful leadership and organizational models. This is part of sharpening your skills.

A stagnant leader is an unattractive leader. Focus on your sweet spot. Spend your time on the number one thing you do best. If it is recruiting, then recruit. If it is raising money, then raise money. If it is coaching, then coach. If it is crunching numbers, then crunch numbers. If it is managing a home, then manage a home. But, in the process, become the best at what you do and who you are. Yesterday’s competency will not stand against today’s needs.

Passion does not equal expertise. Just because you want to do something does not mean you need to do it. Make sure that your skill set and experience matches your “want to.” Otherwise, you are setting yourself and others up for frustration. My passion will not improve my golf game unless I am skilled with hand-and-eye coordination. You can be sincere in your endeavors and still be involved in the wrong situation. Make sure you live and lead in environments that nurture and grow your giftedness.

This type of leadership development molds you into a leader worth following. Your competence gives you credibility, while your character sustains your credibility. Apply both, and then watch God work. Character with competence is your ticket to authentic leadership. Let these two be your guide, and God will use you beyond your own capabilities. Lead on!

Spirit-Led Leadership

2011-07-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

7-25-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Spirit-Led Leadership

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God” (Romans 8:14-16, NKJV).

Spirit-led leadership is not intimidated by the fear of man; rather it is motivated by the fear of God. Unfounded fear drives the flesh to make misinformed, even disastrous decisions. But the Holy Spirit shows unselfish seekers direction: as a son or daughter they cry out—“Abba (Father) Father”—in utter dependence on their heavenly Father.

They recognize that Almighty God has adopted them into His forever family of hope, love and holiness. Institutions give a certificate of adoption to loving parents on earth, but the Holy Spirit seals the Lord’s adopted now and for evermore with His grace and care. Gratitude gushes from the heart of God’s children to affectionately cry out Abba, Abba!

“Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit and have seen nothing” (Ezekiel 13:3)!

How do you process uncertainty? Do you recoil into your shell of aloneness—like a frightened turtle, or do you stick out your neck and seek the truth from trusted advisors? The mind’s palate needs cleansing by Christ, so it’s able to taste truth. In humility ask the Spirit to purify your motives and clarify your course of action—then wait until He does so.

Submission to Christ means getting under the mission of Jesus. It follows the leadership of the Lord and is not delusional in trying to lead the Lord. Peace of mind, patience and love are by-products enjoyed by leaders who are led by the Holy Spirit. In the middle of stress, servant leaders are able to trust and depend on their Master Jesus—Will we?

“Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God; for many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1John 4:1).

Are you secure in your leadership style as a servant leader? Can you be yourself without talking and acting like your predecessor or an admired peer? Do not apologize for your unique leadership style or for the unconventional process the Spirit leads your life. Go with His revelation, even if it leads to revolution—for many times His ways are radical. Be a Spirit-led leader who trusts boldly, who loves wholly and who serves assertively!

“For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law” (Galatians 5:17-18, NASB).

Where is the Spirit leading me to serve that requires much faith and instant obedience?

Related Readings: 1 Kings 3:5-12; Psalms 119:129-136; Luke 4:1; Acts 9:17

Security Rejects Fear

2011-07-22T06:59:00.001-07:00

7-22-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Security Rejects Fear

He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes. Psalm 112:7-8

A secure servant of Jesus has nothing to prove, for he rests in the pronounced peace of the Lord. His or her love for God is deep and wide, and their confidence in Christ is unshaken and uncompromising. Security’s only fear is to develop distrust in Almighty God; therefore it maintains a holy heart, a meditative mind and a courageous countenance.

Fear tries to seduce security into thinking that its Savior Jesus is undependable and detached, but God’s promises ring true in faithfulness and with intimate concern. This world is always pregnant with bad news, so do not make it your focus or you will be driven by worry, fear and insecurity. Trust rests securely—as it jettisons fear.

The Scripture teaches, “Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders” (Deuteronomy 33:12). Security is found nestled between the strong shoulders of God.

Therefore, be hopeful in heaven’s track record of trust, and do not be overwhelmed by earth’s issues which are insistent on insecurity. Job understood this in a raw way, “You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take rest in safety” (Job 11:18). The insecure struggle with this unseen safety net from their Savior, because they want to see something of substance. But faith sees the secure hand of its heavenly Father.

If left unchecked the insecure allow fear to drive them away when no one is pursuing (Proverbs 28:1). However, the secure stand their ground and remain brave in their beliefs. So, stay true to the truth, rest in your integrity, and fight the good fight by faith. Let the reality or even threat of bad news embolden your belief in God. The steadfast triumph!

Furthermore, your security has a ripple affect of reassurance on those around you. Your steadfast faith and joyful sacrifice rubs off on your family, friends and work associates. God is using your peaceful perspective to keep others from panicking. Indeed, if your security were in your stuff or about your image, you would find yourself struggling with insecurity. So, stay focused on your Savior Jesus who is stable and secure. The enemy of security is fear, so reject it by faith. Your secure heart stands fearless and triumphant.

“Riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations” (Proverbs 27:24).

How can I recognize and embrace my security in Jesus and ignore fear’s threats?

Related Readings: 2 Samuel 22:33; Proverbs 14:16; 26; Hebrews 6:19; 2 Peter 3:17

Never Give Up

2011-07-21T07:29:00.001-07:00

7-21-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Never Give Up

“Know also that wisdom is like honey for you: If you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 24:14

Hope from heaven is a dependable handle to hang on to through the ups and downs of life. Like a skilled mountain climber we hook our rope of trust to the face of the solid rock, so we have secure support. It does not mean we are absent of fear, but it does mean in the middle of our fears we can have faith in Holy God to handle the inclement conditions.

The wisdom of the Lord is not illusive, but available to all who humble their hearts and take the time to invite in His influence. Truth is sweet to the soul and it will nourish your heart like spiritual nectar. Belief is a worker bee on behalf of God that takes the pollen of providence and produces the sustenance of salvation. You may have tried religion and found it lacking, but do not give up on God—enter into a growing relationship with Jesus.

“The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown” (Matthew 19:22-23).

Hope keeps your heart fertile to grow the seed of God’s word. Perhaps past regrets have choked out your confidence in Christ, if so—determine not to give up—but to give Him another chance. You may be like Paul, Moses, Naomi, Hannah, Sarah and Abraham who saw the Lord use them much more in the second half of their life than the first half. As long as there is breath in your body, you have the potential to be a bold witness for God.

Jesus does not cut off those who trust Him, but leads them down the path of productive Kingdom living. Lift your eyes off yourself and look to Him and seek out how to serve those in need. Make sure you follow Him by faith—do not ask Him to follow you. Hope in the Lord adds fuel to your fire of faith. It is your soul’s internal combustion for the cause of Christ. Finish well by not giving up, but by giving all you have for God!

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

What is the Lord calling me to give over to Him and to not give up on Him?

Related Readings: Psalm 119:116; Isaiah 57:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 John 3:3

Genesis of Wisdom

2011-07-18T21:51:00.001-07:00

7-19-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Genesis of Wisdom

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise." Psalm 111:10

The fear of the Lord is foundational to the attaining of Almighty God’s wisdom. It is out of holy reverence that heaven opens its doors of understanding. The creation will never begin to understand the Creator until there is a coming to minds over who is superior and who is the author of salvation.

Once there is capitulation to Christ, surrender to your Savior, which positions you to receive His good gifts, chief of which is wisdom. Your holy heavenly Father rewards respect and awe with wisdom from above. However, the cavalier takes Christ for granted and loses sound judgment. But, the fear of the Lord is your foundation for wise living. It is in these humble beginnings that wisdom originates.

God’s wisdom is found in God’s word. His precepts are meant to protrude from your mind like road signs on a highway. Sometimes you need to exit for fuel and rest, but other times it is wise to change directions and invite others to join you. To know God, so as to walk upright before Him, is the greatest of all applied sciences. Hence, wisdom is much more than knowledge, otherwise education alone would be the answer to all human suffering. Wisdom confesses Christ as Wisdom.

“It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption” (I Corinthians 1:30).

It is the life of Christ who models wisdom personified. It is the Holy Spirit who gives illumination and understanding to Holy Scripture. And it is your heavenly Father who invites you to ask for wisdom, so that you can live an obedient in Him. The attaining of wisdom is for aligning your life around the attributes of Almighty God.

You learn to apply what the Lord thinks not only to your life, but for the benefit of others as well. It is not all about you becoming a wise person; rather it is about your life glorifying God to others. Wisdom is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. It is a bridge to obedience. You gain understanding and insight, so that you can be a radical follower of Jesus and a beacon to others.

Practical godliness is a test of wisdom. So use your wisdom to mediate broken relationships, to foresee problems, to serve the team, to love your family and to point people to Jesus. Wisdom places faith in Christ out front and humbly decreases attention away from self. Therefore, use wisdom to gain understanding, obey God and lead people into a growing relationship with Christ. To Him alone belongs eternal praise for His gift of wisdom!

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise" (Psalm 111:10).

How can I grow in my fear of the Lord and grow in God's wisdom?

Related Readings: Job 28:28; Psalm 25:12-14; Proverbs 1:7; 9:10; Acts 9:31