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).
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Adversity Accelerates Awareness
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
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
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Character and Competence
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!
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!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Spirit-Led Leadership
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
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
Friday, July 22, 2011
Security Rejects Fear
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
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
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Never Give Up
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
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
Monday, July 18, 2011
Genesis of Wisdom
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
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
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Bad Examples
7-18-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Bad Examples
“Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did.” 1 Corinthians 10:6
Bad examples can be effective teachers. You may have been exposed to poor parenting as a child. Let this be a lesson on how not to parent. Do not default to the bad habits of your mom and dad. They did what they could, but now you know better. Do not stay mad at them for their poor example. Rather, learn from them. Display the opposite of their attitudes and behaviors that were counterproductive and relationally destructive.
Your supervisor at work may not be the best in the world. In fact, he may be a jerk. Humility and patience are the only things keeping you from lowering yourself to his volatile temper and demanding spirit. One day you will be the boss, and because you have been a victim of the wrath of an insecure leader, you will not do the same. You do not wish their dysfunctional management on another. You are learning from this leader, who is a bad example. Do not stay angry with them, but thank God instead, that by His grace you will not be the same. Instead, you will be a loving and loyal leader.
Or, maybe your lessons from a bad example stem from a friend or colleague. You have witnessed the pain and the sad consequences of their poor choices. Their example of bad decision-making is loud and clear. Their impulsiveness and inability to receive advice is literally destroying everything and everyone around them. Others have chosen to worship the gods of this world. Sexual immorality, money, ingratitude and busyness have all eroded their ability to enjoy God, enjoy people and enjoy life. You can learn from their mistakes. Use this time to take notes of what not to do. Whatever someone of ill repute does, simply do the opposite. Over time your good example will shine as a light of hope to those who walk in the darkness of their bad example.
There may come a time when you seem to be the only hope for those who have stumbled around in their bad choices. Be there for them. Your current ability to refrain from caustic criticism will earn you the right to help them when they finally turn from living badly. You are no better than them, just better off. Do not let your good example in many areas go to your head. It is only by the grace of God that you are not a poster child for behaving badly. Your good example is an asset that God has blessed you with, and as such it is not to be taken for granted. Also, do not let your good standing become a pulpit to preach down to those who are poor examples. Your life already speaks louder than your words. In a good way you are providing hope for those around that seem hopeless.
Bad examples do not need a lecture over the plight of their errors. They already feel the hollowness of self-absorbed living. What they need is someone who will accept them but not their lifestyle. Bad examples are really searching for good examples. You have been blessed with the moral authority to help. Bad examples need help badly. Do not do what they do or say. Do the opposite. Learn from their failures and mistakes. Be there for them as a good example. Bad examples can be good teachers. Therefore, go to school and learn from them!
Bad Examples
“Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did.” 1 Corinthians 10:6
Bad examples can be effective teachers. You may have been exposed to poor parenting as a child. Let this be a lesson on how not to parent. Do not default to the bad habits of your mom and dad. They did what they could, but now you know better. Do not stay mad at them for their poor example. Rather, learn from them. Display the opposite of their attitudes and behaviors that were counterproductive and relationally destructive.
Your supervisor at work may not be the best in the world. In fact, he may be a jerk. Humility and patience are the only things keeping you from lowering yourself to his volatile temper and demanding spirit. One day you will be the boss, and because you have been a victim of the wrath of an insecure leader, you will not do the same. You do not wish their dysfunctional management on another. You are learning from this leader, who is a bad example. Do not stay angry with them, but thank God instead, that by His grace you will not be the same. Instead, you will be a loving and loyal leader.
Or, maybe your lessons from a bad example stem from a friend or colleague. You have witnessed the pain and the sad consequences of their poor choices. Their example of bad decision-making is loud and clear. Their impulsiveness and inability to receive advice is literally destroying everything and everyone around them. Others have chosen to worship the gods of this world. Sexual immorality, money, ingratitude and busyness have all eroded their ability to enjoy God, enjoy people and enjoy life. You can learn from their mistakes. Use this time to take notes of what not to do. Whatever someone of ill repute does, simply do the opposite. Over time your good example will shine as a light of hope to those who walk in the darkness of their bad example.
There may come a time when you seem to be the only hope for those who have stumbled around in their bad choices. Be there for them. Your current ability to refrain from caustic criticism will earn you the right to help them when they finally turn from living badly. You are no better than them, just better off. Do not let your good example in many areas go to your head. It is only by the grace of God that you are not a poster child for behaving badly. Your good example is an asset that God has blessed you with, and as such it is not to be taken for granted. Also, do not let your good standing become a pulpit to preach down to those who are poor examples. Your life already speaks louder than your words. In a good way you are providing hope for those around that seem hopeless.
Bad examples do not need a lecture over the plight of their errors. They already feel the hollowness of self-absorbed living. What they need is someone who will accept them but not their lifestyle. Bad examples are really searching for good examples. You have been blessed with the moral authority to help. Bad examples need help badly. Do not do what they do or say. Do the opposite. Learn from their failures and mistakes. Be there for them as a good example. Bad examples can be good teachers. Therefore, go to school and learn from them!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Model Mentoring
7-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Model Mentoring
“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” Psalm 71:18
Your life is a stewardship. Owned by God, He expects us to invest in others. This is who we are as followers of Christ. Part of our life management is giving back to younger men and women in the form of mentoring. We mentor others because someone took the time to mentor us. Or, we may mentor others because we did not have a mentor and, as a consequence, we stumbled and bumbled around until we found our way.
The opportunity for mentoring compels us to protect others from our own mistakes. God can use our life experiences to help young men and women not to repeat bad history and to create good history. This is an important process of wisdom transference from one generation to the next. More important than the transfer of wealth is the transfer of wisdom.
Wealth without wisdom can lead to wickedness or, at the very least, weirdness. And we do not need to set up others for either. In fact, in some ways it is easier to pass on wealth than it is to pass on wisdom. The transfer of wisdom takes time and understanding. It takes getting involved in someone’s life to the point that it costs you something. More than likely it will cost you time, money and relational equity—your most valued assets.
However, by investing in someone through a mentoring relationship, think of the savings. You may save them from the heartache of a messed-up marriage. You may save them from the gut-wrenching experience of not getting to know their children. You may save them from a stupid business decision that leads to insolvency. You may save them from chronic indecision and insecurity because their identity resides somewhere else other than in Christ. Your mentoring is a cost-saving proposition. Everyone wins in the mentoring process, especially the m e n t o r !
Furthermore, gray hair does not automatically qualify you as a mentor. Your first qualification as a mentor is an unyielding submission to your heavenly Father. Because of your love and fear of God, He is your model for mentoring. You are patient when you need to be patient. You confront when you need to confront. And, you ask tons of caring questions. Mentoring is not revealing all of the answers. Rather it is helping another through the process of discovery.
Yes, there are times to give ardent direction and warnings, but many times it is sharing what you have learned and are learning. It is asking the one being mentored to take your life experiences and God-given wisdom and, prayerfully, apply it to their own life. Your goal is not a clone of yourself (God help us). Your goal is a passionate follower of Jesus Christ. A wise mentor will transfer humility, gratitude, teachableness, contentment, selflessness, forgiveness, discipline and grace. It is a character-driven model.
Mentoring without character is like driving a car without gas. It is not possible.
Hold high a standard of living life on purpose with a bent toward God, and then invite others to join you. The masses will not flock to be mentored, but a few will. Go with a few and watch God do a work of wisdom that eventually influences the masses. Model mentoring, for it makes men and women!
Model Mentoring
“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” Psalm 71:18
Your life is a stewardship. Owned by God, He expects us to invest in others. This is who we are as followers of Christ. Part of our life management is giving back to younger men and women in the form of mentoring. We mentor others because someone took the time to mentor us. Or, we may mentor others because we did not have a mentor and, as a consequence, we stumbled and bumbled around until we found our way.
The opportunity for mentoring compels us to protect others from our own mistakes. God can use our life experiences to help young men and women not to repeat bad history and to create good history. This is an important process of wisdom transference from one generation to the next. More important than the transfer of wealth is the transfer of wisdom.
Wealth without wisdom can lead to wickedness or, at the very least, weirdness. And we do not need to set up others for either. In fact, in some ways it is easier to pass on wealth than it is to pass on wisdom. The transfer of wisdom takes time and understanding. It takes getting involved in someone’s life to the point that it costs you something. More than likely it will cost you time, money and relational equity—your most valued assets.
However, by investing in someone through a mentoring relationship, think of the savings. You may save them from the heartache of a messed-up marriage. You may save them from the gut-wrenching experience of not getting to know their children. You may save them from a stupid business decision that leads to insolvency. You may save them from chronic indecision and insecurity because their identity resides somewhere else other than in Christ. Your mentoring is a cost-saving proposition. Everyone wins in the mentoring process, especially the m e n t o r !
Furthermore, gray hair does not automatically qualify you as a mentor. Your first qualification as a mentor is an unyielding submission to your heavenly Father. Because of your love and fear of God, He is your model for mentoring. You are patient when you need to be patient. You confront when you need to confront. And, you ask tons of caring questions. Mentoring is not revealing all of the answers. Rather it is helping another through the process of discovery.
Yes, there are times to give ardent direction and warnings, but many times it is sharing what you have learned and are learning. It is asking the one being mentored to take your life experiences and God-given wisdom and, prayerfully, apply it to their own life. Your goal is not a clone of yourself (God help us). Your goal is a passionate follower of Jesus Christ. A wise mentor will transfer humility, gratitude, teachableness, contentment, selflessness, forgiveness, discipline and grace. It is a character-driven model.
Mentoring without character is like driving a car without gas. It is not possible.
Hold high a standard of living life on purpose with a bent toward God, and then invite others to join you. The masses will not flock to be mentored, but a few will. Go with a few and watch God do a work of wisdom that eventually influences the masses. Model mentoring, for it makes men and women!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Time of Need
7-13-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Time of Need
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16
Everyone has a time of need—there are intense times of death, divorce and distress—and there are daily times of temptation, fear and frustration. The time of need may be one of gratitude, because of experiencing the Lord’s bountiful blessing. It may be the need for discretion with finances or modesty when speaking of a gifted and accomplished child. Whatever the need is requires that there is an ever-accessible throne of grace to approach.
The throne of God’s grace is good. It is not a throne of condemnation, but a throne of forgiveness. It’s not a throne of rejection, but a throne of acceptance. It’s not a throne of control, but a throne of freedom. The Lord’s throne rules with righteous judgment and justice for all. His throne glistens with trust and never tarnishes for lack of integrity or soiled character. It is simply and ever so—an accessible throne of grace to receive His mercy.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Those saved by grace on earth have immediate and intimate access to heaven’s throne of grace on high. It’s a safe place to confidently confide with Christ a sorrow filled heart—so bring your hurts and heartaches to Him. It’s a sure place of renewal for a fatigued faith—so leave with Him nagging doubts and frustrating fears. It’s a pure place of restoration for a burdened life, so offer crushed emotions to the Lord for His repair. It’s a powerful place for those hounded by the demons of hell, so let God’s word fight for you.
Do you feel guilty for going so often to receive from the Lord at His trusted throne of grace? If so, reject this self-condemnation and replace it with Christ’s commendation. He empathizes with your extreme pain and tantalizing temptations. His holy comfort is the energy you need to engage the world with confidence and compassion. All other seats of power fall powerless to the internal spiritual gumption that only God can give you.
Therefore, with humility and consistency bow to Christ in reverent fear and worship. It’s out of your praise and adoration from a hurting heart that He hears and answers prayer. Your time of need is His time to lead. Your time of need is His time to prove once again His faithfulness as a loving heavenly Father. Thus—graciously receive Him in your time of need.
“Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given” (John 1:16).
What needs do I need to give to God in exchange for His grace and mercy?
Related Readings: Psalm 45:6; 47:8; Hebrews 12:2; 2 John 1:3; Revelation 1:4
Time of Need
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16
Everyone has a time of need—there are intense times of death, divorce and distress—and there are daily times of temptation, fear and frustration. The time of need may be one of gratitude, because of experiencing the Lord’s bountiful blessing. It may be the need for discretion with finances or modesty when speaking of a gifted and accomplished child. Whatever the need is requires that there is an ever-accessible throne of grace to approach.
The throne of God’s grace is good. It is not a throne of condemnation, but a throne of forgiveness. It’s not a throne of rejection, but a throne of acceptance. It’s not a throne of control, but a throne of freedom. The Lord’s throne rules with righteous judgment and justice for all. His throne glistens with trust and never tarnishes for lack of integrity or soiled character. It is simply and ever so—an accessible throne of grace to receive His mercy.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Those saved by grace on earth have immediate and intimate access to heaven’s throne of grace on high. It’s a safe place to confidently confide with Christ a sorrow filled heart—so bring your hurts and heartaches to Him. It’s a sure place of renewal for a fatigued faith—so leave with Him nagging doubts and frustrating fears. It’s a pure place of restoration for a burdened life, so offer crushed emotions to the Lord for His repair. It’s a powerful place for those hounded by the demons of hell, so let God’s word fight for you.
Do you feel guilty for going so often to receive from the Lord at His trusted throne of grace? If so, reject this self-condemnation and replace it with Christ’s commendation. He empathizes with your extreme pain and tantalizing temptations. His holy comfort is the energy you need to engage the world with confidence and compassion. All other seats of power fall powerless to the internal spiritual gumption that only God can give you.
Therefore, with humility and consistency bow to Christ in reverent fear and worship. It’s out of your praise and adoration from a hurting heart that He hears and answers prayer. Your time of need is His time to lead. Your time of need is His time to prove once again His faithfulness as a loving heavenly Father. Thus—graciously receive Him in your time of need.
“Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given” (John 1:16).
What needs do I need to give to God in exchange for His grace and mercy?
Related Readings: Psalm 45:6; 47:8; Hebrews 12:2; 2 John 1:3; Revelation 1:4
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Productive Pain
7-12-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Productive Pain
Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about. Genesis 22:2
Pain is synonymous with suffering, anguish, trials, tribulation, adversity, trouble or hard times. It affects our emotions, mind, body, soul, spirit and will for it is indiscriminate in its affliction. And, there are times God will ask His children to walk through extremely difficult situations. Indeed, there is probably no greater pain in life than to be willing to inflict pain on someone you love; yet this is what God ask Abraham to do with Isaac.
Pain was the catalyst to bring Abraham into alignment with Almighty God’s agenda. It was a moment for him to trust God, or to trust his instinct of self-preservation. Fortunately, it was faith in his Heavenly Father that fostered obedience. He allowed pain to replace his self-sufficiency, with God’s strength. Productive pain finds solutions in obedience to God.
So, how can pain become your helpful teacher and not your naughty nemeses? First, you begin to learn from pain by maintaining a providential perspective and a teachable attitude. See your suffering as a songbook from your Savior, and learn how to sing these new life lyrics. In the beginning of adversity you may sound off key in your complaints. And yes, new can be uncomfortable and embarrassing as you learn to harmonize what heaven has allowed.
But Christ is with you in the middle of your loss of a friend, a job, finances or faith. So seek to learn from the Lord in your suffering, for He does not waste pain. It is meant to move you in the direction of your Master. Pain purifies your motives and validates your obedience. Convenient obedience can be shallow and insincere, but pain verifies authentic obedience. Without pain how do you know if your faith is for real?
Pain is a process of growing in grace. Paul was a student of this, for he personally experienced God in the middle of his suffering, “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us” (Romans 5:3-5).
Furthermore, do not wear any self-imposed suffering as a badge of honor. Asceticism (severe self discipline) is not a substitute for your relationship with Christ, but it can be an enhancer. For example, use the pain and discomfort of fasting to foster your faith in God, by bending your will toward His. Any pain is meant to be a teacher that leads you to look outside yourself for peace and provision in your Savior. However painful it might be to let go, do it out of obedience and love for Jesus. Productive pain finds peace in God.
How can I remain obedient to God and productive for Him in the middle of my pain?
Related Readings: Psalm 69:29; Galatians 1:15-16; Hebrews 11:17; 1 Peter 1:7
Productive Pain
Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about. Genesis 22:2
Pain is synonymous with suffering, anguish, trials, tribulation, adversity, trouble or hard times. It affects our emotions, mind, body, soul, spirit and will for it is indiscriminate in its affliction. And, there are times God will ask His children to walk through extremely difficult situations. Indeed, there is probably no greater pain in life than to be willing to inflict pain on someone you love; yet this is what God ask Abraham to do with Isaac.
Pain was the catalyst to bring Abraham into alignment with Almighty God’s agenda. It was a moment for him to trust God, or to trust his instinct of self-preservation. Fortunately, it was faith in his Heavenly Father that fostered obedience. He allowed pain to replace his self-sufficiency, with God’s strength. Productive pain finds solutions in obedience to God.
So, how can pain become your helpful teacher and not your naughty nemeses? First, you begin to learn from pain by maintaining a providential perspective and a teachable attitude. See your suffering as a songbook from your Savior, and learn how to sing these new life lyrics. In the beginning of adversity you may sound off key in your complaints. And yes, new can be uncomfortable and embarrassing as you learn to harmonize what heaven has allowed.
But Christ is with you in the middle of your loss of a friend, a job, finances or faith. So seek to learn from the Lord in your suffering, for He does not waste pain. It is meant to move you in the direction of your Master. Pain purifies your motives and validates your obedience. Convenient obedience can be shallow and insincere, but pain verifies authentic obedience. Without pain how do you know if your faith is for real?
Pain is a process of growing in grace. Paul was a student of this, for he personally experienced God in the middle of his suffering, “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us” (Romans 5:3-5).
Furthermore, do not wear any self-imposed suffering as a badge of honor. Asceticism (severe self discipline) is not a substitute for your relationship with Christ, but it can be an enhancer. For example, use the pain and discomfort of fasting to foster your faith in God, by bending your will toward His. Any pain is meant to be a teacher that leads you to look outside yourself for peace and provision in your Savior. However painful it might be to let go, do it out of obedience and love for Jesus. Productive pain finds peace in God.
How can I remain obedient to God and productive for Him in the middle of my pain?
Related Readings: Psalm 69:29; Galatians 1:15-16; Hebrews 11:17; 1 Peter 1:7
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