There is only one day left in 2016. At the stroke of midnight, tomorrow, we will be "out with the old" and "in with the new", as they say.
As I look back and reminisce on this year, I can identify times when I have been exceedingly patient, and times when I have not. This had led to blessings, and in some cases grave mistakes. It makes more sense to me to dwell on my accomplishments than on the things and times I might change.
One of the well known verses is in Paul's letter to the church in Corinth. If you have been to a wedding in the past; or even one previously for some, you will immediately identify Paul's words.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."
1 Corinthians 13: 4-5
Some recognize this as the "Love" passage. But what about patience?
Paul mentions the word "patient" in the first sentence; the third word. "Love is patient." he also follows that with "Love is kind", only separated by a comma. He obviously thought these two simple groups of phrases; patient and kind, to be of great importance as two requirements in love.
I feel compelled to try to paint a picture for what patience; mentioned first, and acts of kindness have to do with love.
Let's look at patience first.
In Proverbs 16:32, there is a verse that says, "Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city." The Book of Proverbs is thought to have an unknown author, but many are taught in seminary schools around the world that it was most likely Solomon.
Matthew writes in chapter 26, verse 52, "Put away your sword," Jesus told him. "Those who use the sword will die by the sword.", NLT
For those of us who have a high competitive nature in business, I believe these two verses are applicable to where I am going with this.
Paul obviously thought that it was paramount to have patience to show love. That may mean that we "put away our swords", even in our business dealings, to achieve the end goal. Love can be shown in our daily activities even at work. You may show love by getting your co-worker a tissue when they are upset or sick. A glass of water when they seem flustered, or "hot around the collar." While these are little things, they do show love.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to show love by using the air compressor in the trunk of my car to help someone pump a tire with enough air to get to the closest tire shop. My simple request to him, after completing that small act of kindness, was that he "pay it forward." Take a minute out of your busy day to help another in need. The end result was that he was able to get the much needed spare on his right-rear and made it to work on time.
Being patient and "putting away our swords", will go a long way toward reaching the goals we will set for ourselves in 2017.
"Love is kind."
Remember, or read the passage again; that being kind also can also be regarded as showing love for another in our daily walk with God. The two examples above would qualify as kindness. The fact that Paul links these two in one sentence is no accident. While they are not one in the same, Paul sees them as two important ingredients. When is the last time that you were kind to another person? It does not have to be someone you know well, or at the opposite end; someone on the street that you have never met.
Paul simply urges us to be kind as an act of showing love.
Again; while separate, these two phrases grouped together will allow others to know what real love is like when displayed. In saying this, we can also turn to Galatians. Paul writes there , "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 6:9
By displaying patience and kindness, we should not look for things that come our way as just a benefit for ourselves. However, Paul's writing in this verse is a statement, not a desire or wish. He is bold. It says we "will" receive a "harvest" for our efforts. The key point in that phrase, when examined, is that we will receive that blessing at the "proper time."
Only God knows when that blessing will come, so we must be patient, quiet; and in performing both kindness, and allowing patience to enter into the question, we will certainly be blessed for our efforts.
It does not take a valiant effort to show kindness, but patience on the other hand can sometimes be exhausting. Will I ever receive that promotion? Will my son or daughter ever display an ounce of appreciation in my advice? In the latter question, you may say to yourself, "Haven't I learned a few things in life by my patience and kindness?"
Rest assured, that in Paul's boldness, you will receive a harvest. Probably not today, maybe not next week, and it could theoretically be next year or years from now.
Display kindness and have patience. Again, patience may be harder to display, but these two acts; with faith; will show love, and you will receive a blessing in the future; at the proper time.
Friday, December 30, 2016
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Patience: Part Quattro
This year has been a year of patience; and waiting.
It's Christmas Day.
My road to gaining wisdom, patience, and clarity started with my residency in a place for homeless Veterans. And while I was never afforded to take advantage of the full benefits that the program had to offer, my time there was paramount in the development of my character and resolve.
Today, I am excited about what my time there did provide, both for myself and the benefit of others by my personal growth. I gained some friends and lost some friends. I had work, and I had no job. I knew what it was like to have a little "jingle" in my pocket, and I knew what it was like to have none.
Paul is also an incredible example of this. What we need to be cognizant of, is that we can ALL experience the personal; and more importantly, spiritual growth, as Paul did. I, without a shadow of a doubt, have this year; and you can too.
However, we do not ave to experience the trials and tribulations he did, to the extent that Paul did. He knew chains, both in the natural and spiritually. He knew poverty and excess. He did not experience the wealth that Solomon did, but the greater excess of wealth came in the area of spirituality.
Many of us will never be in bondage physically. But we need to be ever present of the power that the Devil can have on us spiritually. Trust me, it is NOT the kind of bondage that I would wish on you, nor the kind that I want you to experience.
Pray! Surround yourself with the Holy Spirit. Surround yourself with people that are strong in their relationship with Christ. He is your Father! He is your Provider! He is the great Physician and Healer! Only He and He alone can relieve you of your pain and sorrow. Your feelings of Despair. Your feelings of Hurt! The drain on your Finances! The deep, dark hole due to a lack of Faith and Strength and Resolve in your walk with God!
This morning, my prayer for my friends, family, and brother and sisters in Christ is that they will feel the Awesome Power of God! Simple, yet life-changing. I pray for exponential growth in all areas of your life. Finances, Health, Work, Family; the blessings that we all wish for, and should pray for; unceasingly.
Many of us will not have the luxury to be with all of the people in our lives that are important to us. But no matter how much Earth we are divided by...be it sand, water or fire, I pray that each of you will know that you are missed and loved!
Today we need to be mindful of the Christ. His patience with ALL situations; perfectly displayed by a perfect existence, free from sin. He came into the world in human form, spent thirty-three years preparing for his mission; and completing it with grace.
He are a few verse that might be helpful in this time of joy, peace, love and patience:
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.", Ephesians 4:2 NIV
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.", Romans 12:12 NIV
And as Jesus and Paul understood, and provided exemplary practice and discernment in faith of the process:
"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 6:9, NIV
I believe that just as Jesus and Paul did, we can provide our own example to others if we walk this way, daily; in Faith and with Resolve in the eventual outcome.
God wants the best in each of us. We all have been given spiritual gifts. In the Bible they are affectionately referred to as the "Fruits of the Spirit."
Read them. Examine them. Internalize them.
You will be transformed, and will be an example that will lead to an AWESOME transformation the the lives and welfare of others.
Give it a try, daily, for the entire year, beginning January 1, 2017.
You will not only be surprised, but you will see the resulting transformation, in yourself and others in your circle of influence.
It's Christmas Day.
My road to gaining wisdom, patience, and clarity started with my residency in a place for homeless Veterans. And while I was never afforded to take advantage of the full benefits that the program had to offer, my time there was paramount in the development of my character and resolve.
Today, I am excited about what my time there did provide, both for myself and the benefit of others by my personal growth. I gained some friends and lost some friends. I had work, and I had no job. I knew what it was like to have a little "jingle" in my pocket, and I knew what it was like to have none.
Paul is also an incredible example of this. What we need to be cognizant of, is that we can ALL experience the personal; and more importantly, spiritual growth, as Paul did. I, without a shadow of a doubt, have this year; and you can too.
However, we do not ave to experience the trials and tribulations he did, to the extent that Paul did. He knew chains, both in the natural and spiritually. He knew poverty and excess. He did not experience the wealth that Solomon did, but the greater excess of wealth came in the area of spirituality.
Many of us will never be in bondage physically. But we need to be ever present of the power that the Devil can have on us spiritually. Trust me, it is NOT the kind of bondage that I would wish on you, nor the kind that I want you to experience.
Pray! Surround yourself with the Holy Spirit. Surround yourself with people that are strong in their relationship with Christ. He is your Father! He is your Provider! He is the great Physician and Healer! Only He and He alone can relieve you of your pain and sorrow. Your feelings of Despair. Your feelings of Hurt! The drain on your Finances! The deep, dark hole due to a lack of Faith and Strength and Resolve in your walk with God!
This morning, my prayer for my friends, family, and brother and sisters in Christ is that they will feel the Awesome Power of God! Simple, yet life-changing. I pray for exponential growth in all areas of your life. Finances, Health, Work, Family; the blessings that we all wish for, and should pray for; unceasingly.
Many of us will not have the luxury to be with all of the people in our lives that are important to us. But no matter how much Earth we are divided by...be it sand, water or fire, I pray that each of you will know that you are missed and loved!
Today we need to be mindful of the Christ. His patience with ALL situations; perfectly displayed by a perfect existence, free from sin. He came into the world in human form, spent thirty-three years preparing for his mission; and completing it with grace.
He are a few verse that might be helpful in this time of joy, peace, love and patience:
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.", Ephesians 4:2 NIV
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.", Romans 12:12 NIV
And as Jesus and Paul understood, and provided exemplary practice and discernment in faith of the process:
"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 6:9, NIV
I believe that just as Jesus and Paul did, we can provide our own example to others if we walk this way, daily; in Faith and with Resolve in the eventual outcome.
God wants the best in each of us. We all have been given spiritual gifts. In the Bible they are affectionately referred to as the "Fruits of the Spirit."
Read them. Examine them. Internalize them.
You will be transformed, and will be an example that will lead to an AWESOME transformation the the lives and welfare of others.
Give it a try, daily, for the entire year, beginning January 1, 2017.
You will not only be surprised, but you will see the resulting transformation, in yourself and others in your circle of influence.
Friday, December 23, 2016
Patience: Part Tres
Many are thinking about the cold-hard fact and reality that in two days it will be Christmas. While special for all; and especially children all around the world, this time of year is a time of family, joy, peace and rebirth.
For people in the business world, Christmas will come and go much too quickly. However, the last week of the year, with the 26th falling on a Monday, it is a great time to set goals for the coming year. Christmas comes too fast, the New Year holiday comes to fast as well, and for many it will be back to work on January 2, 2017 or the 3rd if you are lucky enough.
Going back to the week before year-end, the time taken for reflection and goal-setting can be either stressful or refreshing. This is especially important if a part of your income is derived from commission. The salary is set; or hopefully has been at least adjusted for inflation, but the rest will fall on your efforts.
Successful people will make small goals daily, and project those goals out to weeks, months and quarters. The idea is certainly to have Q2 produce better results than Q1, and so forth, but we all know that there is a business-cycle. For some that may be that your biggest push will be in Q1 and others Q4, hopefully providing your business with an increase from the previous year, calculated on a year-over-year percentage-basis. It matters not if you are a small business with less than ten employees, or a massive conglomerate composed of many working parts and units, the goal and forecast-ed outcome remains the same.
I would like to think that everyone, worldwide, is offered a time of respite from the 24th to the January 2nd, but the reality is that most employees are not afforded that opportunity.
For Christians, this time of year is especially significant. We could not have Christmas without Christ. That God sent Jesus by way of a virgin birth, in the form of man, was paramount in this process. He bore the likeness of Christ, and spent thirty-three years in preparation for his mission; to die on a cross. No one before him was without sin, and certainly no one after from the time of Adam and Eve in the Garden will live blameless lives.
It then bears to reason that Christmas should be a time of forgiveness. An opportunity to mend relationships, offer forgiveness and move forward into the New Year with a clean slate. This is certainly a desire and wish for many, that manages to be lost, despite the best efforts from others; including family, first and foremost.
It is not that we have a lack of desire to forgive; but as I mentioned previously in the chapter on Atonement, in order to forgive, we must also forget.
Even as I write this morning, I am reminded of transgressions that I have committed, thoughts and actions that should not have taken form; or actions I wish I could take back, and certainly those that were committed entirely noticeable to the ones you love and cherish; and the resulting collateral damage that ensued. We all have them.
If we had been patient, they may not have. There would not have been actions, collateral damage, consequences, or offenses that we now regret, or at least have strong feelings that make us feel guilty. And guilt? Guilt is a powerful force. So is regret. And so is the pain; be it emotional, spiritual or even in some other form that only you can identify or "put your finger" on.
So this Christmas, I urge you to take the necessary time for considerate and thoughtful reflection. You may have to be patient; as I believe it is absolutely appropriate to ask God to reveal to you anything He wishes to lay on your heart that might be necessary to fix. Perhaps that relationship is with your boss. Family and Friends. Or someone entirely outside of the "normal" relationships that we want to care for each and every day. But as stated previously, take the time and be patient for God to answer before taking action.
You will be glad you did, and the atonement process in action; after asking in patience, and then delivering is patience, will be well in the rewards gained, by taking actions during this season; however you celebrate.
Merry Christmas!
For people in the business world, Christmas will come and go much too quickly. However, the last week of the year, with the 26th falling on a Monday, it is a great time to set goals for the coming year. Christmas comes too fast, the New Year holiday comes to fast as well, and for many it will be back to work on January 2, 2017 or the 3rd if you are lucky enough.
Going back to the week before year-end, the time taken for reflection and goal-setting can be either stressful or refreshing. This is especially important if a part of your income is derived from commission. The salary is set; or hopefully has been at least adjusted for inflation, but the rest will fall on your efforts.
Successful people will make small goals daily, and project those goals out to weeks, months and quarters. The idea is certainly to have Q2 produce better results than Q1, and so forth, but we all know that there is a business-cycle. For some that may be that your biggest push will be in Q1 and others Q4, hopefully providing your business with an increase from the previous year, calculated on a year-over-year percentage-basis. It matters not if you are a small business with less than ten employees, or a massive conglomerate composed of many working parts and units, the goal and forecast-ed outcome remains the same.
I would like to think that everyone, worldwide, is offered a time of respite from the 24th to the January 2nd, but the reality is that most employees are not afforded that opportunity.
For Christians, this time of year is especially significant. We could not have Christmas without Christ. That God sent Jesus by way of a virgin birth, in the form of man, was paramount in this process. He bore the likeness of Christ, and spent thirty-three years in preparation for his mission; to die on a cross. No one before him was without sin, and certainly no one after from the time of Adam and Eve in the Garden will live blameless lives.
It then bears to reason that Christmas should be a time of forgiveness. An opportunity to mend relationships, offer forgiveness and move forward into the New Year with a clean slate. This is certainly a desire and wish for many, that manages to be lost, despite the best efforts from others; including family, first and foremost.
It is not that we have a lack of desire to forgive; but as I mentioned previously in the chapter on Atonement, in order to forgive, we must also forget.
Even as I write this morning, I am reminded of transgressions that I have committed, thoughts and actions that should not have taken form; or actions I wish I could take back, and certainly those that were committed entirely noticeable to the ones you love and cherish; and the resulting collateral damage that ensued. We all have them.
If we had been patient, they may not have. There would not have been actions, collateral damage, consequences, or offenses that we now regret, or at least have strong feelings that make us feel guilty. And guilt? Guilt is a powerful force. So is regret. And so is the pain; be it emotional, spiritual or even in some other form that only you can identify or "put your finger" on.
So this Christmas, I urge you to take the necessary time for considerate and thoughtful reflection. You may have to be patient; as I believe it is absolutely appropriate to ask God to reveal to you anything He wishes to lay on your heart that might be necessary to fix. Perhaps that relationship is with your boss. Family and Friends. Or someone entirely outside of the "normal" relationships that we want to care for each and every day. But as stated previously, take the time and be patient for God to answer before taking action.
You will be glad you did, and the atonement process in action; after asking in patience, and then delivering is patience, will be well in the rewards gained, by taking actions during this season; however you celebrate.
Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Integrity Wrap-Up: Part Seis
After spending five parts on the subject of integrity, I am going to attempt to bring all of the principles together.
In "Part One", I defined integrity as "doing the right thing when no one else is looking." While that may not be a novel concept, and even perhaps one you have heard before by definition; I believe it is the best way to categorize this important word.
If we make an attempt at having peace with the world and ourselves, the idea aforementioned will not be so hard to achieve. Striving to cancel out the vagaries of life and the "darts" that will will surely be thrown at us, will have an impact that is likely to be felt less, allowing us to combat the turn of events that are thrown our way.
For me, being homeless for fifty-four day, and without a regular and sustainable income for thirty-four of them was a strong lesson in humility. I enjoyed my time with other veterans who needed a "hand-up" instead of a "hand-out."
Trips to waterfalls, and going to events such as the Apple Festival was a respite in and of itself. For these times, and along the way making new friends that would never had crossed my path was refreshing and life-changing; to say the least.
Reconnecting with God in an way that is hardly explainable was the most enlightening part of the process, and I was given the awesome opportunity to share that experience with others.
In "Part Two", I mentioned that the word "integrity" is not prominently found, or greatly accessible unless you are looking for it. It is only mentioned sixteen times in the entirety of the King James Version of the Bible. However, David and Saul/Paul, come to mind when considering the credibility and importance of the word. In my day, I attempt to "say what I mean, and mean what I say", with the most appropriate words possible; and removing myself from interactions and discussions that might be troublesome to my ability to uphold this principle and value that I have come to desire to greatly embrace. Fewer words are many times better than expressing your opinions.
By trusting God, and walking in honesty and righteousness, will go a long way toward keeping one in the realm, in a strong way, with respect to integrity. Furthermore, the lasting consequences from breaking the bond of integrity will rather have a positive effect for the years that you are alive, and the legacy that you pass on to generations long after you are gone.
In "Part Three", I talked about my individual transformation. It has felt like the days between August 10 and July 31, 2016, will forever be a turning point. My relationships should be better, my ability to communicate effectively will be enhanced, my ability to make a positive impact on others, daily, were evident during that time; and I would hope be a precursor to continued growth, and my personal relationship with God has expanded and propelled my life to Higher-highs instead of lower-lows."
I like to think that my transformation was similar to Paul's; and if I can make 1/10th of the impact that he made on others during his time on earth, my life would embody a significant meaning to others in my circle of influence.
"Part Four" takes a stand on the embodiment of our positions and attitudes. People are always going to watch us, with a bent toward prejudice. It is a force of nature to want to be "better" than the next man. In reality though, we were made in the likeness of a perfect man. Jesus never once committed sin, yet was asked, and died, for all people. We are all sinners. And while he asked, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me", he took and completed the responsibility for every man and woman that will ever walk this earth. We need to "all" be cognizant of this fact, Christian or not.
I an attempt to "wrap your head" around this concept; or theory if you are not a Christian, we need to take a proverbial stance in the respect of others and the way we will handle the inevitable adversity that life will certainly be "thrown our way."
Be one-hundred percent committed to your family, friends and to those for which you have a direct impact over. "Stand in the Gap", if you will. What you believe, say and do will radiate and influence others; so an attempt to make these interactions positive, should be something that we all strive for. You will feel better about those opportunities set forth to lift the spirits of others and it will be felt inwardly.
Set goals which are measurable and time specific. Allow room for error, but not defeat. We all strive to achieve something, so let your legacy speak for itself. One who does the right thing, as much as humanly possible, has little to explain. And along the way, examine yourself and your progress. Award those goals which are met, and change course when necessary to stretch yourself in the process toward the eventual attainment. Having a mindset toward success is always a good place to start. Along the way, you must have faith, trust and a strong belief that the projected outcome will come your way; if you put God at the center of your plans. That is not to say that He will not take you in an "entirely" different direction from the planned course, but you can be sure that you will be blessed along the way in the progression and the eventual "end of the line."
In "Part 5", I made the bold statement that our outsides should match our insides. If we start with the intestinal fortitude that lies deep in the recesses of our individual self, that will radiate outward; in our thoughts, actions and feelings. We will not feel an imbalance within ourselves and will instead not feel a conflict between integrity, or the ethical and moral decisions that must be made in our daily lives.
I have found in my life that I listen more, and talk less, as I get older. It is a natural progression for some, and for others, a statement or opinion is always forthcoming. It becomes something that you can just expect from some people.
Paul tells Timothy and us to "persevere." To watch our doctrine closely. Be diligent and give yourself "wholly" to the process, and in the progression in all matters; we will save ourselves and other. Talk about a bold statement?
Obstacles will be forever present, but with your confident and fervent manner to strive toward integrity, the "big" things in life will become small. Timothy was sent by Paul with a definitive purpose; and despite his youth and the challenges he would certainly face; as we all do, having confidence despite challenges, foreseen and unseen, will become minute if we are confident about reaching our goal(s).
Be vigilant in your conduct. Love others. Be pure. Have faith.
God has a purpose for each and every one of us. From building churches, or running a Fortune 500 company, we needn't try to figure it all out at once.
Walking with "Integrity" will go a long way.
In "Part One", I defined integrity as "doing the right thing when no one else is looking." While that may not be a novel concept, and even perhaps one you have heard before by definition; I believe it is the best way to categorize this important word.
If we make an attempt at having peace with the world and ourselves, the idea aforementioned will not be so hard to achieve. Striving to cancel out the vagaries of life and the "darts" that will will surely be thrown at us, will have an impact that is likely to be felt less, allowing us to combat the turn of events that are thrown our way.
For me, being homeless for fifty-four day, and without a regular and sustainable income for thirty-four of them was a strong lesson in humility. I enjoyed my time with other veterans who needed a "hand-up" instead of a "hand-out."
Trips to waterfalls, and going to events such as the Apple Festival was a respite in and of itself. For these times, and along the way making new friends that would never had crossed my path was refreshing and life-changing; to say the least.
Reconnecting with God in an way that is hardly explainable was the most enlightening part of the process, and I was given the awesome opportunity to share that experience with others.
In "Part Two", I mentioned that the word "integrity" is not prominently found, or greatly accessible unless you are looking for it. It is only mentioned sixteen times in the entirety of the King James Version of the Bible. However, David and Saul/Paul, come to mind when considering the credibility and importance of the word. In my day, I attempt to "say what I mean, and mean what I say", with the most appropriate words possible; and removing myself from interactions and discussions that might be troublesome to my ability to uphold this principle and value that I have come to desire to greatly embrace. Fewer words are many times better than expressing your opinions.
By trusting God, and walking in honesty and righteousness, will go a long way toward keeping one in the realm, in a strong way, with respect to integrity. Furthermore, the lasting consequences from breaking the bond of integrity will rather have a positive effect for the years that you are alive, and the legacy that you pass on to generations long after you are gone.
In "Part Three", I talked about my individual transformation. It has felt like the days between August 10 and July 31, 2016, will forever be a turning point. My relationships should be better, my ability to communicate effectively will be enhanced, my ability to make a positive impact on others, daily, were evident during that time; and I would hope be a precursor to continued growth, and my personal relationship with God has expanded and propelled my life to Higher-highs instead of lower-lows."
I like to think that my transformation was similar to Paul's; and if I can make 1/10th of the impact that he made on others during his time on earth, my life would embody a significant meaning to others in my circle of influence.
"Part Four" takes a stand on the embodiment of our positions and attitudes. People are always going to watch us, with a bent toward prejudice. It is a force of nature to want to be "better" than the next man. In reality though, we were made in the likeness of a perfect man. Jesus never once committed sin, yet was asked, and died, for all people. We are all sinners. And while he asked, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me", he took and completed the responsibility for every man and woman that will ever walk this earth. We need to "all" be cognizant of this fact, Christian or not.
I an attempt to "wrap your head" around this concept; or theory if you are not a Christian, we need to take a proverbial stance in the respect of others and the way we will handle the inevitable adversity that life will certainly be "thrown our way."
Be one-hundred percent committed to your family, friends and to those for which you have a direct impact over. "Stand in the Gap", if you will. What you believe, say and do will radiate and influence others; so an attempt to make these interactions positive, should be something that we all strive for. You will feel better about those opportunities set forth to lift the spirits of others and it will be felt inwardly.
Set goals which are measurable and time specific. Allow room for error, but not defeat. We all strive to achieve something, so let your legacy speak for itself. One who does the right thing, as much as humanly possible, has little to explain. And along the way, examine yourself and your progress. Award those goals which are met, and change course when necessary to stretch yourself in the process toward the eventual attainment. Having a mindset toward success is always a good place to start. Along the way, you must have faith, trust and a strong belief that the projected outcome will come your way; if you put God at the center of your plans. That is not to say that He will not take you in an "entirely" different direction from the planned course, but you can be sure that you will be blessed along the way in the progression and the eventual "end of the line."
In "Part 5", I made the bold statement that our outsides should match our insides. If we start with the intestinal fortitude that lies deep in the recesses of our individual self, that will radiate outward; in our thoughts, actions and feelings. We will not feel an imbalance within ourselves and will instead not feel a conflict between integrity, or the ethical and moral decisions that must be made in our daily lives.
I have found in my life that I listen more, and talk less, as I get older. It is a natural progression for some, and for others, a statement or opinion is always forthcoming. It becomes something that you can just expect from some people.
Paul tells Timothy and us to "persevere." To watch our doctrine closely. Be diligent and give yourself "wholly" to the process, and in the progression in all matters; we will save ourselves and other. Talk about a bold statement?
Obstacles will be forever present, but with your confident and fervent manner to strive toward integrity, the "big" things in life will become small. Timothy was sent by Paul with a definitive purpose; and despite his youth and the challenges he would certainly face; as we all do, having confidence despite challenges, foreseen and unseen, will become minute if we are confident about reaching our goal(s).
Be vigilant in your conduct. Love others. Be pure. Have faith.
God has a purpose for each and every one of us. From building churches, or running a Fortune 500 company, we needn't try to figure it all out at once.
Walking with "Integrity" will go a long way.
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Patience: Part Deux
Yesterday I got to the bottom of the secret to patience.
Step 1: Pray Fervently
Step 2: Present your requests to God
Step 3: Wait; yes, actually wait
Step 4: Be content with the process and watch God work!
Currently, I am working diligently on being content in two areas...getting a solid offer in my chosen profession; moving from a contract consulting arrangement to a paid employee, and waiting; without much patience at this point, to move into my first house.
My cousin and I talked recently when I visited him in Denver, Colorado. We both agreed, that at this point in our lives, we imagined that we would have been quite a bit further with respect to the reality of where we actually are in our lives.
We seem to be a little discontent with where we are in our respective careers, our personal savings is certainly and undoubtedly NOT where we thought it should be, and; as a comparison to others in our family and network of friends, we seem to be behind and less stable than our family and respective counterparts that we set our bar against.
Are we really designed to be content? To be patient in our processes with respect to life, and our life goals?
I would wager that we are NOT! Even if we focus solely on completely comparing ourselves to ourselves; based on the goals, setbacks, wants, desires, dreams, and those things that we actually obtain; it is incredibly hard to be patient and content.
Why is this so?
I believe that often we set the bar "too high." If you have any aspirations of greatness, or you are as I am; a Type-A personality, you are definitely prone to setting goals that are outside of your reach. They say that goals are to be "SMART!" Specific, Manageable, Achievable, Reach-able, and with a specific Time of Time-frame for completion. Even the very best of us have a hard time defining goals in this way. I certainly did not come up with this acronym or moniker, but it does make sense at the core with respect to the idea; maintaining a positive and contented attitude while we are within the process to reaching our defined goals.
So, beyond following the aforementioned acronym closely; and fervently, "How can we be MORE content with the process?"
Do we need to simply believe and have faith in the SMART moniker? Do we need to believe and have faith in the Heinz slogan; which states that "Good Things Come to those Who Wait? Or do we just have to believe and have faith in Steps 1 - 4 mentioned above?
Surely following all three couldn't hurt, and could present actionable results. But what does the Apostle Paul say concerning the above?
For starters, I believe and have faith in the last part of the three-step process mentioned above. Pray, Ask, Wait, and Be Content have Faith; believing that the process will take care of the rest. It also helps; immensely, to have "SMART" goals, and then to have Faith that the Waiting within the Process will produce the desired outcome, in GOD's TIME!
While "hard to handle", following these steps have the ability to produce the desired results that you are looking for. Stop! comparing yourself to others. Focus on YOU and YOU alone. Reaching your personal goals, sans comparing yourself to others, can be liberating! Be content in the process. Set small SMART goals, and be as content in the process; as "humanly" possible.
Try it for a week, then a few weeks, and then a month. Start daily if you must. Personally, a "to-do-list" helps me. It feels good to cross things off the list. It makes the easy and hard things seem achievable. Start with the most important, and smallest; and then move on to the most small, and hardest. Then work up the list. You'll be amazed at how well you will feel, if you follow the above, and then apply this system.
In closing, I would say that, this now, four-step process will help you reach more goals, feel more productive, and finally, feel more confident in the process.
At this time of year, it is undeniably helpful to plan the goals that you want to reach in the coming year. 2017 is nearly here. One Holiday left, and then the impending New Year's celebration.
Start small, stay focused, cross things of the list daily.
Finally, "Draw your Plans in Sand, and Etch your Goals in Stone!" Draw with the proverbial stick in the sand daily, and prior to; get that Chisel swinging before drawing!
You'll be amazed at the eventual outcome, feel good along the way, and with faith and belief, you may just find at the end of 2017, you have accomplished more; looking back to the beginning of the year, than you ever have.
Cheers!
Step 1: Pray Fervently
Step 2: Present your requests to God
Step 3: Wait; yes, actually wait
Step 4: Be content with the process and watch God work!
Currently, I am working diligently on being content in two areas...getting a solid offer in my chosen profession; moving from a contract consulting arrangement to a paid employee, and waiting; without much patience at this point, to move into my first house.
My cousin and I talked recently when I visited him in Denver, Colorado. We both agreed, that at this point in our lives, we imagined that we would have been quite a bit further with respect to the reality of where we actually are in our lives.
We seem to be a little discontent with where we are in our respective careers, our personal savings is certainly and undoubtedly NOT where we thought it should be, and; as a comparison to others in our family and network of friends, we seem to be behind and less stable than our family and respective counterparts that we set our bar against.
Are we really designed to be content? To be patient in our processes with respect to life, and our life goals?
I would wager that we are NOT! Even if we focus solely on completely comparing ourselves to ourselves; based on the goals, setbacks, wants, desires, dreams, and those things that we actually obtain; it is incredibly hard to be patient and content.
Why is this so?
I believe that often we set the bar "too high." If you have any aspirations of greatness, or you are as I am; a Type-A personality, you are definitely prone to setting goals that are outside of your reach. They say that goals are to be "SMART!" Specific, Manageable, Achievable, Reach-able, and with a specific Time of Time-frame for completion. Even the very best of us have a hard time defining goals in this way. I certainly did not come up with this acronym or moniker, but it does make sense at the core with respect to the idea; maintaining a positive and contented attitude while we are within the process to reaching our defined goals.
So, beyond following the aforementioned acronym closely; and fervently, "How can we be MORE content with the process?"
Do we need to simply believe and have faith in the SMART moniker? Do we need to believe and have faith in the Heinz slogan; which states that "Good Things Come to those Who Wait? Or do we just have to believe and have faith in Steps 1 - 4 mentioned above?
Surely following all three couldn't hurt, and could present actionable results. But what does the Apostle Paul say concerning the above?
For starters, I believe and have faith in the last part of the three-step process mentioned above. Pray, Ask, Wait, and Be Content have Faith; believing that the process will take care of the rest. It also helps; immensely, to have "SMART" goals, and then to have Faith that the Waiting within the Process will produce the desired outcome, in GOD's TIME!
While "hard to handle", following these steps have the ability to produce the desired results that you are looking for. Stop! comparing yourself to others. Focus on YOU and YOU alone. Reaching your personal goals, sans comparing yourself to others, can be liberating! Be content in the process. Set small SMART goals, and be as content in the process; as "humanly" possible.
Try it for a week, then a few weeks, and then a month. Start daily if you must. Personally, a "to-do-list" helps me. It feels good to cross things off the list. It makes the easy and hard things seem achievable. Start with the most important, and smallest; and then move on to the most small, and hardest. Then work up the list. You'll be amazed at how well you will feel, if you follow the above, and then apply this system.
In closing, I would say that, this now, four-step process will help you reach more goals, feel more productive, and finally, feel more confident in the process.
At this time of year, it is undeniably helpful to plan the goals that you want to reach in the coming year. 2017 is nearly here. One Holiday left, and then the impending New Year's celebration.
Start small, stay focused, cross things of the list daily.
Finally, "Draw your Plans in Sand, and Etch your Goals in Stone!" Draw with the proverbial stick in the sand daily, and prior to; get that Chisel swinging before drawing!
You'll be amazed at the eventual outcome, feel good along the way, and with faith and belief, you may just find at the end of 2017, you have accomplished more; looking back to the beginning of the year, than you ever have.
Cheers!
Friday, December 16, 2016
Patience: Part Uno
They say that Patience "is a virtue."
I'm not sure I would define it that way, but it is undoubtedly a skill learned only through experience, and additionally requires much "ability"; in the art of practicing, to maintain.
The goal is simply to be is a state of static inertia. While this may sound "way" to scientific, it is nothing more than a state-of-mind, in practice.
Patience to me is being calm. Realizing the fact that there are only a few elements in your day that you can control. We can control the phone call to our mother, the phone calls to clients, marking of the to-do list on our calendar, and making dinner reservations after a long, hard day at the office.
We can also control what we do with our time and the person or persons' who we spend that time with. Outside of these things, and the various others that you can probably add to my list, the rest is left to chance and the way the wind blows about and thru the universe. It seems; sometimes, that even the rotation of the Earth, the cycles of the moon, and even the daily horoscope that I know some of you read, daily; that can throw the proverbial "monkey wrench" into our day.
When Paul became the King of Israel, his first instruction was to "wait.". Wait for a period of seven days, in fact. Think about this: How many of us are willing to wait in line five minutes or more at our favourite coffee house for that glorious "cup of Joe", much less wait on something for seven days? Even Amazon will deliver your package on Sunday; of all days, courtesy of the U.S. Postal service.
The Heinz company designed an entire advertising campaign for its ketchup, exhorting, "Good things come to those who WAIT!" But who really believes that in the information age?
Not that I am correct; especially probably not to most, but I believe that patience is an expectation; a positive connotation that something good is coming my way as a direct result of my patience.
Patience is hard to be "measured" between one person and the next. We all can have patience in one area, and entirely NO patience in another. I despise waiting on people or companies to call me back. Especially when I have been promised a call at a certain time, and that call that you are "waiting on", does not come until later than the expected time. Even the cable-guy can only promise to arrive at your home for installation or service within a four-hour period. I mean; come on...whose brilliant idea was that?
And how do you define patience? Is it an act of kindness? A thoughtful consideration? Understanding?
I think that is is an important lesson; Christian or Non-Christian, to examine how Paul demonstrated patience. In the same way, it is hard to measure Paul's level of patience. Did his understanding of his first assignment of King of Israel to wait for seven days qualify as patience?
Do "good" things really come to those who wait; either patiently or not?
In Philippians, starting with Chapter 4; verse 4, Paul says, "Rejoice in the Lord, always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" One thing I immediately notice in this verse is that he not only puts emphasis on the word "Rejoice", but he mentions it twice and ends the statement boldly with an exclamation point on the word.
It seems that he then lends the possibility of the idea in verse 5 that perhaps "gentleness" could be an important factor to the element of patience.
But I believe it is verse 6 that is the key element, as Paul says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with everything, present your request to God."
Be calm, pray, and present your requests to God!
In verse 12, he further makes the claim that we should be content. And believe you me; if you have studied the life of Paul, the fact that he says he "knows what it is to be in need, and knows what it is to have plenty", is truly an understatement. But he is "content"; nonetheless.
The secret: "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength"; verse 13.
All told, I believe it is fine to "ask for patience", even though some would caution against it. The secret, herein, is to be content with the answer.
Pray, and wait; as Paul did!
I'm not sure I would define it that way, but it is undoubtedly a skill learned only through experience, and additionally requires much "ability"; in the art of practicing, to maintain.
The goal is simply to be is a state of static inertia. While this may sound "way" to scientific, it is nothing more than a state-of-mind, in practice.
Patience to me is being calm. Realizing the fact that there are only a few elements in your day that you can control. We can control the phone call to our mother, the phone calls to clients, marking of the to-do list on our calendar, and making dinner reservations after a long, hard day at the office.
We can also control what we do with our time and the person or persons' who we spend that time with. Outside of these things, and the various others that you can probably add to my list, the rest is left to chance and the way the wind blows about and thru the universe. It seems; sometimes, that even the rotation of the Earth, the cycles of the moon, and even the daily horoscope that I know some of you read, daily; that can throw the proverbial "monkey wrench" into our day.
When Paul became the King of Israel, his first instruction was to "wait.". Wait for a period of seven days, in fact. Think about this: How many of us are willing to wait in line five minutes or more at our favourite coffee house for that glorious "cup of Joe", much less wait on something for seven days? Even Amazon will deliver your package on Sunday; of all days, courtesy of the U.S. Postal service.
The Heinz company designed an entire advertising campaign for its ketchup, exhorting, "Good things come to those who WAIT!" But who really believes that in the information age?
Not that I am correct; especially probably not to most, but I believe that patience is an expectation; a positive connotation that something good is coming my way as a direct result of my patience.
Patience is hard to be "measured" between one person and the next. We all can have patience in one area, and entirely NO patience in another. I despise waiting on people or companies to call me back. Especially when I have been promised a call at a certain time, and that call that you are "waiting on", does not come until later than the expected time. Even the cable-guy can only promise to arrive at your home for installation or service within a four-hour period. I mean; come on...whose brilliant idea was that?
And how do you define patience? Is it an act of kindness? A thoughtful consideration? Understanding?
I think that is is an important lesson; Christian or Non-Christian, to examine how Paul demonstrated patience. In the same way, it is hard to measure Paul's level of patience. Did his understanding of his first assignment of King of Israel to wait for seven days qualify as patience?
Do "good" things really come to those who wait; either patiently or not?
In Philippians, starting with Chapter 4; verse 4, Paul says, "Rejoice in the Lord, always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" One thing I immediately notice in this verse is that he not only puts emphasis on the word "Rejoice", but he mentions it twice and ends the statement boldly with an exclamation point on the word.
It seems that he then lends the possibility of the idea in verse 5 that perhaps "gentleness" could be an important factor to the element of patience.
But I believe it is verse 6 that is the key element, as Paul says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with everything, present your request to God."
Be calm, pray, and present your requests to God!
In verse 12, he further makes the claim that we should be content. And believe you me; if you have studied the life of Paul, the fact that he says he "knows what it is to be in need, and knows what it is to have plenty", is truly an understatement. But he is "content"; nonetheless.
The secret: "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength"; verse 13.
All told, I believe it is fine to "ask for patience", even though some would caution against it. The secret, herein, is to be content with the answer.
Pray, and wait; as Paul did!
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Integrity Part Deux
For a point of reference, the word in "Integrity" is found only sixteen times in the King James Version, (KJV), of the Bible.
Despite this small detail, I believe it to be a principle of great value. Sometimes less is more.
Two people in the Bible that immediately come to mind when considering integrity are David and Paul the Apostle.
Integrity is first mentioned in Genesis 20:5. Abimelek was king of Gerar. To preserve his wife from being taken from the king Abraham said, "She is my sister." As we all know, Abraham was married to Sarah. Because of this, Abimelek sent for Sarah and she was taken into custody. She was later released by the king after God appeared to him in a dream. In the New International Version of the Bible, the (NIV), it states that Abimelek took Sarah "with a clear conscience and clean hands." Abimelek had not touched Sarah, as God stated to him in his dream that he would have been "as good as dead", Genesis 20:3.
The point is that Abraham lacked integrity by not being honest with the king concerning his relationship with Sarah. He was deceptive, dishonest and outside of the will of God. At that pivotal moment, he did not trust God. His decision would later effect his son Isaac. Dishonesty and deception are not words that we would want others to define us by. In the present, and certainly in the future as we see later, it will directly impact our personal relationships and even those who are not directly connected with us by way of direct influence.
Despite this small detail, I believe it to be a principle of great value. Sometimes less is more.
Two people in the Bible that immediately come to mind when considering integrity are David and Paul the Apostle.
Integrity is first mentioned in Genesis 20:5. Abimelek was king of Gerar. To preserve his wife from being taken from the king Abraham said, "She is my sister." As we all know, Abraham was married to Sarah. Because of this, Abimelek sent for Sarah and she was taken into custody. She was later released by the king after God appeared to him in a dream. In the New International Version of the Bible, the (NIV), it states that Abimelek took Sarah "with a clear conscience and clean hands." Abimelek had not touched Sarah, as God stated to him in his dream that he would have been "as good as dead", Genesis 20:3.
The point is that Abraham lacked integrity by not being honest with the king concerning his relationship with Sarah. He was deceptive, dishonest and outside of the will of God. At that pivotal moment, he did not trust God. His decision would later effect his son Isaac. Dishonesty and deception are not words that we would want others to define us by. In the present, and certainly in the future as we see later, it will directly impact our personal relationships and even those who are not directly connected with us by way of direct influence.
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