Hi again!
I'm sorry about the recent hiatus from blogging. I've had a lot going on and needed to take care of things. But I'm back with some new thoughts.
As I mentioned, I have had a great deal happening in life. I'll spare you the details (although if you would like more info feel free to send a message to itisjimmy@gmail.com).
But we all have stuff going on in our lives don't we? In the past, when bad things happened, I ran. I mean for some reason I thought that it made perfect sense to get mad at God and run away from him. I would stop praying and hanging out with the church. My attitude was that He abandoned me so, in turn, I should abandon Him.
Let me make it clear; that type of approach NEVER worked out well for me.
But some time ago my wife and I learned a great lesson. We learned to run TO God. I don't remember the situation at that time; that part of the story is unimportant. But as we were lying on the bed discussing it, one of us said something like, "We don't know what to say or what to do... Maybe we should start by taking it to God." So we did. We prayed. We didn't know what to ask or say, but we prayed. As we were in prayer we started telling Him that we had no clue and asked for direction. But most importantly, we acknowledged that He is all knowing, loving, and has our best interests at heart. So we completely gave the situation to Him. Some time later we got the answers and direction and God provided for us in a way that we had not even imagined. And He not only met our needs, He exceeded them!
So now, when life has seemed to throw us several curve balls, we have turned to Him. So far things are not completely resolved, but we have hope. And we are trusting that even if things don't go according to our plan, His plan is perfect.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)
I am convinced that God will never abandon us. He continually proves His love for us. And His church has been an amazing blessing. Even when we didn't know how to pray, they have lifted us up in prayer.
So there are my thoughts for the week. I'd love to hear/read if you've had similar experiences. Or maybe you are in the midst of some "stuff." I'd be happy to pray for you!
God bless y'all!
Monday, September 23, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
People Watching
In the past week or so I've been going through some "stuff."
I shared a little bit through Facebook, phone calls, and some texts. My goal was not in search of sympathy, but rather a call for those willing to rally with me in prayer (especially over the financial burden attached with the situation.) And yes, I'll admit, I was hoping for a bit of encouragement in the midst of what my mind perceived to be a bleak outlook.
It's been an eye-opening experience. I have come to realize that there are 3 main categories of people in these situations.
1) Those who do/say nothing
2) Those who show compassion
and
3) Those who feel obligated to inform me that I brought the consequences upon myself.
I'm pretty much okay with the first category. I can understand that, at times, the correct words can be difficult to find. I like to give those people the benefit of the doubt. I don't know what they might be dealing with in their own lives. It's a much more freeing attitude than assuming they don't care.
The second group of people are wonderful! I can't even begin to tell you how blessed I have been by those who have sent encouraging words. I even received some great words from Scripture as encouragement. And to know that there are those that will love me and stand with me no matter what the situation has been amazing. I even appreciated those who replied with humor to help me laugh and remember to be joyful in even this time.
Then there are the others whom I have mentioned.
What in the heck are they thinking?
I (almost) get it when the dentist told me "Well you did it to yourself!" But I would have thought that as he saw my tear-filled eyes that he would have attempted to soften the blow. But what about those I love and was looking for a shred of hope? Don't they realize that everything they have said I have already told myself countless times? I KNOW I messed up in not taking better care of myself. I can't help but wonder if they actually think they are helping.
Why do I tell you all of this?
It's because it has caused me to think... A lot.
The other day my wife and I were walking the dog and we had a conversation. Here are some of the things that were weighing on my mind (I'll try to share them in a more organized manner than they way they are in my head):
I think that those 3 categories apply to the way that some believers look at the world and those who do not know Jesus. And if I'm to be totally honest, I've spent seasons in all 3 of these.
Some choose to ignore their need for reconciliation. They may say things like "It's not my job" or "I just don't feel comfortable sharing or being 'confrontational.'"
To them I ask, "What if everyone in that person's life has that same attitude?"
I used to be one of those in this category. But after a friend/coworker's suicide I realized that had I spoken up and shared Christ, he might have known where to turn when things looked as if there were no reason to go on.
I'm going to skip ahead to category 3 here...
It's sad to say, but I have seen (and even been) people with the attitude of "Well you did it to yourself." I've made decisions based upon my own preconceived notions or feelings. It's difficult to put aside the hurt that someone may have caused us or others and come to the realization that perhaps their actions and attitudes were actually driven by the fact that they have never met the Truth.
In my conversation with my wife I said something similar to, "If a person smokes their whole life they may get cancer. Cancer is a consequence of their harmful behavior. That doesn't mean that they deserve the disease. There is a difference between the two." (Yeah, I was pretty impressed that such a deep thought came out of me too.)
The Bible says that "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
That speaks to me! There are results, or consequences for our rebellion against God. But He loved us enough to make a way for us to be reconciled. If it's good enough for Him it sure the heck better be good enough for me!
I want to always be one who falls into the category of "compassionate."
I never want to be so far removed that I am not able to feel or see the need of others to be made right with the Lord.
The tattoo on my right shoulder is of two feet. Inside one it says "God" and "reigns" in the other. It is there to remind me of the Scripture which reads:
For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
- Romans 10:13-15
It is my desire to live my life in such a manner. I encourage you to to the same. Let's have some "beautiful feet!"
God bless y'all!
I shared a little bit through Facebook, phone calls, and some texts. My goal was not in search of sympathy, but rather a call for those willing to rally with me in prayer (especially over the financial burden attached with the situation.) And yes, I'll admit, I was hoping for a bit of encouragement in the midst of what my mind perceived to be a bleak outlook.
It's been an eye-opening experience. I have come to realize that there are 3 main categories of people in these situations.
1) Those who do/say nothing
2) Those who show compassion
and
3) Those who feel obligated to inform me that I brought the consequences upon myself.
I'm pretty much okay with the first category. I can understand that, at times, the correct words can be difficult to find. I like to give those people the benefit of the doubt. I don't know what they might be dealing with in their own lives. It's a much more freeing attitude than assuming they don't care.
The second group of people are wonderful! I can't even begin to tell you how blessed I have been by those who have sent encouraging words. I even received some great words from Scripture as encouragement. And to know that there are those that will love me and stand with me no matter what the situation has been amazing. I even appreciated those who replied with humor to help me laugh and remember to be joyful in even this time.
Then there are the others whom I have mentioned.
What in the heck are they thinking?
I (almost) get it when the dentist told me "Well you did it to yourself!" But I would have thought that as he saw my tear-filled eyes that he would have attempted to soften the blow. But what about those I love and was looking for a shred of hope? Don't they realize that everything they have said I have already told myself countless times? I KNOW I messed up in not taking better care of myself. I can't help but wonder if they actually think they are helping.
Why do I tell you all of this?
It's because it has caused me to think... A lot.
The other day my wife and I were walking the dog and we had a conversation. Here are some of the things that were weighing on my mind (I'll try to share them in a more organized manner than they way they are in my head):
I think that those 3 categories apply to the way that some believers look at the world and those who do not know Jesus. And if I'm to be totally honest, I've spent seasons in all 3 of these.
Some choose to ignore their need for reconciliation. They may say things like "It's not my job" or "I just don't feel comfortable sharing or being 'confrontational.'"
To them I ask, "What if everyone in that person's life has that same attitude?"
I used to be one of those in this category. But after a friend/coworker's suicide I realized that had I spoken up and shared Christ, he might have known where to turn when things looked as if there were no reason to go on.
I'm going to skip ahead to category 3 here...
It's sad to say, but I have seen (and even been) people with the attitude of "Well you did it to yourself." I've made decisions based upon my own preconceived notions or feelings. It's difficult to put aside the hurt that someone may have caused us or others and come to the realization that perhaps their actions and attitudes were actually driven by the fact that they have never met the Truth.
In my conversation with my wife I said something similar to, "If a person smokes their whole life they may get cancer. Cancer is a consequence of their harmful behavior. That doesn't mean that they deserve the disease. There is a difference between the two." (Yeah, I was pretty impressed that such a deep thought came out of me too.)
The Bible says that "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
That speaks to me! There are results, or consequences for our rebellion against God. But He loved us enough to make a way for us to be reconciled. If it's good enough for Him it sure the heck better be good enough for me!
I want to always be one who falls into the category of "compassionate."
I never want to be so far removed that I am not able to feel or see the need of others to be made right with the Lord.
The tattoo on my right shoulder is of two feet. Inside one it says "God" and "reigns" in the other. It is there to remind me of the Scripture which reads:
For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
- Romans 10:13-15
It is my desire to live my life in such a manner. I encourage you to to the same. Let's have some "beautiful feet!"
God bless y'all!
Monday, August 26, 2013
Reinvention
I've read a lot of Facebook posts about how the school year has either begun or is about to begin in the near future. It reminds me of the times, about a million years ago, when I was of school age.
While I hated the idea of summer ending, part of me looked forward to the prospect of new beginnings.
You see, usually by the time the previous school year wound down I had pretty much driven everyone crazy. I made dumb mistakes or said the wrong thing to the wrong people (especially teachers) and was as anxious to get away as they were to be rid of me. This was not just true in school, but in my home church as well. Summering in Michigan was, to me, like when Superman would get away to his Fortress of Solitude. I could recharge or, in my case, reinvent myself.
A few years back I began my journey of my most recent incarnation of reinvention. I had been on a path that I thought was true. But my wife saw that I was following a person (whom I thought was following God) rather than following God Himself. She didn't nag or tell me that what I needed to do. She prayed. God eventually opened my eyes. I saw that I was in actuality being led away from God rather than closer. And upon further examination I realized that if I wasn't pleased with the man I had become it was safe to say that neither was God. So I took the necessary steps to right my path. Often there is pain involved in the process. It was as if I was being pruned. I don't know if trees have a sense of feeling, but as a human, it sometimes hurts to have that which we held close cut from our lives.
Giving myself a new name, Jimmy, was part of the reinvention. I use it as a reminder that I am no longer the person I once was nor will I ever go back.
Reinvention is not in and of it self a bad thing. In retrospect some of my attempts at reinvention went over like a fart in church- (I'm talking to you 17 year old Jimmy with the bad mullet!) I think it's a good thing to reflect on the past and address that which needs to change. But now, as I continue on this spiritual journey, I have come to realize that it's futile to attempt reinvention on my own. While I'm pretty awesome, I am only human. My wisdom is limited.
I need to seek God's wisdom and direction.
Earlier this month I had the pleasure of being the main speaker at a camp for the Middle School students of the Iowa Division of Foursquare Churches. I honestly believe that God as much of a work in me as He did through me. He has reignited my passion and reminded me of my calling. I don't know exactly what that means. I want to be cautious not to push so hard that I follow my own desires more than God's direction. But I do know that I have to seek direction from Him.
I ask that you join me in prayer not only for God to direct me, but that He also make His plan and call on YOUR life clear.
Proverbs 3:5-6:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight
Monday, August 19, 2013
Post Camp Thoughts
Last week I had the pleasure of speaking at the Middle School camp for the Iowa district of Foursquare churches. There were about 28 kids and combined with teen leaders and adults the number of people totaled somewhere in the 50's.
I've been the speaker at camp in the past but the fact that it had been a few years and that the directors of the camp were the parents of one of my spiritual mentors, I was a bit nervous.
On the drive down I kept a close eye on the G.P.S. and surfed the radio dial. But when I got about an hour or so from my destination the nerves were really taking over my thoughts. Although I had been praying and asking others for prayer, I decided it was time for some heavy prayer. I realized that I'm just a flawed vessel that God chose to use for His purposes. I'm nothing more then an extroverted A.D.H.D. goofball who has a story for everything. But when I allow God's Spirit to work in me and through me great things can happen. So I committed every aspect of the week to Him- my actions, my words, my thoughts, everything. .
Then I pulled up the "Cool Christian Stuff" folder on my MP 3 player. How Great Thou Art, the Carrie Underwood/Vince Gill version came on. The song has always been one of my favorites and Carrie's version brings me to tears every time.
Later, after getting slightly lost (the camp doesn't appear on the G.P.S. I borrowed) I arrived at camp.
Walking in to a situation of being the stranger walking in to a group that all knows each other can be a bit intimidating. But God said "Just be yourself, I got this." At the first leader meeting the director, Cheri introduced me and told them that I would be sharing a little of my story at evening chapel. I made some comment like "It's going to be awesome, you'll probably cry; don't forget to bring Kleenex." It's funny how getting my first laugh relaxes me. From that point on I was fine.
The kids were amazing! Very well behaved and good listeners.
A couple highlights:
One night I gave an illustration of how hard it can be to hear God when we've got so many distractions.
I had one of the kids come sit on a chair and told him that I was going to give "the phrase that pays" and he had to repeat it. But before I gave him the phrase I brought up a couple other people. I had one speak continuous Facebook status', I had another give baseball play-by-play, one acted as the nagging girlfriend asking to be taken places. I had one of the moms come up too (because it's not always bad things) and tell him to clean his room and do other chores. And 2 more came up and just had a conversation.
And I said "Oh yeah, gotta have music!" And played a Metallica song as performed by a cello group Apocalyptica.
I then said "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10.) I asked him what I said. He replied "I don't know, it's too hard with all the distractions!" I told him, and the audience, that I couldn't have put it better myself.
Here's the super cool part... The next day his cabin leader told me that later that night he asked "So what's this 'asking Jesus into your heart' all about?" And after talking for a bit, Karl, the leader led the kid into a relationship with Christ.
One night, I went to my cabin to prep the message for the next morning. I finished my PowerPoint slides and typing and I felt God say "That's not what I want you to say." So I started to retool another message I had. When I finished God said, "That's cute, now are you ready to listen to what I want you to say?" So I prayed for a bit and He gave me about 5 sentences and a couple of verses and then said "Now pray!"
I didn't get a whole lot of sleep that night. But when it came time for chapel God gave the me the words. I don't remember much, I was just repeating what He told me to say. But I was told by several that it was exactly what they needed to hear.
Another cool thing...
During 2 of the evening sessions, the director had invited married couples from her church to share testimonies. When I asked what they were going to share it ended up fitting perfectly with the subject God had given me for each evening. One even had the exact same verses written down in her notes!
If that isn't proof of God's hand in the week I don't know what is!
I also got to pray with/for some of the kids. That was really cool!
The last thing that was really neat...
On the last day, every time I looked at one of the teen leaders, I got teary-eyed. After lunch I realized that God wanted me to give her a word from Him. So I pulled her aside (but still in plain view of everyone as to not be inappropriate) and said the words God had given me. I was overwhelmed and crying like a baby. It was the first time I've received a word for an individual in that way. And more confirmation that God was at work in the week!
I pray that God will continue the great work He began last week.
And I have been reminded of the call and purpose God has given me. I am reminded that I need to take every step as God directs to achieve the goals He has placed on my heart.
There is nothing as satisfying as doing the things you love and doing them for God.
I encourage all who have read this to figure out what you love, and then figure out how to do that for Jesus!
Here's the video I was telling you about... Enjoy!
God bless y'all!
I've been the speaker at camp in the past but the fact that it had been a few years and that the directors of the camp were the parents of one of my spiritual mentors, I was a bit nervous.
On the drive down I kept a close eye on the G.P.S. and surfed the radio dial. But when I got about an hour or so from my destination the nerves were really taking over my thoughts. Although I had been praying and asking others for prayer, I decided it was time for some heavy prayer. I realized that I'm just a flawed vessel that God chose to use for His purposes. I'm nothing more then an extroverted A.D.H.D. goofball who has a story for everything. But when I allow God's Spirit to work in me and through me great things can happen. So I committed every aspect of the week to Him- my actions, my words, my thoughts, everything. .
Then I pulled up the "Cool Christian Stuff" folder on my MP 3 player. How Great Thou Art, the Carrie Underwood/Vince Gill version came on. The song has always been one of my favorites and Carrie's version brings me to tears every time.
Later, after getting slightly lost (the camp doesn't appear on the G.P.S. I borrowed) I arrived at camp.
Walking in to a situation of being the stranger walking in to a group that all knows each other can be a bit intimidating. But God said "Just be yourself, I got this." At the first leader meeting the director, Cheri introduced me and told them that I would be sharing a little of my story at evening chapel. I made some comment like "It's going to be awesome, you'll probably cry; don't forget to bring Kleenex." It's funny how getting my first laugh relaxes me. From that point on I was fine.
The kids were amazing! Very well behaved and good listeners.
A couple highlights:
One night I gave an illustration of how hard it can be to hear God when we've got so many distractions.
I had one of the kids come sit on a chair and told him that I was going to give "the phrase that pays" and he had to repeat it. But before I gave him the phrase I brought up a couple other people. I had one speak continuous Facebook status', I had another give baseball play-by-play, one acted as the nagging girlfriend asking to be taken places. I had one of the moms come up too (because it's not always bad things) and tell him to clean his room and do other chores. And 2 more came up and just had a conversation.
And I said "Oh yeah, gotta have music!" And played a Metallica song as performed by a cello group Apocalyptica.
I then said "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10.) I asked him what I said. He replied "I don't know, it's too hard with all the distractions!" I told him, and the audience, that I couldn't have put it better myself.
Here's the super cool part... The next day his cabin leader told me that later that night he asked "So what's this 'asking Jesus into your heart' all about?" And after talking for a bit, Karl, the leader led the kid into a relationship with Christ.
One night, I went to my cabin to prep the message for the next morning. I finished my PowerPoint slides and typing and I felt God say "That's not what I want you to say." So I started to retool another message I had. When I finished God said, "That's cute, now are you ready to listen to what I want you to say?" So I prayed for a bit and He gave me about 5 sentences and a couple of verses and then said "Now pray!"
I didn't get a whole lot of sleep that night. But when it came time for chapel God gave the me the words. I don't remember much, I was just repeating what He told me to say. But I was told by several that it was exactly what they needed to hear.
Another cool thing...
During 2 of the evening sessions, the director had invited married couples from her church to share testimonies. When I asked what they were going to share it ended up fitting perfectly with the subject God had given me for each evening. One even had the exact same verses written down in her notes!
If that isn't proof of God's hand in the week I don't know what is!
I also got to pray with/for some of the kids. That was really cool!
The last thing that was really neat...
On the last day, every time I looked at one of the teen leaders, I got teary-eyed. After lunch I realized that God wanted me to give her a word from Him. So I pulled her aside (but still in plain view of everyone as to not be inappropriate) and said the words God had given me. I was overwhelmed and crying like a baby. It was the first time I've received a word for an individual in that way. And more confirmation that God was at work in the week!
I pray that God will continue the great work He began last week.
And I have been reminded of the call and purpose God has given me. I am reminded that I need to take every step as God directs to achieve the goals He has placed on my heart.
There is nothing as satisfying as doing the things you love and doing them for God.
I encourage all who have read this to figure out what you love, and then figure out how to do that for Jesus!
Here's the video I was telling you about... Enjoy!
God bless y'all!
Monday, August 5, 2013
Still Learning, Still Growing
Today is the day I celebrate the anniversary of my birth.
I thought it a perfect time to reflect upon that which I've learned, especially over the latest year of my life.
Delete the drama
My fellow pastors at http://www.thejourneycommunity.com/ have taught me a lot. One of the greatest lessons I have learned from them is to avoid the avoidable drama (of course they probably would have worded it a lot better than I.) I have seen a lot of disagreements on social network sites such as Facebook. And for a while I thought it was somehow my responsibility to set straight those that I was certain needed my words of wisdom. But in watching these wise men and women with whom I have partnered, I have learned that some times the best thing I can say is nothing. It's not that they don't have an opinion, but they know that it is extremely rare that an argument on someone's status on Facebook is going to end in a way other than with hurt feelings and those arguing portraying themselves in a negative manner.
Recently, someone I'm friends with posted like a 5 word status update. The comments immediately began coming in. As I read some of them I started to type my thoughts. But then I read what some people were saying. Many used some pretty vulgar language to argue their points. I decided it would not be the best idea to comment and canceled the post. A couple of days later I checked back on the post. There were over 80 comments. As I read them my heart broke. There were some really ugly things being said. While I can (to some extent) understand the things said by those who don't know Jesus, it was comments by some of the Christians that upset me the most. Some of the things were the most horrible, loveless things I've ever read. They did not display an accurate image of the God that I serve.
It's not that I don't believe that there is right and wrong. I take a stand for that which I believe every day. But I have learned that social networking sites are not the proper forum for such discussions.
I'm not very close to the person who made the original post nor do I even live in close proximity. But if I was closer to them I would send a private message or text and tell them that I'd love to discuss the topic further. Notice I didn't say that I would send the message and have all of the answers. While I agree that there are times that we should take a stand, I believe that it's not always our job to offer unsolicited advice. I have learned that often slams doors shut and causes breaks in relationships. I've leaned to ask if someone was interested in my thoughts on the topic at hand.
I didn't plan on having this much to say on one topic, so I guess maybe this will be a continuing series for a couple of weeks. Tune in next time for more as I share what God has taught me in the past year.
I'll leave you with this for the week:
Proverbs 27:19- As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.
God bless y'all!
Monday, July 29, 2013
Maybe, Just Maybe
A couple of weeks ago I went to my local, small town, bank. We've banked there for many years and most of the tellers know me. But this time was different. When I walked up to the counter the (newer) teller had a slightly nervous expression on his face. He asked me to remove my hat. I looked at him like he was nuts and he continued by saying that they prefer to have transactions on video without obstructions of hats and things. My first inclination (which I did NOT act upon) was to get angry and say that I didn't need to take off my hat. I wanted to ask if he would be asking me to do it if I wasn't brown. But I didn't want to cause a scene so I complied.
That encounter got me thinking.
I have a couple friends that work at banks in different cities and states who have been held up. One actually had a gun pointed at her. She said that it's an experience she'll never forget. So when it comes to the safety of bank tellers, maybe it's not about me.
When I let that thought roll around in my brain for a little while I wondered how this concept could apply to other areas of my life:
A person cuts me off in traffic- Maybe it's not about me.
The temperature drops 20 degrees, it's overcast and threatening rain on the day of my party- Maybe it's not about me.
On the same day as my experience in the bank I went grocery shopping. Anyone who has been to the grocery store lately can attest to the fact that food prices are out of control. As I looked at the high meat prices I could feel the anger pouring over me. I had to remind myself "Maybe it's not about me."
Now would be a good time to clarify what I mean by "Maybe it's not about me."
Obviously every one of those things I previously mentioned have an effect on me. But the teller was most likely following branch policy. I highly doubt it was a personal attack.
Rain happens. I don't think God was up there saying "Let's mess with Jimmy and make it cold and damp on the day of his party."
And as for the guy that cuts me off, or the hundreds of people that find it necessary to ride my bumper in traffic? I'm sorry, but some times people just suck. I'm trying to remember that some times people have a lot more going on in their lives and unfortunately they often spew their crap on others.
It is a result of the world in which we live.
I'm convinced that if we discern between whether something is a personal attack or just a result of living in a fallen world we can often defuse potentially volatile situations.
This may come as a shocker to some readers, but I mess up... A lot!
But here's the thing. When I mess up I hope that people are forgiving and extend grace even when I don't deserve it. So if that's what I want from others, shouldn't I be willing to extend the same to others?
Instead of automatically assuming that the negative that is happening is a personal attack maybe I would be better off rolling with it. Because when I get angry it usually snowballs. Before I know it I am mad at the world and ready to kick some butt. But really what good ever comes from that? That's how wars get started.
So the weather didn't turn out as I planned and some of my friends couldn't make it. Was it really the end of the world? NO! We had reserved a shelter in the park so we were protected from the rain. And I still enjoyed time with the friends that were able to make it.
And now, when I go to the bank, I remove my hat prior to entering out of respect for those working in a potentially dangerous situation.
Maybe it's not about me. But maybe I can take it upon myself to be the reason someone else has a better day.
God bless y'all!
That encounter got me thinking.
I have a couple friends that work at banks in different cities and states who have been held up. One actually had a gun pointed at her. She said that it's an experience she'll never forget. So when it comes to the safety of bank tellers, maybe it's not about me.
When I let that thought roll around in my brain for a little while I wondered how this concept could apply to other areas of my life:
A person cuts me off in traffic- Maybe it's not about me.
The temperature drops 20 degrees, it's overcast and threatening rain on the day of my party- Maybe it's not about me.
On the same day as my experience in the bank I went grocery shopping. Anyone who has been to the grocery store lately can attest to the fact that food prices are out of control. As I looked at the high meat prices I could feel the anger pouring over me. I had to remind myself "Maybe it's not about me."
Now would be a good time to clarify what I mean by "Maybe it's not about me."
Obviously every one of those things I previously mentioned have an effect on me. But the teller was most likely following branch policy. I highly doubt it was a personal attack.
Rain happens. I don't think God was up there saying "Let's mess with Jimmy and make it cold and damp on the day of his party."
And as for the guy that cuts me off, or the hundreds of people that find it necessary to ride my bumper in traffic? I'm sorry, but some times people just suck. I'm trying to remember that some times people have a lot more going on in their lives and unfortunately they often spew their crap on others.
It is a result of the world in which we live.
I'm convinced that if we discern between whether something is a personal attack or just a result of living in a fallen world we can often defuse potentially volatile situations.
This may come as a shocker to some readers, but I mess up... A lot!
But here's the thing. When I mess up I hope that people are forgiving and extend grace even when I don't deserve it. So if that's what I want from others, shouldn't I be willing to extend the same to others?
Instead of automatically assuming that the negative that is happening is a personal attack maybe I would be better off rolling with it. Because when I get angry it usually snowballs. Before I know it I am mad at the world and ready to kick some butt. But really what good ever comes from that? That's how wars get started.
So the weather didn't turn out as I planned and some of my friends couldn't make it. Was it really the end of the world? NO! We had reserved a shelter in the park so we were protected from the rain. And I still enjoyed time with the friends that were able to make it.
And now, when I go to the bank, I remove my hat prior to entering out of respect for those working in a potentially dangerous situation.
Maybe it's not about me. But maybe I can take it upon myself to be the reason someone else has a better day.
God bless y'all!
Monday, July 22, 2013
Being there
My wife and I went on vacation a couple of weeks ago. It was FANTASTIC! We had such a great time of relaxation. It was a week with family, food, and sunshine. I hadn't realized how much I was in need of a break from life. I highly recommend taking time to recharge and reconnect at least once a year (I would love to do it more often but that's probably not financially feasible.)
Prior to our get away, my wife and I had a discussion about someone else that was getting ready for a trip. That person had already begun to talk about how "Before you know it, it will be over and time to come home." I feel badly for people with that mindset.
When I was in college I was in one of my classes and my friend Andrea wrote a quote in my journal that has stuck with me ever since.
“Wherever you are, be all there!" - Jim Elliot
I seriously love that! Later I looked up Elliot's quote. It continues by saying, " Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.”
Through the years I have had some difficulty living that way. But God continually reminds me of this quote and it gives me the emotional boost that I need.
Recently I have had some disappointments in the area of career. Nothing major, just some disappointments as far as the direction that I think I should be headed. But I am learning to trust that God will direct my steps. That doesn't necessarily mean that things will go the way that I expect them to go. But, where I am flawed and not exactly the brightest, He is perfect and wise.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
When disappointment comes, I have been trying to remember these words and live by them.
On a personal level, this helps me to remember that- my job is just a job; my calling is to be a servant of God and to share the message of reconciliation with the lost world. In my book that's the greatest calling there is.
So when I live life like Andrea quoted, being "all there," I can't help but be filled with joy.
Seems like a pretty great way to live!
I encourage you,
“Wherever you are, be all there! Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.”
― Jim Elliot
God bless y'all!
Jimmy!
Prior to our get away, my wife and I had a discussion about someone else that was getting ready for a trip. That person had already begun to talk about how "Before you know it, it will be over and time to come home." I feel badly for people with that mindset.
When I was in college I was in one of my classes and my friend Andrea wrote a quote in my journal that has stuck with me ever since.
“Wherever you are, be all there!" - Jim Elliot
I seriously love that! Later I looked up Elliot's quote. It continues by saying, " Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.”
Through the years I have had some difficulty living that way. But God continually reminds me of this quote and it gives me the emotional boost that I need.
Recently I have had some disappointments in the area of career. Nothing major, just some disappointments as far as the direction that I think I should be headed. But I am learning to trust that God will direct my steps. That doesn't necessarily mean that things will go the way that I expect them to go. But, where I am flawed and not exactly the brightest, He is perfect and wise.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.
When disappointment comes, I have been trying to remember these words and live by them.
On a personal level, this helps me to remember that- my job is just a job; my calling is to be a servant of God and to share the message of reconciliation with the lost world. In my book that's the greatest calling there is.
So when I live life like Andrea quoted, being "all there," I can't help but be filled with joy.
Seems like a pretty great way to live!
I encourage you,
“Wherever you are, be all there! Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.”
― Jim Elliot
God bless y'all!
Jimmy!
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