"Many people saw the miraculous things he (Jesus) was doing and believed in him. But Jesus would not entrust himself to them for he knew all men."
Why do we try to "hide" from God? Don't we understand he knows us in the truest sense of the word. I Samual 16:7 says "Man looks on the outward appearance but God sees into the heart." I never read that without getting chills down my spine - he sees right into my heart, my motives, my thoughts....and he loves me, still.
Come to God with all your truth, the good, bad and ugly! He KNOWS you and because he does, he can cut right through that facad or mask you often wear and get down to business! See this as a good thing and embrace his desire to forgive, guide. lead and direct your footsteps. He created you and has a purpose for your life so ask him what it is and wait expectantly for him to reveal it.
Don't hide from God. He wants you to come into the light and confess those dark places he already knows about so he can heal and restore you.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Monday
What Are You Seeking?
Web friends! Grab your favorite cup of coffee and let's chat for a few. I have something exciting I want to share with you and it begins with a question.
What are you seeking? I mean beyond your second cup of coffee!:-p
In my quiet time, this morning, I was reading in John chapter 1 and this phrase struck me in verse 38...Jesus looked at them (the disciples) and said, "What are you seeking?" One version says, "What do you want?"
I prayed for God to speak to my heart and change my life with the passage I was about to read (as is my custom when I get ready to read my Bible). I consider it an opportunity to have a real encounter with the Lord of the universe so I open his Word with expectation and he always honors my request to know more of him and for the Holy Spirit to grow me in some area of my life. If you aren't already practicing this, I encourage you to try it! I'm convinced you'll be glad you did!
So....what are you seeking? How do you answer that question? Let's begin with the word "seeking." You know I'm a word geek! :-)
Seek:
To try to locate or discover; search for.
To endeavor to obtain or reach
To go to or toward:
In other words, was Jesus asking, "What are you trying to locate or discover in your life? What are you searching for? What is it that you are endeavoring to reach or obtain? What are you going toward?
How do we know the answer to this question? I believe that the key is in this definition. Would the people who see you most often and know you best, family, close friends, co-workers, guess what you are seeking, what you are trying to obtain or reach? Can they see what you "go toward?" It seems logical that the things we are seeking most come to light based on what we are doing. If I could stand back and observe my habits, what kind of "seeking" would they reveal? How do I spend my time, my resources, my talents?
If I'm doing as Jesus instructed, "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness...." then I think I'm going to have some skin in the game, don't you? What is showing up as the affection(s)of my heart? What do I spend my time away from work doing? What kinds of things do I talk about and how do I talk? Does that depend on who I'm talking with? What do I enjoy for entertainment? Where do my thoughts wander when I have a few free moments? Do I pray as I go through my day? None of us is perfect in any of these areas! But what characterizes me? What is the pattern of my day to day? Good thoughts to consider on a beautiful day!
I pray our God be gracious to each of us and lead us into right seeking!
Still Climbing,
Cher
What are you seeking? I mean beyond your second cup of coffee!:-p
In my quiet time, this morning, I was reading in John chapter 1 and this phrase struck me in verse 38...Jesus looked at them (the disciples) and said, "What are you seeking?" One version says, "What do you want?"
I prayed for God to speak to my heart and change my life with the passage I was about to read (as is my custom when I get ready to read my Bible). I consider it an opportunity to have a real encounter with the Lord of the universe so I open his Word with expectation and he always honors my request to know more of him and for the Holy Spirit to grow me in some area of my life. If you aren't already practicing this, I encourage you to try it! I'm convinced you'll be glad you did!
So....what are you seeking? How do you answer that question? Let's begin with the word "seeking." You know I'm a word geek! :-)
Seek:
To try to locate or discover; search for.
To endeavor to obtain or reach
To go to or toward:
In other words, was Jesus asking, "What are you trying to locate or discover in your life? What are you searching for? What is it that you are endeavoring to reach or obtain? What are you going toward?
How do we know the answer to this question? I believe that the key is in this definition. Would the people who see you most often and know you best, family, close friends, co-workers, guess what you are seeking, what you are trying to obtain or reach? Can they see what you "go toward?" It seems logical that the things we are seeking most come to light based on what we are doing. If I could stand back and observe my habits, what kind of "seeking" would they reveal? How do I spend my time, my resources, my talents?
If I'm doing as Jesus instructed, "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness...." then I think I'm going to have some skin in the game, don't you? What is showing up as the affection(s)of my heart? What do I spend my time away from work doing? What kinds of things do I talk about and how do I talk? Does that depend on who I'm talking with? What do I enjoy for entertainment? Where do my thoughts wander when I have a few free moments? Do I pray as I go through my day? None of us is perfect in any of these areas! But what characterizes me? What is the pattern of my day to day? Good thoughts to consider on a beautiful day!
I pray our God be gracious to each of us and lead us into right seeking!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Authenticity Accompanied By Humility
My mom gave me some great advice some time ago (she gives a lot of great advice!) that stuck with me. She said "Always be authentic, regardless of what other people do because that is the only way to feel good about "you," and to maintain your self respect.
Let's look at some synonyms for the word authentic:
bona fide, genuine, real, true, undoubted, unquestionable. These adjectives mean not counterfeit or copied
The antonym for authentic is counterfeit.
I've seen this trait in my mom, throughout my life...and my dad, as well. My dad passed away 6 years ago, suddenly, from Leukemia and, at his funeral, the minister quoted a Bible verse that spoke volumes about him. "Though being dead, yet he speaks." The people at my dad's funeral all said the same things to us over and over, again, with a little variation... Friends, co-workers, neighbors..."Joe was the real deal. He was genuine, always the same, regardless of who was around. You knew, if Joe told you something, you could count on it as the truth and if he ever felt he had to compromise his values to do something, he wouldn't do it and would make it known, but in a humble way..." I want to be more like my dad was!
In our quest to be authentic, we need to take care to remain humble. When we are confronted with a situation that is offensive to what we believe is right or when asked a difficult question that makes it hard to answer, truthfully, we need to keep that humility as our close companion. But be authentic, we must. If we stand for nothing, as the saying goes, we will fall for anything. There are times that the only honorable thing to do is to let it be known that this isn't something I participate in or that I would appreciate it if you didn't share those types of emails with me...or I really don't want to be involved in talking about so and so. In doing this, we also gain the respect and confidence of our family and friends. My brother and I both had such confidence in the character, honesty and genuineness of our dad. That is a treasure worth far more than gold, friends! We aren't talking perfection - but authenticity! We saw his faults but so did he, which made them far more forgiveable!
There is also the authenticity that is needed when we are made to feel as though something we are doing is wrong and we, in the honesty of our hearts before God and with his Word as our confirmation, don't believe it is. In this, there are times to share our conviction and times when we simply choose to live, quietly and confidently, in the liberty that Jesus gave us, but not with an "in your face" mentality. Our first response is to consider what the loving thing is to do with the liberties we are afforded. It may mean modification of certain liberties in the presence of some individuals, not becasue we are being hypocritical but because God tells us that is a very serious offense to cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. (Romans 14:21, I Cor. 8:13, Luke 17:2) Love must always be the guiding factor. If we are asked, however, how we feel about a particular thing, our answer must be honest, tempered with a humble spirit. Remember, "A soft answer turns away wrath but harsh words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
There is yet another need for genuineness and that is speaking the truth with those we love and have relationships with. If we are only "yes" partners and friends, how are we genuine? How will we grow? Sometimes it isn't comfortable to be genuine. It is much easier to be a chameleon and change with the person or group we are with or not to speak a difficult truth in the face of a confrontational situation, but do we accomplish the greater good of showing the love of God this way? Ephesians 4:1-2 begs this of the believer: “…to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” After reading this part of the passage in Ephesians, only then are we ready for the verse later in the chapter,which tells us to "speak the truth in love." Speaking truth without love will lead to resentment and closed ears. Remember, in your delivery, God knows everything about YOU and yet he loves you and is gentle with you, when teaching you truths about yourself and his Word.
If we are people pleasers or are letting our pride rule, we will be tempted to forego genuineness in situations we really don't agree with but I'll leave you with this thought. Don't you have more respect for those who we stand for the true values they hold in their hearts, rather than just going along with status quo? There are millions of people who just go with the flow. When someone is genuine and humble in standing for what is right, others will take notice.
Let's ask God to give us the grace to be authentic in all of our relationships and to have humble hearts as we walk in the authenticity of who we are as Christians and as individuals.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Let's look at some synonyms for the word authentic:
bona fide, genuine, real, true, undoubted, unquestionable. These adjectives mean not counterfeit or copied
The antonym for authentic is counterfeit.
I've seen this trait in my mom, throughout my life...and my dad, as well. My dad passed away 6 years ago, suddenly, from Leukemia and, at his funeral, the minister quoted a Bible verse that spoke volumes about him. "Though being dead, yet he speaks." The people at my dad's funeral all said the same things to us over and over, again, with a little variation... Friends, co-workers, neighbors..."Joe was the real deal. He was genuine, always the same, regardless of who was around. You knew, if Joe told you something, you could count on it as the truth and if he ever felt he had to compromise his values to do something, he wouldn't do it and would make it known, but in a humble way..." I want to be more like my dad was!
In our quest to be authentic, we need to take care to remain humble. When we are confronted with a situation that is offensive to what we believe is right or when asked a difficult question that makes it hard to answer, truthfully, we need to keep that humility as our close companion. But be authentic, we must. If we stand for nothing, as the saying goes, we will fall for anything. There are times that the only honorable thing to do is to let it be known that this isn't something I participate in or that I would appreciate it if you didn't share those types of emails with me...or I really don't want to be involved in talking about so and so. In doing this, we also gain the respect and confidence of our family and friends. My brother and I both had such confidence in the character, honesty and genuineness of our dad. That is a treasure worth far more than gold, friends! We aren't talking perfection - but authenticity! We saw his faults but so did he, which made them far more forgiveable!
There is also the authenticity that is needed when we are made to feel as though something we are doing is wrong and we, in the honesty of our hearts before God and with his Word as our confirmation, don't believe it is. In this, there are times to share our conviction and times when we simply choose to live, quietly and confidently, in the liberty that Jesus gave us, but not with an "in your face" mentality. Our first response is to consider what the loving thing is to do with the liberties we are afforded. It may mean modification of certain liberties in the presence of some individuals, not becasue we are being hypocritical but because God tells us that is a very serious offense to cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. (Romans 14:21, I Cor. 8:13, Luke 17:2) Love must always be the guiding factor. If we are asked, however, how we feel about a particular thing, our answer must be honest, tempered with a humble spirit. Remember, "A soft answer turns away wrath but harsh words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
There is yet another need for genuineness and that is speaking the truth with those we love and have relationships with. If we are only "yes" partners and friends, how are we genuine? How will we grow? Sometimes it isn't comfortable to be genuine. It is much easier to be a chameleon and change with the person or group we are with or not to speak a difficult truth in the face of a confrontational situation, but do we accomplish the greater good of showing the love of God this way? Ephesians 4:1-2 begs this of the believer: “…to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” After reading this part of the passage in Ephesians, only then are we ready for the verse later in the chapter,which tells us to "speak the truth in love." Speaking truth without love will lead to resentment and closed ears. Remember, in your delivery, God knows everything about YOU and yet he loves you and is gentle with you, when teaching you truths about yourself and his Word.
If we are people pleasers or are letting our pride rule, we will be tempted to forego genuineness in situations we really don't agree with but I'll leave you with this thought. Don't you have more respect for those who we stand for the true values they hold in their hearts, rather than just going along with status quo? There are millions of people who just go with the flow. When someone is genuine and humble in standing for what is right, others will take notice.
Let's ask God to give us the grace to be authentic in all of our relationships and to have humble hearts as we walk in the authenticity of who we are as Christians and as individuals.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Thursday
"For The Despondent, Every Day Bings Trouble. For The Happy Heart, Life Is A Continual Feast."
Job said, "Man is born to trouble as the sparks from a flame fly upward." Guess Job could say that, huh? I've heard it said, you are either in a time of trouble or one is around the corner! Not a very optimistic view! And YET, what I want to leave here today is that life is good and God is even "gooder!"
As we head into a long weekend, lets remember to count our blessings. My thought is a simple and overused one but I hope it gives you cause for pause..."Don't worry, be happy!" A positive approach to life serves us well, especially in difficult times. Heartache will happen and pain is inevitable in this life but, if we keep our focus on having thankful hearts, serving him and each other and trusting that God is as near as our breath and able to give us grace for whatever each new day brings, we can be victorious. :-D
My love and prayers for my webfriends and have a wonderful weekend. Remember, in all you do, BE PRESENT!
Still Climbing,
Cher
As we head into a long weekend, lets remember to count our blessings. My thought is a simple and overused one but I hope it gives you cause for pause..."Don't worry, be happy!" A positive approach to life serves us well, especially in difficult times. Heartache will happen and pain is inevitable in this life but, if we keep our focus on having thankful hearts, serving him and each other and trusting that God is as near as our breath and able to give us grace for whatever each new day brings, we can be victorious. :-D
My love and prayers for my webfriends and have a wonderful weekend. Remember, in all you do, BE PRESENT!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Friday
A Conscience Void Of Offense
Girlfriends!!!
Warm hearted greetings! I have been ill this week and am trying to get back on my feet...have missed our coffee room chats! Pull up a chair and read with me a most inspiring and challenging thought from the book of Acts.
When defending himself to the Governor before his accusers, Paul made quite a statement. In Act 24, he begins by saying he is very happy to speak for himself and, in verse 16, he says, "And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men." Wow!
I read that and had to ask myself, do I practice this..."to always have my conscience void of offense...?" No, I'm afraid I do not. There are times that I am shamefully aware that I have either caused or am carrying some offense around, in my conscience, toward God or man. I know I've said something that needs to be repented of or I have done something that hurt someone, even if at times it is only God who is having to bear my offense. The remedy for this is summed up in one simple word and one from which we shy away; humility. If I can only humble myself, at the beginning and end of each day, and ask God to shine the searchlight of his all knowing and all loving eye into my heart, he will be faithful to reveal to me any offense that resides in my heart...or in the heart of someone else, as it relates to my choices. Ideally, we will begin to ask God as we walk through our day, particularly when facing a difficult situation, to keep us from offense. Sometimes it isn't that I have initiated conflict or caused the initial rift but could it be in my reaction? The Bible says that, as a Christian, I am an ambassador for Christ, and, therefore, a representative who has a higher calling than an eye for an eye mentality...
Let's pray for an open and humble heart that desires to always be without offense, either on our part or in causing it in someone else's heart. Most often, offense comes by our tongue, as we are told in the book of James, but we know it isn't really about taming our tongue, but rather asking God to change our hearts. If God shows us an offense, let's pray for grace to humble ourselves, quickly, and remove it from our conscience. Peace is the sweet reward! And....it doesn't depend on the response of the other party (unless it's God :-)and he is ready and willing to forgive! We can do what we know is right and leave the results with him. The Bible instructs as, "As much as it lies within YOU, live at peace with all men."
Have a wonderful weekend and if you are facing overwhelming circumstances in your life, right now, ask the Lord to keep you extra close to him and to give you grace that you can keep a conscience void of offense. I know I need more awareness and humility in my heart!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Warm hearted greetings! I have been ill this week and am trying to get back on my feet...have missed our coffee room chats! Pull up a chair and read with me a most inspiring and challenging thought from the book of Acts.
When defending himself to the Governor before his accusers, Paul made quite a statement. In Act 24, he begins by saying he is very happy to speak for himself and, in verse 16, he says, "And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men." Wow!
I read that and had to ask myself, do I practice this..."to always have my conscience void of offense...?" No, I'm afraid I do not. There are times that I am shamefully aware that I have either caused or am carrying some offense around, in my conscience, toward God or man. I know I've said something that needs to be repented of or I have done something that hurt someone, even if at times it is only God who is having to bear my offense. The remedy for this is summed up in one simple word and one from which we shy away; humility. If I can only humble myself, at the beginning and end of each day, and ask God to shine the searchlight of his all knowing and all loving eye into my heart, he will be faithful to reveal to me any offense that resides in my heart...or in the heart of someone else, as it relates to my choices. Ideally, we will begin to ask God as we walk through our day, particularly when facing a difficult situation, to keep us from offense. Sometimes it isn't that I have initiated conflict or caused the initial rift but could it be in my reaction? The Bible says that, as a Christian, I am an ambassador for Christ, and, therefore, a representative who has a higher calling than an eye for an eye mentality...
Let's pray for an open and humble heart that desires to always be without offense, either on our part or in causing it in someone else's heart. Most often, offense comes by our tongue, as we are told in the book of James, but we know it isn't really about taming our tongue, but rather asking God to change our hearts. If God shows us an offense, let's pray for grace to humble ourselves, quickly, and remove it from our conscience. Peace is the sweet reward! And....it doesn't depend on the response of the other party (unless it's God :-)and he is ready and willing to forgive! We can do what we know is right and leave the results with him. The Bible instructs as, "As much as it lies within YOU, live at peace with all men."
Have a wonderful weekend and if you are facing overwhelming circumstances in your life, right now, ask the Lord to keep you extra close to him and to give you grace that you can keep a conscience void of offense. I know I need more awareness and humility in my heart!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Thursday
Living your Life on Purpose!
Psalm 139
1 O LORD, you have searched me and known me! 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
13 For you formed my inward parts;
you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you,when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.
17How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Grab some coffee and sit with me for a few minutes. Come and soak up this great truth, revealed to us by your loving Father!? He has a plan and a specific purpose for your days...so if you are feeling overwhelmed and under-purposed, take heart!
There will always be those times when we feel life is just happening to us but we must not let this be a pattern in our lives! It can become a lifelong regret if we aren't diligent to guard against busyness without purposeful direction! It takes a conscientious awareness - a knowing where we are going, to lean in to our purpose.
If you haven't ever truly considered for what purpose you were created, or if it's a time of change in direction, it's a worthwhile exercise in getting your life on a targeted path and living in that most satisfying place! I promise, no matter who you are, YOU were created with an intent and purpose that only you can fulfill!
I've observed a sad reality for many people in that they live an entire lifetime just manuevering around whatever comes at them and that includes settling for relationships that aren't healthy and don't add value to their lives! Don't let that be you! Of course we are all guilty, at times, of letting life's busyness and the neediness of those closest to us, consume our focus and energy, and there are seasons when that IS our purpose, as we raise children, care for an elderly parent, etc. But when we are not living, responding and directing our daily thoughts and activities according to our discovered or revealed purpose, we can look up one day and find ourselves in deep remorse for the lost opportunity to live our lives on purpose. Wherever you are in life, commit to re-focus and move ahead with expectation!
I want to chat a little bit about how we can get on the purpose page and begin writing the story of the rest of our dash (the one between our birth and our death) in a way that accomplishes what we were designed to do and let's do that right now!
This will be brief, rather than comprehensive, but will get you started. Ask yourself this question? Who am I and how am I wired? What are my God-given gifts and talents (if you are not sure, ask those who know you best) and what do I really love to do? What makes me feel like my life is valid, meaningful and valuable to others? You are unique and created with purpose. Take the time to sit down and ask those questions and ask God to join you! He will begin to reveal his plan for you, likely only one step at a time. He's like that, you know? He wants us to trust and rely on him, to walk and converse with him...and he knows us! If he gave it all to us at once, we might not come back! It's all about relationship! :-D
Today, sit in a quiet place and take some notes, as thoughts come to you, in answer to the questions above. Be prayerful as you walk through it. OH! And take it from one who knows, don't overthink it all. It should flow naturally and freely. If it becomes too cumbersome, remember to simply do a brain dump of your own thinking and open your heart, mind and spirit to God's light and direction!
I believe in you and am praying for you.
Still Climbing,
Cher
1 O LORD, you have searched me and known me! 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
13 For you formed my inward parts;
you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you,when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.
17How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Grab some coffee and sit with me for a few minutes. Come and soak up this great truth, revealed to us by your loving Father!? He has a plan and a specific purpose for your days...so if you are feeling overwhelmed and under-purposed, take heart!
There will always be those times when we feel life is just happening to us but we must not let this be a pattern in our lives! It can become a lifelong regret if we aren't diligent to guard against busyness without purposeful direction! It takes a conscientious awareness - a knowing where we are going, to lean in to our purpose.
If you haven't ever truly considered for what purpose you were created, or if it's a time of change in direction, it's a worthwhile exercise in getting your life on a targeted path and living in that most satisfying place! I promise, no matter who you are, YOU were created with an intent and purpose that only you can fulfill!
I've observed a sad reality for many people in that they live an entire lifetime just manuevering around whatever comes at them and that includes settling for relationships that aren't healthy and don't add value to their lives! Don't let that be you! Of course we are all guilty, at times, of letting life's busyness and the neediness of those closest to us, consume our focus and energy, and there are seasons when that IS our purpose, as we raise children, care for an elderly parent, etc. But when we are not living, responding and directing our daily thoughts and activities according to our discovered or revealed purpose, we can look up one day and find ourselves in deep remorse for the lost opportunity to live our lives on purpose. Wherever you are in life, commit to re-focus and move ahead with expectation!
I want to chat a little bit about how we can get on the purpose page and begin writing the story of the rest of our dash (the one between our birth and our death) in a way that accomplishes what we were designed to do and let's do that right now!
This will be brief, rather than comprehensive, but will get you started. Ask yourself this question? Who am I and how am I wired? What are my God-given gifts and talents (if you are not sure, ask those who know you best) and what do I really love to do? What makes me feel like my life is valid, meaningful and valuable to others? You are unique and created with purpose. Take the time to sit down and ask those questions and ask God to join you! He will begin to reveal his plan for you, likely only one step at a time. He's like that, you know? He wants us to trust and rely on him, to walk and converse with him...and he knows us! If he gave it all to us at once, we might not come back! It's all about relationship! :-D
Today, sit in a quiet place and take some notes, as thoughts come to you, in answer to the questions above. Be prayerful as you walk through it. OH! And take it from one who knows, don't overthink it all. It should flow naturally and freely. If it becomes too cumbersome, remember to simply do a brain dump of your own thinking and open your heart, mind and spirit to God's light and direction!
I believe in you and am praying for you.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Wednesday
Excellence
Girlfriends!! Happy Monday! Never say "O no, it's Monday!" When you take that approach, you invite a less than excellent day and lose 24 hours from your week! Monday ROCKS! :)
Excellence = Distinction. It denotes doing, going and being above average. I don't know about you but I don't like words like normal, average, typical...I believe God gives to each of us special talents, gifts, and abilities so that we will utilize them in an excellent way. Don't confuse excellence with perfection, which only brings disappointment and frustration. As leading fitness expert Tony Horton says, "Do your best and forget the rest!"
Whatever our hands find to do, today, let's do it with excellence. Go the second mile. Do more than is expected...and as we journey along, let's take along a small bag with a great can-do-think-the-best-of-others attitude, a willingness to give up some personal comfort and time to encourage someone else and a prayer on our lips to recognize the opportunities we encounter to affect the world around us in word and deed!
May God be honored as we seek to practice excellence in his name, today.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Excellence = Distinction. It denotes doing, going and being above average. I don't know about you but I don't like words like normal, average, typical...I believe God gives to each of us special talents, gifts, and abilities so that we will utilize them in an excellent way. Don't confuse excellence with perfection, which only brings disappointment and frustration. As leading fitness expert Tony Horton says, "Do your best and forget the rest!"
Whatever our hands find to do, today, let's do it with excellence. Go the second mile. Do more than is expected...and as we journey along, let's take along a small bag with a great can-do-think-the-best-of-others attitude, a willingness to give up some personal comfort and time to encourage someone else and a prayer on our lips to recognize the opportunities we encounter to affect the world around us in word and deed!
May God be honored as we seek to practice excellence in his name, today.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Monday
The New Covenant
I'm convinced we so often miss the meaning of what happens under the "New Covenant" or "agreement" God offered to make with us when he ushered in this new era with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, very God himself.
Take some time and read Hebrews 8:6-12 for a fuller explanation of this new covenant. It's a fascinating study! For my intents and purposes here, today, I want to focus on God's words in verse 10, which say, "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel, after those days (the days of the Old Covenant), says the Lord: I will put My laws into their minds, and I will write them on their hearts,and I will be their God, and they will be My people."
It seems to me there is a common belief, today, that God did away with his commandments in the new covenant, that he sent his only son to die a horrible, cruel and merciless death on a cross he didn't deserve...for us...to pay for our sins and give us access to eternal life in his glorious heaven and yet, he did this so basically, we would be free from the laws or "rules and regulations" of the Old Covenant and it would be easier to be saved. Let's examine this thought a little closer and see if it's valid.
God says he has made a better covenenat (verse 6) because, in the Old Covenant, people were powerless to keep the commandments of God, without the inner help of the Holy Spirit and, only a few had a personal and intimate relationship with him. They had to make continual sacrifices to atone for their sins but, in fact, the Bible states that no bull or goat can take the sins of a person away. This system was to point to the coming Messiah who would make the ultimate and final sacrifice for the sins of mankind. We refer to this as the gospel or "The Good News" and indeed it is! The BEST news we could ever hope for!
Take note that God did not do away with the law as so many think. Instead of writing his laws on stone tablets, he made a covenant to write his laws on our hearts, when we agree to be his people, or give our lives to him. He goes on to say that he will be our God and we will be his people. In reading this text, it seems obvious that God wants something in this deal, too, and he does! He said it straight up! To be ours and for us to be his! What an awesome thought!
A casual reading of the teachings of Jesus Christ in Matthew 5, commonly referred to as the Sermon on the Mount, is really quite clear.
In Matt. 5:17, Jesus spoke these words.
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19 Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoa! EXCEEDS the righteousness of the religious leaders?? Who can be saved, then, the apostles asked. Let's see what he meant.
Incidentally, the 10 commandments are found in 3 places in the Old Testament, twice in Exodus. Ex. 20:2-17, Ex. 34:11-27 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21.
Whoever "relaxes" the commandments? Let's look a little further.
Concerning murder vs. anger:
Jesus said in Matthew 5:21, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother [1] will be liable to judgment; whoever insults [2] his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell [3] of fire.
So, Jesus gives an example of the Old Covenant fault line and the New Covenant fault line.
Let's continue, concerning morality...
Lust
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell."
Concerning divorce, retaliation for a wrong done to us and even swearing oaths, which he now calls us not to do but to let our honesty be such that all we need to do is let our yes be yes and our no be no. What Jesus continues to do in each of these life situations we all face, is go straight to the heart of the matter, rather than the legal aspect! I'm so glad we have a God like that! He doesn't want an army of robots but those who sincerely follow him from the heart.
Don't let this frighten you, friends! God loves us and wants us to succeed in being men and women of character and lives that are marked by a decided commitment to following hard after God. He has equipped us with the Holy Spirit to give us direction and power to obey his commandments. THAT is the crux of the New Covenant.
God wants us to follow him with sincere and honest hearts, not just an outward appearance of following some rules, if you will.
Jesus told the religious leaders of his day that they washed the "outside of the cup" but inside, they were full of dead men's bones! He wasn't interested in how it appeared they were living but that they would obey God's commandments from their hearts. I Pet 1:22..."love one another with sincere hearts, fervently."
My friends, God is interested in our hearts and, if our hearts are sincerely following after God, not with a form of godliness but in the power of the Holy Spirit and his ability to give us grace to walk with God, we will see transformation begin to take hold of our lives in an exciting new way!
One more thought - ENJOY the transformation! ENJOY God! Allow him first place, without fear of what that might mean! This Christian life is a life of joy, unspeakable and full of glory, not one that gives us long, pious faces! How God is trying to teach me this truth of having that joyful heart that draws and doesn't repel those whom we want so much to reach! It's an exciting time, when he is teaching and guiding us to experience more of him and his great love and to reveal in us the purpose he has for each one.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Take some time and read Hebrews 8:6-12 for a fuller explanation of this new covenant. It's a fascinating study! For my intents and purposes here, today, I want to focus on God's words in verse 10, which say, "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel, after those days (the days of the Old Covenant), says the Lord: I will put My laws into their minds, and I will write them on their hearts,and I will be their God, and they will be My people."
It seems to me there is a common belief, today, that God did away with his commandments in the new covenant, that he sent his only son to die a horrible, cruel and merciless death on a cross he didn't deserve...for us...to pay for our sins and give us access to eternal life in his glorious heaven and yet, he did this so basically, we would be free from the laws or "rules and regulations" of the Old Covenant and it would be easier to be saved. Let's examine this thought a little closer and see if it's valid.
God says he has made a better covenenat (verse 6) because, in the Old Covenant, people were powerless to keep the commandments of God, without the inner help of the Holy Spirit and, only a few had a personal and intimate relationship with him. They had to make continual sacrifices to atone for their sins but, in fact, the Bible states that no bull or goat can take the sins of a person away. This system was to point to the coming Messiah who would make the ultimate and final sacrifice for the sins of mankind. We refer to this as the gospel or "The Good News" and indeed it is! The BEST news we could ever hope for!
Take note that God did not do away with the law as so many think. Instead of writing his laws on stone tablets, he made a covenant to write his laws on our hearts, when we agree to be his people, or give our lives to him. He goes on to say that he will be our God and we will be his people. In reading this text, it seems obvious that God wants something in this deal, too, and he does! He said it straight up! To be ours and for us to be his! What an awesome thought!
A casual reading of the teachings of Jesus Christ in Matthew 5, commonly referred to as the Sermon on the Mount, is really quite clear.
In Matt. 5:17, Jesus spoke these words.
"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19 Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoa! EXCEEDS the righteousness of the religious leaders?? Who can be saved, then, the apostles asked. Let's see what he meant.
Incidentally, the 10 commandments are found in 3 places in the Old Testament, twice in Exodus. Ex. 20:2-17, Ex. 34:11-27 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21.
Whoever "relaxes" the commandments? Let's look a little further.
Concerning murder vs. anger:
Jesus said in Matthew 5:21, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother [1] will be liable to judgment; whoever insults [2] his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell [3] of fire.
So, Jesus gives an example of the Old Covenant fault line and the New Covenant fault line.
Let's continue, concerning morality...
Lust
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell."
Concerning divorce, retaliation for a wrong done to us and even swearing oaths, which he now calls us not to do but to let our honesty be such that all we need to do is let our yes be yes and our no be no. What Jesus continues to do in each of these life situations we all face, is go straight to the heart of the matter, rather than the legal aspect! I'm so glad we have a God like that! He doesn't want an army of robots but those who sincerely follow him from the heart.
Don't let this frighten you, friends! God loves us and wants us to succeed in being men and women of character and lives that are marked by a decided commitment to following hard after God. He has equipped us with the Holy Spirit to give us direction and power to obey his commandments. THAT is the crux of the New Covenant.
God wants us to follow him with sincere and honest hearts, not just an outward appearance of following some rules, if you will.
Jesus told the religious leaders of his day that they washed the "outside of the cup" but inside, they were full of dead men's bones! He wasn't interested in how it appeared they were living but that they would obey God's commandments from their hearts. I Pet 1:22..."love one another with sincere hearts, fervently."
My friends, God is interested in our hearts and, if our hearts are sincerely following after God, not with a form of godliness but in the power of the Holy Spirit and his ability to give us grace to walk with God, we will see transformation begin to take hold of our lives in an exciting new way!
One more thought - ENJOY the transformation! ENJOY God! Allow him first place, without fear of what that might mean! This Christian life is a life of joy, unspeakable and full of glory, not one that gives us long, pious faces! How God is trying to teach me this truth of having that joyful heart that draws and doesn't repel those whom we want so much to reach! It's an exciting time, when he is teaching and guiding us to experience more of him and his great love and to reveal in us the purpose he has for each one.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Friday
Authenticity Accompanied By Humility
My mom gave me some grate advice some time ago (she gives a lot of great advice!) that stuck with me. She said "Always be authentic, regardless of what other people do because that is the only way to feel good about "you," and to maintain your self respect.
Let's look at some synonyms for the word authentic:
bona fide, genuine, real, true, undoubted, unquestionable. These adjectives mean not counterfeit or copied
The antonym for authentic is counterfeit.
I've seen this trait in my mom, throughout my life...and my dad, as well. My dad passed away 6 years ago, suddenly, from Leukemia and, at his funeral, the minister quoted a Bible verse that spoke volumes about him. "Though being dead, yet he speaks." The people at my dad's funeral all said the same things to us over and over, again, with a little variation... Friends, co-workers, neighbors..."Joe was the real deal. He was genuine, always the same, regardless of who was around. You knew, if Joe told you something, you could count on it as the truth and if he ever felt he had to compromise his values to do something, he wouldn't do it and would make it known, but in a humble way..." I want to be more like my dad was!
In our quest to be authentic, we need to take care to remain humble. When we are confronted with a situation that is offensive to what we believe is right or when asked a difficult question that makes it hard to answer, truthfully, we need to keep that humility as our close companion. But be authentic, we must. If we stand for nothing, as the saying goes, we will fall for anything. There are times that the only honorable thing to do is to let it be known that this isn't something I participate in or that I would appreciate it if you didn't share those types of emails with me...or I really don't want to be involved in talking about so and so. In doing this, we also gain the respect and confidence of our family and friends. My brother and I both had such confidence in the character, honesty and genuineness of our dad. That is a treasure worth far more than gold, friends! We aren't talking perfection - but authenticity! We saw his faults but so did he, which made them far more forgiveable!
There is also the authenticity that is needed when we are made to feel as though something we are doing is wrong and we, in the honesty of our hearts before God and with his Word as our confirmation, don't believe it is. In this, there are times to share our conviction and times when we simply choose to live, quietly and confidently, in the liberty that Jesus gave us, but not with an "in your face" mentality. Our first response is to consider what the loving thing is to do with the liberties we are afforded. It may mean modification of certain liberties in the presence of some individuals, not becasue we are being hypocritical but because God tells us that is a very serious offense to cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. (Romans 14:21, I Cor. 8:13, Luke 17:2) Love must always be the guiding factor. If we are asked, however, how we feel about a particular thing, our answer must be honest, tempered with a humble spirit. Remember, "A soft answer turns away wrath but harsh words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
there is yet another need for genuineness and that is speaking the truth with those we love and have relationships with. If we are only "yes" partners and friends, how are we genuine? How will we grow? Sometimes it isn't comfortable to be genuine. It is much easier to be a chameleon and change with the person or group we are with or not to speak a difficult truth in the face of a confrontational situation, but do we accomplish the greater good of showing the love of God this way? Ephesians 4:1-2 begs this of the believer: “…to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” After reading this part of the passage in Ephesians, only then are we ready for the verse later in the chapter,which tells us to "speak the truth in love." Speaking truth without love will lead to resentment and closed ears.
If we are people pleasers or are letting our pride rule, we will be tempted to forego genuineness in situations we really don't agree with but I'll leave you with this thought. Don't we know that people respect us more (and we them) when we stand for the true values we hold in our hearts, rather than just going along? There are millions of people who just go with the flow. When someone is genuine and humble in standing for what is right, others will take notice.
Let's ask God to give us the grace to be authentic in all of our relationships and to have humble hearts as we walk in the authenticity of who we are as Christians and as individuals.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Let's look at some synonyms for the word authentic:
bona fide, genuine, real, true, undoubted, unquestionable. These adjectives mean not counterfeit or copied
The antonym for authentic is counterfeit.
I've seen this trait in my mom, throughout my life...and my dad, as well. My dad passed away 6 years ago, suddenly, from Leukemia and, at his funeral, the minister quoted a Bible verse that spoke volumes about him. "Though being dead, yet he speaks." The people at my dad's funeral all said the same things to us over and over, again, with a little variation... Friends, co-workers, neighbors..."Joe was the real deal. He was genuine, always the same, regardless of who was around. You knew, if Joe told you something, you could count on it as the truth and if he ever felt he had to compromise his values to do something, he wouldn't do it and would make it known, but in a humble way..." I want to be more like my dad was!
In our quest to be authentic, we need to take care to remain humble. When we are confronted with a situation that is offensive to what we believe is right or when asked a difficult question that makes it hard to answer, truthfully, we need to keep that humility as our close companion. But be authentic, we must. If we stand for nothing, as the saying goes, we will fall for anything. There are times that the only honorable thing to do is to let it be known that this isn't something I participate in or that I would appreciate it if you didn't share those types of emails with me...or I really don't want to be involved in talking about so and so. In doing this, we also gain the respect and confidence of our family and friends. My brother and I both had such confidence in the character, honesty and genuineness of our dad. That is a treasure worth far more than gold, friends! We aren't talking perfection - but authenticity! We saw his faults but so did he, which made them far more forgiveable!
There is also the authenticity that is needed when we are made to feel as though something we are doing is wrong and we, in the honesty of our hearts before God and with his Word as our confirmation, don't believe it is. In this, there are times to share our conviction and times when we simply choose to live, quietly and confidently, in the liberty that Jesus gave us, but not with an "in your face" mentality. Our first response is to consider what the loving thing is to do with the liberties we are afforded. It may mean modification of certain liberties in the presence of some individuals, not becasue we are being hypocritical but because God tells us that is a very serious offense to cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. (Romans 14:21, I Cor. 8:13, Luke 17:2) Love must always be the guiding factor. If we are asked, however, how we feel about a particular thing, our answer must be honest, tempered with a humble spirit. Remember, "A soft answer turns away wrath but harsh words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)
there is yet another need for genuineness and that is speaking the truth with those we love and have relationships with. If we are only "yes" partners and friends, how are we genuine? How will we grow? Sometimes it isn't comfortable to be genuine. It is much easier to be a chameleon and change with the person or group we are with or not to speak a difficult truth in the face of a confrontational situation, but do we accomplish the greater good of showing the love of God this way? Ephesians 4:1-2 begs this of the believer: “…to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” After reading this part of the passage in Ephesians, only then are we ready for the verse later in the chapter,which tells us to "speak the truth in love." Speaking truth without love will lead to resentment and closed ears.
If we are people pleasers or are letting our pride rule, we will be tempted to forego genuineness in situations we really don't agree with but I'll leave you with this thought. Don't we know that people respect us more (and we them) when we stand for the true values we hold in our hearts, rather than just going along? There are millions of people who just go with the flow. When someone is genuine and humble in standing for what is right, others will take notice.
Let's ask God to give us the grace to be authentic in all of our relationships and to have humble hearts as we walk in the authenticity of who we are as Christians and as individuals.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Tuesday
"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." Romans 12:15
Greetings, girlfriends! We attended my grandmother's funeral this week (she was 101!) My middle son got a great new job on the same day she passed. I was reminded, again, of this blog I had written back in 2010. I thought it would be appropriate to re-post it now. -
I found out some very sad news, late last week. A former boss of mine, and his wife, both attorneys for the law firm where I previously worked, were vacationing together, in Italy, when his wife became very ill. She was taken to the hospital where, several hours later, the doctors appeared in the waiting room, to tell her husband she had an aneurism and there was nothing they could do...they had lost her. She was 51 years young, beautiful, smart, full of life and a devoted wife and mother. I can't even imagine the shock, pain and lonliness her husband must have felt. One of my closest friends has worked for them for 10 years and was devastated, of course. My heart cried out to God, along with everyone else's, for comfort and meaning in such a seemingly cruel act of fate.
Right on the heels of this news, I received a call from another close friend of mine, who lives in the same town, telling me of her proposal from her boyfriend! :-)It was contagious to share in her joy and excitement, as he had made it very special, including a scavenger hunt and had done a great deal of preparation!
I was reminded of the "big" events of life and how they often play out. There is the excitement of a new life coming into the world and the sadness of parting with our loved ones in death. There is the joy and happiness of a wedding, as a couple begin their lives together, with bright hope and plans for their future, while nearby, there is the devastation of a family ripped apart by divorce and the pain and suffering that goes with their dreams of forever.
I recall when my dad suddenly passed away, almost 8 years ago, and how I was shocked at how the world could go on, laughing and playing, as though my world had not just been demolished! It seemed cruel and unfair, at the time, for others to be happy and enjoying themselves. Of course, this was the viewpoint of a grieving daughter. I know many of you have experienced what I'm talking about in some scenario in your life.
The Bible tells us to be happy with those who are happy and to cry with those who cry. In this we can see that our Father knows the hurts and the happiness that are all a part of our journey from life to death and into eternity. The happy occasions we so enjoy, new babies, weddings, holidays, graduations and so on are a glimpse of heaven where all will be good and right. The terrible ache for the parent who has lost a child or the widow who has been left alone to grieve her longtime companion, the ongoing pain of divorce and brokenness of a family, the loss of a job, the terminal illness,...In it all, God calls us to be involved, as Christians who are here to express his love and goodness, to be the light of God's love into the hearts of their fellow man.
Who do you know, today, who is rejoicing in a happy place? Be happy with them. Let them know it. Sometimes, when a friend, co-worker or, even a family member, is blessed finanically, relationally, or in some other way while we are in a hurting place, we find it hard to be happy with them, don't we? And yet, we miss out on SO much when we fail to share in the happiness of others!
Do you know someone who is hurting? Someone battling with a difficult or dissolving marriage, a handicapped child, the one who faces chemotherapy, not knowing if they will survive, the loss of a job or financial ruin...we could go on. Cry with them. Pray for them. Sometimes that is all we can do. Allow your heart to love, to care, to reach out beyond your own circumstances whether they are good or bad and find the truth in Jesus' words, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35
Still Climbing,
Cher
Still Climbing,
Cher
I found out some very sad news, late last week. A former boss of mine, and his wife, both attorneys for the law firm where I previously worked, were vacationing together, in Italy, when his wife became very ill. She was taken to the hospital where, several hours later, the doctors appeared in the waiting room, to tell her husband she had an aneurism and there was nothing they could do...they had lost her. She was 51 years young, beautiful, smart, full of life and a devoted wife and mother. I can't even imagine the shock, pain and lonliness her husband must have felt. One of my closest friends has worked for them for 10 years and was devastated, of course. My heart cried out to God, along with everyone else's, for comfort and meaning in such a seemingly cruel act of fate.
Right on the heels of this news, I received a call from another close friend of mine, who lives in the same town, telling me of her proposal from her boyfriend! :-)It was contagious to share in her joy and excitement, as he had made it very special, including a scavenger hunt and had done a great deal of preparation!
I was reminded of the "big" events of life and how they often play out. There is the excitement of a new life coming into the world and the sadness of parting with our loved ones in death. There is the joy and happiness of a wedding, as a couple begin their lives together, with bright hope and plans for their future, while nearby, there is the devastation of a family ripped apart by divorce and the pain and suffering that goes with their dreams of forever.
I recall when my dad suddenly passed away, almost 8 years ago, and how I was shocked at how the world could go on, laughing and playing, as though my world had not just been demolished! It seemed cruel and unfair, at the time, for others to be happy and enjoying themselves. Of course, this was the viewpoint of a grieving daughter. I know many of you have experienced what I'm talking about in some scenario in your life.
The Bible tells us to be happy with those who are happy and to cry with those who cry. In this we can see that our Father knows the hurts and the happiness that are all a part of our journey from life to death and into eternity. The happy occasions we so enjoy, new babies, weddings, holidays, graduations and so on are a glimpse of heaven where all will be good and right. The terrible ache for the parent who has lost a child or the widow who has been left alone to grieve her longtime companion, the ongoing pain of divorce and brokenness of a family, the loss of a job, the terminal illness,...In it all, God calls us to be involved, as Christians who are here to express his love and goodness, to be the light of God's love into the hearts of their fellow man.
Who do you know, today, who is rejoicing in a happy place? Be happy with them. Let them know it. Sometimes, when a friend, co-worker or, even a family member, is blessed finanically, relationally, or in some other way while we are in a hurting place, we find it hard to be happy with them, don't we? And yet, we miss out on SO much when we fail to share in the happiness of others!
Do you know someone who is hurting? Someone battling with a difficult or dissolving marriage, a handicapped child, the one who faces chemotherapy, not knowing if they will survive, the loss of a job or financial ruin...we could go on. Cry with them. Pray for them. Sometimes that is all we can do. Allow your heart to love, to care, to reach out beyond your own circumstances whether they are good or bad and find the truth in Jesus' words, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35
Still Climbing,
Cher
Still Climbing,
Cher
"Do everything without complaining or arguing" Philippians 2:14
Ouch! Are you serious, Paul?! Do EVERYTHING without complaining or arguing? The rest of the passage explains why...so that we will shine as God's children in a dark world. The implication is that as we do "everything" without complaining or arguing - King James version says "without murmuring," we will stand out. Why? Perhaps because complaining and arguing is the norm and the absence of it will cause people to take notice!
I've done my fair share of complaining AND arguing! I'm not alone. I have noticed more, of late, that we are such an impatient people, especially here in the US. We are so accustomed to having everything at our fingertips, we become agitated when it takes a little longer for our waiter to serve our meal, our light to turn green, or when someone interrupts our day. We have things to DO! I faciliate teh new hire orientations for our office and, being a global company, I have the privilege of meeting and working with people from all over the world. I have to say I see a difference in some that come from outside the US in this area. They are not as easily agitated, on average, as those of us who call our native country the wonderful USA. We want it fast - right now! (:
That little member of our bodies, the tongue, is once again shown to have the potential for much good or all that is destructive and I am encouraged by the wisdome of God's Word, today, to first of all work on my "inside" which will, for the most part, produce what comes out my mouth...and because I am oh so human and many thoughts pass through my mind in a day, to be sure my filter is firmly in place between my brain and my mouth! First, think good thoughts and then speak good things!
Still Climbing,
Cher
I've done my fair share of complaining AND arguing! I'm not alone. I have noticed more, of late, that we are such an impatient people, especially here in the US. We are so accustomed to having everything at our fingertips, we become agitated when it takes a little longer for our waiter to serve our meal, our light to turn green, or when someone interrupts our day. We have things to DO! I faciliate teh new hire orientations for our office and, being a global company, I have the privilege of meeting and working with people from all over the world. I have to say I see a difference in some that come from outside the US in this area. They are not as easily agitated, on average, as those of us who call our native country the wonderful USA. We want it fast - right now! (:
That little member of our bodies, the tongue, is once again shown to have the potential for much good or all that is destructive and I am encouraged by the wisdome of God's Word, today, to first of all work on my "inside" which will, for the most part, produce what comes out my mouth...and because I am oh so human and many thoughts pass through my mind in a day, to be sure my filter is firmly in place between my brain and my mouth! First, think good thoughts and then speak good things!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Wednesday
Let's Talk Fitness
1, 2, 3, 4....1, 2, 3, 4! Fall in line, girlfriends, and let's get serious about fitness! Well, not too serious - a fit life is a fun life because, when you look and feel your best, you will be excired about everything!
Put on some comfortable, loose clothing, grab your water bottle, some dumbells and a Fit4Life attitude and let's move! :-D
Clean out your kitchen if at all possible and replace sugary snacks with fresh, delicious fruit of all kinds, some whole, natural almonds, cashews or pecans (no salt and not roasted). Replace carb-loaded cereals with high fiber, low sugar ones, such as GoLean, Fiber One or All Bran. Trade your whole milk for skim - if you can't make the leap, start with 2% and work your way down. Drink lots of water!
Have white fish on hand and chicken breasts to grill or bake. Cut back on bread sources of all kinds but especially, make a switch from white to wheat or whole grain. I haven't had any bread in almost 3 months and I don't miss it! I can tell such a difference! For your carbs, try 1/2 cup of brown rice, a small sweet potato or a red potato. These are good carbs to fuel your body with! Remember a serving of meat is 3 oz. (the size of your palm) and a seving of veggies is 1/2 cup.
Try Fage 0%fat Greek yogurt - add some sweetener or honey and berries. Great snack! If you can't find this brand, just find a low calorie yogurt, hopefully with fiber. Should be from 50-100 calories.
For those of you just starting out, walking is a great cardio exercise as long as you don't stroll. Move those legs! You should barely be able to carry on a conversation if you are working hard enough. Of course, if you are brand new, just begin! Try to begin with 1 mile and work up to 3-5.
Cardio isn't sufficient for a lean, toned and healthy body. You also need resistance training with a band or weights. Do this 3 times a week and mix your walks in at least 3 times, as well, for optimal results!
The programs I have and do use are the following:
From Beachbody.com for those who are athletic and accustomed to challenging workouts:
P90X
Chalean Extreme
Insanity
Hip-hop abs
For anyone:
Billy Blanks Tae-bo series - all very good!
e-diets work out dvd
Pilates
http://www.beachbody.com/jump.do?itemType=HOME_PAGE
http://healthnews.ediets.com/fitness-exercise/best-body-boot-camp.html
http://www.billyblanks.com/
http://www.winsorslim.com/?gcid=S12579x082&keyword=mari%20winsor%20pilates_2
***I am working on transferring this blog to a website where I can do much more with my fitness and story pages. Please be patient while I am in transition. I'm excited!
Make it a Fit4Life day!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Put on some comfortable, loose clothing, grab your water bottle, some dumbells and a Fit4Life attitude and let's move! :-D
Clean out your kitchen if at all possible and replace sugary snacks with fresh, delicious fruit of all kinds, some whole, natural almonds, cashews or pecans (no salt and not roasted). Replace carb-loaded cereals with high fiber, low sugar ones, such as GoLean, Fiber One or All Bran. Trade your whole milk for skim - if you can't make the leap, start with 2% and work your way down. Drink lots of water!
Have white fish on hand and chicken breasts to grill or bake. Cut back on bread sources of all kinds but especially, make a switch from white to wheat or whole grain. I haven't had any bread in almost 3 months and I don't miss it! I can tell such a difference! For your carbs, try 1/2 cup of brown rice, a small sweet potato or a red potato. These are good carbs to fuel your body with! Remember a serving of meat is 3 oz. (the size of your palm) and a seving of veggies is 1/2 cup.
Try Fage 0%fat Greek yogurt - add some sweetener or honey and berries. Great snack! If you can't find this brand, just find a low calorie yogurt, hopefully with fiber. Should be from 50-100 calories.
For those of you just starting out, walking is a great cardio exercise as long as you don't stroll. Move those legs! You should barely be able to carry on a conversation if you are working hard enough. Of course, if you are brand new, just begin! Try to begin with 1 mile and work up to 3-5.
Cardio isn't sufficient for a lean, toned and healthy body. You also need resistance training with a band or weights. Do this 3 times a week and mix your walks in at least 3 times, as well, for optimal results!
The programs I have and do use are the following:
From Beachbody.com for those who are athletic and accustomed to challenging workouts:
P90X
Chalean Extreme
Insanity
Hip-hop abs
For anyone:
Billy Blanks Tae-bo series - all very good!
e-diets work out dvd
Pilates
http://www.beachbody.com/jump.do?itemType=HOME_PAGE
http://healthnews.ediets.com/fitness-exercise/best-body-boot-camp.html
http://www.billyblanks.com/
http://www.winsorslim.com/?gcid=S12579x082&keyword=mari%20winsor%20pilates_2
***I am working on transferring this blog to a website where I can do much more with my fitness and story pages. Please be patient while I am in transition. I'm excited!
Make it a Fit4Life day!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Monday
A Heart Matter. I Sam. 16:7
"The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samual 16:7
"The Lord has sought a man after his own heart..." I Samual 13:14
Hey, web friends! It’s the beginning of another great week filled with possibilities! There will be opportunities for us all, this week, to love people with gentleness and kindness, to forgive wrongs, to practice goodness, to walk humbly before God with a grateful heart and to experience all the beauty God has created for us to experience if we have "eyes to see!" Incidentally, I read something a little while back that said we should stop talking about how bad Mondays are as it causes us to miss thinking of 1/7 of our week in a positive way! I agree and have tried to stop saying, "It's Monday!" in response to people asking about my day! No charge for that little tidbit! ;-)
I pray today that we will choose to lean in close to the Lord so that the fruit of his Spirit will be evident from hearts that are flourishing, just as the beautiful flowers in bloom are making their marvelous spring entrance! It's not a matter of "working it," as Jesus pointed out; "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." (Matt. 6:28-29) As the Lord looks into our hearts, may he find there a pleasing view...let's explore what that might look like.
I have had on my mind, for several days, this thought that David was called a man after God’s own heart. What an accolade to receive – a commendation from the very Creator that seems astonishing, considering the totallity of David's life...and could I hope to do better since "All things are naked and open with whom we have to do?" Heb.4:13 God knew everything about David and he chose him to be Israel’s next king! God saw into his heart. What did he find there? What does it take to be a (wo)man after God’s very heart? It’s worth a closer look to see what we can glean from the life of David in this area.
We see, in the Psalms, most composed by David, his heart, as he related to the Lord. As we read through the poetic beauty of the Psalms and the account of David's life in Samual, there are 3 themes we see that stand out. First of all, a very experiential and expressed PRAISE and WORSHIP generously and frequently coming from David's lips toward God. His worship, both public and private, wase filled with praises to God.
Secondly, strong FAITH in God's faithfulness and deliverance in various situations; and an acceptance of God's just and right judgements against sin. He had a complete trust in his Father. Read again, the account of David's life in I & II Samual and not only his faith for victory over the giant but his continued return to that solid faith in many trying times in his life - not that he didn't falter! Nonetheless, he always returned to attribute confidence in God's righteousness and mercy.
Third, there is a humility and repentance when faced with his own sins and weaknesses that we would do very well to consider. Every believer should read Psalm 51 and meditate as to this example of a deeply repentant heart before God. It is not only for sins such as the grave series of devestating choices made by David in his sin with Bathsheba, but that we might understand the stain of sin from the viewpoint of a holy God, one that he gave the life of his stainless son to cover! That is something for which to praise him!
My prayer today is that we would not go to God for our needs, alone, but would begin with adoring and praising him with a humble heart, grateful that we can come before his throne, with confidence, (Heb.4:16) because of what Jesus has done! Jesus taught us to pray beginning with, "Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name..." and continues to give us a glimpse into what pleases the heart of God.
Let's seek to cultivate that heart of praise, faith and repentance with gratitude in our hearts such as David possessed! A good way to begin is to read the Psalms and take in the depth of love and honesty before God.
I'll be meditating on this right along with you!
Still Climbing,
Cher
"The Lord has sought a man after his own heart..." I Samual 13:14
Hey, web friends! It’s the beginning of another great week filled with possibilities! There will be opportunities for us all, this week, to love people with gentleness and kindness, to forgive wrongs, to practice goodness, to walk humbly before God with a grateful heart and to experience all the beauty God has created for us to experience if we have "eyes to see!" Incidentally, I read something a little while back that said we should stop talking about how bad Mondays are as it causes us to miss thinking of 1/7 of our week in a positive way! I agree and have tried to stop saying, "It's Monday!" in response to people asking about my day! No charge for that little tidbit! ;-)
I pray today that we will choose to lean in close to the Lord so that the fruit of his Spirit will be evident from hearts that are flourishing, just as the beautiful flowers in bloom are making their marvelous spring entrance! It's not a matter of "working it," as Jesus pointed out; "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." (Matt. 6:28-29) As the Lord looks into our hearts, may he find there a pleasing view...let's explore what that might look like.
I have had on my mind, for several days, this thought that David was called a man after God’s own heart. What an accolade to receive – a commendation from the very Creator that seems astonishing, considering the totallity of David's life...and could I hope to do better since "All things are naked and open with whom we have to do?" Heb.4:13 God knew everything about David and he chose him to be Israel’s next king! God saw into his heart. What did he find there? What does it take to be a (wo)man after God’s very heart? It’s worth a closer look to see what we can glean from the life of David in this area.
We see, in the Psalms, most composed by David, his heart, as he related to the Lord. As we read through the poetic beauty of the Psalms and the account of David's life in Samual, there are 3 themes we see that stand out. First of all, a very experiential and expressed PRAISE and WORSHIP generously and frequently coming from David's lips toward God. His worship, both public and private, wase filled with praises to God.
Secondly, strong FAITH in God's faithfulness and deliverance in various situations; and an acceptance of God's just and right judgements against sin. He had a complete trust in his Father. Read again, the account of David's life in I & II Samual and not only his faith for victory over the giant but his continued return to that solid faith in many trying times in his life - not that he didn't falter! Nonetheless, he always returned to attribute confidence in God's righteousness and mercy.
Third, there is a humility and repentance when faced with his own sins and weaknesses that we would do very well to consider. Every believer should read Psalm 51 and meditate as to this example of a deeply repentant heart before God. It is not only for sins such as the grave series of devestating choices made by David in his sin with Bathsheba, but that we might understand the stain of sin from the viewpoint of a holy God, one that he gave the life of his stainless son to cover! That is something for which to praise him!
My prayer today is that we would not go to God for our needs, alone, but would begin with adoring and praising him with a humble heart, grateful that we can come before his throne, with confidence, (Heb.4:16) because of what Jesus has done! Jesus taught us to pray beginning with, "Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name..." and continues to give us a glimpse into what pleases the heart of God.
Let's seek to cultivate that heart of praise, faith and repentance with gratitude in our hearts such as David possessed! A good way to begin is to read the Psalms and take in the depth of love and honesty before God.
I'll be meditating on this right along with you!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Tuesday
"Give me this water...." John 4:4-26
How's the day, girlfriends? Have you got your coffee in hand and a few minutes to sit with me as we look into our hearts and God's Word this morning? I'm excited to share what I've been given!
In the fourth chapter of John, Jesus made an offer to a Samaritan woman she couldn't refuse. As she came to the well to draw water, he used the very setting, where she was, to speak to her need. He first got her attention by asking her to draw water for him. It was unheard of that a Jew would ask a despised Samaritan for anything! Once he made her comfortable in talking with him, he made the offer.
He told her that unlike her trek to visit the well, repeatedly, for water, he could offer her living water that, if she would drink of it, she would never thirst again. That's quite an advertisement! Move over, Michael Jordon - even your Vitamin water can't hang with that!;-)
Finally, after some further discussion, where he revealed that even though he knew her darkest sins, his offer remained in place! What a joyful day it is when we bring all our sin to the cross and we are washed clean and made new! There is nothing too sinful or dark that he cannot forgive. Jesus then introduced himself as the Messiah she was waiting for, who would "explain everything." What she needed was fresh water, living water and he was that water. While we don't know her ultimate decision, we do know she ran back to town and told the people to come see this man who told her everything she ever did, which is significant.
There are some great lessons, for us, in this passage! How do we approach the people, in our sphere of influence, with this living water? First, we have to be sure we have it to offer...that our own cup is full. Have you been to the place where you have traded your empty cup (heart) for Jesus' living water (salvation, accompanied by the Holy Spirit)?
Are the truths about Jesus, who he was and what he accomplished on the cross, merely facts you accept as true? Jesus isn't looking for a mental ascent. There is a passage that speaks to the possibility of having a factual belief that is not accompanied by salvation. "You believe that there is one God? Good! Even the devils believe and tremble." (James 2:19) He wants to make an exchange - our life for his! As we experience this living water, it changes us. We become thirsty for spiritual things and to know him more. We become more aware of our sin and have the desire to turn from it. Oh, the flesh is still alive and well, but, whereas before, we just gave in to it, we are now in the battle! Yes, there are times, in our weakness, where we fail to walk in the Spirit and give in to the flesh. This is where we look to the cross and receive God's grace, once again. That is the good news of the gospel! He is there to lift us back up and dust us off as we continue our journey. We are now armed with that living water that springs up inside us and produces the fruit of the Spirit. The Bible tells us that before this exchange takes place, we are "dead in our trespasses and sins but that he has made us alive." Just as water is the source of life for our bodies, the water Jesus provides, which is the Holy Spirit, who lives within every believers heart, is the source of our spiritual health and growth, if we are tuned in!
There are some other passages that relate to having a spiritual thirst and how to find the living water we need to thrive and survive! Let's just look at one. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled." (Matthew 5:6) As we desire to follow Christ with that thirst for more of him and less of us, he promises us he will meet that desire.
As we tap into that living water, we will want to share it with others. After being told they had to stop speaking about Jesus in Acts 4:19, Peter and John replied they could not help but speak of the things they had seen and heard! Taking a few thoughts from the passage in John 4, lets remember we need to meet people where they are and accept them, without judgement. We have opportunities within our daily settings to make a difference as we make it comfortable for others to talk to us by not coming across as pious or preachy. God will use us, as he made us, to share our faith. In fact, as we live connected to our water supply, this passage implies that people will ask us what we have. "Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies within you with gentleness and respect." (I Peter 3:15) As we allow the hope that is within us to shine, God will grant the opportunities to share.
Sometimes, I find that I'm not thirsty for water and it's hard for me to drink it. Can you relate? For me, it's usually because I haven't been drinking it and I've been having a steady diet of coke or some other substitute. The only way to push through these times is to cut the sugary drinks out and begin drinking the water again, by an act of my will. The more I drink of it and the less I consume of the others, the easier it gets. I start to like having water as my thirst-quencher. That's how it is with prayer, reading the Bible and meditating on spiritual things. We must develop that thirst by disciplining ourselves to drink of that living water instead of substituting it with fillers...you fill in the blank - entertainment, busyness, even religious activities. None of these are bad but we just need to be sure we carve out time to drink from the well that never runs dry! As we begin to see the fruit in our lives, the discipline will all be worth it. "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." (Hebrews 12:11)
Have a great day!
Still Climbing,
Cher
In the fourth chapter of John, Jesus made an offer to a Samaritan woman she couldn't refuse. As she came to the well to draw water, he used the very setting, where she was, to speak to her need. He first got her attention by asking her to draw water for him. It was unheard of that a Jew would ask a despised Samaritan for anything! Once he made her comfortable in talking with him, he made the offer.
He told her that unlike her trek to visit the well, repeatedly, for water, he could offer her living water that, if she would drink of it, she would never thirst again. That's quite an advertisement! Move over, Michael Jordon - even your Vitamin water can't hang with that!;-)
Finally, after some further discussion, where he revealed that even though he knew her darkest sins, his offer remained in place! What a joyful day it is when we bring all our sin to the cross and we are washed clean and made new! There is nothing too sinful or dark that he cannot forgive. Jesus then introduced himself as the Messiah she was waiting for, who would "explain everything." What she needed was fresh water, living water and he was that water. While we don't know her ultimate decision, we do know she ran back to town and told the people to come see this man who told her everything she ever did, which is significant.
There are some great lessons, for us, in this passage! How do we approach the people, in our sphere of influence, with this living water? First, we have to be sure we have it to offer...that our own cup is full. Have you been to the place where you have traded your empty cup (heart) for Jesus' living water (salvation, accompanied by the Holy Spirit)?
Are the truths about Jesus, who he was and what he accomplished on the cross, merely facts you accept as true? Jesus isn't looking for a mental ascent. There is a passage that speaks to the possibility of having a factual belief that is not accompanied by salvation. "You believe that there is one God? Good! Even the devils believe and tremble." (James 2:19) He wants to make an exchange - our life for his! As we experience this living water, it changes us. We become thirsty for spiritual things and to know him more. We become more aware of our sin and have the desire to turn from it. Oh, the flesh is still alive and well, but, whereas before, we just gave in to it, we are now in the battle! Yes, there are times, in our weakness, where we fail to walk in the Spirit and give in to the flesh. This is where we look to the cross and receive God's grace, once again. That is the good news of the gospel! He is there to lift us back up and dust us off as we continue our journey. We are now armed with that living water that springs up inside us and produces the fruit of the Spirit. The Bible tells us that before this exchange takes place, we are "dead in our trespasses and sins but that he has made us alive." Just as water is the source of life for our bodies, the water Jesus provides, which is the Holy Spirit, who lives within every believers heart, is the source of our spiritual health and growth, if we are tuned in!
There are some other passages that relate to having a spiritual thirst and how to find the living water we need to thrive and survive! Let's just look at one. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled." (Matthew 5:6) As we desire to follow Christ with that thirst for more of him and less of us, he promises us he will meet that desire.
As we tap into that living water, we will want to share it with others. After being told they had to stop speaking about Jesus in Acts 4:19, Peter and John replied they could not help but speak of the things they had seen and heard! Taking a few thoughts from the passage in John 4, lets remember we need to meet people where they are and accept them, without judgement. We have opportunities within our daily settings to make a difference as we make it comfortable for others to talk to us by not coming across as pious or preachy. God will use us, as he made us, to share our faith. In fact, as we live connected to our water supply, this passage implies that people will ask us what we have. "Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies within you with gentleness and respect." (I Peter 3:15) As we allow the hope that is within us to shine, God will grant the opportunities to share.
Sometimes, I find that I'm not thirsty for water and it's hard for me to drink it. Can you relate? For me, it's usually because I haven't been drinking it and I've been having a steady diet of coke or some other substitute. The only way to push through these times is to cut the sugary drinks out and begin drinking the water again, by an act of my will. The more I drink of it and the less I consume of the others, the easier it gets. I start to like having water as my thirst-quencher. That's how it is with prayer, reading the Bible and meditating on spiritual things. We must develop that thirst by disciplining ourselves to drink of that living water instead of substituting it with fillers...you fill in the blank - entertainment, busyness, even religious activities. None of these are bad but we just need to be sure we carve out time to drink from the well that never runs dry! As we begin to see the fruit in our lives, the discipline will all be worth it. "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." (Hebrews 12:11)
Have a great day!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Monday
Death and Life are in the Power of the Tongue Proverbs 18:21
Good morning, girlfriends! Grab your coffee and a comfy chair and lets chat for a few.
Today, I’m inspired to share some thoughts about that little member of our body right behind our teeth…you know, the one that tends to get us in so much trouble! I’m certain this is a topic we can ALL relate to and, as usual, one that I need to be reminded of, myself! Let’s begin with a few verses. Apparently, this is an important point, as there are many to choose from!
Let every man be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to get angry, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20
Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Proverbs 17:28
Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29
But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. Galatians 5:15
For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So, also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water? Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water. Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. James 3:2-13
We have been given this unique gift, among the creation, to be able to communicate with a wide variety of words to one another. While the animals also have the ability to communicate with one another in specific ways from one species to the next, it is limited and simplified compared to our vast array of arsenal…oh, I mean words, tone, inflection and body language with which we convey our intentions. Some of us who are “talkers” have more trouble with this than others. “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.” Anyone need interpretation here? :-D Proverbs 10:19 (NLT)
As a side bar, Proverbs is a great book to read, and gives us the opportunity to tap into godly and practical advice with regard to many and various things in life that we encounter on a regular basis and how to handle them wisely. You might like to make it a daily part of your practice to read one or two chapters as an addition to your devotional time.
As we think about how we use our tongues in speaking to each other and to ourselves (self-talk) and as we look to God’s word for help in this matter, we realize that just deciding to tame our tongues isn’t going to work. James tells us that no man can tame the tongue! That creates a dilemma. Let’s look at Jesus’ words for further insight.
The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45
So then….it’s a heart matter. That is so Jesus. If we want to see progress in the things that are coming out of our mouths, we must go straight for our hearts and let God shine his spotlight on the areas that are in need of his cleansing. We all have them! There is none righteous, no not one! Romans 3:1 Let’s make a visit to our knowing place, today, and it would be a great exercise if we would open our Bibles to Galations 5 when we do. As we look at verses 16-25, we can see the contrast between the fruit of the Spirit that we want to be evident in our lives and the works of the flesh. As we walk through those things with a prayerful heart, our Father is faithful to show us where he wants to do a clean-up on the inside and that is what will produce a more loving and cleaner presentation coming from our lips. Of course, this requires maintenance! God wants us to come to him, daily, and walk in relationship with him. No doubt we will always struggle with our tongues as long as we are in these mortal bodies but there can be a definite change as we open our hearts and look together with our loving Father on the inside to see our need.
Let’s remember that the words we speak have the power of death and life, especially in our homes. We can tear down and destroy or we can build up and encourage. Ask God for wisdom in how to communicate in a loving and productive way, especially when having to confront difficult issues. We also need to communicate with ourselves in that same way. We can't love our neighbors or others very well if we don't have a proper love for ourselves. As an example, if we condemn ourselves when we fail, rather than accepting God's grace and moving forward, we will likely do the same with others. He will help as we lean in for understanding.
Girls, have a great day and I can’t wait to share together, again, soon! I’m praying for you. Please remember me in yours, as well!
Still Climbing
Cher
Today, I’m inspired to share some thoughts about that little member of our body right behind our teeth…you know, the one that tends to get us in so much trouble! I’m certain this is a topic we can ALL relate to and, as usual, one that I need to be reminded of, myself! Let’s begin with a few verses. Apparently, this is an important point, as there are many to choose from!
Let every man be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to get angry, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20
Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Proverbs 17:28
Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29
But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. Galatians 5:15
For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So, also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water? Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water. Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. James 3:2-13
We have been given this unique gift, among the creation, to be able to communicate with a wide variety of words to one another. While the animals also have the ability to communicate with one another in specific ways from one species to the next, it is limited and simplified compared to our vast array of arsenal…oh, I mean words, tone, inflection and body language with which we convey our intentions. Some of us who are “talkers” have more trouble with this than others. “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.” Anyone need interpretation here? :-D Proverbs 10:19 (NLT)
As a side bar, Proverbs is a great book to read, and gives us the opportunity to tap into godly and practical advice with regard to many and various things in life that we encounter on a regular basis and how to handle them wisely. You might like to make it a daily part of your practice to read one or two chapters as an addition to your devotional time.
As we think about how we use our tongues in speaking to each other and to ourselves (self-talk) and as we look to God’s word for help in this matter, we realize that just deciding to tame our tongues isn’t going to work. James tells us that no man can tame the tongue! That creates a dilemma. Let’s look at Jesus’ words for further insight.
The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45
So then….it’s a heart matter. That is so Jesus. If we want to see progress in the things that are coming out of our mouths, we must go straight for our hearts and let God shine his spotlight on the areas that are in need of his cleansing. We all have them! There is none righteous, no not one! Romans 3:1 Let’s make a visit to our knowing place, today, and it would be a great exercise if we would open our Bibles to Galations 5 when we do. As we look at verses 16-25, we can see the contrast between the fruit of the Spirit that we want to be evident in our lives and the works of the flesh. As we walk through those things with a prayerful heart, our Father is faithful to show us where he wants to do a clean-up on the inside and that is what will produce a more loving and cleaner presentation coming from our lips. Of course, this requires maintenance! God wants us to come to him, daily, and walk in relationship with him. No doubt we will always struggle with our tongues as long as we are in these mortal bodies but there can be a definite change as we open our hearts and look together with our loving Father on the inside to see our need.
Let’s remember that the words we speak have the power of death and life, especially in our homes. We can tear down and destroy or we can build up and encourage. Ask God for wisdom in how to communicate in a loving and productive way, especially when having to confront difficult issues. We also need to communicate with ourselves in that same way. We can't love our neighbors or others very well if we don't have a proper love for ourselves. As an example, if we condemn ourselves when we fail, rather than accepting God's grace and moving forward, we will likely do the same with others. He will help as we lean in for understanding.
Girls, have a great day and I can’t wait to share together, again, soon! I’m praying for you. Please remember me in yours, as well!
Still Climbing
Cher
Tuesday
“Looking to Jesus…who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame.”
There is a real pearl of great price in this verse of Scripture, even beyond the fact that it was in this completely selfless act of love and sacrifice that Jesus brought to us the opportunity to have eternal salvation, if we put our faith in him and what he accomplished for us by enduring the cross!
For the purpose of today’s thought, I want to focus in on this part of the verse…”For the joy set before him…..he endured.”
Endurance or, in using the verb tense, endure, is an act of the will. It entails perservering, withstanding or continuing on in the face of great difficulty to see a situation through, to the end. In order to willingly, even purposefully, endure something painful or extremely difficult, there must be a hope or a “joy set before….” the one enduring. We’ve all heard of people enduring terrible pain from injuries and weeks with little food or water while waiting to be rescued from a plane crash or after getting lost in a snow storm…some have even had to endure the unfathomable pain of severing one of their own limbs to free themselves from being pinned so they could have a chance of being rescued! These brave souls found the power to endure as they thought of the lives they wanted to continue back home, loved ones...and having those joys set before them, they endured! How about those we have known who, while steadily moving toward a sure and painful death, due to a cruel and unrelenting, terminal illness, maintained a peace and courage as they looked toward the hope of a pain-free and beautiful heaven awaiting them? It’s that joy set before them! Are you with me, now? :-D
Now, let me switch gears a little bit and bring a far less worthy example than the cross Jesus carried for your sins and mine so that he could experience the joy of offering salvation to a lost and broken world, or the admirable examples of the suffering of human kind as discussed above, and bring it down to a simple analogy that I experience in my daily life.
The aspect I want to address here is one of endurance, as a noun or character trait. As a person who makes fitness a daily part of my life, I can relate to developing this trait of endurance and it doesn't just happen!
Friends, you can be sure the winner of any long distance race has established a well worn path down the trail of endurance and it has included a heaping dose of self-denial and and an iron will of determination. She has experienced plenty of aching joints and muscles, along the way, during many long runs, come sunshine or rain. She’s eaten the right foods to fuel her body, like a fine tuned engine, and mentally prepared for the long race, ahead, with one thought in mind…to win the prize. It took time to cultivate this package of preparation and build the level of endurance that wins a race. She didn’t just show up the day of the marathon and decide to run 26 miles! I know - ridiculous, right? But we try it in so many ways! We ask God to give us “spirituality,” microwave style, we want our thought life to just be “fixed” and our emotions to be “healed” without a lot of effort and we are forgetting our example, the Lord Jesus Christ, “….Who for the joy set before him, endured…” Do you think he experienced less of the pain of the cross than the full measure our sin demanded? Do you think he was immune to the feeling of being spat upon and mocked? The passage says he despised the shame. When that verse tells us he endured, my sisters, he ENDURED the cross, FULLY. He paid the penalty, pain and shame of carrying your cross and mine.
When we want to experience the joy set before us, whatever that joy is, be it spiritual growth, financial freedom from debt, a godly marriage, the comfort of knowing our children are well equipped to make their own choices to endure and walk in what they know is right, (they do have a will and a choice to make, remember) ….in any of these and more scenarios, endurance is right there, front and center! Spiritual maturity doesn’t happen without the discipline of time and the response of obedience, financial freedom from debt takes self discipline in making purchases, a concentrated focus and a healthy dose of self-denial to reach that joy set before us - the day when we are debt free. Alright – all the single ladies :-D, I dare to speak on this matter as it has been a hard learned lesson for me in my 8 years since my divorce but, if we want a godly marriage, it begins when we are single! If we can commit to sexual purity in our dating relationships, one of the hardest won battles for singles, he will bless us when the time is right! Trying to raise our children to do what is right means, at times, we must endure their displeasure with us when we say no or refuse to compromise what we know is right for them. We endure their anger or misunderstanding for the joy set before us that, later, there will be fruit and reward in their lives and ours. When Jesus went to the cross, he had to look ahead to the joy. His knowing what joy was to come sustained him as he endured that most horrible cross. The joy of the resurrection and the salvation brought to so many, by his willingness to endure, was worth it all!
Have you determined what the joys are that you have set before you or do you need to set some joys before you? You know I will refer back to the 4 areas of growth (new readers see archived blogs to the left) by now. :-D Endurance will be a part of those joys becoming a reality.
We are human and we will weaken, at times. That is why we need each other. When Jesus prayed in the garden, before going to the cross, he was upset that his disciples kept falling asleep. He, choosing to clothe himself in human flesh, for our sakes, needed their comfort and care during his most trying hour. As he prayed, knowing what was to come, he asked the Father, “If it be possible, let this cup pass from me….nevertheless, not my will but thine be done.” He did not WANT to go to the cross. He knew how painful and shameful it would be. But he was willing to endure it for the great joy that was to come. We don't want to endure hardship but, if we can set the joys to come before our spiritual eyes, we can endure!
Can we pray for endurance? God will bless our lives as we give ourselves to him and he sets before us joys untold! Believe it!
Come back, soon! I'm praying for you.
Still Climbing,
Cher
For the purpose of today’s thought, I want to focus in on this part of the verse…”For the joy set before him…..he endured.”
Endurance or, in using the verb tense, endure, is an act of the will. It entails perservering, withstanding or continuing on in the face of great difficulty to see a situation through, to the end. In order to willingly, even purposefully, endure something painful or extremely difficult, there must be a hope or a “joy set before….” the one enduring. We’ve all heard of people enduring terrible pain from injuries and weeks with little food or water while waiting to be rescued from a plane crash or after getting lost in a snow storm…some have even had to endure the unfathomable pain of severing one of their own limbs to free themselves from being pinned so they could have a chance of being rescued! These brave souls found the power to endure as they thought of the lives they wanted to continue back home, loved ones...and having those joys set before them, they endured! How about those we have known who, while steadily moving toward a sure and painful death, due to a cruel and unrelenting, terminal illness, maintained a peace and courage as they looked toward the hope of a pain-free and beautiful heaven awaiting them? It’s that joy set before them! Are you with me, now? :-D
Now, let me switch gears a little bit and bring a far less worthy example than the cross Jesus carried for your sins and mine so that he could experience the joy of offering salvation to a lost and broken world, or the admirable examples of the suffering of human kind as discussed above, and bring it down to a simple analogy that I experience in my daily life.
The aspect I want to address here is one of endurance, as a noun or character trait. As a person who makes fitness a daily part of my life, I can relate to developing this trait of endurance and it doesn't just happen!
Friends, you can be sure the winner of any long distance race has established a well worn path down the trail of endurance and it has included a heaping dose of self-denial and and an iron will of determination. She has experienced plenty of aching joints and muscles, along the way, during many long runs, come sunshine or rain. She’s eaten the right foods to fuel her body, like a fine tuned engine, and mentally prepared for the long race, ahead, with one thought in mind…to win the prize. It took time to cultivate this package of preparation and build the level of endurance that wins a race. She didn’t just show up the day of the marathon and decide to run 26 miles! I know - ridiculous, right? But we try it in so many ways! We ask God to give us “spirituality,” microwave style, we want our thought life to just be “fixed” and our emotions to be “healed” without a lot of effort and we are forgetting our example, the Lord Jesus Christ, “….Who for the joy set before him, endured…” Do you think he experienced less of the pain of the cross than the full measure our sin demanded? Do you think he was immune to the feeling of being spat upon and mocked? The passage says he despised the shame. When that verse tells us he endured, my sisters, he ENDURED the cross, FULLY. He paid the penalty, pain and shame of carrying your cross and mine.
When we want to experience the joy set before us, whatever that joy is, be it spiritual growth, financial freedom from debt, a godly marriage, the comfort of knowing our children are well equipped to make their own choices to endure and walk in what they know is right, (they do have a will and a choice to make, remember) ….in any of these and more scenarios, endurance is right there, front and center! Spiritual maturity doesn’t happen without the discipline of time and the response of obedience, financial freedom from debt takes self discipline in making purchases, a concentrated focus and a healthy dose of self-denial to reach that joy set before us - the day when we are debt free. Alright – all the single ladies :-D, I dare to speak on this matter as it has been a hard learned lesson for me in my 8 years since my divorce but, if we want a godly marriage, it begins when we are single! If we can commit to sexual purity in our dating relationships, one of the hardest won battles for singles, he will bless us when the time is right! Trying to raise our children to do what is right means, at times, we must endure their displeasure with us when we say no or refuse to compromise what we know is right for them. We endure their anger or misunderstanding for the joy set before us that, later, there will be fruit and reward in their lives and ours. When Jesus went to the cross, he had to look ahead to the joy. His knowing what joy was to come sustained him as he endured that most horrible cross. The joy of the resurrection and the salvation brought to so many, by his willingness to endure, was worth it all!
Have you determined what the joys are that you have set before you or do you need to set some joys before you? You know I will refer back to the 4 areas of growth (new readers see archived blogs to the left) by now. :-D Endurance will be a part of those joys becoming a reality.
We are human and we will weaken, at times. That is why we need each other. When Jesus prayed in the garden, before going to the cross, he was upset that his disciples kept falling asleep. He, choosing to clothe himself in human flesh, for our sakes, needed their comfort and care during his most trying hour. As he prayed, knowing what was to come, he asked the Father, “If it be possible, let this cup pass from me….nevertheless, not my will but thine be done.” He did not WANT to go to the cross. He knew how painful and shameful it would be. But he was willing to endure it for the great joy that was to come. We don't want to endure hardship but, if we can set the joys to come before our spiritual eyes, we can endure!
Can we pray for endurance? God will bless our lives as we give ourselves to him and he sets before us joys untold! Believe it!
Come back, soon! I'm praying for you.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Visit to Arkansas - Mennonite encounter
Greetings, girlfriends!
It's been a few days since we chatted over a cup of coffee... or, in my case, today, a cup of hot tea with honey, since I returned from my visit to Arkansas with a cold in tow! It was well worth it, however, since I went to see my new grandson and my 2 year old granddaughter, in Arkansas. How precious they are!
My oldest son is a Mennonite and is married to one of the minister's daughters in the Mennonite church. For those of you who don't know what a Mennonite is, the quickest and easiest way for me to explain, in brief, is to say that they resemble the Amish. You know, the group who live in rural communities, dress very plain (the women with head coverings, long, hand sewn dresses and the men with beards), and drive horse and buggy's? The Amish don't have electricity, T.V.'s, radios or computers in their homes. The Mennonites are very similar in these ways. Their final authority is the Bible and they believe in living by the guiding principles of modesty, simplicity and economy.
The Mennonite ladies do wear a black head covering and sew their own dresses - their dress is not as severe in that their coverings are not as large and they wear colorful dresses, rather than grey or black. The men look more "regular" in that they would wear just a button-down shirt or pull-over with jeans or slacks but are discouraged from wearing name brands or anything to draw attention to themselves. They also sport a beard, although not as long as the Amish, but more cropped and well-groomed. They drive cars (middle of the road and modest - not extravagant or flashy) and have electricity. They do not, however, have T.V.'s, computers or any type of music in their homes,other than a pitch pipe and their own voices. This is to keep immoral influences out of the home. For entertainment, they visit together in each other's homes, frequently, for meals, play games, sing as a family and in groups. They also travel, quite often, to other congregations, for weddings, and other events.
I was a Mennonite for several years. I left the church 6 years ago and, thus, I am expelled from the church. Their viewpoint is that I have left the way and they want me to come back and be restored to the faith, once again, and so, when I go, that is understood. As you can imagine, there are many details to this story, far too long for this blog! I am in the process of writing a book and sketching it out, a little at a time, on the My Story page of this blog - but for the sake of brevity here, let me just say that it is always both a difficult and good experience when I visit my son and his family in Arkansas. I love them and they love me. At the same time, there are things with which I must contend as far as seating arrangements during meal times and attending church, which I do, willingly, when I go, and upon my return, I find myself tired and saddened by that circumstance in my life.
This visit was the best I've had in the past 6 years. My son and I shared a good, heart to heart visit and I also had some one on one with my daughter in law who is a sweetheart of a girl. They had some others over for singing one evening and my 2 best girlfriends (non-Mennonites) that live there also came over and hung out. I went to church with the family Sunday morning before heading off to the airport to return home. As I looked upon the rows and rows of black draped heads on the ladies side(the church coverings are different from every day ones - more like a tie down scarf) and the rows of men on the other side of the church, I was more than aware of my own "worldly" presence in my slacks and jacket, free flowing hair and make-up. Nontheless, I've been doing this for 6 years now so I've become accustomed to it. The Sunday School lesson titled, "Shipwrecks of the faith" made for an interesting thought process on my part (no doubt theirs, too). Yes, I try and maintain my sense of humor, even with the pain of the separation that is obviously a part of such a relationship. Believe me, it helps!
With my oldest being 17 at the time of my divorce (after 18 years of marriage) and being happy and secure in the Mennonite faith, he has found his place and is a loving husband and father to my grandchildren. My two younger boys are in an entirely different place...but that is for another time.
Thanks for walking with me through just this little bit of my life, today. There is oh, so much more I have yet to share. I hope it gives you a glimpse into one part of my world and hope in yours!
What I hope you take from this as I begin to share parts of my story, is that, whatever your circumstances, there is grace. You see, as my life begins to unfold, you may say, "I could NEVER go through THAT! I couldn't handle it!" And you would be right! God only gives grace for what he allows us to pass through in our lives, not for what others are walking through. II Cor. 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient
for you for my power is made perfect in (your) weakness."
Can you trust him, today, for what he is allowing you to experience? He knows the good he wants to bring about through your difficulties and he loves you more than you can fathom!
I'm praying for you. Please remember me.
Still Climbing,
Cher
It's been a few days since we chatted over a cup of coffee... or, in my case, today, a cup of hot tea with honey, since I returned from my visit to Arkansas with a cold in tow! It was well worth it, however, since I went to see my new grandson and my 2 year old granddaughter, in Arkansas. How precious they are!
My oldest son is a Mennonite and is married to one of the minister's daughters in the Mennonite church. For those of you who don't know what a Mennonite is, the quickest and easiest way for me to explain, in brief, is to say that they resemble the Amish. You know, the group who live in rural communities, dress very plain (the women with head coverings, long, hand sewn dresses and the men with beards), and drive horse and buggy's? The Amish don't have electricity, T.V.'s, radios or computers in their homes. The Mennonites are very similar in these ways. Their final authority is the Bible and they believe in living by the guiding principles of modesty, simplicity and economy.
The Mennonite ladies do wear a black head covering and sew their own dresses - their dress is not as severe in that their coverings are not as large and they wear colorful dresses, rather than grey or black. The men look more "regular" in that they would wear just a button-down shirt or pull-over with jeans or slacks but are discouraged from wearing name brands or anything to draw attention to themselves. They also sport a beard, although not as long as the Amish, but more cropped and well-groomed. They drive cars (middle of the road and modest - not extravagant or flashy) and have electricity. They do not, however, have T.V.'s, computers or any type of music in their homes,other than a pitch pipe and their own voices. This is to keep immoral influences out of the home. For entertainment, they visit together in each other's homes, frequently, for meals, play games, sing as a family and in groups. They also travel, quite often, to other congregations, for weddings, and other events.
I was a Mennonite for several years. I left the church 6 years ago and, thus, I am expelled from the church. Their viewpoint is that I have left the way and they want me to come back and be restored to the faith, once again, and so, when I go, that is understood. As you can imagine, there are many details to this story, far too long for this blog! I am in the process of writing a book and sketching it out, a little at a time, on the My Story page of this blog - but for the sake of brevity here, let me just say that it is always both a difficult and good experience when I visit my son and his family in Arkansas. I love them and they love me. At the same time, there are things with which I must contend as far as seating arrangements during meal times and attending church, which I do, willingly, when I go, and upon my return, I find myself tired and saddened by that circumstance in my life.
This visit was the best I've had in the past 6 years. My son and I shared a good, heart to heart visit and I also had some one on one with my daughter in law who is a sweetheart of a girl. They had some others over for singing one evening and my 2 best girlfriends (non-Mennonites) that live there also came over and hung out. I went to church with the family Sunday morning before heading off to the airport to return home. As I looked upon the rows and rows of black draped heads on the ladies side(the church coverings are different from every day ones - more like a tie down scarf) and the rows of men on the other side of the church, I was more than aware of my own "worldly" presence in my slacks and jacket, free flowing hair and make-up. Nontheless, I've been doing this for 6 years now so I've become accustomed to it. The Sunday School lesson titled, "Shipwrecks of the faith" made for an interesting thought process on my part (no doubt theirs, too). Yes, I try and maintain my sense of humor, even with the pain of the separation that is obviously a part of such a relationship. Believe me, it helps!
With my oldest being 17 at the time of my divorce (after 18 years of marriage) and being happy and secure in the Mennonite faith, he has found his place and is a loving husband and father to my grandchildren. My two younger boys are in an entirely different place...but that is for another time.
Thanks for walking with me through just this little bit of my life, today. There is oh, so much more I have yet to share. I hope it gives you a glimpse into one part of my world and hope in yours!
What I hope you take from this as I begin to share parts of my story, is that, whatever your circumstances, there is grace. You see, as my life begins to unfold, you may say, "I could NEVER go through THAT! I couldn't handle it!" And you would be right! God only gives grace for what he allows us to pass through in our lives, not for what others are walking through. II Cor. 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient
for you for my power is made perfect in (your) weakness."
Can you trust him, today, for what he is allowing you to experience? He knows the good he wants to bring about through your difficulties and he loves you more than you can fathom!
I'm praying for you. Please remember me.
Still Climbing,
Cher
All of we's
Hey girls! How's the week? What kind of week are you having so far? All smiles as you bravely forge toward the mountain top, conquering every foe along the way, and finding shelter in your storms, this week, or has your week looked a little different than that? :-) Are you seeking growth in all 4 areas of your life as you consistently apply self-discipline and delay instant gratification for long term character growth? Have you visited your knowing place, inviting the Lord to join you, as you make those important decisions? How is practicing "being present" in your moments growing your relationships? Oh and those pesky thorns in the flesh with which you battle - are you allowing God's grace to be your hiding place in those weak areas? Hopefully,it's been the kind of week where mere religious duty has been kept at bay as you focus on your relationship with God? Did you take yourself to boot camp and do an overhaul or have you just made some quick cardio runs to the cleansing closet? Has it just been a glorious week of overcoming at every turn? If so, you probably don't want to read this blog, today! :-D lol!
Can I just let my hair down and open my heart with you here, today? I hope this doesn't come as a shock or disappointment to you but I don't always feel on top of the world, inspired and motivated! :-0 No, for real! In fact, I have had a couple of crummy days of being in the heat of battle and not feeling particularly inspired! Now, I know God put a desire deep within my heart to write, to speak and to share with other women the hope I have found, even during the darkest days in my life! There is joy, rest and peace for the hurting andburdened! I have that full confidence! Having established that, I have to believe that means I must also be open to sharing on the difficult days, too.
God's grace is truly sufficient and I have experienced his strength in my weakness too many times to count. I have been carried through numerous trials, only by his goodness and grace. It's also true that I have my moments, hours, even days, when I struggle with all the same things you do! I have lonely days, angry days, questioning days, painful days, sad days, fearful days, doubting days...you name it. After all, I am human and, moreover, I am woman! In it all, I find comfort with the Psalmist,
Psalm 73:23 "Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me to glory."
That is good news, indeed. There is another passage richer, still.
It is one of the most telling passages in the Bible and is found in Hebrews 11. I strongly urge you to read the entire chapter! It defies all that the prosperity teachers are feeding the masses, today. Don't take my word for it...see for yourself how some of the heros of the faith lived out their lives and the commendation God gave them.
Heb. 11: "And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Women received back their dead, raised to life again." All sounds peachy, huh? Read on! "Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them."
Ladies, all of these - and all of we's - if we are truly followers of Jesus Christ, are included here, in this list of the faithful. The list just continues on in the book of life. What does your story look like? Your legacy? What about mine? I'm sure glad God has that big erasor where he blots out all of our sins when we come to him with our whole heart and he gives us a new one. Otherwise, i wouldn't stand a chance of even getting in the servant's quarters! Some in this passage were great conquerors and some were tortured and starved for their faith. It concludes by telling us that the world was not worthy of any of them. I feel the weight of my shortcomings to live out the depth of faith that springs forth in true believers when there is persecution involved and of which we know little in America, today. Our "persecution" comes in another form - a life of ease and being lulled into a spiritual sleep, I believe, but that's for another time! Most days I'm not shutting the mouths of lions - I'm too busy trying to keep MINE shut! Nor am I being being persecuted for my faith. I'm struggling just to walk as a Christian, in battling my own weaknesses, and in wanting God's light to shine in my relationships and draw others to him.
If your week has been less than inspiring and you need to be refreshed, know that you are not alone and share your heart with a friend who will pray for or with you. Keep moving ahead in faith when the warm and fuzzy feelings aren't there. God will bless you in it! Pray for me as I do for you.
"Blessed are they who have not seen and yet, believe." Jesus
Still Climbing,
Cher
Can I just let my hair down and open my heart with you here, today? I hope this doesn't come as a shock or disappointment to you but I don't always feel on top of the world, inspired and motivated! :-0 No, for real! In fact, I have had a couple of crummy days of being in the heat of battle and not feeling particularly inspired! Now, I know God put a desire deep within my heart to write, to speak and to share with other women the hope I have found, even during the darkest days in my life! There is joy, rest and peace for the hurting andburdened! I have that full confidence! Having established that, I have to believe that means I must also be open to sharing on the difficult days, too.
God's grace is truly sufficient and I have experienced his strength in my weakness too many times to count. I have been carried through numerous trials, only by his goodness and grace. It's also true that I have my moments, hours, even days, when I struggle with all the same things you do! I have lonely days, angry days, questioning days, painful days, sad days, fearful days, doubting days...you name it. After all, I am human and, moreover, I am woman! In it all, I find comfort with the Psalmist,
Psalm 73:23 "Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me to glory."
That is good news, indeed. There is another passage richer, still.
It is one of the most telling passages in the Bible and is found in Hebrews 11. I strongly urge you to read the entire chapter! It defies all that the prosperity teachers are feeding the masses, today. Don't take my word for it...see for yourself how some of the heros of the faith lived out their lives and the commendation God gave them.
Heb. 11: "And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Women received back their dead, raised to life again." All sounds peachy, huh? Read on! "Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them."
Ladies, all of these - and all of we's - if we are truly followers of Jesus Christ, are included here, in this list of the faithful. The list just continues on in the book of life. What does your story look like? Your legacy? What about mine? I'm sure glad God has that big erasor where he blots out all of our sins when we come to him with our whole heart and he gives us a new one. Otherwise, i wouldn't stand a chance of even getting in the servant's quarters! Some in this passage were great conquerors and some were tortured and starved for their faith. It concludes by telling us that the world was not worthy of any of them. I feel the weight of my shortcomings to live out the depth of faith that springs forth in true believers when there is persecution involved and of which we know little in America, today. Our "persecution" comes in another form - a life of ease and being lulled into a spiritual sleep, I believe, but that's for another time! Most days I'm not shutting the mouths of lions - I'm too busy trying to keep MINE shut! Nor am I being being persecuted for my faith. I'm struggling just to walk as a Christian, in battling my own weaknesses, and in wanting God's light to shine in my relationships and draw others to him.
If your week has been less than inspiring and you need to be refreshed, know that you are not alone and share your heart with a friend who will pray for or with you. Keep moving ahead in faith when the warm and fuzzy feelings aren't there. God will bless you in it! Pray for me as I do for you.
"Blessed are they who have not seen and yet, believe." Jesus
Still Climbing,
Cher
Friday
A Time To Play!
Today is a beautiful and glorious day to get outside and play! I'm not talking about the kids - I'm talking about you and me, sisters! I'm jazzed, big time, about this gorgeous spring weather and the opportunities to enjoy it all weekend!
My thoughts, today, are very simple...TAKE time, MAKE time to P-L-A-Y with the special people in your life, this weekend! The laundry will wait, the dirty floors will stay right where they are, the dust will stick around another couple of days....but the opportunity to play could slip by, so carpe diem!
Our good God designed us with the ability to smile, to laugh, to run, to jump and to feel with all 5 senses! On top of all that, he gave us so many beautiful things to experience if we have "eyes to see!" STOP with your to-do list! Yes, this is the same person who told you a couple of days ago that a disciplined life is a happy life! BALANCE is the key here, girlfriends!
Ecc 3:1 "For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven."
LIVE! Explore, listen, observe, discover and enjoy all the the wondrous things around you. Don't carry that big burden, today. Lay it at the feet of our all seeing, all knowing, all loving God and put your hand in his to enjoy some play time in the sunshine.
I'm praying for you!
See you back here, soon....I've got some playing to do!:-D
Still Climbing,
Cher
My thoughts, today, are very simple...TAKE time, MAKE time to P-L-A-Y with the special people in your life, this weekend! The laundry will wait, the dirty floors will stay right where they are, the dust will stick around another couple of days....but the opportunity to play could slip by, so carpe diem!
Our good God designed us with the ability to smile, to laugh, to run, to jump and to feel with all 5 senses! On top of all that, he gave us so many beautiful things to experience if we have "eyes to see!" STOP with your to-do list! Yes, this is the same person who told you a couple of days ago that a disciplined life is a happy life! BALANCE is the key here, girlfriends!
Ecc 3:1 "For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven."
LIVE! Explore, listen, observe, discover and enjoy all the the wondrous things around you. Don't carry that big burden, today. Lay it at the feet of our all seeing, all knowing, all loving God and put your hand in his to enjoy some play time in the sunshine.
I'm praying for you!
See you back here, soon....I've got some playing to do!:-D
Still Climbing,
Cher
Wednesday
A Disciplined Life = A Happy Life
Do you doubt? Come with me and let's explore the thought together, girlfriends!
Do you believe a child is happier and more secure when he has a routine and, in that routine, he knows there are specific and consistent expectations for the things that are in his realm of responsibility? Do you know a child who has no clear boundaries, no set bedtime, chores, homework requirements, limits on junk food? Need I say more?
We, as adults, are no different! When we live a disciplined lifestyle, we are at our best!
Once again, I will refer to the 4 areas of growth.
Being disciplined, spiritually, means we make time to allow God's spot light to shine into our hearts, revealing what's inside and taking out the trash, day by day! You don't let the trash in your kitchen pile up for weeks (I hope not!) and then try and haul 15-20 bags out at once, do you? The whole house would smell like a sewer by then! :-0 Neither should we neglect our time with God and allowing him to do a clean up in our hearts. If we start our day with him and run to him throughout the day as we face various situations, he will walk with us and keep us in optimum "running condition," spiritually. Take some time for him, today. Make it a disciplined habit to read,to pray, to worship and to commit your day to him. It will pay off in so many ways throughout your day!
Intellectually, are you disciplined in your thought life? What kind of "diet" are you on? T.V., music, books, conversations, thought patterns? All of these things make up the intellectual diet we are feeding our brains. Are you feeding on positive nutrition in these areas? Do your conversations build up others and make you feel strong, mentally, or are you feeding on negativity, gossip and dark thoughts?
Physically, are you eating right and getting enough exercise and sleep? All of these areas affect your...
Emotional health (which) culminates in a disciplined = happy or undiciplined = unhappy life.
It all begins with a dedicated decision, bathed in prayer, to be your personal best. Discipline takes determination. You must make that decision and then put some "clothes" on it or define it by things you will do, on a daily basis, and make yourself accountable to someone for optimal success. Bring your goals into the light to put some weight behind them. You'll be so glad you did!
If you make the decision to be your personal best, set your daily goals for optimal success with smaller goals for living a disciplined, happy, healthy life. When you prepare and those little voices start coming, and they will, telling you that you don't "feel" like having a quiet time or reading something encouraging and helpful for your personal growth instead of a romance novel, or that you want to hear just a l-i-t-t-l-e bit of gossip instead of refusing to be involved in any negative discussions about others or that you don't really need to exercise TODAY, you will have no excuse because you've ALREADY made those decisions back at the beginning! No need to revisit them every day! :-D
Heb. 12:11 "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
A disciplined life = a happy life.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Do you believe a child is happier and more secure when he has a routine and, in that routine, he knows there are specific and consistent expectations for the things that are in his realm of responsibility? Do you know a child who has no clear boundaries, no set bedtime, chores, homework requirements, limits on junk food? Need I say more?
We, as adults, are no different! When we live a disciplined lifestyle, we are at our best!
Once again, I will refer to the 4 areas of growth.
Being disciplined, spiritually, means we make time to allow God's spot light to shine into our hearts, revealing what's inside and taking out the trash, day by day! You don't let the trash in your kitchen pile up for weeks (I hope not!) and then try and haul 15-20 bags out at once, do you? The whole house would smell like a sewer by then! :-0 Neither should we neglect our time with God and allowing him to do a clean up in our hearts. If we start our day with him and run to him throughout the day as we face various situations, he will walk with us and keep us in optimum "running condition," spiritually. Take some time for him, today. Make it a disciplined habit to read,to pray, to worship and to commit your day to him. It will pay off in so many ways throughout your day!
Intellectually, are you disciplined in your thought life? What kind of "diet" are you on? T.V., music, books, conversations, thought patterns? All of these things make up the intellectual diet we are feeding our brains. Are you feeding on positive nutrition in these areas? Do your conversations build up others and make you feel strong, mentally, or are you feeding on negativity, gossip and dark thoughts?
Physically, are you eating right and getting enough exercise and sleep? All of these areas affect your...
Emotional health (which) culminates in a disciplined = happy or undiciplined = unhappy life.
It all begins with a dedicated decision, bathed in prayer, to be your personal best. Discipline takes determination. You must make that decision and then put some "clothes" on it or define it by things you will do, on a daily basis, and make yourself accountable to someone for optimal success. Bring your goals into the light to put some weight behind them. You'll be so glad you did!
If you make the decision to be your personal best, set your daily goals for optimal success with smaller goals for living a disciplined, happy, healthy life. When you prepare and those little voices start coming, and they will, telling you that you don't "feel" like having a quiet time or reading something encouraging and helpful for your personal growth instead of a romance novel, or that you want to hear just a l-i-t-t-l-e bit of gossip instead of refusing to be involved in any negative discussions about others or that you don't really need to exercise TODAY, you will have no excuse because you've ALREADY made those decisions back at the beginning! No need to revisit them every day! :-D
Heb. 12:11 "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
A disciplined life = a happy life.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Tuesday
Spirituality
I am a Christian. By this, I mean that I am a believer in Jesus Christ. I have put my faith in him and have accepted his death on the cross as the atonement for my sins. I believe that when he hung, perfect and sinless, on that shameful cross, he hung there, in my place, thereby taking all of my sins upon himself. When I was 15 and heard of his suffering and broken body, battered and bruised for me, my heart was filled with the burden of my sin and the magnitude of his love. He extended his offer of forgiveness and grace to me, in that moment, if I would but place my faith in him and I did so, gladly. An exchange took place that day. My sin-scarred life and the penalty of eternal death and separation from God nailed to his cross in exchange for his sinless life and payment that covered me and granted me eternal life and a new relationship with him! What a day and how I loved him for what he had done for ME! "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found. Was blind but now I see!" I felt, in that moment, that I would surely tell the whole world of my new birth and I was on cloud 9!
Ah.....but then I went back to school and to reality! If I remember right, I carried my Bible around for the next couple of weeks and attempted to talk about my new faith and to do what was right. We didn't attend church, as a family, and I didn't really begin to grow so I did not live a changed life...oh, the exchange had taken place, no doubt. My heart was never the same from that day, but it would be some 10 years later before I came into a dedicated Christian walk with Jesus Christ.
Jumping ahead to where I am, today....I'm thinking of a word...Man, I sound like a game show host! :-D The word is spirituality. Let me go back to my original thought. I am a Christan, today, as I was then, and I have had much opportunity to grow in my faith in Christ through personal Bible study, church attendance, fellowship with Christian friends, seminars, etc. I am not, however, always spiritual. You do realize that is possible, don't you? We can go around with our Christian banner on all day, listening to the Christian radio station, speak Christian"ese" (I sure hope I don't do that!), have little Christian sayings all over our desk, talk about our church activities and, shoot, we can even be working, AT the church, volunteering our time. In other words, we can be all up in the appearance of our Christianity....and miss the boat on spirituality!
You see, true spirituality is all about having a relationship with God, not religious "doings." It's about BEING. I'm not elevating the all too often purported "easy believism" here. Anyone that knows me, well, knows that I don't ascribe to a faith without works as an alive and viable faith. I'm talking about a living faith that walks and talks with God and gets our direction for life, every day, as we go. And me? Well, lemme tell ya, I just have to admit that there are times when I move into the arena of ritual, abandoning true relationship, and at a heavy price!
Ritual will never satisfy the way relationship will. Sometimes even the most seasoned Christians can be lulled to sleep by the counterfeit of ritual or religion, for a time, because it allows us to feel like we are "doing" something - you know, checking off the little boxes...but, friends, it leaves our soul's barren because there is no joy in ritual, only in relationship! That's how God designed it! Ritual or religion is a burden we aren't meant to bear. It really has nothing to do with being a Christian! And THAT is good news!
Jesus said, in Matthew 11:28-30 (New International Version)
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
If you find yourself in a dry place, today, a place of doing, without being, come go with me to the cleansing closet and lay that religious burden down. Yep, just take that heavy yoke of ritual and religious "doings" off your shoulders and come before the one who offers you relationship. He's waiting to spend time with you and give you rest. He will refresh your spirit and quench your thirst like a cool rain on the dry desert sand!
Come back, soon, and have some fun enjoying all the moments God has given you, today!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Ah.....but then I went back to school and to reality! If I remember right, I carried my Bible around for the next couple of weeks and attempted to talk about my new faith and to do what was right. We didn't attend church, as a family, and I didn't really begin to grow so I did not live a changed life...oh, the exchange had taken place, no doubt. My heart was never the same from that day, but it would be some 10 years later before I came into a dedicated Christian walk with Jesus Christ.
Jumping ahead to where I am, today....I'm thinking of a word...Man, I sound like a game show host! :-D The word is spirituality. Let me go back to my original thought. I am a Christan, today, as I was then, and I have had much opportunity to grow in my faith in Christ through personal Bible study, church attendance, fellowship with Christian friends, seminars, etc. I am not, however, always spiritual. You do realize that is possible, don't you? We can go around with our Christian banner on all day, listening to the Christian radio station, speak Christian"ese" (I sure hope I don't do that!), have little Christian sayings all over our desk, talk about our church activities and, shoot, we can even be working, AT the church, volunteering our time. In other words, we can be all up in the appearance of our Christianity....and miss the boat on spirituality!
You see, true spirituality is all about having a relationship with God, not religious "doings." It's about BEING. I'm not elevating the all too often purported "easy believism" here. Anyone that knows me, well, knows that I don't ascribe to a faith without works as an alive and viable faith. I'm talking about a living faith that walks and talks with God and gets our direction for life, every day, as we go. And me? Well, lemme tell ya, I just have to admit that there are times when I move into the arena of ritual, abandoning true relationship, and at a heavy price!
Ritual will never satisfy the way relationship will. Sometimes even the most seasoned Christians can be lulled to sleep by the counterfeit of ritual or religion, for a time, because it allows us to feel like we are "doing" something - you know, checking off the little boxes...but, friends, it leaves our soul's barren because there is no joy in ritual, only in relationship! That's how God designed it! Ritual or religion is a burden we aren't meant to bear. It really has nothing to do with being a Christian! And THAT is good news!
Jesus said, in Matthew 11:28-30 (New International Version)
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
If you find yourself in a dry place, today, a place of doing, without being, come go with me to the cleansing closet and lay that religious burden down. Yep, just take that heavy yoke of ritual and religious "doings" off your shoulders and come before the one who offers you relationship. He's waiting to spend time with you and give you rest. He will refresh your spirit and quench your thirst like a cool rain on the dry desert sand!
Come back, soon, and have some fun enjoying all the moments God has given you, today!
Still Climbing,
Cher
Monday
Ouch! There's a Thorn in my Flesh and I Can't Get it Out!
For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the story, there is a passage in the Bible regarding Paul, one of Jesus top twelve and the writer of most of the New Testament, and it tells us that Paul was given a "thorn in his flesh" for which he sought deliverence three times. For an interesting and thought provoking read or refresher, check it out in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. We are not told what this "messenger of Satan" was that was sent to humble Paul "lest he should be exalted above measure" because of all the revelations he had received from heaven. We are told, however, that when he begged God to take the thorn, God's answer was startling, yet clear, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness." Surprisingly, Paul took this news very well...
I've come to the conclusion that Paul was not alone in having received the gift of a thorn in his flesh. Now, we don't know what the thorn actually was and, although Bible scholars have gone to great lengths discussing what it might have been, I believe there is a reason for this. It's because it could have been any number of things and we are left to fill in the blank with whatever our "thorn" may be. What is significant to catch is the purpose behind it. In this scenario, if we open our spiritual eyes, we can see that being willing to accept our thorn, in weakness or humility, meaning that our total dependence is upon him, creates the perfect opportunity for God to shine!
I lose things. Not occasionally, but repeatedly. I lose my cell phone, my purse, my jacket... I try not to. I really do. My mind just always seems to be focused elsewhere when it's time to gather up these items. Fortunately, my friends, my mom, anyone with whom I spend a significant amount of time, finds themselves taking up the role of caretaker in this area, sad to say, and are like my guardian angels, always going behind me..."Phone? Purse? Jacket? Scarf?" :-/
Two weeks ago, I was at the Toyota Center, here in Houston, for the Get Motivated Seminar. I left my make-up bag on the aisle where we were seated - my purse was heavy and I took it out to lighten the load while I went to the girl's room. You guessed it; I never put it back. Now, we are talking 19,000 seats...kiss that baby goodbye, right? Well let me tell you, someone turned it in and after several phone calls, playing phone tag, a trip over there and an hour wait, I had it back! :-D My friends have marvelled at how I always seem to have my things found by the right people. I've had calls from my cell phone that went something like this, "Um, we found this phone on the ground outside of Cheddar's, in a booth at, in the bathroom stall at...." You get the picture! What's that saying..."God takes care of fools, little children and...Cherrie's???" lol! I call it grace, but, Hey! I'm not pushing it-I'm just grateful!
I also have a poor sense of direction and, when everyone else seems to know just what to do, I will miss it somehow. Let me give an example. Never fear...I always have a recent one!
Yesterday, I was running in the 5K with Habitiat for Humanity for the Women's Build. Piece of cake, right? I got there in plenty of time, got my pink t-shirt, got in line and off I went, all ready for pomp and glory, near the front with the runners! They had watering stations every so often and to tell us where to turn and it was all going great until...about 1/4 mile before the finish line, I was feeling so-so and I was hanging in pretty well (not bad since I'm on a raw food diet right now shedding my winter coat of a few extra pounds and don't have a lot of extra fuel to spare) when I found myself with a different pack - and this one was walking...no, stroooolling would be more accurate, I missed the last turn-off and ended up doing the course almost twice and coming in near the middle/end instead of at the front! :-0
I was walking along thinking to myself, "Why do you DO things like this, Cherrie? Where was your head?" and then I began to pray and I felt like my answer came in the form of having this thorn in my flesh. I've struggled with this all of my 45 years and, needless to say, it has been a humbling experience on numerous occasions and requires me, not only to depend on God, but on my wonderful freinds and family (poor souls!) I've prayed about it many times, to no avail. Sometimes I'm better than others..but it's always there. I know this much. It keeps me humble and, perhaps, without it, I would have an over-inflated opinion of myself. God knows best.
This doesn't take away from the fact that I need to make every effort to slow down, "BE PRESENT" lol - and pay better attention to the task at hand. It simply reminds me that we all have strengths and weaknesses. In our weakness, let's seek that place of humility and allow God's strength to shine in our lives.
What is the thorn in your flesh? Are you blessed to have more than one, like me? :-) Is it something far more debilitating such as a physical limitation or an unsightly scar or birthmark that has caused you to be taunted through life? Do you struggle with a weakness in just talking to people without feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable? Or is it carrying a terrible secret of something that hurt you or someone you hurt, long ago, that weighs your soul down, with a heavy burden, that you aren't meant to bear? I know there are some very serious scars that leave us vulnerable and weak in ways we have no idea how to manage. Will you take the step that leads you away from humiliation by humbling yourself and being transparent before God? Allow him to carry the burden of be your strength. He can, you know. Will you let it make you softer, kinder in the face of other's weaknesses and and to showcase God's strength in your life? I'm praying for you right now.
Still climbing...and losing things....and getting lost....and not getting it...and being loved by God, anyway ;-)
Cher
I've come to the conclusion that Paul was not alone in having received the gift of a thorn in his flesh. Now, we don't know what the thorn actually was and, although Bible scholars have gone to great lengths discussing what it might have been, I believe there is a reason for this. It's because it could have been any number of things and we are left to fill in the blank with whatever our "thorn" may be. What is significant to catch is the purpose behind it. In this scenario, if we open our spiritual eyes, we can see that being willing to accept our thorn, in weakness or humility, meaning that our total dependence is upon him, creates the perfect opportunity for God to shine!
I lose things. Not occasionally, but repeatedly. I lose my cell phone, my purse, my jacket... I try not to. I really do. My mind just always seems to be focused elsewhere when it's time to gather up these items. Fortunately, my friends, my mom, anyone with whom I spend a significant amount of time, finds themselves taking up the role of caretaker in this area, sad to say, and are like my guardian angels, always going behind me..."Phone? Purse? Jacket? Scarf?" :-/
Two weeks ago, I was at the Toyota Center, here in Houston, for the Get Motivated Seminar. I left my make-up bag on the aisle where we were seated - my purse was heavy and I took it out to lighten the load while I went to the girl's room. You guessed it; I never put it back. Now, we are talking 19,000 seats...kiss that baby goodbye, right? Well let me tell you, someone turned it in and after several phone calls, playing phone tag, a trip over there and an hour wait, I had it back! :-D My friends have marvelled at how I always seem to have my things found by the right people. I've had calls from my cell phone that went something like this, "Um, we found this phone on the ground outside of Cheddar's, in a booth at, in the bathroom stall at...." You get the picture! What's that saying..."God takes care of fools, little children and...Cherrie's???" lol! I call it grace, but, Hey! I'm not pushing it-I'm just grateful!
I also have a poor sense of direction and, when everyone else seems to know just what to do, I will miss it somehow. Let me give an example. Never fear...I always have a recent one!
Yesterday, I was running in the 5K with Habitiat for Humanity for the Women's Build. Piece of cake, right? I got there in plenty of time, got my pink t-shirt, got in line and off I went, all ready for pomp and glory, near the front with the runners! They had watering stations every so often and to tell us where to turn and it was all going great until...about 1/4 mile before the finish line, I was feeling so-so and I was hanging in pretty well (not bad since I'm on a raw food diet right now shedding my winter coat of a few extra pounds and don't have a lot of extra fuel to spare) when I found myself with a different pack - and this one was walking...no, stroooolling would be more accurate, I missed the last turn-off and ended up doing the course almost twice and coming in near the middle/end instead of at the front! :-0
I was walking along thinking to myself, "Why do you DO things like this, Cherrie? Where was your head?" and then I began to pray and I felt like my answer came in the form of having this thorn in my flesh. I've struggled with this all of my 45 years and, needless to say, it has been a humbling experience on numerous occasions and requires me, not only to depend on God, but on my wonderful freinds and family (poor souls!) I've prayed about it many times, to no avail. Sometimes I'm better than others..but it's always there. I know this much. It keeps me humble and, perhaps, without it, I would have an over-inflated opinion of myself. God knows best.
This doesn't take away from the fact that I need to make every effort to slow down, "BE PRESENT" lol - and pay better attention to the task at hand. It simply reminds me that we all have strengths and weaknesses. In our weakness, let's seek that place of humility and allow God's strength to shine in our lives.
What is the thorn in your flesh? Are you blessed to have more than one, like me? :-) Is it something far more debilitating such as a physical limitation or an unsightly scar or birthmark that has caused you to be taunted through life? Do you struggle with a weakness in just talking to people without feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable? Or is it carrying a terrible secret of something that hurt you or someone you hurt, long ago, that weighs your soul down, with a heavy burden, that you aren't meant to bear? I know there are some very serious scars that leave us vulnerable and weak in ways we have no idea how to manage. Will you take the step that leads you away from humiliation by humbling yourself and being transparent before God? Allow him to carry the burden of be your strength. He can, you know. Will you let it make you softer, kinder in the face of other's weaknesses and and to showcase God's strength in your life? I'm praying for you right now.
Still climbing...and losing things....and getting lost....and not getting it...and being loved by God, anyway ;-)
Cher
Saturday
Give the Gift of Being Present
Web friends! Grab your cup of coffee and join me for a quick chat because I have something I want to share with you! I must confess that this little tidbit didn't originate with me but it's just too good to keep to myself... so lean in!
Here's the low-down. A close friend shared with me, recently, that she realized a need to focus on being more "Present" in her life. Her insights struck me and have lingered in the weeks since we visited. I know this is an area we all struggle with in our, often, helter-skelter lives so I'll leave a few thoughts from our conversation here with you. If you are like me and find your mind always 2 or 3 steps ahead of what you are doing in the here and now, stop and simply BE PRESENT in what you are doing and with whom you are doing it. This is one very simple, but easily overlooked way that we can begin to live a fuller, more satisfying life, immediately. Don't you love a quick fix? :-)
In our culture, we are expected to have the ability to multi-task, not only as a necessary qualification in order to land and retain a good job, but it is considered a praiseworthy ability. However, in building relationships, the practice of this habit robs us of quality time and produces shallow, unsatisfying experiences.
Remember, as kids, begging Mom or Dad to "Watch me!" or "Play with me!"? and if they weren't really watching or were "multi-tasking" (i.e. talking on the phone, gabbing with the neighbor, etc.)while half-paying attention to the game or whatever we were playing, we would catch on quickly and continue to say, with increased zeal and volume, "Are you WATCHING me? Did you SEE that?!" "It's YOUR turn!!" :-)
I know we're all guilty on this one but we need not despair! As long as there is breath, there is hope! As we become more aware and seek a fuller participation in our moments, and as we begin to really listen, to really watch, and to really be present, we will send a message that says "I value you and you are worth my undivided attention," while making memories that will be recalled with a fonder affection.
Let your voicemail pick up that call while you take time to throw the ball with your son or to color with your graddaughter. Turn off the T.V. and listen as Grandpa tells that story, again. Be interested and even ask a question or two. It will make his day. :-). Take a few moments away from your computer screen to listen to your co-worker's heart as she asks for advice or just needs a listening ear. These, and many more, are the moments that build our lives and write our epitaph, one moment at a time!
One final thought. Making a decision to be present in our moments isn't accomplished in a one time determination. It's a daily refreshing that we will find as we frequent our knowing place (see previous entry) to remember what we truly value in our hearts. May God meet us there and grant us grace that we will have eyes to see and ears to hear the opportunities to make a difference in our moments.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Here's the low-down. A close friend shared with me, recently, that she realized a need to focus on being more "Present" in her life. Her insights struck me and have lingered in the weeks since we visited. I know this is an area we all struggle with in our, often, helter-skelter lives so I'll leave a few thoughts from our conversation here with you. If you are like me and find your mind always 2 or 3 steps ahead of what you are doing in the here and now, stop and simply BE PRESENT in what you are doing and with whom you are doing it. This is one very simple, but easily overlooked way that we can begin to live a fuller, more satisfying life, immediately. Don't you love a quick fix? :-)
In our culture, we are expected to have the ability to multi-task, not only as a necessary qualification in order to land and retain a good job, but it is considered a praiseworthy ability. However, in building relationships, the practice of this habit robs us of quality time and produces shallow, unsatisfying experiences.
Remember, as kids, begging Mom or Dad to "Watch me!" or "Play with me!"? and if they weren't really watching or were "multi-tasking" (i.e. talking on the phone, gabbing with the neighbor, etc.)while half-paying attention to the game or whatever we were playing, we would catch on quickly and continue to say, with increased zeal and volume, "Are you WATCHING me? Did you SEE that?!" "It's YOUR turn!!" :-)
I know we're all guilty on this one but we need not despair! As long as there is breath, there is hope! As we become more aware and seek a fuller participation in our moments, and as we begin to really listen, to really watch, and to really be present, we will send a message that says "I value you and you are worth my undivided attention," while making memories that will be recalled with a fonder affection.
Let your voicemail pick up that call while you take time to throw the ball with your son or to color with your graddaughter. Turn off the T.V. and listen as Grandpa tells that story, again. Be interested and even ask a question or two. It will make his day. :-). Take a few moments away from your computer screen to listen to your co-worker's heart as she asks for advice or just needs a listening ear. These, and many more, are the moments that build our lives and write our epitaph, one moment at a time!
One final thought. Making a decision to be present in our moments isn't accomplished in a one time determination. It's a daily refreshing that we will find as we frequent our knowing place (see previous entry) to remember what we truly value in our hearts. May God meet us there and grant us grace that we will have eyes to see and ears to hear the opportunities to make a difference in our moments.
Still Climbing,
Cher
Tuesday
Uh oh, the hurricane IS my life! :-0
Greetings from a new blogger in Houston, Texas, aka H-town! I'm excited about sharing a little of myself here with you in some ways that I hope will encourage and motivate you to "Aim high!" as a friend said to me, recently. Regardless of your upbringing, your past mistakes, deep hurts or present pain, I believe, with everything in me, that you have a purpose to fulfill and that it's possible for all that has happened in your life, the good, the bad and even the ugly - whether it's been seemingly random events over which you had no control, or difficulties you invited in through bad decision making, these events and their results can be used for good in your life and the lives of others. Don't waste YOUR hurricane! There's good to come from those stormy gales and the damage they've done. Let the re-building begin...oh, and give your neighbor a hand up while you're at it. Healing is on the way! I am not saying this out of some pie-in-the-sky ideology but from my own life experiences.
This blog is a public journal. The audience is whomever God directs to stumble upon it and some friends who have encouraged me to write it. I hope to share some laughter, very likely some tears, and even a fitness and beauty tip of the day. It's not a counseling session but I trust you may find some helpful steps on your path to healing as we share in the process of allowing our hurts to be useful tools for good in God's capable hands. We won't be serious all the time here, as I like to laugh and a sense of humor is essential in maintaining balance in our lives, especially when those hurricanes come blowing through!
Now, I am a coffee lover and my Starbucks favorite is a tall, decaf (headaches), extra hot, non-fat, no whip, one splenda,vanilla latte ;-) so grab your favorite and come by again, soon, for a chat. I think you'll find we have some things in common.
Don't resist the climb - I've heard the view at the top is spectacular!
Still climbing!
Cher
This blog is a public journal. The audience is whomever God directs to stumble upon it and some friends who have encouraged me to write it. I hope to share some laughter, very likely some tears, and even a fitness and beauty tip of the day. It's not a counseling session but I trust you may find some helpful steps on your path to healing as we share in the process of allowing our hurts to be useful tools for good in God's capable hands. We won't be serious all the time here, as I like to laugh and a sense of humor is essential in maintaining balance in our lives, especially when those hurricanes come blowing through!
Now, I am a coffee lover and my Starbucks favorite is a tall, decaf (headaches), extra hot, non-fat, no whip, one splenda,vanilla latte ;-) so grab your favorite and come by again, soon, for a chat. I think you'll find we have some things in common.
Don't resist the climb - I've heard the view at the top is spectacular!
Still climbing!
Cher
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