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Be Ye Perfect: The Easiest Way to Live a Perfect Life

By
Keiston France
-
perfectionists

On June 2, 2010, MLB pitcher Armando Galarraga was one out away from a perfect game: no hits, no walks, no errors. An easy ground ball was hit to the first baseman who tossed the ball to Galarraga, who was covering the first base bag. His catch clearly beat the runner to the bag for the final out of the game, but a veteran umpire called the runner safe, therefore ending Galarraga’s perfect game. This mistake showed that even the veteran umpire wasn’t perfect. And, in reality, none of us are.

Every one of us makes mistakes. We all make misjudgments, bad calls and show our imperfections in a variety of ways. But, there was one Man who lived the only perfect life in history: Jesus Christ.

More than 2,000 years ago, Jesus lived a life of perfection here on an imperfect earth. Everything He did was perfect. He spoke all the right words at the right times, did all the right actions, and perfectly demonstrated God’s character and love.

On March 14th, 2011, I was one serve away from a perfect game. After winning 11 perfect matches in a row, I only needed one more to have a perfect game. I was shaking so badly that I could barely hold my racquet. With the whole tennis facility watching me, with a score of 40 all, I stepped up, tossed the ball in the air, and right when I made contact with the ball I knew I had blown my chance at a perfect game. My serve went wide. I ended up winning the match 6-0, 6-1 instead of 6-0, 6-0. It was a great game, but not perfect.

Be Ye Perfect in Jesus Christ

breath of lifeThis experience made me more aware of how amazing it is that Jesus lived a perfect life. It is truly amazing that in all the turmoil and negativity of a sin-filled world, He still lived perfectly. He didn’t tremble at the thought of perfection. He didn’t even second-guess Himself. He knew that everything He was doing was exactly right.

While our goal every day should be to strive for Jesus’ model of holy perfection, we must understand that we will never be perfect in the sense of never making a mistake. We are all sinners, and we will make daily errors in actions, words, and thoughts. The closest we will get to perfection is by having a relationship with Jesus Christ – the One who made the perfect sacrifice of His life to save us from our sins.

So, What’s The Play Call?

Yes, by all means, continue to aim for Christ-like perfection. But, focus more on cultivating a healthy personal relationship with Jesus, willing to repent to Him for the sins that you do commit. Doing that will bring you as close to perfection as humanly possible.  Think about it.

  1. Do you strive for perfection in life, sports, or anything else you do?
  2. What is your standard for perfection? Is it Jesus? If not, what is it and where does your standard come from?
  3. How should you react when you sin? (Specifically think about conviction, repentance, grace, and forgiveness.)
  4. What can you do to better stay on Jesus’ path of perfection?

 

You Are Not Your Mistakes: 3 Ways to Remind Yourself and Others

By
Alecia M. White
-
you are not your mistakes

Where I live, we have billboards owned by various healthcare networks staking their claim at providing the best patient services and having the best healthcare workers. So, one of these networks has a series of billboards that use a unique method to let everyone know that their patients are treated as people – not just as the illness or ailment they are being treated for.

Typically, I just glance at the billboards and keep going, mainly because there’s not always enough stoplight time to take a message in. One day, though, the light seemed extra long so I actually paid attention. As I sat at a stoplight, I read, “I am more than my stiff joints. I am Beverly.”

All of their billboards are set up this way around the city, “I am more than… I am…” Different issues, different patients, same premise. Another that I’ve seen floating around says, “I am more than a 10:30 appointment. I am Eric.” I imagine that this is probably effective in helping people make medical insurance decisions. I mean, I know I want an experience that makes me feel like a whole person and not just a doctor’s visit. I read that billboard about 6 or 7 times before the light turned green.

You Are More Than Your Mistakes, You are Loved

All Things Work Together for GoodThese billboards got me to thinking about how this plays out in life situations. I know we all want to be seen for who we are and not our “illnesses or ailments”… the stuff we’ve done or mistakes we’ve made.

There have been plenty of times when I’ve allowed others to address me as the mistakes I’d made because I couldn’t seem to let go of the guilt myself. It took me way too long, but I finally learned that once I had sincerely apologized, applied actions of change, and forgiven myself, I could let it go and be free.

Mentally, I put myself on the billboard and filled in my truth; “I am more than my mistakes. I am Alecia.” You’ve got to do the same. Make up in your mind that the forgiveness that God offers is for you. Accept it and understand that you are much more than anything that you have done.

So, What’s the Play Call?

We’ve all had our downfalls, and sometimes it’s easier to hold on to the familiar past and even allow others to treat us in a way that reflects who we were. But, I want us to value our growth and expect others to do the same. Here are a few things to hold on to when your past tries to follow you into your future:

  1. Don’t let anyone treat you as an “ailment”. Anybody who wants to hold you to what you’ve done in the past does not have your best interest at heart. It’s okay to step away and re-evaluate those relationships so that you have space to be your best self. Remember, Jesus died for every transgression and He will send you people that will show you His love. “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes, we are healed.” Isaiah‬ ‭53:5‬ ‭‬‬‬‬
  2. Know that you deserve better – even when circumstances would have you to believe otherwise. You are not your mistakes, none of us are. Mistakes are things we’ve done, not who we are. God wants you to know that even He doesn’t give us what we deserve. “He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.” Psalms‬ ‭103:10‬ ‭NLT‬‬‬‬ ‬‬
  3. Live like you are worth it – and don’t let yourself or anyone else convince you otherwise. Please know that you are worth a fresh start and you are worth the better that is coming to you. God gave His son with you in mind so that you could have this opportunity.  “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” Romans‬ ‭8:32‬ ‭‬‬‬‬

Sometimes, it takes a “stoplight” moment to remind us of who we are. Take some time to think about how you’ve grown, even make a list.

Go ahead, accept God’s forgiveness, and put yourself on the billboard and fill in your truth: “I am more than __________. I Am __________.”

 

Snack Attacks: 5 Reasons Why You’re Tempted to Nibble Between Meals

By
Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
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nibble between meals

The Snack Attacks Strike, Again!

nibble between mealsSnacks have become a huge part of our eating pattern.  In fact, research suggests that 90% of Americans have at least one snack each day and 50% of our food consumption comes from snacks!  Some of these snacks are intentional and others not so much.

Do you find yourself eating when you aren’t really hungry?  Have you ever begun eating something but didn’t even realize what you were doing until you moments later?  

Guilt creeps in.  Convicted, we often hear this familiar scripture circling through our mind,

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)

Many claim, ‘I just need more self-discipline.’  But eating isn’t wrong. Enjoying a cookie, whether at 1pm or 11pm isn’t a sin.  

But we also know that the cookie isn’t a smart choice most of the time.

I’m Nibbling Because…

So why are we drawn to eat, even when we are not hungry?  And more specifically, why do we long for foods that aren’t healthful?  

Many brands and companies employ brilliant scientists to uncover exactly how to produce a product that tantalizes our taste buds.  And, they hire a clever marketing team to capture our attention. But, unplanned snacking isn’t just about tasty food – there is a lot more involved in why we do what we do.

I think Paul speaks for all of us, at some time or another,

I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. Romans 7:15 (NIV)

Can you relate?  Maybe you feel like that a lot!

If you can, you are not bad.  If you are frequently asking Holy Spirit for more self-control, be encouraged – it comes by being Spirit-led.  That’s exactly what God wants us to do – realize our own weakness and reach out, acknowledging our struggles and proclaiming His strength.  

The ‘Why’ Behind Nibbling

mindful eating

But it is also important to realize that your temptation to nibble between meals isn’t just because a food tastes good.  Sometimes we are eating and not even tasting what we are eating anyway.

Here are 5 reasons why you are tempted to nibble between meals and practical strategies to help you choose differently next time.

1. The Previous Meal Did Not Physically Satisfy You

Sometimes, you can’t get food off the brain because your body really needs MORE nourishment.  It is very important that you are eating enough calories, fat, protein and fiber at every single meal (even breakfast!) so that you can last at least 3 to 5 hours without feeling remotely hungry.  If you are physically hungry before then, the meal was not the best choice for your body.  Even if you are trying to shave off a few calories here and there, it is still critical to be eating meals that include these components.  

Protein, often prized and praised, is critical for satiety, burning fat, bone health, hormone balance, repairing muscle after a workout and so much more.  Do you eat the minimum 20-30 grams of protein per meal as research suggests? Keep nibbling out of your mind by including adequate protein.

The average American consumes 15 grams of fiber per day, half of the recommendation. That means you should be aiming closer to 10 grams of fiber from whole foods, per meal. Half a plate of veggies is a great place to start. But also beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds are excellent options too.

Fat makes you feel full. Avocado, nuts, seeds, nut butters, salmon and sardines, olive oil, and avocado oil are rich sources of healthy fats to fill you up and promote good health. Remember, it is not just fat that you want but good sources of fat so that it promotes heart health, cell health, and brain function.

A few flavorful meals that will satisfy you in more ways than one:

Parmesan Chicken Quinoa Bake

Quinoa Edamame Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

BBQ Chicken & Black Bean Lettuce Wraps

Creamy Mocha Overnight Oats

2. You are Feeling Deprived

Many trendy diets call you to eliminate foods and food groups in order to obtain a ‘lean and healthy body.’  While they may jumpstart weight loss or fat loss, consider whether it is really a good long-term strategy for you and your body.  

People that jump on and off these diets often report that they were required to eliminate or severely restrict a food or food group and they were not mentally okay with this, even though they wanted to be.  

As a side note, any eating plan that requires you to give up whole foods, needs to be reconsidered.

When we are feeling deprived, those foods which are supposedly not an option linger in our thoughts.  It is easy to build them up in our heads, wanting them more and more, until finally one day, we cave. Sometimes we even justify the decision claiming, “I never eat that so it’s okay this time.”  

This process cycles again and again.  Restrict, restrict, restrict, … cave.

Do you want to live life in the balance of deprivation, guilt and justifying behaviors?  

3. Emotional Response

thoughts and prayersIt is common to hear people talking about eating when they are stressed or anxious.  But do you eat when you are feeling happy? Do you eat when you are celebrating? Do you eat when you are feeling resentful?  

Ah-ha moments can come at any time and mine came 6-9 months ago when I realized I was eating after dinner because I resented parts of motherhood.  I was frustrated and angry that I rarely got to sit down and enjoy a meal in peace and quiet. After my kids were in bed was the only time when I got to enjoy a meal without the distraction of kids.  But most nights, I wasn’t really hungry. Resentment fueled this. I wasn’t walking around all day like a boiler ready to blow. It was deep-seated anger covered up with life, responsibilities, work, and everyday activities that was slowly and tenderly uncovered by Holy Spirit.

Once you identify an emotion compelling you to eat, it doesn’t automatically go away. Identification is good, but it’s only the first part. Then you get to talk to God about it, a lot, and maybe a professional too, as you create a strategy that will help you take a different action when those feelings are ignited.

4. Lack of Clear, Healthful Boundaries

While we may turn to this as the first option to consider, there is often an underlying reason for our nibbling.  However, setting up some clear boundaries with food is necessary for all individuals.

Here are a few ideas:

  • Close the kitchen at a specific time at night and in between meals.  This reminds you and family members that it is not a snacking time until the kitchen is open for the next (planned) meal.
  • Keep treats out of the house.  Decide in advance when you will have a treat.  Then, enjoy it when you do.
  • Eat with other people.  If you find that you hide or sneak food, this is a great way to enjoy community around meals and hold yourself accountable.  This is also important for treat foods too.
  • Drink 12-20 ounces of water between meals.  Make sure that when you are hungry, it is physical hunger and not thirst making you feel empty.  Plan to finish the water before you allow yourself to eat the next meal.

5. Visual Cues Trigger You

If a co-worker is snacking on a few pieces of candy during a work meeting does that trigger you?  When you walk into a movie theater are you compelled to eat some popcorn? It is important to know what scenarios ‘trigger’ you and which ones don’t seem to bother you. Then, decide in advance how you will respond in those moments.

For example, if someone is snacking on chips or pretzels at the party, it doesn’t bother me. I am able to move past it without an issue. But if there is a piece of homemade carrot cake sitting on a dessert table, it requires a lot more restraint- and a plan.

Which reason do you identify with most?  Why? Take one minute- just one- to think and pray about this.

So, what’s the play call?

Good health is at the intersection of smart physical boundaries, emotional health, and spirit living.  

If you are frustrated with your nibbling behaviors, don’t put your faith solely in a diet or eating plan.  There are benefits to an intentional eating plan and physical wellness results from how you care for your body.  But, go deeper. Decide to discover the “why” behind the “what”. Partner with God. This is how you can begin…

Father-
Teach me 1 physical boundary I need to set for myself.
Reveal 1 reason I eat when I am not hungry.
Help me hear you even among the distractions and noise around me.
No matter what foods are before me, help me want you more.

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 John 1:2

Marriage: The Two Become One, But One What?

By
Kristina Bolton
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two become one

The Bible says that marriage is a mystery (Ephesians 5:32). I could not describe it better.  It involves two different people coming together – two become one – forming one union. No one marriage is the same, because no two people are the same. There is no right or wrong way in marriage as long as it remains within the law of God. After 11 years of marriage, I find that no amount of anything can adequately prepare anyone for what their union will entail. There can be excellent foundational counseling and prayer, but I believe no one is really ever fully “ready.”

Marital Spats

discontent in marriageFor the record, every married couple argues at some point in their relationship. I do not want you to feel alone. I can recall the first argument between my husband and me, and many since then. But, there came a time when I began to seek the Lord on a better way to handle disagreements. I wanted my husband to be able to do things a certain way or think how I thought, and it just wasn’t happening.

As I began to seek the Lord on counsel, I started by saying, “God, I can’t see how we will become one,” and the Lord replied, “One what?”

I learned years ago that when the all-knowing God asks a question, there is something powerful He wants to say. I followed the leading of the Spirit and found myself in the book of Genesis. Genesis 2:24 says, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” It was there that it hit me, “one flesh.” God never said that a married couple would become one being, but one flesh.

Marriage is like the relationship between Christ and the Church. What is the church? The Body of Christ. Not the soul or spirit. Likewise, a husband and wife will be one in the body.

Being = Body/Flesh + Spirit + Soul

Each person is made up of three components, body/flesh, spirit, and soul. Each element has its functions. I won’t go into the full explanations of all three, but I want to help you as the Lord helped me. A married couple becomes one flesh; this means that things of the natural life, become a blended entity. However, their spirit and soul will remain separate. See why the Bible refers to it as a mystery? Indeed there can be spiritual impartations between husband and wife, but no married couple should expect to become one full human being.

The Spirit of Man

authentic selfOur spirits contain so much – our personality, gifts, callings, etc. It’s what makes us individuals. When I understood that my husband and I were not meant to become one spirit, I began to change how I looked at things.

For this reason, you may not always be able to see what is going on in their inner man. Truthfully, no person can have full access to another. That access belongs to God. A married couple can be one in the Spirit of God, but remain two different spirits.

This helped me so much. It caused me not to burden my husband with something he was not supposed to carry. I could not hold him accountable for completely knowing me. I started communicating more. God did not make him my mind reader; he is my husband.

The Bible says people’s ways are right in their own eyes, and so I began to embrace our different perspectives and not hold so tightly to my own. It is easy for people to mistake their way as the best way. I can be guilty of this. I began to see our differences as a perfect puzzle rather than a disconnect. From there, we began to grow together.

Two Become One Flesh

submissionWe began to embrace the gifts and callings of one another. Gifts and callings reside in the spirit. The spirit holds the things that were given to us graciously by the Creator.

God told Jeremiah before he was even in the womb, he was a prophet. This calling happened before Jeremiah became a living soul. I think some couples believe that their callings are one; Not true. Recall Hosea, a prophet, whom God instructed to marry a harlot, or Moses, whose wife was Zipporah. She participated minimally, if at all, in the deliverance of the Children of Israel.

Understand, a husband and wife can work together in service to the Lord like Priscilla and Aquilla, but that is not always the case. But even in that service, they are still two individuals called to work together.

The Soul of Man

Understanding that you and your spouse have separate souls is very important.  The main thing that happens in the soul of man is salvation.

No married couple will become one soul. So, each person must work out their own salvation (Philippians 2:12), even though they are one flesh, meaning that each husband and wife must accept Jesus for themselves. They must repent for themselves. They will have different struggles and areas of attack. The Lord may deal with your spouse in a particular area and you in another.

1 Corinthians 7:14 says that when an unbeliever is married to a believer, the unbeliever is “sanctified” not saved. And, this is only for the sake of the children being made holy to the Lord. When I paid attention to this, it caused me to pray for my husband more. I began to realize that although we are on the same path of salvation, we will both have a personal walk.

So, What’s The Play Call?

Think about you and your spouse. You both may enjoy the same foods, shows, vacation spots, fashion line, or song. You may see that over time, you have grown closer, but in areas that remain separated, check to see whether these are areas of the spirit and soul. If they are, understand they will stay separate. Instead of focusing on how much you are different, see the beautiful masterpiece God has created between the two of you.

Remember, marriage is a mystery compared to Jesus and His church ( Ephesians 5:32). We are the church, and while we will be like Jesus, we cannot or will not become Jesus.

I pray this helps you.

 

But Grandma Does It: 4 Routine Ways We Normalize Sin

By
Kim Brightness
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normalize sin

Ever notice how sin – or even simple flaws – often look different on different people? Or, have you ever found yourself disgusted by behavior in one person (or yourself), but give a pass to a close friend or loved one who does the exact same behavior? It’s how we normalize sin. For example…

Perhaps you don’t care too much for Jane in accounting who goes around telling everybody’s business… but your favorite Aunt Linda, well, “that’s just the way she is.”

You’re understandably firm about your friend’s significant other who is being unfaithful… but your big brother James, well, “he’s always had all the women.”

The Hypocrisy of Normalizing Sin

Team, we have a problem. I say “we” because we clearly won’t point the finger at the playbook.

When the Bible speaks of behaviors, attitudes, thoughts that are sinful – things we must intentionally avoid – there are no hidden asterisks representing a special group of people in our lives who are exempt.

None of us have the respect of God (Romans 2:11), where we can skip over the pursuit of sanctification through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 12:14, Philippians 2:12). The guidance that has been given to one has been given to all who take up their cross to follow Jesus.

So, why do we often engage in the normalization of sin?

Our Normal vs. God’s Standards

obedience is better than sacrificeWhenever there’s a disconnect between a) what we promote, affirm, or approve as right and wrong and b) the standards of God – we have somehow overstepped a boundary and attempted to take something that belongs to God.

Now, that may sound crazy or dramatic, but think of it this way: What does it take for us to give ourselves and/or others a pass with regards to God’s standards?

Oftentimes when we normalize sin, we unwittingly attempt to sit on God’s throne (Psalm 47:8) as if we are the all-knowing authority and Creator of the world. Did God give us permission to infringe upon His intellectual property and re-write His words, giving them a different meaning and consequence?

We are to say what God says, regardless of our loving and favorable bias towards the intended party.

What does sin bias look like?

Our bias enables us to normalize sin. Here are 4 types of sin bias that we all must search our hearts for and immediately evict:

1. Everybody’s doing it (numbers).

“If so many people are doing it, God must not really care. He won’t let that many people go to hell.” Be not deceived, teammates! We’ve already been warned that broad is the way that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13). Broad implies “many people”. We see it in society everywhere – people finding perceived safety and solace in the multitude of voices who say wrong is right and right is wrong – from the LGBTQ community, gay marriage, to sexual “test drives” before marriage.

2. They’re just old/young (age).

“Because they’re so {old, young}, God will excuse their behavior.”  Newsflash, Team. There are no age-related exemptions to the principles and ordinances of God. I kid you not – I actually heard a pastor say from the pulpit on a packed Sunday morning:

“Sure, we preach against fornication, but what are you gonna tell Grandma who wants to get her groove on?”

Lord. Teammates, you had sure better tell Grandma, mom, dad, and anyone else you love what thus saith the Lord, and not look to their age, nor have…

3. Blinding admiration.

We all have people we admire and treasure in our lives – from family, best friends, and mentors. However, the lens through which we view them is not the same lens that God uses; God’s lens can see straight to the heart!

Think not that God will dishonor His own principles to acquiesce to our view of a person. We must keep things in the proper perspective – even when dealing with people to whom we are fiercely loyal.

4. But I do it, too.

Uh oh. It’s hard for some to call a “spade a spade” when we’re wearing the spade. And, oddly enough, sometimes we cry loud and spare not when we see our spades in other people’s lives. Nevertheless, this hypocrisy is out of order and gives us zero cover from God seeing all. We can’t quell the conviction of the Holy Spirit that we feel by turning a blind eye. Instead, let’s submit and align to where God is leading us so that others may follow us as we follow Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

So, What’s the Play Call?

Let God be true, and every man be a liar (Romans 3:4). What does that mean? If it comes down between God’s principles and standards and our will, thoughts, perceptions, beliefs, or convictions – go with God!

Don’t let your loyalty, friendship, bloodline, or admiration be a stumbling block in another person’s life. How many today refuse to seek God or to repent and receive God’s grace because everyone has told them, “You’re fine. Live your truth. It’s ok. Be your authentic self.” – no matter how much their authentic self opposes God?

Yes, this article talks about sin and how we can unknowingly or knowingly normalize sin. But, we can’t end it without some good news: Sin is no match for God’s grace – the grace of God will always abound over sin (Romans 5:20).

 

Before You Get That Makeover, Understand Why You Want to Change Your Look

By
Charlene Evans
-
change your look

A makeover implies changing one’s appearance, sometimes through cosmetics. Makeovers can range from something as simple as a new haircut to the use of cosmetic surgery like a face-lift or a nose job, or through the application of makeup.

As we get older, things change. You may see wrinkles begin to show on your face, stretch marks if you have either gained weight or had a baby, your hair may become thin or your eyesight may be declining. Honestly, there are countless ways our bodies change as we get older; some changes happen to both men and women, others are unique to both genders.

Either way, we cannot escape the process of aging. But don’t tell that to our modern-day doctors who perform millions of plastic surgeries a year. People keep them busy because of the change in one’s body, and the constant scrutiny of the media and press keeps celebrities on the ropes for the newest “standard” of beauty. As a result, you have billions of dollars flowing through the “diet” industry of pills, liquids, etc. that try to sell the quick fix to losing weight and other extreme measures to makeover our bodies.

Sure extreme measures yield extreme results, but in the end, are we happy? Or, do these makeovers only satisfy us for a moment until we find something else we’re unhappy with then back to the surgeon? The “fix” is costly and most, at best, cannot afford the best options. But either way, there is a cost associated with the change.

Do You Need to Change Your Look, Or Change Your Heart? 

change your lookI wonder how many of those “makeovers” are a result of something deeper than our physical appearance? I know you have heard it countless times, “I am so stressed out and unhappy with myself; I have gained so much weight, especially in my stomach area, so I am going to get a tummy tuck. I just don’t have time to lose weight and everything I have tried has not worked,” or, “I have self-esteem issues due to my nose being so big. I have been self-conscious about it my whole life since I was a child. I would get teased all the time, calling me names like…”

Now, I do realize that not all makeovers are associated with self-esteem issues. And, there is absolutely nothing wrong with giving your image a change or a “boost” as some would put it, but I am going to challenge you to ask yourself (not your friends or your family members) – “What is the real reason why I want to change the way I look?

Is this change associated with something you saw on someone else, so you think it will look cool on you? Is this change still within the norm of something you would do, or are you going through an “identity crisis?” “Do I know who I AM and what is appropriate for me?”

Value Inner Beauty Above Outer Beauty

change your lookWe must be careful about the emphasis we place on the outer appearance. The Bible tells us to “Let your beauty be not just the outward adorning of braiding the hair, and of wearing jewels of gold or putting on fine clothing, but in the hidden person of the heart, in the incorruptible adornment of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God, very precious.” 1 Peter 3:3-4.

Peter was simply saying that the beauty of your “spirit” is precious to God. Knowing who you are in God and reflecting HIS love is beautiful and the most important “makeover” we could ever have! The internal change of how we view ourselves will produce an external result and that is what people will see past the makeup, hairstyles, and wardrobe.

So, you wanna get a makeover? Okay, that’s fine. Just remember, before you change anything, please know that you are God’s “masterpiece” and perfect in His sight. He loves you just the way you are! The approval of GOD must always be more important to you than the approval of others.

So, really, do you still want or need that makeover?

So, What’s the Play Call?

Here are 3 Biblical points to consider when thinking about a makeover and checking your motive behind doing one:

  • “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV
  • “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 NIV
  • Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1 Peter 3:3-4.

 

You Were Created for Such a Time As This

By
Jeannette Tyson
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for such a time as this

The year 2020 has truly been taxing in some way for all of us. We’ve been tested in so many ways, and things don’t seem to be letting up. I just want to encourage Team Jesus that God, in all His wisdom, created you for a time such as this (Esther 4:14)! The Lord told Joshua, “Be strong and of good courage.” (Joshua 1:6) Now more than ever we need to lean into our gifts and callings and take our place in God’s perfect will for our lives, no matter how frightening it gets.

We are a part of something so much bigger than ourselves – who knows what a difference your role will make in the world. It’s important to note here that even though not all of us are called to the five-fold ministry, that doesn’t mean that God’s plan for you is insignificant. He does everything with purpose, and He prepared great works for you to do (Ephesians 2:10). Ephesians 4:16 talks about each of us doing our share to grow the body. So, whatever you do, do it for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Created for Faith, Not Fear

Some of us have a lot of fear and anxiety when we try to move into purpose. It’s scary and seems impossible, but God gives us the strength and guidance we need to obey. The Word says the Holy Spirit is a helper and a counselor, and that He will teach us all things. We don’t have to know everything upfront before we get started. Sometimes we put so much pressure on ourselves and then end up in procrastination.

There have been several occasions where I have been told that I am a teacher. Different people at different times would prophesy to me and I would always feel intimidated. I would immediately think about the scripture that says teachers get judged more harshly than everyone else (James 3:1), and I just didn’t want any part in that. I would think to myself, “It’s hard enough keeping me and my kids in order!” I never understood why anyone would sign up for any leadership role in the church.

Such a Time As This Reveals Our Nature

obedience is better than sacrificeNow suddenly, it seems like I have been seeing a lot of teachers and leaders having public scandals. These are respected leaders with huge followings. In today’s world where we equate membership numbers with “success”, it was disheartening, and I admit that I was challenged not to judge them. I don’t even know if any of it was true, but I would start to question whether or not I should watch them online anymore. I felt guilty about these thoughts and more so, I would hate to be seen in that light or have someone question their faith because of my actions.

God revealed to me that He rarely calls people for what we think they’re suited for. God told Moses to go to the elders of Israel and to the Pharaoh about freeing the Hebrews, and Moses had a speech problem. Jesus made Judas, a thief, His treasurer (John 12:6). He made Paul, who used to persecute the church, an Apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 26:12-18). None of these people seemed right for the job, nevertheless, they were called.

The truth is, we have just as much, if not more to learn from the position God puts us in for such a time as this. The will of God for our lives and the calling He gives us help to sanctify us through and through. It’s not just a title we get to throw around to show off. The process that comes through our development in these callings mold us into the image of Christ. And, as time goes on, we continue to evolve further into our purpose and identity. It’s not a destination, it’s a journey.

Redeem the Time of Your Purpose and Calling

redeem the timeMore than ever the earth is groaning for the manifestation of the Sons of God (Romans 8:9). We have to stop trying to get to a certain place before we do what the Lord has told us to do. It’s an illusion. I believe that one reason we must seek God as we do His work is that it keeps us on our face before God. It’s what keeps us humble and it magnifies our need for Him.

When we see chaos and turmoil, we shouldn’t be afraid, we should seek God about how we can be used to make a difference. Maybe you’re already in your calling but you don’t know how God wants to use what you have to change the world. Consider a fast and keep pressing in to see what the Lord is saying. You never know what your instructions might be, but all things work together!

I always get so encouraged by the story I heard Ravi Zacharias tell about his friend, Fred, who led him to the Lord. Fred says he believes at times that he came into the world to bring the Bible into Mr. Zacharias’ hospital room and lead him to Christ. The story goes on but that was so interesting to me. Even if that was Fred’s purpose in life for such a time as this, look at how many lives have been changed through his obedience and legacy!

So, you never know how one small act of faith will impact the world. Don’t hesitate to act on even the small prompting of the Lord because you just never know.

So, What’s the Play Call?

  • Be strong and of good courage (Joshua 1:6).
  • God has created you for such a time as this (Esther 4:14).
  • Remember that God doesn’t require you to be perfect before you start.

Be blessed.

 

Your Answer to Prayer May Come in an Unexpected Package

By
Alecia M. White
-
answer to prayer

So, I was in my kitchen when I heard a noise outside my window. I looked through the blinds and noticed a bird inside of my screened-in porch. It was on the right side trying to get out of a screen that did not open. I’m guessing that is the side that it entered on.

Anyhoo, on the outside of the screen were his little birdie friends, chirping and flapping for him to get out. Now, I wasn’t going to open the door and risk him flying in the house, so I just watched for a while. I called my brother to show him and he suggested that I let the bird out on the other side.

As I looked, I noticed that the porch door hadn’t been latched so I could walk around to let him out. I went and opened the door, thinking that the bird would just fly free. The bird, in fact, did not fly free. Instead, it stayed right in that same area, flapping at that same screen that did not open. It kept chirping and watching its friends flying around my backyard.

My brother then suggested that I grab a chair to prop open the door so that, eventually, the bird would notice and fly free. As soon as I walked away from the door, the bird flew to it and tried to exit.

Well, I ran back thinking that maybe the bird had gotten the idea and would fly out of the open door. Nope, it still went right back. I grabbed a step stool to prop the door open. As soon as I walked away, the bird flew free. For all you animal lovers that were worrying, there is no longer a bird trapped within the confines of my screened-in porch. You’re welcome.

When the Answer to Prayer Doesn’t Look the Way You Expected

answer to prayerAlright, this bird made me think of us (yes, us) and all the times that we may have missed opportunities or ignored open doors because they weren’t on the “side of the porch” that we expected. Apparently, that bird expected freedom to come from the right side of my porch when it was calling from the left.

Sometimes the answer to our prayers and situations doesn’t come from the place we would like or expect it to come from. Remember that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours, so His direction of deliverance may very well be the opposite of our grand ideas.

And how many times have we placed our focus on our peers instead of working on ourselves? You know, watching them walk in their purpose and seemingly drown in blessings while we feel we are just being drowned.

Be truthful with yourself. We must learn to focus on Him and not them. Oh, and when God instructs them to offer help, it is okay to take it. So many times, we are caught up with the idea of getting there on our own. This causes us to miss the open door. That bird didn’t exit when I held the door open, but as soon as it closed, it tried on its own. Often, our help comes from Godsends that are willing to assist us along the way. Yes, this means that sometimes, who you expect to help is not who it will be.

So, What’s the Play Call?

I know that freedom seems it will never come, but there are times when it is right there in front of us. It just does not look the way we hoped or imagined it would. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are trying to exit that “screened-in porch”:

  1. Let God be your help. If you are open to whatever and whoever He has planned to be your help, you will find the freedom you’re looking for. “My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” Psalms 121:2
  2. You alone cannot fathom God’s plan for your life. Stop trying to figure things out on your own. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9
  3. Focus on your prize. It is so easy to become envious of others when we spend our time focusing on what they have and what we do not. It was never God’s will for us to want what was meant for someone else. “Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” Galatians 5:26
  4. There is strength in numbers. I know you’ve heard that before. Now, it’s time to believe it and accept the assistance from those that God sends your way because most things, you cannot do alone. “And five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight: and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword.” Leviticus 26:8
  5. Ask, seek, knock. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:” Matthew 7:7

There is no shame in allowing the door to be held open for you. Walk through the unexpected answers to prayer knowing that God favors you. Go and be free.

Are You a VRP? Do You Bring Life or Drain Life From Others?

By
Keiston France
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bring life

They are rare and very hard to come by, but every once in a while, you can spot one. You may find one in the Team Jesus locker room or your family, but, once they are identified, they stick out BIG TIME!

When a “VRP” is around, you feel like a million bucks. They just have a way of making you feel special.

What is a VRP? It is a Very Refreshing Person. These people breathe life into the ordinary and transform it. As lifters, they have the ability to bless others and bring words of encouragement.

I have three model VRPs in my life – my Mother, my Father, and my girlfriend. Every time I talk with them I feel like I have a red cape on my back and big “S” on my chest. They make me feel like Superman because they speak words of life into me – words drenched in hope, not words of death. These aren’t just “make you feel good” words, but “we believe in you” words. What a difference! They see God’s greatness in me. They inspire me. Their encouragement isn’t fake (which can be sniffed out miles away), but is powerful, purpose-filled edification.

If You Don’t Bring Life to Others, What Are You Carrying?

The opposite of a VRP is a VDP. And, unfortunately, VDPs are everywhere a dime a dozen. VDP stands for Very Draining Person. They take chunks of flesh out of you every time you encounter them and they drain the life out of you. VDPs criticize, complain, whine, make excuses, and find faults. That is their natural style of communication. Negative, negative, negative is their approach.

And, there is no relief for them (or you). Their words are laced with destruction and they spew their poison on anyone who dares to listen. Their goal is to pull you down to their level of misery. They don’t have a “glass is half empty” mentality – they have a “glass is completely empty” mentality. VDPs lurk in neighborhoods, teams, churches, and families -basically everywhere you find people. When they walk in the room, you run because they are backing up the truck, getting ready to dump on you.

A Very Refreshing Person in the Bible

bring lifeIn the Bible, Onesiphorus was a Very Refreshing Person. He brought hope and healing. He’s only mentioned twice, both times in 2 Timothy. Obviously, he’s not a popular Bible character, but he was well-known to the apostle Paul because of the encouragement he delivered. In fact, his name actually means “to bring help or profit-bearing.” He did exactly that!

Everybody needs a VRP, and Onesiphorus was one of Paul’s main VRPs. Paul got hammered by others, both Christians and non-Christians. He received the 360-degree pounding often because when he made a stand for the Truth, an attack would always come – as it still does for us today.

During one of Paul’s darkest hours in a Roman prison, Onesiphorus risked his life to find Paul and bring refreshment to him. In the passage, the word “refreshed” means “to cool again.” Onesiphorus was like a breath of fresh air who breathed life into Paul and brought encouragement, hope, and transformation. I love that the verse says “often refreshed.” Onesiphorus made a habit out of refreshing. When Onesiphorus arrived at the jail, Paul probably pumped his hands into the air and screamed, “Yes!” Even the great Apostle Paul needed some good refreshing.

I don’t think you can refresh others too much. I doubt anyone has ever said to a VRP like Onesiphorus, “I am already full of encouragement today. You can take your refreshing elsewhere and find someone else to bless because I’m good! Just move along.”

Refreshers are essential in the body of Christ. Everywhere we turn, there should be examples of followers of Christ refreshing, building, and bringing life to others.

So, What’s The Play Call?

Your words can unlock God’s greatness in others. Let’s commit to infusing life into others through our intentional words of nourishment. Let people feast off your encouragement. Think about it.

  1. Who do you know that is a Very Refreshing Person? How about a Very Draining Person?
  2. Do you see God’s greatness in others? How can that perspective change your relationships?
  3. Why are VRPs so needed in the world of sports? Give examples of how VRPs can transform teams.
  4. What are some specific ways that you can develop a ministry of refreshment?

Honestly, the real question is RUAVRP (Are you a very refreshing person?). The challenge is not whether you have VRPs in your life, but are you one? Do you bring life to people? When you walk into the room, do people run, or do they pump their hands into the air?

 

11 Back-to-School Prayers for Anxious Parents, Teachers, and Students

By
Christianity Today
-
back to school prayers

The following is a collection of back to school prayers related to the start of school. As both a professor of worship and a parent of two school-age children, I tried to imagine the sorts of things that parents and kids, teachers, school administrators, and community leaders might be feeling in light of the unpredictable realities that face them this fall.

My hope is that, in praying these prayers, they will sense in palpable and deeply personal ways the care-filled love of the Good Shepherd who knows them by name. In the end, the goal is simply to pray as one can and when one can, trusting always that the Spirit prays in and for us when we can no longer find the right words or even the will to pray.

1. A prayer for a new day.

O God, you who make things new, again and again, enliven the thoughts of my mind, revitalize the cells of my body, and cause a fresh outburst of praise to surge in my heart so that I might taste the Life that is truly life this day. In the name of the one whose face is like the shining sun. Amen.

2. A prayer for children going to school.

Dear Jesus, you who promises to be with me always, I pray that you would be with me today as I go to school. Bless my going and my coming. Bless my learning and my playing. Please protect my heart from fear. Please keep me safe. Please give me good friends. Give me joy this day, and thank you for loving me from head to toe. In your name. Amen.

3. A prayer for children schooling at home.

Dear Jesus, you who promises to be with me always, I pray that you would be with me at home today as I do my schoolwork. Please help me to do my best, help me not to feel alone, and help me to be patient with my family. Give me joy this day, and thank you for loving me from head to toe. In your name. Amen.

4. A prayer for high school and college students.

O Lord, you who promises to be with me always, be with me this day as I begin my schoolwork. Keep me in health, I pray, and keep me from harm. In all that I do and say, may I love you with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength, and may I love my neighbor as myself, so that I might fulfill your purposes for me and your calling on my life as a student. In Christ’s name. Amen.

5. A prayer for parents.

O Lord, you who promise to guide us through the wilderness and to protect us through the storm, we ask that you would make us wise when we cannot clearly see the way forward, make us brave when we feel afraid, make us strong in the face of our weakness, and make possible what to us seems impossible, so that we might joyfully entrust ourselves and our children into your tender care in these trying and troubling times. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

6. A prayer for teachers.

O Lord, you who are the Good Teacher, I ask that you would help me to love my students well this day and to be patient with things that don’t go according to plan. May I help my students to feel afresh the wonder of our subject matter, to be humble in the face of ignorance, to be gracious with themselves in the light of mistakes that they may make, to delight in things newly discovered, and to love the truth with all their hearts and minds, so that they might be wise and compassionate citizens of this world that you so love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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