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NorthStar Community | 2531 Buford Road | Richmond | VA | 23229 |
Daily Devotional for December 31, 2007
May 17
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 17
Recommended Reading Psalm 33 and Mark 6
One time I had something tough that I needed to admit to another human and I chose poorly. Here’s just a sample of what I heard that day. “I can’t believe you did that. What were you thinking? I’m very disappointed in you. You call yourself a believer? If you just read scripture and prayed more – none of this would have happened!”
I didn’t give up. Armed with what I knew from God’s word, I just had a feeling that this was not the response God would have wanted me to receive. This time - Eureka! I can’t say it was fun, but it was fantastic. My second friend had what it took on that particular day to not let me off the hook of my wrong doing and yet somehow managed to not skewer me with the hook’s pointy edge. In fact, I felt as if my friend deftly and gently acted as God’s assistant while He performed open heart surgery, healing my aching broken heart.
Sometimes we shop around, looking for people to tell us what we want to here. This is not what I’m talking about. I’m asking you to shop ‘til you drop – until you find the person that can tell you what God wants you to hear – without blame, shame, or condemnation. This takes a very special person. (The very kind of individual that you are growing into!)
Thought for today: Hebrews four makes reference to scripture being sharper than a two edged sword. Some translations say it is sharper than the sharpest knife. I’ve heard theologians speak about how the words used in this passage are surgical terms. Certainly that’s what I experienced during my fifth step process. It was like surgery. We’ve been pretty skilled at medicating our aches and pains hoping to avoid suffering. A step five affords us the opportunity to begin healing the sore that so desperately needs medical attention – a wound that is hurting our spirit.
Thought for tomorrow: For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done. This is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. Hebrews 4:12-16 NIV
May 17
Teresa McBean
May 17
Recommended Reading Psalm 33 and Mark 6
One time I had something tough that I needed to admit to another human and I chose poorly. Here’s just a sample of what I heard that day. “I can’t believe you did that. What were you thinking? I’m very disappointed in you. You call yourself a believer? If you just read scripture and prayed more – none of this would have happened!”
I didn’t give up. Armed with what I knew from God’s word, I just had a feeling that this was not the response God would have wanted me to receive. This time - Eureka! I can’t say it was fun, but it was fantastic. My second friend had what it took on that particular day to not let me off the hook of my wrong doing and yet somehow managed to not skewer me with the hook’s pointy edge. In fact, I felt as if my friend deftly and gently acted as God’s assistant while He performed open heart surgery, healing my aching broken heart.
Sometimes we shop around, looking for people to tell us what we want to here. This is not what I’m talking about. I’m asking you to shop ‘til you drop – until you find the person that can tell you what God wants you to hear – without blame, shame, or condemnation. This takes a very special person. (The very kind of individual that you are growing into!)
Thought for today: Hebrews four makes reference to scripture being sharper than a two edged sword. Some translations say it is sharper than the sharpest knife. I’ve heard theologians speak about how the words used in this passage are surgical terms. Certainly that’s what I experienced during my fifth step process. It was like surgery. We’ve been pretty skilled at medicating our aches and pains hoping to avoid suffering. A step five affords us the opportunity to begin healing the sore that so desperately needs medical attention – a wound that is hurting our spirit.
Thought for tomorrow: For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done. This is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. Hebrews 4:12-16 NIV
May 17
Teresa McBean
May 16
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 16
Recommended Reading Psalm 32 and Mark 5
In Drs. Dale and Juanita Ryan’s bible study called, Recovery From Guilt, which you can find at www.christianrecovery.com, they speak of the two reasons why we need to admit the truth about ourselves to ourselves. “First, admitting our wrongs to ourselves means that we are no longer deceiving ourselves. This admission involves embracing parts of ourselves that we have rejected. It involves a complex process of integrating what some have called the shadow parts of ourselves into our self understanding. Second, admitting our wrongs to ourselves means that we need to show mercy to ourselves. We need to stop demanding perfection and face our human failings with the same compassion for ourselves that God extends toward us.” (p.5)
I wonder what’s lurking in your shadows, waiting to be exposed to God’s warm and gracious light.
Thought for today: Have you ever thought it odd that God forgives you but you refuse to forgive yourself? What does that mean? Would that imply that you’re more just then God? (That can’t be the answer…) So what does it mean that it’s ok for God to extend forgiveness but for us to refuse to extend it to ourselves?
Thought for tomorrow: This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God. John 3:19-21 NIV
It’s a common complaint. “I just can’t forgive _______ .” So we sigh and move along the same dark paths. It’s just too much, too hard, this forgiveness gig. But pause to prepare. Stop and reread John 3. Read that last sentence over and over until you see it. Do you? When you forgive – whether it is yourself or someone else IT ISN’T YOU DOING IT AT ALL!!!!! God is doing it through you. And the facts are in – God is in the forgiveness business – He knows how to do it and He practices what He hopes we’re preaching. Admission moves us closer to forgiveness.
May 16
Teresa McBean
May 16
Recommended Reading Psalm 32 and Mark 5
In Drs. Dale and Juanita Ryan’s bible study called, Recovery From Guilt, which you can find at www.christianrecovery.com, they speak of the two reasons why we need to admit the truth about ourselves to ourselves. “First, admitting our wrongs to ourselves means that we are no longer deceiving ourselves. This admission involves embracing parts of ourselves that we have rejected. It involves a complex process of integrating what some have called the shadow parts of ourselves into our self understanding. Second, admitting our wrongs to ourselves means that we need to show mercy to ourselves. We need to stop demanding perfection and face our human failings with the same compassion for ourselves that God extends toward us.” (p.5)
I wonder what’s lurking in your shadows, waiting to be exposed to God’s warm and gracious light.
Thought for today: Have you ever thought it odd that God forgives you but you refuse to forgive yourself? What does that mean? Would that imply that you’re more just then God? (That can’t be the answer…) So what does it mean that it’s ok for God to extend forgiveness but for us to refuse to extend it to ourselves?
Thought for tomorrow: This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God. John 3:19-21 NIV
It’s a common complaint. “I just can’t forgive _______ .” So we sigh and move along the same dark paths. It’s just too much, too hard, this forgiveness gig. But pause to prepare. Stop and reread John 3. Read that last sentence over and over until you see it. Do you? When you forgive – whether it is yourself or someone else IT ISN’T YOU DOING IT AT ALL!!!!! God is doing it through you. And the facts are in – God is in the forgiveness business – He knows how to do it and He practices what He hopes we’re preaching. Admission moves us closer to forgiveness.
May 16
Teresa McBean
May 15
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 15
Recommended Reading Psalm 32 and Mark 4
I suppose most of us think that the easiest part of this admitting wrongs deal is to ourselves. I wonder if you’re tempted to skim over that little two word phrase “to ourselves” because you think you already did your fourth step, what more is needed?
But lest we forget, most of us are masters at deception, especially self-deception. For instance, I was out shopping for some new wardrobe editions, which is not my favorite thing to do. Fortunately, I ran smack into a good story – which made the whole trip worthwhile.
I was in my changing room, minding my own business, when much to my dismay another customer began berating the sales person. Normally, I ignore berating. But this particular sales person happens to be a personal friend. And I can speak with complete confidence on this one – she is an awesome help if you’re stuck in a changing room trying to find a new outfit that you’ll wear for ten years – and you only have ten minutes to look, decide and purchase the thing.
“What’s wrong with these manufacturers? They keep making these clothes smaller and smaller. I’ve been a size 8 for 30 years! Take it all back – obviously, this has become a cheap store with tawdry merchandise.” Seriously, she than flung a pile of clothes at my friend and stormed off.
Ok, I looked. All I can say is that from my viewpoint, that woman is definitely not a size eight. That’s all I’ll say on the subject. My lips are sealed.
But the moment inspired me to flee my shopping nightmare and return to my studies. Truthfully, we can all relate to this woman who can’t quite admit to herself that she is no longer a petite size 8.Thought for today: So I think sometimes this is the hardest part of step five -telling ourselves the truth.
Thought for tomorrow: All a man’s ways seem innocent to him but motives are weighed by the Lord. Proverbs 16:2 I also like how the New Living Translation words this verse…People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives.
Tomorrow, I’m going to borrow liberally from some advice the Drs. Ryan offer in their bible study entitled “Recovery from Guilt” – I think they have a lot to say to us that might help us over this particular recovery hurtle.May 15
Teresa McBean
May 14
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 14
Recommended Reading Psalm 31 and Mark 3
Last night one of our sons asked me why Lamentations was in the bible. Since he’s the third born, I had the good sense to realize that he probably wasn’t expecting an answer so much as he was interested in a dialogue, so I said, “Why do you think it’s there?”
“Well, since I doubt that God’s goal was to encourage whining, I wonder if it has something to do with this verse, Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.”
“Funny that you came to that verse. That is exactly the same verse I was looking at earlier in the week. I was feeling kind of whiney, and decided to hang with someone who could truly understand me – so I read Lamentations. That’s the verse I underlined!”
Notice that I didn’t answer his question, and his prompt exit seemed to indicate that he didn’t notice my non-response. I think the kid just needed to confess to me what he had just re-discovered and have someone who could join him in this reminder.
I think that because of the circumstances surrounding the evening. We had returned home from a tough lacrosse loss. He got hit so hard his jaw wouldn’t work right, and he had a loose tooth (that’s with a helmet on); his arm was swollen at the elbow to about the size of Rhode Island. He was so sore and tired that he wasn’t going to tackle his dreaded math homework until the wee hours of the morning. I suspect God knew my boy needed to be reminded that the Lord’s love never fails (even when the ref doesn’t call a penalty on the guy who decked him), the Lord’s mercies never cease (even when you’re tired and still have math to do), the Lord’s mercies begin afresh each morning – tomorrow will be another day.
Thought for today: I hope you can recall these truths too as you approach Him with your confessions. If you’re hesitant to approach God, notice what you’re thinking about God. Maybe you need to start out by confessing your forgetfulness of His character.
Thought for tomorrow: Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.” Lamentations 3:21-22 NLT
May 14
Teresa McBean
May 14
Recommended Reading Psalm 31 and Mark 3
Last night one of our sons asked me why Lamentations was in the bible. Since he’s the third born, I had the good sense to realize that he probably wasn’t expecting an answer so much as he was interested in a dialogue, so I said, “Why do you think it’s there?”
“Well, since I doubt that God’s goal was to encourage whining, I wonder if it has something to do with this verse, Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.”
“Funny that you came to that verse. That is exactly the same verse I was looking at earlier in the week. I was feeling kind of whiney, and decided to hang with someone who could truly understand me – so I read Lamentations. That’s the verse I underlined!”
Notice that I didn’t answer his question, and his prompt exit seemed to indicate that he didn’t notice my non-response. I think the kid just needed to confess to me what he had just re-discovered and have someone who could join him in this reminder.
I think that because of the circumstances surrounding the evening. We had returned home from a tough lacrosse loss. He got hit so hard his jaw wouldn’t work right, and he had a loose tooth (that’s with a helmet on); his arm was swollen at the elbow to about the size of Rhode Island. He was so sore and tired that he wasn’t going to tackle his dreaded math homework until the wee hours of the morning. I suspect God knew my boy needed to be reminded that the Lord’s love never fails (even when the ref doesn’t call a penalty on the guy who decked him), the Lord’s mercies never cease (even when you’re tired and still have math to do), the Lord’s mercies begin afresh each morning – tomorrow will be another day.
Thought for today: I hope you can recall these truths too as you approach Him with your confessions. If you’re hesitant to approach God, notice what you’re thinking about God. Maybe you need to start out by confessing your forgetfulness of His character.
Thought for tomorrow: Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.” Lamentations 3:21-22 NLT
May 14
Teresa McBean
May 13
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 13
Recommended Reading Psalm 30 and Mark 2
I love the gospel of Mark. I love how the writer tells of Jesus’ power and provides evidence of how Jesus uses the power given to him for good. Some people misuse their power. Maybe you’ve suffered at the hands of power misused. Have you ever misused power and caused another to suffer? Jesus didn’t do that. But what he did do is this: He made it possible for people like us – abused and/or abusers, to find a powerful solution to our unremitting pain – caused my power improperly used.
In particular, I hope you’ll read about Jesus’ call to Matthew (also known as Levi) – “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him. (Mark 2:14). Matthew was a tax collector. His job was to collect taxes from the Jewish community and send it to the Romans – the oppressors of the Jewish people during this time in history. A Jew himself, Matthew would have been considered a terrible sinner by his fellow Jews because he was not only took from them and sent it to the enemy – he personally profited from the exchange.
And this is the part that makes me cry. Jesus invited Matthew to join Him in His grand epic adventure. He took a guy that the community saw as a bad guy, and he reframed the entire experience through the wonderful power of grace and mercy.
Thought for today: The invitation to join Jesus was not the transformation part of the story – it’s simply the part that made the transformation possible. Matthew could have told Jesus to go fly a kite. He could have ignored the invitation to discipleship. And of course, you can do the same. But it is my prayer that as the Holy Spirit whispers in your ear – Come, follow me and be my disciple – that you’ll haul yourself up and follow. But I’m warning you, eventually you’re going to have to go through the confession process in order to experience power properly placed in your life.
Thought for tomorrow: “Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.” Jeremiah 29:12-14 NIV
May 13
Teresa McBean
May 13
Recommended Reading Psalm 30 and Mark 2
I love the gospel of Mark. I love how the writer tells of Jesus’ power and provides evidence of how Jesus uses the power given to him for good. Some people misuse their power. Maybe you’ve suffered at the hands of power misused. Have you ever misused power and caused another to suffer? Jesus didn’t do that. But what he did do is this: He made it possible for people like us – abused and/or abusers, to find a powerful solution to our unremitting pain – caused my power improperly used.
In particular, I hope you’ll read about Jesus’ call to Matthew (also known as Levi) – “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him. (Mark 2:14). Matthew was a tax collector. His job was to collect taxes from the Jewish community and send it to the Romans – the oppressors of the Jewish people during this time in history. A Jew himself, Matthew would have been considered a terrible sinner by his fellow Jews because he was not only took from them and sent it to the enemy – he personally profited from the exchange.
And this is the part that makes me cry. Jesus invited Matthew to join Him in His grand epic adventure. He took a guy that the community saw as a bad guy, and he reframed the entire experience through the wonderful power of grace and mercy.
Thought for today: The invitation to join Jesus was not the transformation part of the story – it’s simply the part that made the transformation possible. Matthew could have told Jesus to go fly a kite. He could have ignored the invitation to discipleship. And of course, you can do the same. But it is my prayer that as the Holy Spirit whispers in your ear – Come, follow me and be my disciple – that you’ll haul yourself up and follow. But I’m warning you, eventually you’re going to have to go through the confession process in order to experience power properly placed in your life.
Thought for tomorrow: “Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.” Jeremiah 29:12-14 NIV
May 13
Teresa McBean
May 12
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 12
Recommended Reading Psalm 29 and Mark 1
Admitting our wrongs is a three-fold process of confession. First, we admit our wrongs to God, then we admit our wrongs to ourselves and then we admit our wrongs to another human being. This process can be a powerful, life-changing experience. We all long to be known; to share the secrets that are so toxic to our souls; to experience the grace of being loved and accepted – sins and all. The spiritual discipline of confession provides the structure within which we can experience this grace in practical ways… Confession is an act of obedience to a (see James 5:16) biblical imperative. It is an imperative with a promise of healing.*
Thought for today: I have this exercise dvd that I love to do at home when my schedule is too packed for a class or it’s too yukky to get outside. My dvd-driven inspiration keeps telling me that if I want to “re-sculpt” my body I will need to require my body to do things it does not want to do. Did you hear that? If we want to “re-sculpt” our lives, we’re going to need to require things of ourselves that we don’t want to do. Like confession.
Thought for tomorrow: Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all ay long. For day and night our hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord” – and you forgave the guilt of my sin.
Psalm 32:1-5 NIV
I’d love to continue this discussion, but I’ve been sitting for several hours and now it’s time to go do some vigorous exercise…even though my body would prefer a nap.
May 12
Teresa McBean
* Recovery from Guilt, 6 studies for groups or individuals by Dale and Juanita Ryan, Copyright 1992, this and other excellent series are available from http://www.christianrecovery.com/, p.5.
May 12
Recommended Reading Psalm 29 and Mark 1
Admitting our wrongs is a three-fold process of confession. First, we admit our wrongs to God, then we admit our wrongs to ourselves and then we admit our wrongs to another human being. This process can be a powerful, life-changing experience. We all long to be known; to share the secrets that are so toxic to our souls; to experience the grace of being loved and accepted – sins and all. The spiritual discipline of confession provides the structure within which we can experience this grace in practical ways… Confession is an act of obedience to a (see James 5:16) biblical imperative. It is an imperative with a promise of healing.*
Thought for today: I have this exercise dvd that I love to do at home when my schedule is too packed for a class or it’s too yukky to get outside. My dvd-driven inspiration keeps telling me that if I want to “re-sculpt” my body I will need to require my body to do things it does not want to do. Did you hear that? If we want to “re-sculpt” our lives, we’re going to need to require things of ourselves that we don’t want to do. Like confession.
Thought for tomorrow: Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all ay long. For day and night our hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord” – and you forgave the guilt of my sin.
Psalm 32:1-5 NIV
I’d love to continue this discussion, but I’ve been sitting for several hours and now it’s time to go do some vigorous exercise…even though my body would prefer a nap.
May 12
Teresa McBean
* Recovery from Guilt, 6 studies for groups or individuals by Dale and Juanita Ryan, Copyright 1992, this and other excellent series are available from http://www.christianrecovery.com/, p.5.
May 11
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 11
Recommended Reading Psalm 28 and 1 Peter 5
Is it wrong to yell at your kids and call them stupid?
Is it wrong to belittle your spouse in public – if you make it sound funny?
Is it wrong to take a wallet that you find on the street and consider this your lucky day?
Is it wrong to take supplies from your office and use them personally – especially if you’re under-paid and appreciated?
Is it wrong to have sex if you’re not married?
Is it wrong to look at porn on-line?
Is it wrong over-eat and under-exercise? (Or under-eat and over-exercise?)
Is it wrong to drink alcohol?
Is it wrong to life from paycheck to paycheck?
Is it wrong to help with your children’s homework? Is it wrong to expect your children to manage their own schoolwork without any input from you?
The answers to these kinds of questions will no doubt vary for many of us. If you grew up in a family where someone regularly smacked you around, maybe a little yelling and name calling sounds like no big deal to you. Perhaps living from paycheck to paycheck is a giant step up from the welfare existence you were accustomed to last year. Some people can drink alcohol and it’s a fine choice – for others is a slow form of suicide.
I’m not saying that all our dilemmas about right and wrong are all relative. Some are just plain right; others clearly wrong. But there are some issues that are fuzzy that reasonable people can disagree on without either one needing a bad guy label. How we answer these questions will determine what we define as wrong doing – and that’s an important issue when it comes to doing a fifth step.
Thought for today: 1 Peter is one of those books that helps me answer some of my pressing questions about right and wrong. Lots of other places in scripture do the same thing. I’m glad God saw fit in His infinite wisdom to provide this resource for us.
Thought for tomorrow: All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT If you’re having trouble making a list of “wrongs” – take some time each day to peer intently into the scriptures and see what looks back.
May 11
Teresa McBean
May 11
Recommended Reading Psalm 28 and 1 Peter 5
Is it wrong to yell at your kids and call them stupid?
Is it wrong to belittle your spouse in public – if you make it sound funny?
Is it wrong to take a wallet that you find on the street and consider this your lucky day?
Is it wrong to take supplies from your office and use them personally – especially if you’re under-paid and appreciated?
Is it wrong to have sex if you’re not married?
Is it wrong to look at porn on-line?
Is it wrong over-eat and under-exercise? (Or under-eat and over-exercise?)
Is it wrong to drink alcohol?
Is it wrong to life from paycheck to paycheck?
Is it wrong to help with your children’s homework? Is it wrong to expect your children to manage their own schoolwork without any input from you?
The answers to these kinds of questions will no doubt vary for many of us. If you grew up in a family where someone regularly smacked you around, maybe a little yelling and name calling sounds like no big deal to you. Perhaps living from paycheck to paycheck is a giant step up from the welfare existence you were accustomed to last year. Some people can drink alcohol and it’s a fine choice – for others is a slow form of suicide.
I’m not saying that all our dilemmas about right and wrong are all relative. Some are just plain right; others clearly wrong. But there are some issues that are fuzzy that reasonable people can disagree on without either one needing a bad guy label. How we answer these questions will determine what we define as wrong doing – and that’s an important issue when it comes to doing a fifth step.
Thought for today: 1 Peter is one of those books that helps me answer some of my pressing questions about right and wrong. Lots of other places in scripture do the same thing. I’m glad God saw fit in His infinite wisdom to provide this resource for us.
Thought for tomorrow: All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. 2 Timothy 3:16 NLT If you’re having trouble making a list of “wrongs” – take some time each day to peer intently into the scriptures and see what looks back.
May 11
Teresa McBean
May 10
May 10
Recommended Reading Psalm 27 and 1 Peter 4
Over the years my husband and I have occasionally enlisted our children’s help in ministry. Usually this has involved tapping into their musical abilities. Lots of times it’s been a request for patience when our family schedule has needed to flex in order to accommodate a pressing need of a hurting person or family. Once it resulted in a lost week of vacation as we responded as a family to a ministry crisis.
Today, the tables turned. Our son needed his dad to help him create a video for an assignment related to his youth ministry internship. I so enjoyed watching Pete return the favor and rearrange his schedule in order to accommodate Scott’s ministry demands.
The story goes like this…Once, a long long time ago, when Pete was in college, he was taking an applied math course. At midnight, after a rigorous evening of rec basketball, Pete sat down to study for a test the next day. After a few minutes, he realized that no amount of study (at this late hour) could prepare him adequately for that test.
For no reason that he can explain, he reached into his desk and pulled out his very dusty Bible and began to read. Suddenly, a peace that passes all understanding overtook him, and he decided that the best thing to do with such peace was to put it to bed.
The next morning he woke up, went to math, took the test…and aced it. By his own admission, Pete realized that he had no clue where his answers sprung from or how he managed to score better than all his friends (who had foregone b’ball to study). (That’s the only part of the story I question. I never have known Pete to have friends who would choose studying over basketball.)
Anyway, he followed the exact same routine for the next test…and bombed it.
It occurred to me that Pete’s willingness to tell the story was a great example of admitting wrong. I’ve heard him use the story to illustrate both the miraculous power of God AND to warn others that presuming on God’s grace might not be the best plan in the world.
The psalmist is counting on God to hold him close even if his parents abandon him. This speaks to God’s love and grace and mercy. But I don’t think it should give us an excuse to be cocky about our wrongs. Wrong doing is serious business in the kingdom of God.
Thought for today: I know that lots of us have experienced unmerited grace. Examples that come to my mind include: a kid I know whose dad just bailed him out of jail for the umpteenth time – with no thanks from the child, a wife I know who chooses to forgive her husband’s infidelity, a child of alcoholic parents who is choosing to not self-medicate with alcohol and drugs in spite of his chaotic family system…the list is long. But unmerited grace should not be used as an excuse for unwillingness to own up to one’s wrong doing. Just because you’ve dodged the bullet today doesn’t mean you didn’t deserve consequences for your actions. Why not man up and do the right thing – even if it looks like you can skate through with no ill effect?
Thought for tomorrow: Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”? Proverbs 20:9 NIV
May 10
Teresa McBean
Recommended Reading Psalm 27 and 1 Peter 4
Over the years my husband and I have occasionally enlisted our children’s help in ministry. Usually this has involved tapping into their musical abilities. Lots of times it’s been a request for patience when our family schedule has needed to flex in order to accommodate a pressing need of a hurting person or family. Once it resulted in a lost week of vacation as we responded as a family to a ministry crisis.
Today, the tables turned. Our son needed his dad to help him create a video for an assignment related to his youth ministry internship. I so enjoyed watching Pete return the favor and rearrange his schedule in order to accommodate Scott’s ministry demands.
The story goes like this…Once, a long long time ago, when Pete was in college, he was taking an applied math course. At midnight, after a rigorous evening of rec basketball, Pete sat down to study for a test the next day. After a few minutes, he realized that no amount of study (at this late hour) could prepare him adequately for that test.
For no reason that he can explain, he reached into his desk and pulled out his very dusty Bible and began to read. Suddenly, a peace that passes all understanding overtook him, and he decided that the best thing to do with such peace was to put it to bed.
The next morning he woke up, went to math, took the test…and aced it. By his own admission, Pete realized that he had no clue where his answers sprung from or how he managed to score better than all his friends (who had foregone b’ball to study). (That’s the only part of the story I question. I never have known Pete to have friends who would choose studying over basketball.)
Anyway, he followed the exact same routine for the next test…and bombed it.
It occurred to me that Pete’s willingness to tell the story was a great example of admitting wrong. I’ve heard him use the story to illustrate both the miraculous power of God AND to warn others that presuming on God’s grace might not be the best plan in the world.
The psalmist is counting on God to hold him close even if his parents abandon him. This speaks to God’s love and grace and mercy. But I don’t think it should give us an excuse to be cocky about our wrongs. Wrong doing is serious business in the kingdom of God.
Thought for today: I know that lots of us have experienced unmerited grace. Examples that come to my mind include: a kid I know whose dad just bailed him out of jail for the umpteenth time – with no thanks from the child, a wife I know who chooses to forgive her husband’s infidelity, a child of alcoholic parents who is choosing to not self-medicate with alcohol and drugs in spite of his chaotic family system…the list is long. But unmerited grace should not be used as an excuse for unwillingness to own up to one’s wrong doing. Just because you’ve dodged the bullet today doesn’t mean you didn’t deserve consequences for your actions. Why not man up and do the right thing – even if it looks like you can skate through with no ill effect?
Thought for tomorrow: Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”? Proverbs 20:9 NIV
May 10
Teresa McBean
May 9
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 9
Recommended Reading Psalm 26 and 1 Peter 3
I was watching an episode of Dr. Phil where a guy (60 days sober) was declaring his utter recoveredness – to coin a phrase. He was going on and on and on about how his life was transformed. His future in-laws weren’t buying it. They argued that this guy had tried rehab numerous times and managed to “walk the line” of sobriety for months at a time – but never years. In true Dr. Phil fashion, there was lots of drama and it made for a great story.
So what do you think? Would you want him marrying your daughter on day 72 of sobriety?
As you read Psalm 26, the psalmist is also speaking of his integrity, innocence, pure motives, hatred of evil, refusal to hang out with evil doers, and his firm stance on solid ground. That’s awesome. But I wonder…is it true? Surely it was true for Job, and when he made those rash statements his friends questioned his ability for self-confrontation much like those potential in-laws on Dr. Phil and I do when I read the words of this psalmist.
So really, who’s to say?
Thought for today: God is the one to say how we’re really doing. We give Him that opportunity when we admit to him the exact nature of the wrongs that popped up as we inventoried our life. Let’s give him a chance to speak into our lives. If we’re righteous as Job, the psalmist and the kid on Dr. Phil – cool. If not, we know where to start working on our stuff.
Thought for tomorrow: For she cares nothing about the path to life. She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn’t realize it. Proverbs 5:6 NLT
May 9
Teresa McBean
May 9
Recommended Reading Psalm 26 and 1 Peter 3
I was watching an episode of Dr. Phil where a guy (60 days sober) was declaring his utter recoveredness – to coin a phrase. He was going on and on and on about how his life was transformed. His future in-laws weren’t buying it. They argued that this guy had tried rehab numerous times and managed to “walk the line” of sobriety for months at a time – but never years. In true Dr. Phil fashion, there was lots of drama and it made for a great story.
So what do you think? Would you want him marrying your daughter on day 72 of sobriety?
As you read Psalm 26, the psalmist is also speaking of his integrity, innocence, pure motives, hatred of evil, refusal to hang out with evil doers, and his firm stance on solid ground. That’s awesome. But I wonder…is it true? Surely it was true for Job, and when he made those rash statements his friends questioned his ability for self-confrontation much like those potential in-laws on Dr. Phil and I do when I read the words of this psalmist.
So really, who’s to say?
Thought for today: God is the one to say how we’re really doing. We give Him that opportunity when we admit to him the exact nature of the wrongs that popped up as we inventoried our life. Let’s give him a chance to speak into our lives. If we’re righteous as Job, the psalmist and the kid on Dr. Phil – cool. If not, we know where to start working on our stuff.
Thought for tomorrow: For she cares nothing about the path to life. She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn’t realize it. Proverbs 5:6 NLT
May 9
Teresa McBean
May 8
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 8
Recommended Reading Psalm 25 and 1 Peter 2
Today is a great day to NOT skip your recommended reading in the Psalms. It’s very step five-esque. Read away!
Thought for today: One parting thought: don’t forget why you’re doing this. Oh, sure, it has a lot to do with the benefits reaped (and hoped for by the psalmist) as one confesses – but here’s a big vision thought for you: your willingness to keep stepping through this process will determine the outcome for others too. In your community - wherever that is – others are in need of a person of integrity, wisdom, discernment, kindness, patience, and willingness to serve others. In case you haven’t noticed, we’re living in a world of hurt. This hurt is no respecter of socio-economic status, race, creed or any other measure we might employ to determine whether others are experiencing the good life. Our communities are in need of spiritual advocates who get what the good life really looks like AND who have the experience to point others in the right direction.
Thought for tomorrow: So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness. 1 Peter 2:1-3 NLT
God isn’t trying to get us to behave like nuns; He wants us to grow up into the kind of people in whom He can plant a grand epic adventure and watch it thrive. (Maybe God will call you to be a nun with a grand epic adventure and that’s cool, but my point is that God is not withholding the good life from us or asking us to live an austere life with no earthly pleasures.)
May 8
Teresa McBean
May 8
Recommended Reading Psalm 25 and 1 Peter 2
Today is a great day to NOT skip your recommended reading in the Psalms. It’s very step five-esque. Read away!
Thought for today: One parting thought: don’t forget why you’re doing this. Oh, sure, it has a lot to do with the benefits reaped (and hoped for by the psalmist) as one confesses – but here’s a big vision thought for you: your willingness to keep stepping through this process will determine the outcome for others too. In your community - wherever that is – others are in need of a person of integrity, wisdom, discernment, kindness, patience, and willingness to serve others. In case you haven’t noticed, we’re living in a world of hurt. This hurt is no respecter of socio-economic status, race, creed or any other measure we might employ to determine whether others are experiencing the good life. Our communities are in need of spiritual advocates who get what the good life really looks like AND who have the experience to point others in the right direction.
Thought for tomorrow: So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness. 1 Peter 2:1-3 NLT
God isn’t trying to get us to behave like nuns; He wants us to grow up into the kind of people in whom He can plant a grand epic adventure and watch it thrive. (Maybe God will call you to be a nun with a grand epic adventure and that’s cool, but my point is that God is not withholding the good life from us or asking us to live an austere life with no earthly pleasures.)
May 8
Teresa McBean
May 7
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 7
Recommended Reading Psalm 24 and 1 Peter 1
An interview with Corrie ten boom, who spent many years in a Nazi concentration camp; Ms. Ten Boom was a Christian imprisoned for being a sympathizer to the Jewish people.
The special temptation of concentration camp life – the temptation to think only of oneself, took a thousand cunning forms. I knew this was self-centered, and even if it wasn’t right, it wasn’t so very wrong, was it? Not wrong like sadism and murder and the other monstrous evils we saw every day.
Was it coincidence that joy and power drained from my ministry? My prayers took on a mechanical ring. Bible study reading was dull and lifeless, so I struggled on with worship and teaching that had ceased to be real. Until one afternoon when the truth blazed like sunlight in the shadows. And so I told the group of women around me the truth about myself – my self-centeredness, my stinginess, my lack of love.
That night real joy returned to my worship.*
Thought for today: Who would blame Corrie for thinking only of herself? Imprisoned in a death camp, how does one come to believe that they are sent there to serve others? I suspect that self-pity and the other cunning forms of self-centered living may slither through your inventory list. Who would blame you for thinking only of your suffering? How will you or anyone else come to believe that the second half of your life might hold the promise of joy? If it happened for Job and ten Boom – why not you? The only thing holding you back may be a willingness to be honest with God, self and others.
Thought for tomorrow: The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being. Proverbs 20:27 NIV
May God grant you the wisdom and the courage to allow His lamp to search your spirit!
May 7
Teresa McBean
* Corrie ten boom, The Hiding Place (New York: Bantam books, 1971), pp. 27-28.
May 7
Recommended Reading Psalm 24 and 1 Peter 1
An interview with Corrie ten boom, who spent many years in a Nazi concentration camp; Ms. Ten Boom was a Christian imprisoned for being a sympathizer to the Jewish people.
The special temptation of concentration camp life – the temptation to think only of oneself, took a thousand cunning forms. I knew this was self-centered, and even if it wasn’t right, it wasn’t so very wrong, was it? Not wrong like sadism and murder and the other monstrous evils we saw every day.
Was it coincidence that joy and power drained from my ministry? My prayers took on a mechanical ring. Bible study reading was dull and lifeless, so I struggled on with worship and teaching that had ceased to be real. Until one afternoon when the truth blazed like sunlight in the shadows. And so I told the group of women around me the truth about myself – my self-centeredness, my stinginess, my lack of love.
That night real joy returned to my worship.*
Thought for today: Who would blame Corrie for thinking only of herself? Imprisoned in a death camp, how does one come to believe that they are sent there to serve others? I suspect that self-pity and the other cunning forms of self-centered living may slither through your inventory list. Who would blame you for thinking only of your suffering? How will you or anyone else come to believe that the second half of your life might hold the promise of joy? If it happened for Job and ten Boom – why not you? The only thing holding you back may be a willingness to be honest with God, self and others.
Thought for tomorrow: The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being. Proverbs 20:27 NIV
May God grant you the wisdom and the courage to allow His lamp to search your spirit!
May 7
Teresa McBean
* Corrie ten boom, The Hiding Place (New York: Bantam books, 1971), pp. 27-28.
May 6
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 6
Recommended Reading: Job 41, 42
I wonder if you thought yesterday’s devotional about admitting that we question the wisdom of God seemed…out of place in this series? I brought the topic up for two reasons:
1. To remind us that God is the kind of God who doesn’t get insecure or defensive when we approach him in a messy way – he can handle our “stuff” without it becoming all about “Him”. (God’s character empowers Him to meet us where we are without demanding that we conform to who He wants us to become. In God’s ideal plan, we should see this same attitude modeled for us in other humans. If we haven’t, then we are startled by God’s response to Job.) I think this is important to remember so that we focus on being honest with God, not just trying to sound good to Him in a misguided attempt to win His approval. God deeply loves us, we’re not in some sort of contest trying to win His affection. If honesty in relationships has not served you well in the past, I want you to realize how hard step five is going to be for you to complete. It’s not impossible, but it is a challenge. Even now I pray that the Holy Spirit is at work – making you both willing and able!
I want us to get the point that a lot of our wrong doing is related to questioning the wisdom of God. Actually, it’s not so much the fact that we question God’s wisdom as it is that we don’t realize that we are questioning his wisdom. Confusing? Hang with me…how about an example? Job questioned God straight up – and God answered. I suspect that God appreciated the fact that Job didn’t pretend with Him. It could have gone down very differently. Remember back at the beginning of Job’s trials when his wife suggested that Job just get the misery over with and kill himself( Job 2:9)? Job responded by trusting God. He answered his wife by saying that God was in charge, and not Job. Therefore, by implication, the number of Job’s days were God’s business – not his decision. Job could have made a different choice. He could have impaled himself on the nearest steeple or fallen on his sword or thrown himself off the nearest cliff. One who doubts the wisdom of God and isn’t honest about his/her questions often makes choices independent of his beliefs about who God is and how one lives because of that belief (and these choices usually show up in an inventory). A doubting Job, in great physical, emotional and spiritual pain could have committed suicide as a way to avoid his messy life. So it is true that Job eventually questions God, but in his daily life experiences, he doesn’t let his doubt determine his behavior. He deliberately chooses to step in the way that He understands God would have him step – whether he agrees, understands or appreciates the stepping experience or not. Thus, suicide is not an option. So my friends, that’s why I am suggesting that it is far better to acknowledge our questioning of God’s wisdom than ignore our fits of unbelief.
Thought for today: So here’s what I’m thinking. Step five is a lot like Job’s experience. Job tries to make sense of his life, his suffering, and God’s plan for him. After taking a fearless moral inventory (and finding himself blameless – something we won’t probably share with Job – but we know is true because that is how God described Job) Job sits down for a chat with God and others. In his particular case, his “others” aren’t the epitome of great sponsors, but God never disappoints. God brings clarity to Job’s questioning without feeling burdened to explain the reasons behind all Job’s life experiences. Job learns something about himself, God and others. God gives Job further instructions and Job steps as God speaks. And he is restored. Sounds good to me!
Thought for tomorrow: When Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before! Then all his brothers, sisters, and former friends came and feasted with him in his home. And they consoled him and comforted him because of all the trials the Lord had brought against him. So the Lord blessed Job in the second half of his life even more than in the beginning. Job lived 140 years after that, living to see four generations o f his children and grandchildren. Then he died, an old man who had lived a long, full life. Job 42, selected verses NLT
Nice outcome for a man willing to do both a fourth and fifth step. What are you waiting for?
May 6
Teresa McBean
May 6
Recommended Reading: Job 41, 42
I wonder if you thought yesterday’s devotional about admitting that we question the wisdom of God seemed…out of place in this series? I brought the topic up for two reasons:
1. To remind us that God is the kind of God who doesn’t get insecure or defensive when we approach him in a messy way – he can handle our “stuff” without it becoming all about “Him”. (God’s character empowers Him to meet us where we are without demanding that we conform to who He wants us to become. In God’s ideal plan, we should see this same attitude modeled for us in other humans. If we haven’t, then we are startled by God’s response to Job.) I think this is important to remember so that we focus on being honest with God, not just trying to sound good to Him in a misguided attempt to win His approval. God deeply loves us, we’re not in some sort of contest trying to win His affection. If honesty in relationships has not served you well in the past, I want you to realize how hard step five is going to be for you to complete. It’s not impossible, but it is a challenge. Even now I pray that the Holy Spirit is at work – making you both willing and able!
I want us to get the point that a lot of our wrong doing is related to questioning the wisdom of God. Actually, it’s not so much the fact that we question God’s wisdom as it is that we don’t realize that we are questioning his wisdom. Confusing? Hang with me…how about an example? Job questioned God straight up – and God answered. I suspect that God appreciated the fact that Job didn’t pretend with Him. It could have gone down very differently. Remember back at the beginning of Job’s trials when his wife suggested that Job just get the misery over with and kill himself( Job 2:9)? Job responded by trusting God. He answered his wife by saying that God was in charge, and not Job. Therefore, by implication, the number of Job’s days were God’s business – not his decision. Job could have made a different choice. He could have impaled himself on the nearest steeple or fallen on his sword or thrown himself off the nearest cliff. One who doubts the wisdom of God and isn’t honest about his/her questions often makes choices independent of his beliefs about who God is and how one lives because of that belief (and these choices usually show up in an inventory). A doubting Job, in great physical, emotional and spiritual pain could have committed suicide as a way to avoid his messy life. So it is true that Job eventually questions God, but in his daily life experiences, he doesn’t let his doubt determine his behavior. He deliberately chooses to step in the way that He understands God would have him step – whether he agrees, understands or appreciates the stepping experience or not. Thus, suicide is not an option. So my friends, that’s why I am suggesting that it is far better to acknowledge our questioning of God’s wisdom than ignore our fits of unbelief.
Thought for today: So here’s what I’m thinking. Step five is a lot like Job’s experience. Job tries to make sense of his life, his suffering, and God’s plan for him. After taking a fearless moral inventory (and finding himself blameless – something we won’t probably share with Job – but we know is true because that is how God described Job) Job sits down for a chat with God and others. In his particular case, his “others” aren’t the epitome of great sponsors, but God never disappoints. God brings clarity to Job’s questioning without feeling burdened to explain the reasons behind all Job’s life experiences. Job learns something about himself, God and others. God gives Job further instructions and Job steps as God speaks. And he is restored. Sounds good to me!
Thought for tomorrow: When Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before! Then all his brothers, sisters, and former friends came and feasted with him in his home. And they consoled him and comforted him because of all the trials the Lord had brought against him. So the Lord blessed Job in the second half of his life even more than in the beginning. Job lived 140 years after that, living to see four generations o f his children and grandchildren. Then he died, an old man who had lived a long, full life. Job 42, selected verses NLT
Nice outcome for a man willing to do both a fourth and fifth step. What are you waiting for?
May 6
Teresa McBean
May 5
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 5
Recommended Reading: Job 39, 40
“Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words?” Job 38:2 NLT
Written to Job, applicable to us all.
Have you ever considered how often we question the wisdom of God?
We question God’s wisdom every time we do what feels good rather than doing what we know to be right.
We question God’s wisdom every time we tear down, rather than build up (self or others).
We question God’s wisdom every time we love things and use people.
We question God’s wisdom every time we live with the burden of shame and condemnation.
We question God’s wisdom every time we fail to respond immediately when overcome with a feeling of conviction.
We question God’s wisdom every time we live in darkness rather than by the warm light of His love.
We question God’s wisdom every time we think and do independently of Him.
It’s normal to question. We’ll discover as we read along that God challenges Job, without condemning him. Asking tough questions is a natural part of an intimate connection whether one is in relationship with God or fellow humans. But we must realize that we too question God’s wisdom.
Thought for today: Remember – God is not shocked when we do silly things. He does however, desire for us to learn from our mistakes. One of the ways we get trained for our next grand epic adventure is by developing the discernment to distinguish good from evil. And by seeking a heart transplant from God so that our greatest desire is to avoid evil, and do good.
Thought for tomorrow: We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:11-14 NIV
The writer of Hebrews seems a bit agitated that his listeners were slow to learn. I hear that, but let me add my two cents here: better a slow learner than no learner at all.
May 5
Teresa McBean
May 5
Recommended Reading: Job 39, 40
“Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words?” Job 38:2 NLT
Written to Job, applicable to us all.
Have you ever considered how often we question the wisdom of God?
We question God’s wisdom every time we do what feels good rather than doing what we know to be right.
We question God’s wisdom every time we tear down, rather than build up (self or others).
We question God’s wisdom every time we love things and use people.
We question God’s wisdom every time we live with the burden of shame and condemnation.
We question God’s wisdom every time we fail to respond immediately when overcome with a feeling of conviction.
We question God’s wisdom every time we live in darkness rather than by the warm light of His love.
We question God’s wisdom every time we think and do independently of Him.
It’s normal to question. We’ll discover as we read along that God challenges Job, without condemning him. Asking tough questions is a natural part of an intimate connection whether one is in relationship with God or fellow humans. But we must realize that we too question God’s wisdom.
Thought for today: Remember – God is not shocked when we do silly things. He does however, desire for us to learn from our mistakes. One of the ways we get trained for our next grand epic adventure is by developing the discernment to distinguish good from evil. And by seeking a heart transplant from God so that our greatest desire is to avoid evil, and do good.
Thought for tomorrow: We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:11-14 NIV
The writer of Hebrews seems a bit agitated that his listeners were slow to learn. I hear that, but let me add my two cents here: better a slow learner than no learner at all.
May 5
Teresa McBean
May 4
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 4
Recommended Reading Job 38
One Sunday I confessed a shortcoming in church. Embedded in my sermon, I told a story about how I was bad, so very, very bad, at remembering to attach a document when sending out emails. I told this to illustrate the point of love covering a multitude of sins – because my team does that for me. I’ll send out an email and tell them something is attached, and they’ll send back some snappy reply asking if I wrote it in invisible ink.
Accountability laced with lots of sugar – I love that. My shortcoming has to do with a lack of attention to detail, but my team demonstrates over and over how well they love me – warts and all. That was my point. I think God had an additional one. Since the day I confessed this shortcoming, I have remembered to attach documents most of the time. Now I get emails back saying, “Hey, what’s up with you? You attached the document…” (Some people are never happy!)
God reminded me through this silly story that when we confess something and bring it into the light, powerful things happen. I can’t explain how that confession has resulted in better attention to detail on my part. But I can’t argue with the evidence. I may not know how, but I do know who. God is in the business of restoration and renovation. He is Rapha God – healing us, one stitch at a time (Rapha is Hebrew meaning healing, one stitch at a time).
Thought for today: Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing – prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you’ve sinned, you’ll be forgiven – healed inside and out. Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with. James 5:13-16 The Message
Thought for tomorrow: Perhaps the only thing that’s hindering your restoration and renovation is a reluctance to confess. Is that possible?
May 4
Teresa McBean
May 4
Recommended Reading Job 38
One Sunday I confessed a shortcoming in church. Embedded in my sermon, I told a story about how I was bad, so very, very bad, at remembering to attach a document when sending out emails. I told this to illustrate the point of love covering a multitude of sins – because my team does that for me. I’ll send out an email and tell them something is attached, and they’ll send back some snappy reply asking if I wrote it in invisible ink.
Accountability laced with lots of sugar – I love that. My shortcoming has to do with a lack of attention to detail, but my team demonstrates over and over how well they love me – warts and all. That was my point. I think God had an additional one. Since the day I confessed this shortcoming, I have remembered to attach documents most of the time. Now I get emails back saying, “Hey, what’s up with you? You attached the document…” (Some people are never happy!)
God reminded me through this silly story that when we confess something and bring it into the light, powerful things happen. I can’t explain how that confession has resulted in better attention to detail on my part. But I can’t argue with the evidence. I may not know how, but I do know who. God is in the business of restoration and renovation. He is Rapha God – healing us, one stitch at a time (Rapha is Hebrew meaning healing, one stitch at a time).
Thought for today: Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing – prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you’ve sinned, you’ll be forgiven – healed inside and out. Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with. James 5:13-16 The Message
Thought for tomorrow: Perhaps the only thing that’s hindering your restoration and renovation is a reluctance to confess. Is that possible?
May 4
Teresa McBean
May 3
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 3
Recommended Reading: Job 32-37 skim
When I was in labor with our first child, I got so scared I thought I was going to die from fright. My husband still jokes that we used all our Lamaze breathing techniques before we arrived at the hospital. But a single thought carried me through the day and into the evening – many others have gone before me – I am not alone.
This same principle holds true for those of us embarking on the confession process. Others have gone before us, and have reported back – good things happen when we step up to the plate and tell the truth about who we are and what we’ve been doing. (For more information and scripture support of this premise, check out The Christ-Centered 12 Step Study Guide which is available on the web site or our book tables.)
Thought for today: We are so fortunate to live in a time of history that affords us the benefits of hindsight. Let’s not waste the blessing.
Thought for tomorrow:
Count yourself lucky, how happy you must be – you get a fresh start, your slate’s wiped clean.Count yourself lucky – God holds nothing against you and you’re holding nothing back from him. When I kept it all inside, my bones turned to powder, my words became daylong groans. The pressure never let up; all the juices of my life dried up. Then I let it all out; I said, “I’ll make a clean breast of my failures to God.”
Suddenly the pressure was gone – my guilt dissolved, my sin disappeared. These things add up. Every one of us needs to pray; when all hell breaks loose and the dam bursts we’ll be on high ground, untouched.Psalm 32:1-6 The Message
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4 NIV
May 3
Teresa McBean
May 3
Recommended Reading: Job 32-37 skim
When I was in labor with our first child, I got so scared I thought I was going to die from fright. My husband still jokes that we used all our Lamaze breathing techniques before we arrived at the hospital. But a single thought carried me through the day and into the evening – many others have gone before me – I am not alone.
This same principle holds true for those of us embarking on the confession process. Others have gone before us, and have reported back – good things happen when we step up to the plate and tell the truth about who we are and what we’ve been doing. (For more information and scripture support of this premise, check out The Christ-Centered 12 Step Study Guide which is available on the web site or our book tables.)
Thought for today: We are so fortunate to live in a time of history that affords us the benefits of hindsight. Let’s not waste the blessing.
Thought for tomorrow:
Count yourself lucky, how happy you must be – you get a fresh start, your slate’s wiped clean.Count yourself lucky – God holds nothing against you and you’re holding nothing back from him. When I kept it all inside, my bones turned to powder, my words became daylong groans. The pressure never let up; all the juices of my life dried up. Then I let it all out; I said, “I’ll make a clean breast of my failures to God.”
Suddenly the pressure was gone – my guilt dissolved, my sin disappeared. These things add up. Every one of us needs to pray; when all hell breaks loose and the dam bursts we’ll be on high ground, untouched.Psalm 32:1-6 The Message
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4 NIV
May 3
Teresa McBean
May 2
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 2
Recommended Reading: Job 30-31
The fifth step is all about admitting stuff. Big and small, good and bad – anything that ended up in our fourth step inventory is about to be revealed to others. Most unhealthy families don’t teach us how to admit much of anything. In fact, most sick families share a common trait – don’t tell. This serves no one well. It keeps sick people from getting much needed help. It makes innocent people bear the brunt of others’ dysfunctions. It limits options and avoids solutions.
In lots of families it is unsafe to reveal a shortcoming, vulnerability or weakness. This is a shame, because God’s desire for families is that lots of healthy problem solving within the home. Unhealthy families tend to be chaotic, capricious and inconsistent. They can be rigid and rule-driven or – the opposite extreme – absent of guidance entirely. Love is conditional and life is unpredictable. Discipline is sporadic and sometimes cruel.
Even in healthy families, children can learn that being yourself is not a good idea. When I was a kid I loved to read. I was fascinated by the wonderful world of books! I am quite sure I was obnoxious, persistent, difficult and boring in my nightly recounting of every little detail contained in my current reading pleasure. I believed I was sharing precious gems. My family did not share this view.
And I get that as an adult. I listened, heck, I even read along with one of my children through the complete series of Harry Potter. My oldest son is currently enamored with an old book series – Fletch – and although not my cup of tea, I certainly know a lot about every plot twist and detail. So I get what it’s like to listen to another person wax eloquent about a book that is of marginal interest to me.
But as a child, I got teased about my voracious reading habits. No one intended a bit of harm – they just wanted a moment’s peace. As a child, I concluded that something was wrong with being me, and soon I stopped sharing.
I don’t think many of us will be sent to juvie for excessive reading. But if we learn to stop sharing the innocuous part of ourselves – do you think it will be easy to share the dark secrets of the soul?
Thought for today: Admitting the exact nature of our wrongs is a hard thing to do. But in the right environment, having come to know the awesome, loving God of scripture and with the right supporting God-representative with skin on – it can be a comforting time of healing.
Thought for tomorrow: He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Proverbs 28:13 NIV
May 2
Teresa McBean
May 2
Recommended Reading: Job 30-31
The fifth step is all about admitting stuff. Big and small, good and bad – anything that ended up in our fourth step inventory is about to be revealed to others. Most unhealthy families don’t teach us how to admit much of anything. In fact, most sick families share a common trait – don’t tell. This serves no one well. It keeps sick people from getting much needed help. It makes innocent people bear the brunt of others’ dysfunctions. It limits options and avoids solutions.
In lots of families it is unsafe to reveal a shortcoming, vulnerability or weakness. This is a shame, because God’s desire for families is that lots of healthy problem solving within the home. Unhealthy families tend to be chaotic, capricious and inconsistent. They can be rigid and rule-driven or – the opposite extreme – absent of guidance entirely. Love is conditional and life is unpredictable. Discipline is sporadic and sometimes cruel.
Even in healthy families, children can learn that being yourself is not a good idea. When I was a kid I loved to read. I was fascinated by the wonderful world of books! I am quite sure I was obnoxious, persistent, difficult and boring in my nightly recounting of every little detail contained in my current reading pleasure. I believed I was sharing precious gems. My family did not share this view.
And I get that as an adult. I listened, heck, I even read along with one of my children through the complete series of Harry Potter. My oldest son is currently enamored with an old book series – Fletch – and although not my cup of tea, I certainly know a lot about every plot twist and detail. So I get what it’s like to listen to another person wax eloquent about a book that is of marginal interest to me.
But as a child, I got teased about my voracious reading habits. No one intended a bit of harm – they just wanted a moment’s peace. As a child, I concluded that something was wrong with being me, and soon I stopped sharing.
I don’t think many of us will be sent to juvie for excessive reading. But if we learn to stop sharing the innocuous part of ourselves – do you think it will be easy to share the dark secrets of the soul?
Thought for today: Admitting the exact nature of our wrongs is a hard thing to do. But in the right environment, having come to know the awesome, loving God of scripture and with the right supporting God-representative with skin on – it can be a comforting time of healing.
Thought for tomorrow: He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Proverbs 28:13 NIV
May 2
Teresa McBean
May 1
Step 5: We admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
May 1
Recommended Reading: Job 27, 28, 29
One of my favorite Bible stories is found in Genesis 18. Three strangers have shown up at Abraham’s house. It appears that two were angels, and one was the Lord himself. Speaking prophesies of a return visit – a promise is also delivered. Truly, it’s a restatement of a promise given many years ago. It seems that in the grand scheme of God, Sarah is destined to have a baby.
I suspect with the advanced age of both she and her husband Abraham, those two had long ago given up on having a child. Barren and elderly, Sarah thought this idea preposterous. (Further reading of the scriptures will tell us that indeed, God does deliver on this promise.) Sarah’s response? She laughs.
At this point in the story, we stumble upon my personal favorite subplot. The Lord turns to Abraham and asks him why Sarah laughed. (Imagine your great-grandma getting pregnant and see if that might bring a mirthful response from you!)
Sarah lies and says, “I did not laugh.”
The Lord says, “Yes, you did laugh.”
“I did not!”
“Did too!”
“Did not!”
“Did too!” And thus, we have the first recorded “He said – She said” conversation in history!
I always re-read this account prior to completing a fifth step. Like Sarah, I am often reluctant to “admit” things to God, others and even myself. And here’s the part that really bugs me – I sometimes have trouble admitting minor stuff too. Sarah was asked to admit to laughter – not capital murder! And yet ….she just couldn’t quite pull the trigger and say, “I laughed.”
Who could fault Sarah a little chuckle?
I’ve heard others take Sarah’s inventory and commentate that this shows a lack of faith. I don’t know about that one! I’ve been pregnant three times, and I am now past the typical years one thinks of as childbearing. If God showed up at my house with some buddies and told me I was going to have a child – wow – let’s just say a little chuckle would be the least offensive response likely to pop out of my mouth.
Fortunately, we also have Job as a teacher and guide. We know from watching him struggle that God is not offended by our honesty. History has revealed several key things that stir God’s wrath – us being honest with him is not one of them. So like Job, we can be honest with God. That’ll be an important point to keep in mind when you review your fourth step inventory and approach the throne of grace with it clutched tightly in your fist.
Thought for today: Confession isn’t for sissies. But it has helped me take this important next right step when I understand the character and intentions of the One to whom I must come clean.
Thought for tomorrow: For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done. This is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. Hebrews 4:12-16 NLT
May 1
Teresa McBean
May 1
Recommended Reading: Job 27, 28, 29
One of my favorite Bible stories is found in Genesis 18. Three strangers have shown up at Abraham’s house. It appears that two were angels, and one was the Lord himself. Speaking prophesies of a return visit – a promise is also delivered. Truly, it’s a restatement of a promise given many years ago. It seems that in the grand scheme of God, Sarah is destined to have a baby.
I suspect with the advanced age of both she and her husband Abraham, those two had long ago given up on having a child. Barren and elderly, Sarah thought this idea preposterous. (Further reading of the scriptures will tell us that indeed, God does deliver on this promise.) Sarah’s response? She laughs.
At this point in the story, we stumble upon my personal favorite subplot. The Lord turns to Abraham and asks him why Sarah laughed. (Imagine your great-grandma getting pregnant and see if that might bring a mirthful response from you!)
Sarah lies and says, “I did not laugh.”
The Lord says, “Yes, you did laugh.”
“I did not!”
“Did too!”
“Did not!”
“Did too!” And thus, we have the first recorded “He said – She said” conversation in history!
I always re-read this account prior to completing a fifth step. Like Sarah, I am often reluctant to “admit” things to God, others and even myself. And here’s the part that really bugs me – I sometimes have trouble admitting minor stuff too. Sarah was asked to admit to laughter – not capital murder! And yet ….she just couldn’t quite pull the trigger and say, “I laughed.”
Who could fault Sarah a little chuckle?
I’ve heard others take Sarah’s inventory and commentate that this shows a lack of faith. I don’t know about that one! I’ve been pregnant three times, and I am now past the typical years one thinks of as childbearing. If God showed up at my house with some buddies and told me I was going to have a child – wow – let’s just say a little chuckle would be the least offensive response likely to pop out of my mouth.
Fortunately, we also have Job as a teacher and guide. We know from watching him struggle that God is not offended by our honesty. History has revealed several key things that stir God’s wrath – us being honest with him is not one of them. So like Job, we can be honest with God. That’ll be an important point to keep in mind when you review your fourth step inventory and approach the throne of grace with it clutched tightly in your fist.
Thought for today: Confession isn’t for sissies. But it has helped me take this important next right step when I understand the character and intentions of the One to whom I must come clean.
Thought for tomorrow: For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done. This is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it. Hebrews 4:12-16 NLT
May 1
Teresa McBean
April 30
Read Job 27, 28 and 29 – take your time on this one!
“But do people know where to find wisdom? Where can they find understanding? No one knows where to find it, for it is not found among the living. ‘It is not here,’ says the ocean. ‘Nor is it here, says the sea. It cannot be bought with gold. I t cannot be purchased with silver….It cannot be purchased with jewels mounted in fine gold…. But do people know where to find wisdom? Where can they find understanding?” Job 28: 12-15,17, 20 NLT
Where have you looked for wisdom and understanding?
I’ve stared into the face of the ocean and thought to myself – if I got to do this every day, my life would be wonderful.
I remember once upon a time a firmly held conviction that if my kitchen was renovated to my specifications, I’d be happy.
I love that wedding ring upgrade I got a few years ago. I enjoy it every time my eyes hit its sparkle.
I thought if my children made a certain team and played a certain position, got into the right schools (big debate on what that means at my house), and at the right time find the right spouse – I’d be perfectly content. I’ve even thought that if I could raise kids who didn’t self-medicate and loved God with all their hearts, mind and strength – I could be considered wise! Boy, was that delusional thinking!
But Job is right. Even if we acquire those things, wisdom and understanding do not tag along with them.
I love my ocean vacations, but running away and joining the navy isn’t in my future. I got that kitchen renovation – and I’m still a mediocre cook who lets her dirty dishes pile up in the sink (although the sink is really awesome). My wedding ring upgrade didn’t bring with it new skill sets for how to stay blissfully wed. I’ve had to look elsewhere for that kind of wisdom. My children have made a variety of choices – and I’ve learned that I really had very little to do with them – whether they were for good or not quite right (Who’s to say which decision falls in which category?).
So – where have you looked for wisdom and understanding?
Thought for today: Take a few minutes and inventory all the places you’ve looked to find your hope, your peace, and your purpose. How’s that working for you?
Thought for tomorrow: God alone understands the way to wisdom; he knows where it can be fund, for he looks through the whole earth and sees everything under the heavens…. And this is what he says to all humanity: “The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.” Job 28: 23-24, 28 NLT
“But do people know where to find wisdom? Where can they find understanding? No one knows where to find it, for it is not found among the living. ‘It is not here,’ says the ocean. ‘Nor is it here, says the sea. It cannot be bought with gold. I t cannot be purchased with silver….It cannot be purchased with jewels mounted in fine gold…. But do people know where to find wisdom? Where can they find understanding?” Job 28: 12-15,17, 20 NLT
Where have you looked for wisdom and understanding?
I’ve stared into the face of the ocean and thought to myself – if I got to do this every day, my life would be wonderful.
I remember once upon a time a firmly held conviction that if my kitchen was renovated to my specifications, I’d be happy.
I love that wedding ring upgrade I got a few years ago. I enjoy it every time my eyes hit its sparkle.
I thought if my children made a certain team and played a certain position, got into the right schools (big debate on what that means at my house), and at the right time find the right spouse – I’d be perfectly content. I’ve even thought that if I could raise kids who didn’t self-medicate and loved God with all their hearts, mind and strength – I could be considered wise! Boy, was that delusional thinking!
But Job is right. Even if we acquire those things, wisdom and understanding do not tag along with them.
I love my ocean vacations, but running away and joining the navy isn’t in my future. I got that kitchen renovation – and I’m still a mediocre cook who lets her dirty dishes pile up in the sink (although the sink is really awesome). My wedding ring upgrade didn’t bring with it new skill sets for how to stay blissfully wed. I’ve had to look elsewhere for that kind of wisdom. My children have made a variety of choices – and I’ve learned that I really had very little to do with them – whether they were for good or not quite right (Who’s to say which decision falls in which category?).
So – where have you looked for wisdom and understanding?
Thought for today: Take a few minutes and inventory all the places you’ve looked to find your hope, your peace, and your purpose. How’s that working for you?
Thought for tomorrow: God alone understands the way to wisdom; he knows where it can be fund, for he looks through the whole earth and sees everything under the heavens…. And this is what he says to all humanity: “The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.” Job 28: 23-24, 28 NLT
April 29
Read Job 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26 (skim it)
I have these two cabinets in my kitchen that are always messy. I hate that. I like my cabinets neat and tidy. I swear, I think elves show up in the middle of the night and rearrange my pots and pans into a jumble of chaos just to make my life miserable!
I also hate it when my garage and car are messy.
Closets? I like those neat as a pin too.
You would not know this if you visited my house. What I like, and what I tolerate are often two different things. In a previous devotional I talked about an inventory experience I had while I was in Los Angeles. One of the insights that sprung from that time of needed self-assessment was how I was living simultaneously with both over and under-responsibility issues. In some areas of my life, my inventory revealed a dedicated commitment to the next right thing.
I felt like John Mayer in his song Something’s Missing. He says: guitar – check; car – check, etc. Well I did that too. I was doing well in the area of exercise, nutrition, and personal devotions. I was paying appropriate attention to my children (although they might argue that I’m paying too much or too little depending on the day and their needs) and Pete and I were faithfully having fun and great date nights. But other areas I couldn’t check off with satisfaction. One of those areas was my emotional temperature. I was a bit too anxious for a person who has been given the promise of peace that passes all understanding.
Further investigation led me to some areas of irresponsibility. I was so busy in some areas, that I wasn’t taking care of my stuff. And my insides (both literally and physically) were getting messy. So after further processing, I decided my next right step was to respond appropriately to this insight (translation – don’t freak out and drive the family crazy) and rearrange my priorities just a bit.
Since then, I’ve managed to get some things straight. A bit at a time. And here’s the funny thing about it. It’s really helped my peace of mind. Not only that, doing it has taken a lot less time than I was spending worrying about it in my mind. Pete and I completely redid our master bedroom closet – in under three hours. But I can’t count the number of minutes I spent each day fretting about that closet. Why hadn’t I just taken the time and straightened it months ago? Inspired by all those endorphins of pleasure rushing through my brain, we’ve tackled other projects in much the same manner. What fun we’re having!!!
Thought for today: Honestly, there are probably some things that you’ve spent more time worrying over than it would have taken to acknowledge and resolve. I know that when we’re not living in healthy space we like having unresolved problems to distract ourselves with – but take it from me, when we do that, we’re wasting our time in needless anxiety. Even a halfway attempt at a fourth step can bring some awesome results. If you’ve been avoiding your fourth step like the plague, just do it halfway. I suspect that a half done fourth will be so rewarding that you’ll be pumped to complete it. Let me know if that works for you.
Thought for tomorrow: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
I have these two cabinets in my kitchen that are always messy. I hate that. I like my cabinets neat and tidy. I swear, I think elves show up in the middle of the night and rearrange my pots and pans into a jumble of chaos just to make my life miserable!
I also hate it when my garage and car are messy.
Closets? I like those neat as a pin too.
You would not know this if you visited my house. What I like, and what I tolerate are often two different things. In a previous devotional I talked about an inventory experience I had while I was in Los Angeles. One of the insights that sprung from that time of needed self-assessment was how I was living simultaneously with both over and under-responsibility issues. In some areas of my life, my inventory revealed a dedicated commitment to the next right thing.
I felt like John Mayer in his song Something’s Missing. He says: guitar – check; car – check, etc. Well I did that too. I was doing well in the area of exercise, nutrition, and personal devotions. I was paying appropriate attention to my children (although they might argue that I’m paying too much or too little depending on the day and their needs) and Pete and I were faithfully having fun and great date nights. But other areas I couldn’t check off with satisfaction. One of those areas was my emotional temperature. I was a bit too anxious for a person who has been given the promise of peace that passes all understanding.
Further investigation led me to some areas of irresponsibility. I was so busy in some areas, that I wasn’t taking care of my stuff. And my insides (both literally and physically) were getting messy. So after further processing, I decided my next right step was to respond appropriately to this insight (translation – don’t freak out and drive the family crazy) and rearrange my priorities just a bit.
Since then, I’ve managed to get some things straight. A bit at a time. And here’s the funny thing about it. It’s really helped my peace of mind. Not only that, doing it has taken a lot less time than I was spending worrying about it in my mind. Pete and I completely redid our master bedroom closet – in under three hours. But I can’t count the number of minutes I spent each day fretting about that closet. Why hadn’t I just taken the time and straightened it months ago? Inspired by all those endorphins of pleasure rushing through my brain, we’ve tackled other projects in much the same manner. What fun we’re having!!!
Thought for today: Honestly, there are probably some things that you’ve spent more time worrying over than it would have taken to acknowledge and resolve. I know that when we’re not living in healthy space we like having unresolved problems to distract ourselves with – but take it from me, when we do that, we’re wasting our time in needless anxiety. Even a halfway attempt at a fourth step can bring some awesome results. If you’ve been avoiding your fourth step like the plague, just do it halfway. I suspect that a half done fourth will be so rewarding that you’ll be pumped to complete it. Let me know if that works for you.
Thought for tomorrow: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
April 28
Read Job 18, 19, 20, 21 – feel free to skim!
Job and his friends were obviously confused and sometimes condemning when it came to trying to make sense of Job’s suffering. Can’t we all relate to that? But again, Job leads us well. Even in the midst of all this turmoil, Job is able to come back to some very basic and life-giving beliefs. Job totally gets who is in control.
People with a history of hurts, habits and hang-ups rarely relinquish care and control of their lives without a lot of kicking and screaming. Even as I write this, I realize that what I’m saying isn’t quite true. The truth is, we do relinquish control. We give ourselves over to abusers, we give ourselves over to temporary solutions, we give ourselves over to our own minds. Maybe it’s not as simple as saying we have control issues. Could it be that what we really struggle with is idolatry? We want to determine who or what we worship. And we like our small gods. They don’t ask much of us.
Thought for today: Boy, I’m having a brain freeze thinking about this. How easy it is to say, “I have control issues.” It’s a nice, neat, flip response. Say that, and people nod their head in understanding. So let’s pause in our nodding and think about this. Control issues? Really? That may be true. But could it also be that we are out of control, and trying to regain control by exhibiting CONTROLLING BEHAVIORS.
So stop saying you have control issues as if that’s a virtue or a good excuse. List all the ways you attempt to control. Code words: rigidity and lack of spontaneity, manipulating others to gain approval, overreact to change, lack trust, judgmental attitude, intolerant, fear failure.
I attempt to control ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21 NIV If you still want to hold on to that control issues excuse, be my guest. But I’m warning you: you don’t have the power to over-ride the prevailing purposes of God. So knock yourself out, but don’t be surprised by the results.
Job and his friends were obviously confused and sometimes condemning when it came to trying to make sense of Job’s suffering. Can’t we all relate to that? But again, Job leads us well. Even in the midst of all this turmoil, Job is able to come back to some very basic and life-giving beliefs. Job totally gets who is in control.
People with a history of hurts, habits and hang-ups rarely relinquish care and control of their lives without a lot of kicking and screaming. Even as I write this, I realize that what I’m saying isn’t quite true. The truth is, we do relinquish control. We give ourselves over to abusers, we give ourselves over to temporary solutions, we give ourselves over to our own minds. Maybe it’s not as simple as saying we have control issues. Could it be that what we really struggle with is idolatry? We want to determine who or what we worship. And we like our small gods. They don’t ask much of us.
Thought for today: Boy, I’m having a brain freeze thinking about this. How easy it is to say, “I have control issues.” It’s a nice, neat, flip response. Say that, and people nod their head in understanding. So let’s pause in our nodding and think about this. Control issues? Really? That may be true. But could it also be that we are out of control, and trying to regain control by exhibiting CONTROLLING BEHAVIORS.
So stop saying you have control issues as if that’s a virtue or a good excuse. List all the ways you attempt to control. Code words: rigidity and lack of spontaneity, manipulating others to gain approval, overreact to change, lack trust, judgmental attitude, intolerant, fear failure.
I attempt to control ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21 NIV If you still want to hold on to that control issues excuse, be my guest. But I’m warning you: you don’t have the power to over-ride the prevailing purposes of God. So knock yourself out, but don’t be surprised by the results.
April 27
Read Job 15, 16 and 17
“If you will listen, I will show you. I will answer you from my own experience. And it is confirmed by the reports of wise men who have heard the same thing from their fathers” – Eliphaz uses personal experience and wise men’s agreement to support his advice to Job (Job 15:17-18 NLT)
Personal experience is an exceedingly important tool. I love listening to the life stories of others; I have learned some of my greatest lessons vicariously. But there are limits. Eliphaz had both experience and wise mentors – but his advice still stunk.
I had an interesting conversation with a fellow traveler on an extended flight to California. About the same age, we discovered a lot of common ground. Our children share similar interests and are close in age too. We discovered that we hang out at some of the same sporting events.
Both of us are in the middle of a tough semester of AP History and math. I asked about her life experience and she shared it generously.
Minutes into the conversation I was reminded of Eliphaz – and how similar we all are to him. My new traveling buddy did indeed share a lot of life experience with me – but we also had some glaring differences. As the conversation progressed, I realized that her world and mine were very different.
Like Eliphaz, both of us have 50 years of living life and listening to the reports of the wise men of our age. It so happens, she and I listen to really different wise men.
Her life is one of privilege. Her biggest complaint about her youngest child’s school and sports schedule had to do with an obstinate tutor and tardy chauffeur. We have an obstinate tutor totoo – called dad; our tardy chauffeur’s name is mom. My life is one of privilege too. It’s just a different kind of privilege.
Once we were flying above Vegas and hurtling toward Los Angeles, I realized that her experience – though extremely interesting – was going to require some serious interpretation if I were going to benefit from the pearls of wisdom embedded in her life’s story.
Sometimes the wrapping on a package can distract us from the gift that lies within. Last Christmas my most extravagant gift came in a small paper bag. Frankly, it would have been easy for me to tune out this gal with her complaints about the chef, gardener, and personal trainer.
I’m glad that I recalled that experience sharing has limits. And although 50 plus years brings with it aches, pains and wrinkles – it also brings with it the potential for developing new skill sets. I am learning how to use other people’s experiences even when they come with lots of limits.
Example: Sometimes a day gets so hectic that I begin to think that if I just had a little bit more help, I would be a much happier person. Other days I think if I just had more free time, I could morph into a modern day Ghandi.
It would have been easy for me to blow off my seatmate’s perceived stressors as the whining of a pampered poodle. If I had done that, I would have missed a teachable moment. As I listened to her anxieties, fears, and frustrations, I learned something about myself.
I realized that obviously more help and additional free time were not antidotes to the responsibilities of raising children. There was more going on with me than a too busy schedule. So early the next morning, when most West Coasters were snug in their beds, this Easterner got up early and inventoried her heart.
Thought for today: I see two problems with advice giving (and receiving). (1) Sometimes the advice is bad. (2) Sometimes the advice is good, but it comes wrapped in a package that turns us off and distracts us from the truth of the message. Discounting advice that is either bad or uncomfortably delivered can cost us a teachable moment.
Thought for tomorrow: Here’s one recommendation that might help prevent wasted truth encounters. When offered advice, always look for the opportunity to learn. Even bad advice can get us thinking. We can process through our response to it, and think long and hard about why we think it’s bad.
My flying buddy decided that more hired help was the standard response to her stress. This was neither practical nor right for me. But. I prayed and processed and realized in a moment of clarity that our fears have less to do with our schedules and a lot more to do with our beliefs about our schedules.
My new friend also enlightened me as to my own wrong thinking. She was under no illusions. A life of financial privilege did not come with a get-out-of-discomfort-free card. She got that. So in many ways, she is a lot wiser than me. I appreciated her guiding me to a new perspective.
As bad a counselor as Eliphaz was – God can take even his stinking thinking and use it to teach us.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT
If you’re not sure if the advice you’re giving or receiving is good or bad, right or wrong – utilize scripture as a plumb line, testing to see if the wisdom of men is consistent with the wisdom of God.
“If you will listen, I will show you. I will answer you from my own experience. And it is confirmed by the reports of wise men who have heard the same thing from their fathers” – Eliphaz uses personal experience and wise men’s agreement to support his advice to Job (Job 15:17-18 NLT)
Personal experience is an exceedingly important tool. I love listening to the life stories of others; I have learned some of my greatest lessons vicariously. But there are limits. Eliphaz had both experience and wise mentors – but his advice still stunk.
I had an interesting conversation with a fellow traveler on an extended flight to California. About the same age, we discovered a lot of common ground. Our children share similar interests and are close in age too. We discovered that we hang out at some of the same sporting events.
Both of us are in the middle of a tough semester of AP History and math. I asked about her life experience and she shared it generously.
Minutes into the conversation I was reminded of Eliphaz – and how similar we all are to him. My new traveling buddy did indeed share a lot of life experience with me – but we also had some glaring differences. As the conversation progressed, I realized that her world and mine were very different.
Like Eliphaz, both of us have 50 years of living life and listening to the reports of the wise men of our age. It so happens, she and I listen to really different wise men.
Her life is one of privilege. Her biggest complaint about her youngest child’s school and sports schedule had to do with an obstinate tutor and tardy chauffeur. We have an obstinate tutor totoo – called dad; our tardy chauffeur’s name is mom. My life is one of privilege too. It’s just a different kind of privilege.
Once we were flying above Vegas and hurtling toward Los Angeles, I realized that her experience – though extremely interesting – was going to require some serious interpretation if I were going to benefit from the pearls of wisdom embedded in her life’s story.
Sometimes the wrapping on a package can distract us from the gift that lies within. Last Christmas my most extravagant gift came in a small paper bag. Frankly, it would have been easy for me to tune out this gal with her complaints about the chef, gardener, and personal trainer.
I’m glad that I recalled that experience sharing has limits. And although 50 plus years brings with it aches, pains and wrinkles – it also brings with it the potential for developing new skill sets. I am learning how to use other people’s experiences even when they come with lots of limits.
Example: Sometimes a day gets so hectic that I begin to think that if I just had a little bit more help, I would be a much happier person. Other days I think if I just had more free time, I could morph into a modern day Ghandi.
It would have been easy for me to blow off my seatmate’s perceived stressors as the whining of a pampered poodle. If I had done that, I would have missed a teachable moment. As I listened to her anxieties, fears, and frustrations, I learned something about myself.
I realized that obviously more help and additional free time were not antidotes to the responsibilities of raising children. There was more going on with me than a too busy schedule. So early the next morning, when most West Coasters were snug in their beds, this Easterner got up early and inventoried her heart.
Thought for today: I see two problems with advice giving (and receiving). (1) Sometimes the advice is bad. (2) Sometimes the advice is good, but it comes wrapped in a package that turns us off and distracts us from the truth of the message. Discounting advice that is either bad or uncomfortably delivered can cost us a teachable moment.
Thought for tomorrow: Here’s one recommendation that might help prevent wasted truth encounters. When offered advice, always look for the opportunity to learn. Even bad advice can get us thinking. We can process through our response to it, and think long and hard about why we think it’s bad.
My flying buddy decided that more hired help was the standard response to her stress. This was neither practical nor right for me. But. I prayed and processed and realized in a moment of clarity that our fears have less to do with our schedules and a lot more to do with our beliefs about our schedules.
My new friend also enlightened me as to my own wrong thinking. She was under no illusions. A life of financial privilege did not come with a get-out-of-discomfort-free card. She got that. So in many ways, she is a lot wiser than me. I appreciated her guiding me to a new perspective.
As bad a counselor as Eliphaz was – God can take even his stinking thinking and use it to teach us.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT
If you’re not sure if the advice you’re giving or receiving is good or bad, right or wrong – utilize scripture as a plumb line, testing to see if the wisdom of men is consistent with the wisdom of God.
April 26
Read Job 13 and 14
Fortunately for Job, he understood baloney when it was served up to him on a silver platter. He had the good sense to realize that his friends were full of hot air. That’s awesome – but unusual. Most people tell me that they find the advice they receive confusing and contradictory. Sincere in their desire to do the next right thing, defining that next step is often far more challenging than one might expect.
That’s why I love the fourth step. It’s an opportunity for us to get alone with God and allow His Spirit to blow through our hearts. Later on we’ll begin to share all that we’re writing and thinking and feeling with another person. This is not the time to be asking others to instruct us about what we need to inventory.
I know we long for input from others, especially when working on something as challenging as a fourth step. I’d suggest you ask them about their personal experiences with their own stepping. Perhaps if you’re stuck on the “ how-tos” your advisors can share what’s worked for them.
But for today, I want to encourage you to follow Job’s example. He eagerly went straight to the top dog. He had a conversation with God himself. You have this same access. Isn’t that awesome? Maybe the only foolish thing you could do at this point is to ignore the privilege and deny yourself the opportunity of approaching the throne of grace yourself – without need of any mediators. Isn’t that awesome?
Think of it like this. If you find yourself in legal difficulties, you can’t just pop over to the judge’s house and hash it all out over a cup of cappuccino. Lawyers, court clerks and all sorts of paperwork are required for you to get your day in court.
Not so with God. Today you can have a conversation with Him. I pray that you will.
Thought for today: So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:16 NLT
Thought for tomorrow: I know other people are poor imitators of the God of mercy and grace. I also know that we are called to pursue our God-created identities – which include the ability to have the mind of Christ, imitate him, and even know and do his good, pleasing and perfect will.
That’s a lot of potential, and sometimes we all fall short. While we’re all growing up in our salvation, let’s be gentle with each other. Let’s look for our potential with at least as much energy as we pour into picking at each other’s wounds.
Fortunately for Job, he understood baloney when it was served up to him on a silver platter. He had the good sense to realize that his friends were full of hot air. That’s awesome – but unusual. Most people tell me that they find the advice they receive confusing and contradictory. Sincere in their desire to do the next right thing, defining that next step is often far more challenging than one might expect.
That’s why I love the fourth step. It’s an opportunity for us to get alone with God and allow His Spirit to blow through our hearts. Later on we’ll begin to share all that we’re writing and thinking and feeling with another person. This is not the time to be asking others to instruct us about what we need to inventory.
I know we long for input from others, especially when working on something as challenging as a fourth step. I’d suggest you ask them about their personal experiences with their own stepping. Perhaps if you’re stuck on the “ how-tos” your advisors can share what’s worked for them.
But for today, I want to encourage you to follow Job’s example. He eagerly went straight to the top dog. He had a conversation with God himself. You have this same access. Isn’t that awesome? Maybe the only foolish thing you could do at this point is to ignore the privilege and deny yourself the opportunity of approaching the throne of grace yourself – without need of any mediators. Isn’t that awesome?
Think of it like this. If you find yourself in legal difficulties, you can’t just pop over to the judge’s house and hash it all out over a cup of cappuccino. Lawyers, court clerks and all sorts of paperwork are required for you to get your day in court.
Not so with God. Today you can have a conversation with Him. I pray that you will.
Thought for today: So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:16 NLT
Thought for tomorrow: I know other people are poor imitators of the God of mercy and grace. I also know that we are called to pursue our God-created identities – which include the ability to have the mind of Christ, imitate him, and even know and do his good, pleasing and perfect will.
That’s a lot of potential, and sometimes we all fall short. While we’re all growing up in our salvation, let’s be gentle with each other. Let’s look for our potential with at least as much energy as we pour into picking at each other’s wounds.
April 25
Read Job 11 and 12
“Shouldn’t someone make you ashamed?”
The day began like any other, and unfortunately, ended like many. Another day when I sit and watch one person take on the job of shaming another. This, I think to myself, is why I sometimes despair. I have no idea why we seem to think that “making others ashamed” is of value. It seems to me that shaming is packaged like a value meal. Shaming is usually accompanied with a side dish of self-righteous indignation and a large size helping of anger.
During this particular meeting it is parental shame that makes my heart weep. “I expected more of you than this.” “You can do far better than this.” “Well, I know you want to change, but I am just not so sure whether you can. Son, you’ve proven to be a huge disappointment to me.” “I just don’t understand how you can be so stupid!” On and on it goes. Who knows where it will stop?
It certainly doesn’t end in a child saying, “Gee Dad! How right you are! I can do better than this! I’m ready to go to any lengths to become my best self!” It’s far more likely that this kid will comply and lay low – going through the motions of good behaving – and run out and self-medicate at the first distracted moment on the part of his hyper-vigilant parents.
I know the heartbreak of disappointed spouses, parents, siblings and friends. This time, they had so hoped it would be different. They hoped their optimism would not be misplaced. Relapse stinks. Living with disappointed expectations stinks too. I get that. What continues to baffle me is why caring people think that heaping shame on another is an effective intervention tool.
I understand that the shamer has noble goals. Like Zophar and Bildad, these folks sincerely believe that they are trying to inspire, encourage, and motivate positive change. Whether it is a parent, a spouse, a sibling or a dear friend – these masters of shame see themselves as helpers, not hinderers, in the restoration process.
This is another mystery to me – what evidence does anyone have that shaming has ever worked? I grant you, it sometimes bows the shoulders and head; it occasionally results in short term compliance – but has it ever in the history of mankind made the “shamee” a better person? I think not.
And here’s another thought. Zophar, in his misguided attempts to shame Job into better believing and behaving, gets it wrong. God was rewarding Job in his own mysterious God ways. Zophar is certain that this is all about punishment. Think about that – Zophar could not even shame Job with any degree of accuracy.
Two points not to forget: (1).Shaming doesn’t work and (2).Shamers generally make themselves look foolish. In fact, Zophar revealed more about himself than Job as he ranted on. Zophar was arrogant and ill-equipped to deal with Job’s suffering in a way that pleased God. Soon we will read about God’s utter displeasure with Job’s so-called friends – and his indictment of these friends. So let me leave you with this thought.
If you know and love someone who is in desperate need of a thorough fourth step experience, please get out of their way and not hinder their progress. There is no value in your attempts to shame, blame and manipulate them into compliance. Finally, if you are the one in need of a fourth step, and you’ve allowed others’ mishandling of your suffering to make you stubborn and recalcitrant – please rethink your position.
God judges each of us according to our deeds. He’s perfectly capable of handling your foolish friends. Since you are going to give an account of your actions too, why not go ahead and take the next right step?
Thought for today: the Lord finished speaking to Job, he said to Eliphaz: “I am angry with you and your two friends, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has.” Job 42:7 NLT
Thought for tomorrow: It is possible to handle misdeeds, pain and suffering without shaming. Consequences can be delivered – boundaries can be drawn – without belittling one another. We can learn how to treat each other with respect.
Job’s goofy friends provide me with lots of motivation. They remind me that it is possible to contribute to another’s problems instead of helping to alleviate them. I’ve got lots more to learn in this area – how about you?
“Shouldn’t someone make you ashamed?”
The day began like any other, and unfortunately, ended like many. Another day when I sit and watch one person take on the job of shaming another. This, I think to myself, is why I sometimes despair. I have no idea why we seem to think that “making others ashamed” is of value. It seems to me that shaming is packaged like a value meal. Shaming is usually accompanied with a side dish of self-righteous indignation and a large size helping of anger.
During this particular meeting it is parental shame that makes my heart weep. “I expected more of you than this.” “You can do far better than this.” “Well, I know you want to change, but I am just not so sure whether you can. Son, you’ve proven to be a huge disappointment to me.” “I just don’t understand how you can be so stupid!” On and on it goes. Who knows where it will stop?
It certainly doesn’t end in a child saying, “Gee Dad! How right you are! I can do better than this! I’m ready to go to any lengths to become my best self!” It’s far more likely that this kid will comply and lay low – going through the motions of good behaving – and run out and self-medicate at the first distracted moment on the part of his hyper-vigilant parents.
I know the heartbreak of disappointed spouses, parents, siblings and friends. This time, they had so hoped it would be different. They hoped their optimism would not be misplaced. Relapse stinks. Living with disappointed expectations stinks too. I get that. What continues to baffle me is why caring people think that heaping shame on another is an effective intervention tool.
I understand that the shamer has noble goals. Like Zophar and Bildad, these folks sincerely believe that they are trying to inspire, encourage, and motivate positive change. Whether it is a parent, a spouse, a sibling or a dear friend – these masters of shame see themselves as helpers, not hinderers, in the restoration process.
This is another mystery to me – what evidence does anyone have that shaming has ever worked? I grant you, it sometimes bows the shoulders and head; it occasionally results in short term compliance – but has it ever in the history of mankind made the “shamee” a better person? I think not.
And here’s another thought. Zophar, in his misguided attempts to shame Job into better believing and behaving, gets it wrong. God was rewarding Job in his own mysterious God ways. Zophar is certain that this is all about punishment. Think about that – Zophar could not even shame Job with any degree of accuracy.
Two points not to forget: (1).Shaming doesn’t work and (2).Shamers generally make themselves look foolish. In fact, Zophar revealed more about himself than Job as he ranted on. Zophar was arrogant and ill-equipped to deal with Job’s suffering in a way that pleased God. Soon we will read about God’s utter displeasure with Job’s so-called friends – and his indictment of these friends. So let me leave you with this thought.
If you know and love someone who is in desperate need of a thorough fourth step experience, please get out of their way and not hinder their progress. There is no value in your attempts to shame, blame and manipulate them into compliance. Finally, if you are the one in need of a fourth step, and you’ve allowed others’ mishandling of your suffering to make you stubborn and recalcitrant – please rethink your position.
God judges each of us according to our deeds. He’s perfectly capable of handling your foolish friends. Since you are going to give an account of your actions too, why not go ahead and take the next right step?
Thought for today: the Lord finished speaking to Job, he said to Eliphaz: “I am angry with you and your two friends, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has.” Job 42:7 NLT
Thought for tomorrow: It is possible to handle misdeeds, pain and suffering without shaming. Consequences can be delivered – boundaries can be drawn – without belittling one another. We can learn how to treat each other with respect.
Job’s goofy friends provide me with lots of motivation. They remind me that it is possible to contribute to another’s problems instead of helping to alleviate them. I’ve got lots more to learn in this area – how about you?
April 24
Read Job 9 and 10
I love Job. I love how truthful he is. I love the messiness of his honesty. I love how he doesn’t feel ite necessary to butter up God. He’s able to express how he feels – about himself, his circumstances, his theology – the entire enchilada.
Job has some things going for him that you and I may lack. Job has a history of relationship with God. Chapters one and two are proof of the intimacy between Job and God. And there’s a lot to commend Job for in terms of his knowledge of who God is and how God operates. In my Life Recovery Bible, the commentator makes a great point in Chapter nine. “Job knew more than he understood. He knew about God’s sovereignty and justice and that no man is blameless when seen in the light of god’s perfection. What he didn’t understand is that God is merciful and that it is only by grace that we do not receive our deserved fates, which would be far worse than
Job’s sufferings. When we feel that God isn’t being fair, we should remember that if he were, we would never be able to enter his presence. When god is ‘unfair,’ it is always on the side of mercy.”
Aren’t we all like that? We tend to know more than we understand. For example, a woman
may know that adultery is seriously not cool, but I wonder if she understands the impact if she follows through and commits adultery. Does she understand that her children may never be able to work through the betrayals and heartaches that will inevitably arise when the affair is discovered? In ten or fifteen years, will she understand why her son is unable to commit in a relationship? Does she understand that her adultery makes it harder for her spouse to take ownership of his own shortcomings in the marriage? Does she understand that her daughter may be suspicious and distrustful around even the nicest guy in the world? No. She may not.
Nor will she grasp the doubling of this tragedy if her affair is with another married man. It might be too painful to both know and understand the will of God as it applies to her choices. And that is also true for us.
I want to encourage you to take seriously the implications of your choices. I hope you will acknowledge to yourself and God that your knowledge and your understanding may be worlds apart. Speaking what we know without understanding what we’re missing produces about the same results as if we didn’t have any knowledge at all!
Thought for today: One compelling reason that I continue to make fearless moral inventories is because I have a healthy respect for my own capacity to be deceived. Denial is a powerful enemy. My hope is in the revelation of the truth to me by the Holy Spirit. I hope that I can allow God to transform me now, so that I won’t continue to harm myself and others AND that I can change so that no future harm is caused that could have been prevented. I hope this for you, too.
Thought for tomorrow: Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT
I love Job. I love how truthful he is. I love the messiness of his honesty. I love how he doesn’t feel ite necessary to butter up God. He’s able to express how he feels – about himself, his circumstances, his theology – the entire enchilada.
Job has some things going for him that you and I may lack. Job has a history of relationship with God. Chapters one and two are proof of the intimacy between Job and God. And there’s a lot to commend Job for in terms of his knowledge of who God is and how God operates. In my Life Recovery Bible, the commentator makes a great point in Chapter nine. “Job knew more than he understood. He knew about God’s sovereignty and justice and that no man is blameless when seen in the light of god’s perfection. What he didn’t understand is that God is merciful and that it is only by grace that we do not receive our deserved fates, which would be far worse than
Job’s sufferings. When we feel that God isn’t being fair, we should remember that if he were, we would never be able to enter his presence. When god is ‘unfair,’ it is always on the side of mercy.”
Aren’t we all like that? We tend to know more than we understand. For example, a woman
may know that adultery is seriously not cool, but I wonder if she understands the impact if she follows through and commits adultery. Does she understand that her children may never be able to work through the betrayals and heartaches that will inevitably arise when the affair is discovered? In ten or fifteen years, will she understand why her son is unable to commit in a relationship? Does she understand that her adultery makes it harder for her spouse to take ownership of his own shortcomings in the marriage? Does she understand that her daughter may be suspicious and distrustful around even the nicest guy in the world? No. She may not.
Nor will she grasp the doubling of this tragedy if her affair is with another married man. It might be too painful to both know and understand the will of God as it applies to her choices. And that is also true for us.
I want to encourage you to take seriously the implications of your choices. I hope you will acknowledge to yourself and God that your knowledge and your understanding may be worlds apart. Speaking what we know without understanding what we’re missing produces about the same results as if we didn’t have any knowledge at all!
Thought for today: One compelling reason that I continue to make fearless moral inventories is because I have a healthy respect for my own capacity to be deceived. Denial is a powerful enemy. My hope is in the revelation of the truth to me by the Holy Spirit. I hope that I can allow God to transform me now, so that I won’t continue to harm myself and others AND that I can change so that no future harm is caused that could have been prevented. I hope this for you, too.
Thought for tomorrow: Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT
April 23
Read Job 8
“You’re getting what you deserve.” This summarizes Bildad’s perspective on Job’s suffering.
“God will not reject a person of integrity, nor will he lend a hand to the wicked.”
All true. But lest we forget, Job is in this pickle because he was a person of whom God said, “He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless – a man of complete integrity.” Take that Bildad.
I wonder if sometimes we avoid a fourth step because, like Bildad, we are certain that anything we unearth will reveal “all that we lack” (to quote Sarah Mclaughlin). This is wrong. Although we like to tie up suffering in neat bundles of clarity – it doesn’t work that way. God’s ways are beyond our ability to comprehend. There is a God, and we did not get the job. There is more going on in the unseen world than we know.
God has plans for us – to prosper us, to give us a hope and a future. How that looks is God’s design – not necessarily in accordance with our desires. Know this – we can have a life of contentment, prosperity, hope and future – by God’s definition. If we have effectively claimed a third step (turning our life and will over to the care and control of God) we have already made the decision to do life God’s way.
So get busy. Do that fourth step inventory.
Thought for today: Sometimes suffering is the pathway to peace. Avoiding suffering can lead us off the pathway and get us stuck in a ditch. Bildad implies that Job’s problem has to be bad behaving. But there’s another issue that Bildad hasn’t even given a voice to – sometimes what we think of as doing good is really not. For example, sometimes we prefer taking care of others more than accepting responsibility for ourselves.
Frankly, it’s easier to get distracted by other people’s needs than it is to step up to the plate and take ownership of our own issues. Code words: going co-dependent, no core identity, desire to feel useful and indispensable, feeling responsible ‘for’ (rather than ‘to’), rescuing. Ask God to show you examples of “godly” caretaking that is really not godly at all…
I take care of ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5 NIV
“You’re getting what you deserve.” This summarizes Bildad’s perspective on Job’s suffering.
“God will not reject a person of integrity, nor will he lend a hand to the wicked.”
All true. But lest we forget, Job is in this pickle because he was a person of whom God said, “He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless – a man of complete integrity.” Take that Bildad.
I wonder if sometimes we avoid a fourth step because, like Bildad, we are certain that anything we unearth will reveal “all that we lack” (to quote Sarah Mclaughlin). This is wrong. Although we like to tie up suffering in neat bundles of clarity – it doesn’t work that way. God’s ways are beyond our ability to comprehend. There is a God, and we did not get the job. There is more going on in the unseen world than we know.
God has plans for us – to prosper us, to give us a hope and a future. How that looks is God’s design – not necessarily in accordance with our desires. Know this – we can have a life of contentment, prosperity, hope and future – by God’s definition. If we have effectively claimed a third step (turning our life and will over to the care and control of God) we have already made the decision to do life God’s way.
So get busy. Do that fourth step inventory.
Thought for today: Sometimes suffering is the pathway to peace. Avoiding suffering can lead us off the pathway and get us stuck in a ditch. Bildad implies that Job’s problem has to be bad behaving. But there’s another issue that Bildad hasn’t even given a voice to – sometimes what we think of as doing good is really not. For example, sometimes we prefer taking care of others more than accepting responsibility for ourselves.
Frankly, it’s easier to get distracted by other people’s needs than it is to step up to the plate and take ownership of our own issues. Code words: going co-dependent, no core identity, desire to feel useful and indispensable, feeling responsible ‘for’ (rather than ‘to’), rescuing. Ask God to show you examples of “godly” caretaking that is really not godly at all…
I take care of ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5 NIV
April 22
Read Job 6 and 7
One of the great things about Job is his honesty. New Testament writers remind us that much that is written in scripture is placed there to encourage us, guide us, exhort us, etc. I think Job is a great guy to go to for advice when it comes to suffering.
As Job speaks, I’m reminded of one of the prerequisites for an honest conversation. I’m careful about throwing honesty around in a willy nilly fashion. The older I get, the more cautious I am with the gift of honesty.
I used to think that, since the truth will set you free, stating the truth is always a good thing. And it is – to a point. But I’ve also learned to moderate my expressions. Why? Because sometimes what I believe is truth is really better described as what feels like truth for me at the moment. Sometimes, I may believe something is true with all my heart, even though I’m completely wrong-headed. Emotions cloud perspective. Trauma does strange things to our brain. Years ago we were in a car accident and I just knew that my images of the accident were THE FACTS. Taking an air bag to the face and the subsequent concussion scrambled my brain.
According to my family, my memories were WRONG. How can that be? To this day, when I remember the accident, I see a vision that feels real to me. But even I have to admit that the other four passengers saw the same thing – and it is very different from my “truth”. So now I tread cautiously around the edges of my perspective on truth. Secondly, just because some is true, it doesn’t mean it is appropriate to share it. I’m trying to develop my spiritual muscles – learning better how to respect truth. Sometimes silence is the best policy. Sometimes it’s a tacit endorsement of a lie to remain quiet. Scripture warns us that there are times when to rebuke a scoffer – even with the truth – even when it would be helpful for them to hear it – could be dangerous. Both Old and New Testament writers warn us not to rebuke a scoffer.
Sometimes stating the truth is a rebuke – and we shouldn’t speak it.
That said, Job just lets it all hang out. He must have felt very safe with God to speak so frankly. Although his friends clearly act like goofs, their friendship must have a history of safety and love. Job obviously has not a history of hiding his thoughts and feelings. Job is a great model.
Thought for today: Have you been a person who can be honest in a safe way? Are you a person people can be honest around, without fear of speaking to a scoffer? Do you have a history of honesty abuse?
Thought for tomorrow: Despite the pain, I have not denied the words of the Holy One. Job 6:10
One last thought – it is helpful to remember that although our brains may be fuzzy in the truth department, God is a great source for a truth check up. If our truths deny the words of God, we might need to rethink what we believe.
One of the great things about Job is his honesty. New Testament writers remind us that much that is written in scripture is placed there to encourage us, guide us, exhort us, etc. I think Job is a great guy to go to for advice when it comes to suffering.
As Job speaks, I’m reminded of one of the prerequisites for an honest conversation. I’m careful about throwing honesty around in a willy nilly fashion. The older I get, the more cautious I am with the gift of honesty.
I used to think that, since the truth will set you free, stating the truth is always a good thing. And it is – to a point. But I’ve also learned to moderate my expressions. Why? Because sometimes what I believe is truth is really better described as what feels like truth for me at the moment. Sometimes, I may believe something is true with all my heart, even though I’m completely wrong-headed. Emotions cloud perspective. Trauma does strange things to our brain. Years ago we were in a car accident and I just knew that my images of the accident were THE FACTS. Taking an air bag to the face and the subsequent concussion scrambled my brain.
According to my family, my memories were WRONG. How can that be? To this day, when I remember the accident, I see a vision that feels real to me. But even I have to admit that the other four passengers saw the same thing – and it is very different from my “truth”. So now I tread cautiously around the edges of my perspective on truth. Secondly, just because some is true, it doesn’t mean it is appropriate to share it. I’m trying to develop my spiritual muscles – learning better how to respect truth. Sometimes silence is the best policy. Sometimes it’s a tacit endorsement of a lie to remain quiet. Scripture warns us that there are times when to rebuke a scoffer – even with the truth – even when it would be helpful for them to hear it – could be dangerous. Both Old and New Testament writers warn us not to rebuke a scoffer.
Sometimes stating the truth is a rebuke – and we shouldn’t speak it.
That said, Job just lets it all hang out. He must have felt very safe with God to speak so frankly. Although his friends clearly act like goofs, their friendship must have a history of safety and love. Job obviously has not a history of hiding his thoughts and feelings. Job is a great model.
Thought for today: Have you been a person who can be honest in a safe way? Are you a person people can be honest around, without fear of speaking to a scoffer? Do you have a history of honesty abuse?
Thought for tomorrow: Despite the pain, I have not denied the words of the Holy One. Job 6:10
One last thought – it is helpful to remember that although our brains may be fuzzy in the truth department, God is a great source for a truth check up. If our truths deny the words of God, we might need to rethink what we believe.
April 21
Read Job 4 and 5
With friends like Eliphaz, who needs enemies?
There are no simple answers for suffering. I know we all love a simple answer and an explanation for suffering – but we don’t often get that. Can we let that go? Can we be careful to not jump to conclusions simply because we feel angry, scared, frustrated and depressed?
Another thought. When we are deeply wounded and in lots of pain, sometimes it feels safer to run to anger. A spirit of criticism and judgment brings with it the illusion of power. But it’s just an illusion. I would recommend that we acknowledge our anger, but recognize it for what it is – sometimes it’s a thinly veiled screen that we try to hide our suffering behind.
Our emotions are not sins. Emotions are emails to the soul intended to: get our attention and teach us profound lessons. Unfortunately, we sometimes misuse the feeling of anger.
Thought for today: Make a list of ways you inappropriately handle anger. Anger is a normal, healthy emotion. But sometimes we don’t know how to allow it to do its job (show us there is an issue that needs addressing) and then let it leave. Most of us either deny it or use it as a weapon of mass destruction. Either way, this is not cool. It’s ok to acknowledge one’s anger – it is not ok to be dishonest about it, or to give ourselves permission to disrespect others by inappropriate expression of it. Code words: resentment, depression, anxiety, self-pity, jealousy, stress.
Example: I inappropriately deal with anger when I ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates my _____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth…(Translation: It’s a lie to express anger when we truly are feeling afraid.) for we are all parts of the same body. (Translation: we must learn how to treat each other gently, with respect – including ourselves.) And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:25-27 NLT
With friends like Eliphaz, who needs enemies?
There are no simple answers for suffering. I know we all love a simple answer and an explanation for suffering – but we don’t often get that. Can we let that go? Can we be careful to not jump to conclusions simply because we feel angry, scared, frustrated and depressed?
Another thought. When we are deeply wounded and in lots of pain, sometimes it feels safer to run to anger. A spirit of criticism and judgment brings with it the illusion of power. But it’s just an illusion. I would recommend that we acknowledge our anger, but recognize it for what it is – sometimes it’s a thinly veiled screen that we try to hide our suffering behind.
Our emotions are not sins. Emotions are emails to the soul intended to: get our attention and teach us profound lessons. Unfortunately, we sometimes misuse the feeling of anger.
Thought for today: Make a list of ways you inappropriately handle anger. Anger is a normal, healthy emotion. But sometimes we don’t know how to allow it to do its job (show us there is an issue that needs addressing) and then let it leave. Most of us either deny it or use it as a weapon of mass destruction. Either way, this is not cool. It’s ok to acknowledge one’s anger – it is not ok to be dishonest about it, or to give ourselves permission to disrespect others by inappropriate expression of it. Code words: resentment, depression, anxiety, self-pity, jealousy, stress.
Example: I inappropriately deal with anger when I ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates my _____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth…(Translation: It’s a lie to express anger when we truly are feeling afraid.) for we are all parts of the same body. (Translation: we must learn how to treat each other gently, with respect – including ourselves.) And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:25-27 NLT
April 20
Read Job 3
Suffered lately? Then you can relate to the words of Job. Let’s review what we know:
Job lost everything – as a result of his sin? No. Because he was “the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless – a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil. And he has maintained his integrity, even though you urged me to harm him without cause.” (Job 2:3)
Job three contains Job’s first speech in response to all this pain. In it, he curses the day he was born. Like most of us, when faced with great suffering, we soon lose perspective. Job has forgotten the years of plenty; the parties; the blessings. His greatest fear has been realized.
Last week the greatest fear I had was my daughter’s propensity to drive long distances – alone – at night – down busy highways and by-ways. It never occurred to me that I should be worrying about my son sitting in a classroom at Norris Hall on the Virginia Tech campus. Who knew?
Last week I was humming when the days were warm and sunny; last night my son and I had a good cry.
Last week I was looking forward to a lot of quality time this summer with our three children; this week my mind is filled with sorrow for the families who have had their family members snatched from them in one morning of rage. I don’t know what to pick to worry about – and am beginning to think worry is a waste of time for someone like me (who doesn’t even know how to worry accurately).
I have to consciously remember that there are still things worth humming over. I must intentionally turn my mind to thoughts of vacation and quality time – all these things are easy to forget when your eyes tend to leak involuntarily.
Yesterday my son and I stopped at a local coffee shop for a snack; next to the register stood a pile of newspapers. The headline story included the face of the perpetrator of Monday’s massacre. With calm and quiet resolution my son stood at that stand and systematically turned every paper over – face down. Employees and passers-by could not see my son’s rage. No sorrow was obvious on his countenance. He just flipped those papers over.
My friend behind the counter took my money and glanced at my boy – with sympathy. Sometimes suffering shows up in weird ways and inconvenient times.
This is THE important point of this story: WHEN SUFFERING SHOWS UP – DON’T SEND HIM AWAY. Embrace him. Acknowledge him. Lean into him. There are worse things than suffering. When we push him back, ignore him, deny him access into our heart and mind – he’s a sneaky thief. He’ll still find a way back in. He’ll creep in and set up a tent. He’ll torment you in unexpected ways.
Thought for today: List the areas of your life that you have trouble expressing or even experiencing feelings. Many of us learn to hide our feelings. In unhealthy families, there are usually only a very small range of emotions that are allowed. Our true nature is distorted and reality is hidden. This lack of emotional honesty can make us physically ill. Code words: unaware of feelings, struggle with relationships, depressed, chronically ill, realize that one’s feelings are sometimes distorted or inappropriate to a situation, withhold conversation.
I repress my feelings ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: I’ll never forget the trouble, the utter lostness, the taste of ashes, the poison I’ve swallowed. I remember it all – oh, how well I remember – the feeling of hitting the bottom. But there’s one other thing I remember, and remembering, I keep a grip on hope: God’s loyal love couldn’t have run out, his merciful love couldn’t have dried up. They’re created new every morning. How great your faithfulness! I’m sticking with God (I say it over and over). He’s all I’ve got left. God proves to be good to the man who passionately waits, to the woman who diligently seeks. It’s a good thing to quietly hope, quietly hope for help from God. It’s a good thing when you’re young to stick it out through the hard times. When life is heavy and had to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. Don’t run from trouble. Take it full-face. The “worst” is never the worst. Why? Because the master won’t ever walk out and fail to return. If he works severely, he also works tenderly. His stockpiles of loyal love are immense. He takes no pleasure in making life hard, in throwing roadblocks in the way. Lamentations 3:19-33 The Message.
Suffered lately? Then you can relate to the words of Job. Let’s review what we know:
Job lost everything – as a result of his sin? No. Because he was “the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless – a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil. And he has maintained his integrity, even though you urged me to harm him without cause.” (Job 2:3)
Job three contains Job’s first speech in response to all this pain. In it, he curses the day he was born. Like most of us, when faced with great suffering, we soon lose perspective. Job has forgotten the years of plenty; the parties; the blessings. His greatest fear has been realized.
Last week the greatest fear I had was my daughter’s propensity to drive long distances – alone – at night – down busy highways and by-ways. It never occurred to me that I should be worrying about my son sitting in a classroom at Norris Hall on the Virginia Tech campus. Who knew?
Last week I was humming when the days were warm and sunny; last night my son and I had a good cry.
Last week I was looking forward to a lot of quality time this summer with our three children; this week my mind is filled with sorrow for the families who have had their family members snatched from them in one morning of rage. I don’t know what to pick to worry about – and am beginning to think worry is a waste of time for someone like me (who doesn’t even know how to worry accurately).
I have to consciously remember that there are still things worth humming over. I must intentionally turn my mind to thoughts of vacation and quality time – all these things are easy to forget when your eyes tend to leak involuntarily.
Yesterday my son and I stopped at a local coffee shop for a snack; next to the register stood a pile of newspapers. The headline story included the face of the perpetrator of Monday’s massacre. With calm and quiet resolution my son stood at that stand and systematically turned every paper over – face down. Employees and passers-by could not see my son’s rage. No sorrow was obvious on his countenance. He just flipped those papers over.
My friend behind the counter took my money and glanced at my boy – with sympathy. Sometimes suffering shows up in weird ways and inconvenient times.
This is THE important point of this story: WHEN SUFFERING SHOWS UP – DON’T SEND HIM AWAY. Embrace him. Acknowledge him. Lean into him. There are worse things than suffering. When we push him back, ignore him, deny him access into our heart and mind – he’s a sneaky thief. He’ll still find a way back in. He’ll creep in and set up a tent. He’ll torment you in unexpected ways.
Thought for today: List the areas of your life that you have trouble expressing or even experiencing feelings. Many of us learn to hide our feelings. In unhealthy families, there are usually only a very small range of emotions that are allowed. Our true nature is distorted and reality is hidden. This lack of emotional honesty can make us physically ill. Code words: unaware of feelings, struggle with relationships, depressed, chronically ill, realize that one’s feelings are sometimes distorted or inappropriate to a situation, withhold conversation.
I repress my feelings ____ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: I’ll never forget the trouble, the utter lostness, the taste of ashes, the poison I’ve swallowed. I remember it all – oh, how well I remember – the feeling of hitting the bottom. But there’s one other thing I remember, and remembering, I keep a grip on hope: God’s loyal love couldn’t have run out, his merciful love couldn’t have dried up. They’re created new every morning. How great your faithfulness! I’m sticking with God (I say it over and over). He’s all I’ve got left. God proves to be good to the man who passionately waits, to the woman who diligently seeks. It’s a good thing to quietly hope, quietly hope for help from God. It’s a good thing when you’re young to stick it out through the hard times. When life is heavy and had to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. Don’t run from trouble. Take it full-face. The “worst” is never the worst. Why? Because the master won’t ever walk out and fail to return. If he works severely, he also works tenderly. His stockpiles of loyal love are immense. He takes no pleasure in making life hard, in throwing roadblocks in the way. Lamentations 3:19-33 The Message.
April 19
Read Job 2
Have you ever had a day when you asked, “Can it get any worse than this?”
Job did. One day the news got worse and worse.
First, a messenger arrived at Job’s house (where they were feasting) and reported the death and loss of all his animals and farmhands. That’s economic loss.
Next, another messenger reports a freak fire that destroys all his sheep and shepherds. More economic loss.
Then, a raid is reported that cost him his camels and servants. This is the virtual collapse of Job’s financial empire.
Finally, the last and most horrendous loss – a sudden wind sweeps in from the wilderness, collapsing his house and killing all Job’s children.
And his initial response, “In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God.” Job 1:22 NLT
In chapter 2, we realize that more bad news follows swiftly on the heels of day 1. Satan steals Job’s health. “No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.” Job 2:13 NLT
Thought for today: I wonder how lonely Job felt. All is lost. His friends come to sit with him, but Job’s suffering is so overwhelming that no one can find a word of comfort. People who suffer tell me that sometimes having a friend just to sit with them is the best comfort of all in times of great sorrow. But we’ll soon discover that these friends can’t hold their tongues for long. Although silence may be the only response necessary in the face of great pain – simply embracing our suffering is sometimes too hard, and we feel compelled to fill it with words. I wonder if Job had the urge to run and hide. Have you felt like hiding from others? List the times you have isolated yourself. Isolation is a way of hiding and/or self-protection. It’s a way of avoiding pain and not taking risks. Code words: fear rejection, timid and shy, feel defeated, procrastinate, see ourselves as unique, lonely, blame others for our relationship deficits.
I isolate ______ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. Lamentations 3:19-22 NIV
Have you ever had a day when you asked, “Can it get any worse than this?”
Job did. One day the news got worse and worse.
First, a messenger arrived at Job’s house (where they were feasting) and reported the death and loss of all his animals and farmhands. That’s economic loss.
Next, another messenger reports a freak fire that destroys all his sheep and shepherds. More economic loss.
Then, a raid is reported that cost him his camels and servants. This is the virtual collapse of Job’s financial empire.
Finally, the last and most horrendous loss – a sudden wind sweeps in from the wilderness, collapsing his house and killing all Job’s children.
And his initial response, “In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God.” Job 1:22 NLT
In chapter 2, we realize that more bad news follows swiftly on the heels of day 1. Satan steals Job’s health. “No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.” Job 2:13 NLT
Thought for today: I wonder how lonely Job felt. All is lost. His friends come to sit with him, but Job’s suffering is so overwhelming that no one can find a word of comfort. People who suffer tell me that sometimes having a friend just to sit with them is the best comfort of all in times of great sorrow. But we’ll soon discover that these friends can’t hold their tongues for long. Although silence may be the only response necessary in the face of great pain – simply embracing our suffering is sometimes too hard, and we feel compelled to fill it with words. I wonder if Job had the urge to run and hide. Have you felt like hiding from others? List the times you have isolated yourself. Isolation is a way of hiding and/or self-protection. It’s a way of avoiding pain and not taking risks. Code words: fear rejection, timid and shy, feel defeated, procrastinate, see ourselves as unique, lonely, blame others for our relationship deficits.
I isolate ______ because ____. This affects ____. This activates ____. This makes me feel ____.
Thought for tomorrow: I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. Lamentations 3:19-22 NIV
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