tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31484937290053796772024-03-17T20:39:09.482-05:00God is my SpinachThis will help you stay fit in Spirit, Mind and Body. bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.comBlogger771125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-12158889725082020022024-03-15T20:14:00.000-05:002024-03-15T20:14:20.642-05:00Life of Victory<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmD32mv7AZdnEKLN5fe0O42DvwtV5ReWpn72unKShLBPg7X5Tl-P1nDrlCY9MZKkZSvSUmnfIZ4WYGCNa51JtCae7RIIiwRiOg_mCkMbq7-nN2MbPWZujKGibfKy1W1Oc6Vz4bytq12bX24u7scLFeQsETtIKu6Hyuoq7a4P1O_NkBJmWVgkpkSGeiQafC/s1500/00303%20James%201%2012-14.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmD32mv7AZdnEKLN5fe0O42DvwtV5ReWpn72unKShLBPg7X5Tl-P1nDrlCY9MZKkZSvSUmnfIZ4WYGCNa51JtCae7RIIiwRiOg_mCkMbq7-nN2MbPWZujKGibfKy1W1Oc6Vz4bytq12bX24u7scLFeQsETtIKu6Hyuoq7a4P1O_NkBJmWVgkpkSGeiQafC/s320/00303%20James%201%2012-14.jpg"/></a></div>
Life of Victory
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial,
for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life,
which God has promised to those who love him.”
(James 1: 1-12)
The elderly can often be curmudgeons, maybe angry. They are focusing on the past rather than the joys they have now. A good goal in life is to have your grandchildren remember you as happy, content, and proud.
Life comes at us in waves or phases: the rapid learning years of childhood and youth; the
wealth-building, family, or working years; the secure phase or empty-nesting; the retirement years winding down to an end-of-life experience. Each stage is unique, different, and memorable, filled with joy and sorrow, which is life.
We make choices with our focus. We could always use more money, more company, less joint pain, etc. The sun will rise and set; we will wake and sleep. The Lord will be with us, and we will have great memories of our past. Focus on them.
One of my favorite television evangelists, Joel Osteen, likes to say, “Keep on keeping on!”
Thought for Today: Negative influences will occur, and we can dwell on them or deal with them. Today, let us focus on moving on with our lives and faith.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord and Father, the world is confusing. There is trouble in the mid-east, deranged people shooting up our sacred institutions, and some awful winter weather. We pray for the ability to understand it all and put it into the context of your plan. We offer special prayers for the older generation as they move onward. We pray for peace, understanding our place in your world, and the opportunity to do your will here on earth.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-89813670356534362172024-03-09T07:51:00.000-06:002024-03-09T07:51:02.406-06:00Persistence<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzmzRwSCx09TCUvgPzfdDOKkI4kflZYH_3RTWTbOxpNaqk8Sf_dD81uGYsTgfqOQMclToLsnJpr4hnG_tQZNGUmm-rB-jTIXaFpMXulhkHRWHah3cy5s4MgycwoxRCwXURBUskTVdt2Qh-I0J-WRdbNR1yt34CU_09rNdDdKG-0J15CM92JWqdsxYhyphenhypheno6/s1500/00305%20Proverbs%2021%205.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUzmzRwSCx09TCUvgPzfdDOKkI4kflZYH_3RTWTbOxpNaqk8Sf_dD81uGYsTgfqOQMclToLsnJpr4hnG_tQZNGUmm-rB-jTIXaFpMXulhkHRWHah3cy5s4MgycwoxRCwXURBUskTVdt2Qh-I0J-WRdbNR1yt34CU_09rNdDdKG-0J15CM92JWqdsxYhyphenhypheno6/s320/00305%20Proverbs%2021%205.jpg"/></a></div>
Persistence
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit
as surely as haste leads to poverty.”
(Proverbs 21:5)
In his book Think and Grow Rich, Napoleon Hill stated, “A quitter never wins, and a winner never quits.” Today, we live in a fast-paced society that seems to demand instant gratification. In the business world, everyone is looking for the proverbial “low-hanging fruit”; the diet fads are advertising fast weight reduction; if a trip is more than 400 yards, we drive to save time. We want what we want when we want it and often fail to be diligent, persistent, and patient.
In the eighties, sales trainer Ty Boyd gave a presentation called “The Life Plan” about making a plan for life as we do for business. He preached that we needed to set goals for life and keep our focus on attaining those goals. They must start with a plan, but many let it go and start reacting to life’s situations rather than implementing the plan.
A vital factor in keeping a life plan in order is spirituality. It allows us to focus on the good rather than reacting to negative issues. The ability to forgive and pray helps us get through tough times and focus on the plan. In verse twelve, Paul advises, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” That needs to be a part of every life plan.
Thought for Today: Let’s remember where we want to go. There will be both positive and negative distractions. Focus on our spirituality in both celebrations and under stress. Give thanks when things go as planned, and pray when they do not.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, we are busy working on our plan daily. We pray for success and positive memories and that our plan fits your plan.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-2797191486130407002024-03-01T19:48:00.002-06:002024-03-01T19:48:44.118-06:00A Still Place<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiG9NOeje-KQR7Schaq6Y8iHCCdru_T_DNNNijYZhwhYZsHf9ARLOlkM8T6PipHdjE723WG1gThuaxZ-9ow00JxK0VxgkXcWIsucG8dbSSgoNDh5G069BcC4bnL9Oe3L0fMUKQ_hFMfZo9oV1vwQnqto0jUphaue-2iEQ2pLqjxBzN1ls9LT3c_0er2oR_/s1500/00301%20Psalm%2046%2010.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiG9NOeje-KQR7Schaq6Y8iHCCdru_T_DNNNijYZhwhYZsHf9ARLOlkM8T6PipHdjE723WG1gThuaxZ-9ow00JxK0VxgkXcWIsucG8dbSSgoNDh5G069BcC4bnL9Oe3L0fMUKQ_hFMfZo9oV1vwQnqto0jUphaue-2iEQ2pLqjxBzN1ls9LT3c_0er2oR_/s320/00301%20Psalm%2046%2010.jpg"/></a></div>
A Still Place
"Be still and acknowledge that I am God."
(Psalm 46:10)
The world is a busy place. Americans are overbooked; families are tied up daily with career and children's activities; empty-nesters seem to have filled the time with commitments; often, retirees do not know how they ever had time to work. That leads to a lot of stress, tension, and often family failures. That's correct; the family that plays too much together may not have enough quality time to survive. They do not have time to call for help.
In his book Bread for the Table, Henry Nouwen says it this way, "These are words to take with us in our busy lives. We may think about stillness in contrast to our noisy world. But perhaps we can go further and keep an inner stillness even while we carry on … It is important to keep a still place in the "marketplace." This still place is where God can dwell and speak to us. …with that stillness, God can be our gentle guide in everything we think and do."
Do you have a still place? How do you keep your sanity?
Thought for Today: COVID and other conditions in our world are causing many of our friends and neighbors to go through unplanned life changes. Let us pray that God will be present in their lives as they pursue new opportunities.
Prayer for Today: Heavenly Father, the world around us is confusing, sometimes cruel, and always challenging to understand. Please allow us time to step aside and dwell upon "your will" rather than "our wants and needs." Let us find the peace or stillness to allow "thy will to be done on earth as it is in heaven."
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-83747703262989334042024-02-24T08:15:00.000-06:002024-02-24T08:15:25.150-06:00Commitment<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnsija1kZtpvC3WQSYtt4qeDpgNjOmLkc0N4JCbl7E6J58j-lyo8A9gntLDuVO6MIRbS0jUpf8GpqkCGCwTIYDLAwmY8t2P7Zm3YL5iupqE664lbXflh0D5qFoK_sghwNiRl2C2VSPQZxclKlx5r6lHhT8QZkvWpm6aeoWY8YG2lEfdvXXxDQJtopp18F/s1500/00227%20Deuteronomy%2023%2023.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnsija1kZtpvC3WQSYtt4qeDpgNjOmLkc0N4JCbl7E6J58j-lyo8A9gntLDuVO6MIRbS0jUpf8GpqkCGCwTIYDLAwmY8t2P7Zm3YL5iupqE664lbXflh0D5qFoK_sghwNiRl2C2VSPQZxclKlx5r6lHhT8QZkvWpm6aeoWY8YG2lEfdvXXxDQJtopp18F/s320/00227%20Deuteronomy%2023%2023.jpg"/></a></div>
Commitment
“Whatever your lips utter,
you must be sure to do….”
(Deuteronomy 23 vs. 23)
One of the ways to be successful in life is to keep all of your commitments. If you say it, do it, even after having second thoughts. Become known as one hundred percent reliable. It is probably impossible, but the closer you are, the more you benefit.
Do you have friends who cancel at the last minute? …show up late? ...or not at all? Are you one that lives that way? We all have missed a few deadlines; some make it a lifestyle. At work or in business commitment is even more critical. On the job, it can determine your future success or failure. In sales, it generally means to win or lose. Abraham Lincoln said this: "Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality.”
At some time in your life, you committed to God. Today, we have the opportunity to review that commitment and recharge our batteries, stay engaged, and stay on track in a world of distractions.
Thought for Today: Today, be committed. First to God and then ourselves by being the best we can be.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord and Father, we thank you for your many blessings. We give thanks for being Godly people who will be accepted and liked by others. Our families, friends, and people that we do not know yet.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-42665933057428214572024-02-22T17:44:00.002-06:002024-02-22T17:44:24.969-06:00WashingtonWashington
“As Mankind becomes more liberal, they will be more apt to allow that all those who conduct themselves as worthy members of the community are equally entitled to the protection of the civil government.
I hope to see America among the foremost nations of justice and liberality.”
George Washington
Today is George Washington’s Birthday. There are many stories and fables about his life. He allegedly chopped down a Cherry tree and threw a silver dollar across the Potomac. These are unproven myths but great folklore.
It takes a great man to recognize a weak position and make the proper corrections. He was a man of great vision and envisioned that his ragtag army could defeat the British. He realized when he was wrong and intelligent enough to involve the French as allies.
The quote above expresses his dreams for America, and it is also a stated Christian dream delivered through Jesus. Today, our challenge is to accomplish the justice and equality these two men desired. We all need to do a little every day.
Thought for Today: Take a step toward bringing equality and justice to our world.
Prayer for Today: Today, dear Lord, we pray for equality and the opportunity to contribute to creating a just and equal society.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-66143020819443167852024-02-16T17:12:00.001-06:002024-02-24T07:38:08.909-06:00Also Ran<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5jS_E5uUDUtJ0lJBjwMwONdfdI5pjPzsTG2gvuMvurVpSIh8Hva9BJMSBvDy6acU7vqiRGUxPPnkxI4VTE9g1nUazYmPfzdTVviaPcMAUeiTbPXt9F7w9OJiVD3IwS9siXCd0X2LuYqQKZqDeE59G3_yRaE1Hm-7YYUXcAgNsShzCuuiGEj4gYdwGsjL/s1500/00215%20Joshua%208%201.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5jS_E5uUDUtJ0lJBjwMwONdfdI5pjPzsTG2gvuMvurVpSIh8Hva9BJMSBvDy6acU7vqiRGUxPPnkxI4VTE9g1nUazYmPfzdTVviaPcMAUeiTbPXt9F7w9OJiVD3IwS9siXCd0X2LuYqQKZqDeE59G3_yRaE1Hm-7YYUXcAgNsShzCuuiGEj4gYdwGsjL/s320/00215%20Joshua%208%201.jpg"/></a></div>
Also Ran?
Then the LORD said to Joshua,
"Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
(Joshua 8 vs.1)
Being an also-ran is a way of life. We rarely finish first. Russell Sanders uttered the famous quote, "Winning isn't everything. It is the only thing." It is not valid, and here are some: My friend Pat McNamara qualified in four different Olympics and did not win a medal; my brother Wayne swam for years and was a national top ten in four events but never had a national championship; Ted Williams and Carl Yastrzemski played years for the Red Sox and never received a world series ring, and the list goes on. None of the above is a loser, and all were proud of their accomplishments.
In my instance, I have three triathlon trophies out of 21 races: a second, a third, and an only. There was always someone faster until the Summer of 2011 when no one else my age competed. Did I lose? Never. In each Triathlon I did, I would well up with tears of joy from the sheer pride in my accomplishment in the last mile of the run. The pain experienced during the run would disappear, the legs would seem fresh again, and the finishing sprint would feel and look great. Second, Third, or twentieth did not matter; I was winning inside.
We rarely are number one, but we are always winners since God is always with us.
Thought for Today: Today, we will have battles we do not expect. Let us be winners with God's help, no matter how the battle turns out.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord and Father, thank you for being with us everywhere. We thank you because when you are along, we will be winners.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-49964350607811533682024-02-10T20:25:00.002-06:002024-02-10T20:25:17.903-06:00Excellence <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjLipKheLS5Mf9-Ic7zk3TyE3rDmfxKwdEdn0TqfBBv3d96N2whC0FYsxkNi2sCNC6RRF9mU4E6RK4xJLP2UAc5olSotsLGbAF-fDBb7r0Bf6L6XGR7VHMzqDkqudBMam_qhxtpSl8PTIAKewJcNB8TrMmwQ_lxuY1LxkVvW-PBd2nezLgmxoCI7j9CBt/s1500/00206%20Colossus%203%2023.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjLipKheLS5Mf9-Ic7zk3TyE3rDmfxKwdEdn0TqfBBv3d96N2whC0FYsxkNi2sCNC6RRF9mU4E6RK4xJLP2UAc5olSotsLGbAF-fDBb7r0Bf6L6XGR7VHMzqDkqudBMam_qhxtpSl8PTIAKewJcNB8TrMmwQ_lxuY1LxkVvW-PBd2nezLgmxoCI7j9CBt/s320/00206%20Colossus%203%2023.jpg"/></a></div>
Excellence
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,
as working for the Lord, not for men,
since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.
It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
(Colossus 3:23-27, NIV)
Last weej, I wrote about my “Pickeringism” that all days are not created equal. Here is another example. There are days that we are full of boundless energy and others when we are as flat as pancakes. However, these feelings are mental, physical, and emotional states, and they do not affect our hearts, just our performance or output.
As a long-term weekend athlete, there have been too many days when only the heart showed up for the workout; the arms, legs, and head wanted to go back to bed. There were many days when that’s how the day started, but the performance was in the excellent range when it ended.
One of my best friends and a four-time Olympic athlete relates to this. Pat has trained every day of his life, and he can relate to the fact that the heart and head often lead the body, “ … work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord,” and you will be rewarded with excellence. Excellence starts with believing in yourself and the Lord; the rest will follow.
Thought for Today: Remember that “All days are not created equal.” On the day we want to go back to bed, let us trust our hearts and move out, take the leap of faith, and give ourselves the chance to exhibit the excellence God wants us to share.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, we thank you for your ongoing presence in our lives. When we are physically worn, you help us recover; when emotionally drained, you recharge our spirits. We thank you for always being with us.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-90356879875239448882024-02-03T13:53:00.002-06:002024-02-03T13:53:18.991-06:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpM2UFin2DDS-MhgEB4PpZzyvIM_b6-1KJgpHu8mhAUJZEvDz5PdLsViQXeETHg3xHYPT8VKCIEwg5_rid15YHTYDshMHXLfSpLEa-wG2z467gR73mW51aH_yU0dgt5w1C4B6DgLM1u6nyDD_aJBM3iUUKKDLrurB7tiRS-1bwLYFT6hT0r0lEg0sCeC5a/s1500/00201%20Proverbs%2029%2025.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpM2UFin2DDS-MhgEB4PpZzyvIM_b6-1KJgpHu8mhAUJZEvDz5PdLsViQXeETHg3xHYPT8VKCIEwg5_rid15YHTYDshMHXLfSpLEa-wG2z467gR73mW51aH_yU0dgt5w1C4B6DgLM1u6nyDD_aJBM3iUUKKDLrurB7tiRS-1bwLYFT6hT0r0lEg0sCeC5a/s320/00201%20Proverbs%2029%2025.jpg"/></a></div>
Confidence through Trust
"One who trusts in the Lord is secure."
(Proverbs 29:25)
A Pickeringism is a phrase or idea that is an absolute truth with no scientific basis. A favorite is "All days are not created equal!" Hmm. Truth in all areas of life. Marriages vary daily when one spouse has a gloomy day, or maybe both do! In the workplace, differences are variable despite all the rules and policies. That is what makes life exciting and challenging.
In Thomas' book, I'm OK; You're OK," he reviews the four states of every two-person relationship. They are summarized as I'm" OK, you're not OK": when one person has some stress or discomfort with the moment. That same position is reversed with the second condition, "I'm not OK, you're OK. A great place to be is home when all is well and comfortable; I'm OK, you're OK; the state of marital bliss; Live happily ever after. (Wow, is that optimistic.) Then, the whole relationship may be a mess with the condition "I'm not OK, you're not OK."
Among all life's variables, there is a constant: the power of one that can work on any day, in any condition. That power is our faith. Pickeringisms can be negated by confidence and the knowledge that God is with us and will bring us through. Joseph Kennedy, President Kennedy's father, is credited with saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." We must recognize that the going will often vary, and sometimes, we need to pray for guidance and help.
Thought for Today: Today, let's be secure in knowing that the Lord is with us and will help us through.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, we thank you for your support in our everyday lives. We are grateful for your blessings. We are thankful that no matter how the world changes, you will be there when we need you.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-62500324184806067662024-01-26T18:52:00.004-06:002024-01-26T18:52:46.754-06:00God's Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvH4oLcQT4_2K1-iaXigENttAQcTwJP_Z-997i7TIyGF3iPjlNPKwqmf7lBaGcn0BMCoGM9N6aw93Ent1_21m1rOQ5YkeYHRYTD4WvwbkIbCKrcboYZK1stgl_A4qulOWvugBYUqY4dXutOsMMQRGYrpRGM7_QaXhV3lzq0ViJ6TXaDEshyphenhyphenjAKk-CYZ_e/s1500/00122%20Romans%2012%206%207.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvH4oLcQT4_2K1-iaXigENttAQcTwJP_Z-997i7TIyGF3iPjlNPKwqmf7lBaGcn0BMCoGM9N6aw93Ent1_21m1rOQ5YkeYHRYTD4WvwbkIbCKrcboYZK1stgl_A4qulOWvugBYUqY4dXutOsMMQRGYrpRGM7_QaXhV3lzq0ViJ6TXaDEshyphenhyphenjAKk-CYZ_e/s320/00122%20Romans%2012%206%207.jpg"/></a></div>
God's Help Wanted (Seven Gifts)
Paul's message to the Romans lists seven specific gifts. We have been blessed with some of them and can use them daily. God's "HELP WANTED" asks us to use our gifts to do His work. We, therefore, have two challenges. One is to recognize the gifts given to us. The other is sharing these gifts in our daily lives.
The sharing of these gifts in a loving Christian way brings us peace.
Thought for Today: Let's focus on our gifts, understand them, and use them to help ourselves and others.
Prayer for Today: we pray for peace and justice in a troubled world. We are trying to understand what everything means and our piece in it all. We feel too small to help. We pray that we may recognize and use our gifts to help the world.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-28552982781802235292024-01-19T18:43:00.000-06:002024-01-19T18:43:03.911-06:00Let the Glory Be God's<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwR9pkAnNTMV6os7Tsm_REyqoqNMWAl4KDtz0JCestOxFusF1sJmNeneONagO2PKgppj9187sd7TGUGJO8xl3_5FR0pkKiHNluvVCqf1jFx0YSxmmAZRDdXW8ROfmtIAw5nu42c3WVV-WwE1vJuRzl1A5mVnqKun2B1YWjHfEX86B0-k2v7Y42Fi9zvSS/s1500/00118%20Psalm%2028-7.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwR9pkAnNTMV6os7Tsm_REyqoqNMWAl4KDtz0JCestOxFusF1sJmNeneONagO2PKgppj9187sd7TGUGJO8xl3_5FR0pkKiHNluvVCqf1jFx0YSxmmAZRDdXW8ROfmtIAw5nu42c3WVV-WwE1vJuRzl1A5mVnqKun2B1YWjHfEX86B0-k2v7Y42Fi9zvSS/s320/00118%20Psalm%2028-7.jpg"/></a></div>
Let the Glory Be God's
"The LORD is my strength and shield;
My heart trusts in Him and I am helped."
(Psalm 28: 7)
The "Super Bowl" takes place in January, and enormous numbers are associated with it. Numbers like 200 million people watching on TV, six million dollars for a thirty-second ad, five hundred million added to the area economy- Oh yes, some competitors and coaches from both teams will attend a prayer meeting and bible study Sunday before the game. They are members of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
My sports history goes back to age six as a YMCA swimmer, and my 60-plus years of associating with athletes have convinced me that they are not a group to be proud to know. Their years of competition and "winning is everything" attitude have negatively influenced them for the most part.
On Super Sunday, there will be members of the "Fellowship" who have kept a balance in their lives. In sports, I find them a pleasing and significant minority. They represent what I feel every Christian and person needs to be: The best they can be with an appreciation of the Lord and Jesus Christ. Below is the last paragraph of their competitor's creed.
"I give my all every time.
I do not give up. I do not give in. I do not give out.
I am the Lord's warrior- a competitor by conviction and a disciple of determination.
I am confident beyond reason because my confidence lies in Christ.
The results of my efforts must result in His glory.
Let the competition begin.
Let the glory be God's."
Thought for Today: Let us enjoy today by being the best we can be while keeping the Lord in the forefront.
Prayer for Today: Father, today we pray that we will keep you in our lives, that we will be fair in our dealings and competitions. We pray that we will be good examples of your commandments through our faith.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-81177007824951328852024-01-12T19:16:00.004-06:002024-01-13T12:50:58.344-06:00Soar Like an Eagle<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYT0_5-d9IFgSTJxqWnUsfbbKMKD2fgGK4B0qbccNSt2cGxvkW4JbSjOmOU2vmZ72qXU4Pmo9Z2ja0iKAt2bUerJ1VwfJY-ZU4dcEjuInAyHlwe9q-8psQXpmf6GqqFCbUNWHgtqkB0Hg8ISc80gxo45xOuWLl1azMjgFPZ0IxiGTCaW2oTy7fCTNvNLs/s2428/00112%20Gal%205-22.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="1475" data-original-width="2428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYT0_5-d9IFgSTJxqWnUsfbbKMKD2fgGK4B0qbccNSt2cGxvkW4JbSjOmOU2vmZ72qXU4Pmo9Z2ja0iKAt2bUerJ1VwfJY-ZU4dcEjuInAyHlwe9q-8psQXpmf6GqqFCbUNWHgtqkB0Hg8ISc80gxo45xOuWLl1azMjgFPZ0IxiGTCaW2oTy7fCTNvNLs/s320/00112%20Gal%205-22.jpg"/></a></div>
Soar Like Eagles
"... those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint."
(Isaiah 40: 31)
Photo By Stephanie Symmes
In the nineteen fifties, a bald eagle was a rare sight. Now 60 years later, they are soaring over shopping centers, eating fish out of the local lakes, and generally hanging out with us. Seeing them makes it easy to see why our founders selected them as a national symbol. They are big, majestic, and beautiful birds. Their revival as a species shows us how humans can contribute to God's creations and the world. We changed a few rules, respected the Lord's way, and the Bald eagle is now a common sight.
We are always searching for ways to make a better world, a way to soar. I spent my early years in engineering working for AT & T, a huge company. A lot of the policies seemed restrictive and bureaucratic. The younger engineers in the department, including myself, thought we would change the world right NOW.
That was not the way company systems worked. When frustration with the system came to the surface, our trainer and mentor often advised us to "Rise above it and move on." Eagles do that.
There is a story about Eagles rising above storms. They sense the storm coming and use the wind to rise above the dangerous currents and ride out the storm. In many instances in life, we need to keep our faith while staring at negativity, the storms of life. We count to ten, punch a pillow, and ask the Lord for support when we are wise. When we involve our faith while handling our storms, we minimize our stress and significantly improve our quality of life.
Thought for Today: Let us use our faith in the Lord to rise above the problems of everyday life.
Prayer for Today: Let us pray to find a way to serve "God's will" rather than "our will" as a country.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-28728927807454226422024-01-06T15:19:00.001-06:002024-01-06T15:19:10.977-06:00Serenity Prayer<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSG3pwJYGPPj7i2oLOXGwBg5jHeRJmD-loiJ6xHbL7ukSP0RzRniG644bvB0Zcd_sQTXLYD7qvY1E03SPXyB6PBVUXLm8vVQLzbR2hi-1X2M_jbTjtUE2Is5ttQWVOAmkqr7HLpSxRFBHFWJZlOuUnDk9VXMiLhPNFiuGGozuy-oDK-jaq_zsTpMajixH/s1500/003%20Serenity%20Prayer%20White.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSG3pwJYGPPj7i2oLOXGwBg5jHeRJmD-loiJ6xHbL7ukSP0RzRniG644bvB0Zcd_sQTXLYD7qvY1E03SPXyB6PBVUXLm8vVQLzbR2hi-1X2M_jbTjtUE2Is5ttQWVOAmkqr7HLpSxRFBHFWJZlOuUnDk9VXMiLhPNFiuGGozuy-oDK-jaq_zsTpMajixH/s320/003%20Serenity%20Prayer%20White.jpg"/></a></div>
Serenity Prayer
"God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change
the courage to change the things I can
and the wisdom to know the difference."
As we go into the New Year, peace and tranquility always seem to be part of our New Year's goals. Last year we did too much. One more committee at church: the kids need a coach. How can we get everyone to every game, lesson, class, etc.? Oh, the boss wants us fifty hours a week too.
It takes faith and courage to let go and let God play a role in our lives.
"I... will have sufficient courage so that now
as always, Christ will be exalted in my body..."
Philippians (1:20).
At work and in our daily lives, we often fail to take the risk of allowing God to take control. How often do we not accept the spiritual help available? We will handle it all. Where is our humility when we try to do it all?
"... humbly accept the word planted in you,
which can save you."
James (2:1).
We tend to forget the basic rules taught to us by our faith. When we take control, adding stress to ourselves, do we ask for the help available?
"If any of you lacks wisdom, ask God
, and it will be given to you."
(James 1:5)
We are told to keep God at the forefront of our search for this inner peace.
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 4:7)
The serenity prayer is simple, and that is good. For the new year, let's keep it simple.
Thought for Today: Let us focus on peace and tranquility with our families, neighbors, and coworkers.
Prayer for Today: Let's use the serenity prayer this week and for the year, especially when overstressed.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-22916525815962936832024-01-03T07:33:00.000-06:002024-01-03T07:33:06.611-06:00Persistence<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4j6EB9QumQcZXIGWuVp75VMD7_Cg2T9jx06eKUVamyJRSYod6V-9QXpVdlAka0YlHLxQgjArk1tJGpe4cRBi3Gg_k_DXbMVpvye2EYxZ3pgmHnhqhM68MFF3GPyn39q9Y2mcSfWXP7GX35krB0WyNE0Rj5mqoBgEfI5WWUPVuAT2FDiYixe3q9ursIGz/s1500/00220%20Luke%2018%201.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4j6EB9QumQcZXIGWuVp75VMD7_Cg2T9jx06eKUVamyJRSYod6V-9QXpVdlAka0YlHLxQgjArk1tJGpe4cRBi3Gg_k_DXbMVpvye2EYxZ3pgmHnhqhM68MFF3GPyn39q9Y2mcSfWXP7GX35krB0WyNE0Rj5mqoBgEfI5WWUPVuAT2FDiYixe3q9ursIGz/s320/00220%20Luke%2018%201.jpg"/></a></div>
Persistence
"Then Jesus told his disciples... that they should always pray and not give up."
(Luke 18:1)
Bob Dylan's lyrics said, "Times, they are a-changing…" and maybe not for the better. One of life's constants is change. It is like an endurance event or marathon. There will be ups and downs along the way that necessitates keeping our eyes on the prize. It takes persistence to get to the end. We need to "…always pray and not give up."
There is a long year ahead, and there will be changes and some stresses: careers, finances, health, to name a few.
The holiday season is a period of stressful joy due to all the activities. In January, reality comes to the forefront, starting an annual endurance event called the Year.
Dr. Benjamin Mays wrote the poem "God's Minute."
I have only just a minute.
Only sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me, can't refuse it.
Didn't seek it, didn't choose it.
But it’s up to me to use it,
I must suffer if I lose it,
Give account if I abuse it,
Just a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it!
Mays had it correct, but we must consider a whole year.
Thought for Today: Today, let us pray for people in need who are dealing with challenging life issues such as COVID-19, family stress, financial stress, or others. As charity begins at home, it is a given that prayer also does. Have a great day.
Prayer for Today: Heavenly Father, today we pray for smooth sailing through the rough seas of life. We pray for ourselves and others who are in need. We pray that we will do better and seek a way to do your will here on earth.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-17827543032675075392023-12-31T18:25:00.004-06:002023-12-31T18:25:42.663-06:00New Year's Eve<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5UMYhqQK4gYTANOzZ7dfrdihQUTLOc_n96V1fJBZWhsm-vNYcfKTucoL-99aJElkg7QGlQU1PyLgN0we-_C57t0R7v2Q9vrIY6H4pkHSYXqFT0uBIFSlEjWHwo4VMt-4jIAtA1YBYYATSDelObGVtkRHaRt12w2s8fzpk0ca5bNRzsr8PIKN9S8db1etx/s1500/01231%20Psalm%2046%207.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5UMYhqQK4gYTANOzZ7dfrdihQUTLOc_n96V1fJBZWhsm-vNYcfKTucoL-99aJElkg7QGlQU1PyLgN0we-_C57t0R7v2Q9vrIY6H4pkHSYXqFT0uBIFSlEjWHwo4VMt-4jIAtA1YBYYATSDelObGVtkRHaRt12w2s8fzpk0ca5bNRzsr8PIKN9S8db1etx/s320/01231%20Psalm%2046%207.jpg"/></a></div>
New Year’s Eve
“The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.”
Psalm 46:7
Today, rather than focusing on a new beginning, let’s give thanks for the blessed year that has passed. There are both positive and negative memories, and we may ask why we did some dumb things. Or why something great happened? Whatever the case, the Lord was with us, and we must be thankful.
Thought for Today: Let us be thankful for last year and prayerful about our future. As we move forward, let’s remember two of my favorite themes. Keep healthy in your spirit, mind, and body. Also, when in doubt, “Just do it!”
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-29861139465451238052023-12-27T07:59:00.003-06:002023-12-27T07:59:54.462-06:002024!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqgzZmc5pry01yAtqEUFXuDZl6IceWUaVGVroq6hnko9ZvhQirsNYgt4twvNNQ7MxdcjtiGMWqiJWoxrzxc_unw-Os2qk2eCIfE4qrQEN-Vmo37yolHfjmNkPfKzqMfTM1GPxaKVhvONqa28AXAMCgo28Hm9KdqRu-lCfziScWBE4_BtrDWD_3cune-os/s1500/01227%20Romans%2012%206.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqgzZmc5pry01yAtqEUFXuDZl6IceWUaVGVroq6hnko9ZvhQirsNYgt4twvNNQ7MxdcjtiGMWqiJWoxrzxc_unw-Os2qk2eCIfE4qrQEN-Vmo37yolHfjmNkPfKzqMfTM1GPxaKVhvONqa28AXAMCgo28Hm9KdqRu-lCfziScWBE4_BtrDWD_3cune-os/s320/01227%20Romans%2012%206.jpg"/></a></div>
Gifts
"For by the grace given me, I say to every one of you:
Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought,
but rather think of yourself with sober judgment,
In accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.
Just as each of us has one body with many members,
And these members do not all have the same function,
so in Christ, we who are many form one body,
and each member belongs to all the others.
We have different gifts,
according to the grace given us."
(Romans 12:3-6)
Christmas has passed, and we were all involved in its materialism at some level. The advertising, the gift-giving, and the holiday cards all lead us away from its meaning. It is not about the gifts that were given and received by people.
Earlier this year, we read about the gifts that God gave us. Paul's letter to the Romans has a special meaning. Verse nine of Romaans twelve lists seven of God's gifts. It is essential to understand God's blessings and recognize our gifts. We need to know where we fit in God's world and how to apply His gifts in our lives. These gifts matter- They are not advertised on TV or in the newspaper. They are given to us by Him to use.
Thought for Today: As we approach the New Year, let us think about who we are and what gifts God has given us. Let us learn to use these gifts to make our lives and the lives of others better.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, self-improvement always seems to be an objective at this time of the year. Each year I focus on "my improvement" and sometimes do not recognize the tasks you may have set forth for me. I pray that this will be the year that "my improvement" is accomplished by identifying your gifts to me and finding a way to do your work with them.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-77810220237780867432023-12-24T16:43:00.002-06:002023-12-24T16:43:45.495-06:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELBxsaGH0pYawo9AQjRE0HFohHIBZxXaJy5Z2hcCuttKHrDSDgqM2eJOIYnans_17agkRosYdtxji5EuJ26o7I_yWZWZqVKbDHmKXaT_eeuSZsxYywr99Doh_hk7sIRQmAmBqVZp3hcHwCJqJGn9PNmFN8P6fsRucYjKBUr-5dCAmWCp5V0g8Cco9cPZs/s1500/01221%20Luke%202%2013%2014.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgELBxsaGH0pYawo9AQjRE0HFohHIBZxXaJy5Z2hcCuttKHrDSDgqM2eJOIYnans_17agkRosYdtxji5EuJ26o7I_yWZWZqVKbDHmKXaT_eeuSZsxYywr99Doh_hk7sIRQmAmBqVZp3hcHwCJqJGn9PNmFN8P6fsRucYjKBUr-5dCAmWCp5V0g8Cco9cPZs/s320/01221%20Luke%202%2013%2014.jpg"/></a></div>
"Joy to the World, the Lord has come"
There are many one-liners in Christmas carols. The opening of "Joy to the World" says it all. It summarizes our Christian lives, lives of joy through the forgiveness of our faith and our Christian peers. Let us all feel the joy of the season and the love for each other, and keep our faith strong throughout the season.
With blessings, have a great Christm
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-72176605115697078262023-12-23T07:07:00.000-06:002023-12-23T07:07:00.197-06:00Universal Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbq9no8GIaHSXjJFSG4GIx-WWG346l7r0a87RHBp-A9XZU_vgIQNCrycWUNVdLaPdXLUXV1ia1bIZOG8XeAbbg89B5WCdsTUHNbwtvIL5B48i4HyiBHUooJVK93BKdPju1sHa5IoOvN4GGAoid7sGql_4Aqmsq3b3AHLMZ0Mdi7Jpkgynb_UJFGvS6CewD/s1500/01121%20Psalm%2019%203%204.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbq9no8GIaHSXjJFSG4GIx-WWG346l7r0a87RHBp-A9XZU_vgIQNCrycWUNVdLaPdXLUXV1ia1bIZOG8XeAbbg89B5WCdsTUHNbwtvIL5B48i4HyiBHUooJVK93BKdPju1sHa5IoOvN4GGAoid7sGql_4Aqmsq3b3AHLMZ0Mdi7Jpkgynb_UJFGvS6CewD/s320/01121%20Psalm%2019%203%204.jpg"/></a></div
Universal Hope
"The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day, they pour forth speech;
night after night, they display knowledge.
There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world."
(Psalm 19v1-4)
The holiday season is a time of hope. We are encouraged to believe there is hope for universal understanding and world peace. The Psalmist notes that there is one clear message from the heavens, one God with one statement in all tongues to all peoples.
We live in a troubled world with natural disasters, civil unrest, war, and COVID persists again. They capture the headlines. Indeed, people question God's role in all of this.
We need to remember that "The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands." The press and news media report on other issues. It is up to each of us to focus on the message. We can infect the world with faith, peace, and hope with our example.
John F. Kennedy said, "One person can make a difference, and every person must try."
Thought for Today: OK, there will be bad news this week. We will hear it, see it, and sometimes feel it. We need to overcome it with the faith and hope of the Lord and show others our hope for future generations.
Prayer for the Season: Dear Lord, this is the time of year when all faiths celebrate you. We honor your presence in different ways with the common thread of love and peace. We pray for the guidance to share our faith so we may sow a seed in your name.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-42487126517375295602023-12-15T19:56:00.000-06:002023-12-15T19:56:07.041-06:00Blue Christmas
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4irNvaZDmbxtRXUgbTfI4GyR31O7tz2ZUremW0bx6datwpJ3PZ92lktgITFbLuVJf2XKCEG8MKEIXY_8TqtJQMX1A-ksV0H2ndlKH6TJWBZl0usG8Dfas-UciiA7K2DN5hCCToqw4_GGE9wtjOBWdaHsVVMILZ_0nZL8HNuNR_mJq_xfDPHKmzIRxVPx/s1500/01218%20Psalm%2057%201.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4irNvaZDmbxtRXUgbTfI4GyR31O7tz2ZUremW0bx6datwpJ3PZ92lktgITFbLuVJf2XKCEG8MKEIXY_8TqtJQMX1A-ksV0H2ndlKH6TJWBZl0usG8Dfas-UciiA7K2DN5hCCToqw4_GGE9wtjOBWdaHsVVMILZ_0nZL8HNuNR_mJq_xfDPHKmzIRxVPx/s400/01218%20Psalm%2057%201.jpg"/></a></div>
Blue Christmas
“Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me,
for in you, my soul takes refuge.
I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings
until the disaster has passed.”
(Psalm 57:1)
Many churches have a special service for people having a sad time over the Holidays. Our pastor must have been an Elvis fan once because he called it a Blue Christmas Service. We can always find reasons to be blue over the holidays, and it is good to look at those feelings, put them in perspective, and pray to God for the support available to us. It was one worth attending whether you were sad or not.
Our friends Bob, Carl, and Dave miss their wives who passed away this year. There are too many to list with severe ailments and others with challenging career and financial situations. Several years ago, we met a young gentleman, John, who had visited during the summer. He was in tears during the service. He was despondent because his parents were having a problem with his sexual preference. I ask you all for prayers.
Celebrating Christmas is for all of us. Through it all, we remember those who are experiencing loss. June and I pray about aging and life in a new society with COVID and war. It is important to take refuge in the shadow of God’s wings.
Thought for Today: Let us take note of our sad feelings over the holidays. We need to recognize that they exist rather than masking them with joy. Pray about them, turn them over to God, and enjoy the celebration of Christ’s birth.
Prayer for Today: Heavenly Father, we have special holiday prayers. We pray that your presence brings trust and love to the world. We pray for people who have lost loved ones and are spending their first Christmas with an empty place at the table while giving thanks for your role in our lives and the help you give us. Thank you for being available for us each day.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-52799518853099424212023-12-09T08:55:00.003-06:002023-12-09T08:57:07.896-06:00Endurance<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojKOAEsOiqy_u9D2iP4XFRGqvSvCrU2gSNsyO-d1cbV6XbCG_-ozvnUIqqN9LkRu7xDqGA14lRSxAmeFJNMFTdlEjU4694NnCG36OwvdM3n69uBWrSR1SynKpKwpzYjt_J4x9Az03GyFZMfd1xnbDm47eLsXZd8s_Ubzha-uB99qErfK0SlbrX1DJzeEo/s1500/01203%20Romans%205%2015.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhojKOAEsOiqy_u9D2iP4XFRGqvSvCrU2gSNsyO-d1cbV6XbCG_-ozvnUIqqN9LkRu7xDqGA14lRSxAmeFJNMFTdlEjU4694NnCG36OwvdM3n69uBWrSR1SynKpKwpzYjt_J4x9Az03GyFZMfd1xnbDm47eLsXZd8s_Ubzha-uB99qErfK0SlbrX1DJzeEo/s320/01203%20Romans%205%2015.jpg"/></a></div>
Endurance and Encouragement
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement
give you a spirit of unity among yourselves ….”
(Romans 15 vs. 5)
Instant gratification is something that we always seem to want and often expect. We have national lotteries around the world, and people become instant winners. (They may have played for twenty years!)
The desire is clear; we want what we want when we want it.
If that is where you are at in your life, you need not read any further today. That is not my message! Paul’s message to the Romans is about endurance and encouragement, two things given to us through our faith and prayers that will make us successful. There will be no lightning bolt that makes us winners.
In the years that June and I were associated with my son’s music business, we dealt with hundreds of starry-eyed musicians waiting for their big break. Some made it, but all that succeeded earned it. The ones that worked at it 24/7; the ones with an undying passion for writing and performing; those who were too serious about it to enjoy the party atmosphere succeeded.
In our own lives, we need to endure. Life is not a sprint, it is more like a marathon, and there are no days off. We will feel weary and need encouragement. We need a place where we can find encouragement; we have it because God is with us. We do need to reach out and grab it through prayer.
Thought for Today: Let’s think about who we could reach out to for encouragement; our pastor, significant other, child, or bartender. There is always someone.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, we thank you for your support and pray that we can let you in when we are tired.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-35211933532289855772023-12-01T20:30:00.002-06:002023-12-01T20:30:35.852-06:00The Happiest Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkMH-Diu2w5rN9MlLEigTICi5iN3pJvEorVGaeecIhVq3ecRw1zx_3oMTpLF0mZ0yB3i6pN5i8_z9XpIJgJIHprlrWR5dPHWkINAKkmatRcqyNsF62S9i6k3iTVWL7ik10G9pU9uUk9TI0V_IHC6yDodd5xhlrc07jyK_m5Who-ZsrT7dktIOi9dUcX0g/s1500/01201%20Mark%208%2029.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkMH-Diu2w5rN9MlLEigTICi5iN3pJvEorVGaeecIhVq3ecRw1zx_3oMTpLF0mZ0yB3i6pN5i8_z9XpIJgJIHprlrWR5dPHWkINAKkmatRcqyNsF62S9i6k3iTVWL7ik10G9pU9uUk9TI0V_IHC6yDodd5xhlrc07jyK_m5Who-ZsrT7dktIOi9dUcX0g/s320/01201%20Mark%208%2029.jpg"/></a></div>
Happiest Season
“Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi.
On the way, he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”
They replied, “Some say John the Baptist.
others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”
“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”
(Mark 8 vs. 27-29)
It is a wonderful time of the year when we look forward to celebrating Christ’s birth. We are blessed because of His presence in our everyday lives. We have a God-given relief from the daily stresses our society places on us.
Interestingly, 30-plus years after his birth, Jesus was asking who they believed he was. My thoughts are that the Christmas story would be enough. But then, nothing in this world is ever easy; not then and certainly not now.
So what is Christmas really about? Gifts, material giving, and recharging of our spiritual batteries. It is a great time of the year, the happiest time. We must enjoy the season while recharging our batteries, reinforcing our beliefs, and preparing for the New Year.
Katharine McPhee said in her song:
“Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Let your heart be light
From now on, our troubles
Will be out of sight.”
Blessings to you all for a great season of Joy!
Thought for Today: The Christmas season is not all joys. We will encounter stress, financial hardships, bad weather, and all the events of winter life. They are all blessings that are part of our lives. We need to keep Christ as our focus.
Prayer for Today: Heavenly Father, we give thanks for Christmas and festivities. Through prayer, we give thanks that “our troubles will be out of sight.”
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-16426783098464308762023-11-24T15:44:00.000-06:002023-11-24T15:44:20.996-06:00Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEg_GqbJu2HtEK-yEF06Rl7RCRL8jb1G6l1IxlwMW7N2xave-euDVpG_5NcSwDj7gubsOYn_fHc6tvHabSiqoYw2sPwdblt1hTNpbGCcTk6XwKjPOqUiKmPKbPYbBiv5g6hgv53HTbP5k68Lqt5p6ths6DpYawJoSbMx9e5XM2BqOB3FmQrAQFAiKaa4F2/s1500/01123%20%20Colossians%202%206%207.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEg_GqbJu2HtEK-yEF06Rl7RCRL8jb1G6l1IxlwMW7N2xave-euDVpG_5NcSwDj7gubsOYn_fHc6tvHabSiqoYw2sPwdblt1hTNpbGCcTk6XwKjPOqUiKmPKbPYbBiv5g6hgv53HTbP5k68Lqt5p6ths6DpYawJoSbMx9e5XM2BqOB3FmQrAQFAiKaa4F2/s320/01123%20%20Colossians%202%206%207.jpg"/></a></div>
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
Thanksgiving
"As therefore you received Christ Jesus the Lord,
so live in him, rooted and built up in
him and established in the faith,
just as you were taught,
abounding in thanksgiving".
(Colossians 2:6-7)
June and I are incredibly thankful for a family running event we started in 1990 called the Turkey Day 5K. We are tearfully proud each year when thousands of runners, walkers, pets, and wheelchair participants enjoy their Thanksgiving morning in downtown Minneapolis. There will be food and cash contributions to the Sa local charity. We both feel blessed that the Lord inspired us to start this event and placed people in our path who have made it special.
Thanksgiving is the traditional start of what we call the holiday season. While giving thanks, we must be aware and focus on the good, rewarding parts of our lives.
In his book, With All My Strength, H. Norman Wright puts it this way, "Thanksgiving is not to be limited to only the times when we are aware of blessings. We thank God for unconditional love and goodness, unlimited wisdom, and abundance at these times. Let us give thanks even when we have a problem to solve when there are difficulties to be met. We are rejuvenated when we give thanks continually in spirit, mind, and body."
Let us hold those thoughts and be thankful for all of our blessings.
Thought for Today: Let us focus on giving thanks to God for our love for each other and the support we both give and receive.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord and Father, we give you thanks for our friends, families, and our troubles. We thank you for our financial crises, family stress, and the waves in our seas of tranquility. Through our problems, we learn to pray and appreciate the many blessings that seem greater than life's ripples. We thank you for our lives, love, and Grace.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-16452768456831617062023-11-17T18:44:00.000-06:002023-11-17T18:44:04.693-06:00The Dali Lama<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZ9r9N1AU03cV7pT0mnV5Xz2JgTklz4NRDlweOGyNyX5o_MqLuQM1KVKu8yaP6TdnjKUaya0oC_ihPRoc8U8L02XP0mMWvAxFZDSd2MImFL1pHbuDHL9f_oyW1T2qj3DDOHwwaoTTyZk7uI7nxG616VcvNldLSP2PYyIfPfTspuJB2JD5K38SdqQerDlb/s1500/01115%20Matthew%206%2027.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZ9r9N1AU03cV7pT0mnV5Xz2JgTklz4NRDlweOGyNyX5o_MqLuQM1KVKu8yaP6TdnjKUaya0oC_ihPRoc8U8L02XP0mMWvAxFZDSd2MImFL1pHbuDHL9f_oyW1T2qj3DDOHwwaoTTyZk7uI7nxG616VcvNldLSP2PYyIfPfTspuJB2JD5K38SdqQerDlb/s320/01115%20Matthew%206%2027.jpg"/></a></div>
The Dalai Lama
“Can any of you, by worrying, add a single hour to your life?”
(Matthew 6 vs. 27)
June and I have the ability to enjoy our lives, both the pitfalls and the pleasures. We strongly believe that the Lord has been involved in our lives and led us to enjoy simple pleasures. We both believe that the ability to put the events into perspective is our greatest blessing through our faith.
A Christian friend forwarded this to me. It does not describe a person of faith but is accurate for those who have not developed a spiritual lifestyle.
The Dalai Lama, when asked about what surprised him most about humanity, answered,
“Man. Because he sacrifices his health to make money.
Then, he sacrifices his money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present;
the result being that he does not live in the present or the future;
he lives like he is never going to die, and he dies having never really lived.”
Maybe we can help the friends being referred to by the Dalai Lama.
Thought for Today: Who in our circle of friends resembles the Dalai Lama’s description? It could be a family member, neighbor, friend, or church member. Let’s think about that and find a way to share our faith with them.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord, today, let us pray for those who have not included Christ in their lives, those who are spiritually weak and worried about physical rather than Godly issues. We pray for them and ask you for a way to help, a way to share, and a way to contribute to their spiritual growth.
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-18713791119592347132023-11-10T19:23:00.002-06:002023-11-10T19:23:34.016-06:00Spiritual Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTB1pSV0b7AQei8jXvjemB7sN5BtWLOPKmG25rinGzMbmau_vGmUb66RBP4V6bvnVuezoXnrf6TTBm82NVa01ckK3g4cJVno7cuWAKbSNjWyMT8z8_Ums8r0wBb8YKBlYOf7FPFVv6Fll6PH3bfn2Qy739o10wlYcoIrc-_dMVIeuECbmqowI7D_IciLce/s1500/01110%201%20Corinthians%202%201-6.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTB1pSV0b7AQei8jXvjemB7sN5BtWLOPKmG25rinGzMbmau_vGmUb66RBP4V6bvnVuezoXnrf6TTBm82NVa01ckK3g4cJVno7cuWAKbSNjWyMT8z8_Ums8r0wBb8YKBlYOf7FPFVv6Fll6PH3bfn2Qy739o10wlYcoIrc-_dMVIeuECbmqowI7D_IciLce/s320/01110%201%20Corinthians%202%201-6.jpg"/></a></div>
Spiritual Gifts
"Now about spiritual gifts, brothers,
...There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit
There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
There are different kinds of working,
but the same God works all of them in all men."
(1 Corinthians 12:1-6 NIV)
Often, the bible mentions the gifts given to us by the Lord. However, in every case, the same Spirit is mentioned. Think about what that means to all of us. Think about us as a team, a Christian body placed on earth to do God's work. Not alone but as a team.
I have always preferred working with a partner. I believe that two people working as a team is four times better than the best of the two working alone. If that is true, how powerful is a small congregation working together doing God's work?
In the 2004 Super Bowl, the New England Patriots came out to play without the TV Network's usual fanfare of individual introductions. They came and won as a team. Last week, the newspaper's sports page was dedicated to the state girls' soccer championship. It listed the rosters of the two finalists and the state's all-star team. No all-stars were listed on the two teams' rosters playing in the finals. The championship teams won as a team without any all-stars.
We need each other; our Christian family must get the job done. So we all "have different gifts but the same spirit." We can all participate and use these gifts to do God's work, but we do not have the gifts to do it alone.
Thought for Today: Let us focus on our talents and God's gifts to us. Let us recognize our gifts and use them to do God's work.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we ask, "What is it all about?" We pray to you for the ability to better understand it all. We pray for the ability to recognize our gifts and the knowledge of how to utilize them to help.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-91536946677120133392023-11-03T19:39:00.003-05:002023-11-03T19:39:59.423-05:00He Comes Through<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTP0BudyOHcUgI_0ARUifsBS3RwEMG1o82rmxTvQDNOl_xvsDT-GCVOGEmTqXA2dB_ZDj4mj4hG4rKmXQwmZq6jYFBTUdm-Y4M4y4cMfZsp7ul3B9hklwL60ACtEiOIgktPVgdy6Ez0HigOWTzwLwMW3w5s9UoU4gR0tro70gsp32lMZMn322jJB1ROP4_/s1500/01104%20Psalm%20103%201.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTP0BudyOHcUgI_0ARUifsBS3RwEMG1o82rmxTvQDNOl_xvsDT-GCVOGEmTqXA2dB_ZDj4mj4hG4rKmXQwmZq6jYFBTUdm-Y4M4y4cMfZsp7ul3B9hklwL60ACtEiOIgktPVgdy6Ez0HigOWTzwLwMW3w5s9UoU4gR0tro70gsp32lMZMn322jJB1ROP4_/s320/01104%20Psalm%20103%201.jpg"/></a></div>
He Comes Through
“Praise the Lord, I tell myself,
“With my whole heart,
I will praise his holy name.
Praise the Lord, I tell myself,
And never forget the good things
He does for me.”
(Psalm 103 v 1 & 2)
Every day the Lord gives us blessings. It is easy to forget the role He plays in our lives in our busyness. Here are three events that made me think of the Lord this week.
Early in the week, a friend and I discussed what we prayed about. They were guidance, support, internal peace, and several others. It was apparent that neither of us prayed for favors or help. We realized that through prayer, good things would happen.
Last week, a twenty nine year old hocker player died from a skate related injiry. Why? That is a big question and certainly something that makes people doubt. When the final reports are in on this, somehow, good will come from his young life. It is too soon for mortals to understand.
The third event that brought the Lord to the forefront was a Good News buddy from San Diego correspondence about his return home after a firestorm that ravaged his neighborhood. There were, 15 of 47 houses destroyed on his street, plus the sanctuary of his church. Here are the words he used in closing his correspondence:
“Truly, God is good. Many lessons are to be learned, and many prayers are answered. To God be the Glory.”
Thought for Today: Today will be just like many others. Our calendars are crowded, we will have unreasonable demands on our time, and we will need to focus on making it all happen. Let’s take a few minutes and think about the Lord’s role in our lives with that in mind. Let’s let Him into our day.
Prayer for Today: Dear Lord and Father, today we pray to see the results of your participation in our lives and the ability to accept what we do not understand. We trust that good things will happen.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3148493729005379677.post-12704708081086464022023-10-28T09:00:00.000-05:002023-10-28T09:00:01.663-05:00Our RockPray for world peace.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviFg3FvrGSB6wnvY_uOodoWY9y3s-hKQ_GUT5fAzwu1_Adc0nPaUTDpKE7ByCN8bznmVAiBD6o9fRxJxfff7Qp6L0R3OJ6ZHn5W8Vq4knGfiKcKk1ZhM4a2rtzi-_hGi0ZM1Xp4Zjmf5Ztv97vdEdRSBiBJ4nsjNSyFgngXWMtKIPxG-ulkiY-YMBXdfr/s1500/01027%201%20Samuel%202%202.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviFg3FvrGSB6wnvY_uOodoWY9y3s-hKQ_GUT5fAzwu1_Adc0nPaUTDpKE7ByCN8bznmVAiBD6o9fRxJxfff7Qp6L0R3OJ6ZHn5W8Vq4knGfiKcKk1ZhM4a2rtzi-_hGi0ZM1Xp4Zjmf5Ztv97vdEdRSBiBJ4nsjNSyFgngXWMtKIPxG-ulkiY-YMBXdfr/s320/01027%201%20Samuel%202%202.jpg"/></a></div>
Our Rock
“There is no one holy like the LORD;
there is no one besides you;
there is no Rock like our God.”
(1 Samuel 2 vs. 2)
Growing up in New England, we often fished in streams and frequently crossed them by stepping from rock to rock. We got cold and wet when we stepped on a loose one or slipped. The analogy to the passage is that we chose the wrong rock! That is not an option with God.
The Lord is the rock of our life, our foundation, and always with us. We forget that simple truth; we will not let Him in to help when we feel lonely. During those times, we can feel cold and lonely. (Hopefully not wet.)
Prayer and devotionals will help that situation. If you are reading this today, you are probably sitting squarely on the rock.
Thought for Today: Let’s be aware of our foundation, our rock.
Prayer for Today: Heavenly Father, I recognize you and thank you for being my rock and foundation. I pray to identify someone who has slipped from your rock and help them.
Amen
bobpickeringhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15929026801905809821noreply@blogger.com0