Today I took a walk. The winter woods had a fresh skiff of snow. I saw the adventures of Mr. Fox, a rabbit, and a deer as I followed their tracks. I discovered their secret travels all over the woods. The stream laughed as it tumbled over rocks. The crows complained about my presence with their sharp warning "Caw, Caw, Caw!" A jay scolded as I hiked past. In the distance I heard the muffled hoot of an owl.
I was disconnected from the busy rush of the world and it's troubles. No text messages, no calls, no TV or radio news. It was wonderful. I was connected to another world. It matters not what the troubles of the day may be nature carries on with her work.
I took my peaceful moment with me and cherished it, savored it, and enjoyed it. I found myself resting in the knowledge that God is sovereign and He will carry on his purposes. "Let not your heart be troubled for I have overcome the world".
How do you disconnect?
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Good, Gracious, and Grateful
I love these three ideals:
As defined by The American Heritage Dictionary (1976)
Good adj. -1. having positive or desirable qualities. 2. Not spoiled or ruined. 3.Superior to the average. 4. Of high quality. 5. Attractive 6. Beneficial. 7. Valid or true. 8. Pleasant; Enjoyable 9. Favorable 10. Of moral excellence; upright 11.Benevolent;kind 12.Valuable 13. Loyal 14. Well-behaved; obedient. (from the Middle English- god)
Gracious adj.- 1. Characterized by kindness and warm courtesy. 2. Characterized by tact and propriety. 3. Of a merciful or compassionate nature. 4. Characterized by charm or beauty. 5. Characteried by elegance and good taste. 5. Fortunate or prosperous. (from Latin, agreeable, or good will)
Grateful adj.-1. Appreciative of benefits received; thankful. (from Latin- pleasing)
What are your ideas on promoting these in your family?
As defined by The American Heritage Dictionary (1976)
Good adj. -1. having positive or desirable qualities. 2. Not spoiled or ruined. 3.Superior to the average. 4. Of high quality. 5. Attractive 6. Beneficial. 7. Valid or true. 8. Pleasant; Enjoyable 9. Favorable 10. Of moral excellence; upright 11.Benevolent;kind 12.Valuable 13. Loyal 14. Well-behaved; obedient. (from the Middle English- god)
Gracious adj.- 1. Characterized by kindness and warm courtesy. 2. Characterized by tact and propriety. 3. Of a merciful or compassionate nature. 4. Characterized by charm or beauty. 5. Characteried by elegance and good taste. 5. Fortunate or prosperous. (from Latin, agreeable, or good will)
Grateful adj.-1. Appreciative of benefits received; thankful. (from Latin- pleasing)
What are your ideas on promoting these in your family?
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Simply beautiful.
The old barn was packed to the brim. We sat on hay bales with other Christ followers and soaked in the quiet and joyful atmophere. Exactly two strands of white Christmas mini-lights decorated the old barn. The chickens, lammas, ducks and geese were present but quiet, captured by the Holy hush.
The service began. Readings and acappella Christmas Carols were shared. The children gathered for a Christmas story entitled "Who is Coming to our House?". A costumed Mary and Joseph entered in answer to the story's question. An enthralled audience was delighted with their baby (aka. Daniel) who portrayed the Christ Child. The service was concluded with more thoughtful readings and singing "Joy to the World".
I think that this is the most unembellished and meanful Christmas worship experience I have ever had. I was stuck by it's beauty and simplicity. The hope and knowledge that Christ's Church is eternal and not engulfed by the troubles that beseige our world sprung up in my heart. It is easy to get caught up in the trappings of our religious experiences and forget the simple message of redemption. Christ's church is eternal and therein lies our future and hope.
How do you keep Christ in Christmas with your family?
Where to find the diamonds...
In the darkest caves of life are where the real gems are found.
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perserverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault..."
James 1: 2-5
What gems have you discovered during your darkest moments?
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perserverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault..."
James 1: 2-5
What gems have you discovered during your darkest moments?
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
A house divided...
Dear Children:
It's Thanksgiving time again. I am really looking forward to spending time with all of you. You are great kids.
This time of year brings some sadness for me too. I remember other Thanksgivings with extended family. As a child I loved Thanksgiving with my mother's extended family. That is all gone now. Most family members that were on my side of the family are dead or have simply moved on. There were lots of tensions in the family. I really don't know what those tensions were about, however, as a child I greatly enjoyed being with my cousins and playing on Aunt Marie's back porch.
After I was married, we enjoyed being with both sides of our family... sadly that has gone by the wayside too. As a child of a small family I find myself really missing being a part of a larger extended family. Despite our efforts and consideration of our extended family it seems that no one wants to come out and play anymore.
I really want you children to be friends going forward. I pray that God will bless us with a bond that will last for many, many generations. As your Mother that is my goal!
Both sides of the family have a great deal of brokenness. Divorces, money problems, bad decisions that have had some big consequences, death, enabling, deceit all contribute to the mess.
I believe that the real problem is not any individual's particular issues, it is a lack of moral consensus within the extended family. Family members want a pass on whatever they choose to do. We have become a house divided.
"In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as his saw fit". Judges 17:6
Here is my thought. All families have problems. Death and divorce occur. However if we as a family uphold a shared moral code of honoring marriage, holding children accountable, and being honest with each other things should go pretty well long term. Please do not misunderstand me. This does not mean that when things go wrong (like a divorce) you will be thrown out of the family. It means that we share upholding the institution of marriage (and the Ten Commandments) while understanding that we live in a fallen world and things go wrong. This is holding a shared vision of what Christ would have us be.
I think this very thing is the root of the United States of America problems. We as a nation do not share a moral consensus of upholding marriage or the Ten Commandments. If we agree that the home and the Ten Commandments are the blueprint for an orderly society then we know where we are going as a nation. Sadly, the family problems are a reflection of our country's cultural problems.
I love you all and this is my prayer...
""But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations".
Psalm 33:11
It's Thanksgiving time again. I am really looking forward to spending time with all of you. You are great kids.
This time of year brings some sadness for me too. I remember other Thanksgivings with extended family. As a child I loved Thanksgiving with my mother's extended family. That is all gone now. Most family members that were on my side of the family are dead or have simply moved on. There were lots of tensions in the family. I really don't know what those tensions were about, however, as a child I greatly enjoyed being with my cousins and playing on Aunt Marie's back porch.
After I was married, we enjoyed being with both sides of our family... sadly that has gone by the wayside too. As a child of a small family I find myself really missing being a part of a larger extended family. Despite our efforts and consideration of our extended family it seems that no one wants to come out and play anymore.
I really want you children to be friends going forward. I pray that God will bless us with a bond that will last for many, many generations. As your Mother that is my goal!
Both sides of the family have a great deal of brokenness. Divorces, money problems, bad decisions that have had some big consequences, death, enabling, deceit all contribute to the mess.
I believe that the real problem is not any individual's particular issues, it is a lack of moral consensus within the extended family. Family members want a pass on whatever they choose to do. We have become a house divided.
"In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as his saw fit". Judges 17:6
Here is my thought. All families have problems. Death and divorce occur. However if we as a family uphold a shared moral code of honoring marriage, holding children accountable, and being honest with each other things should go pretty well long term. Please do not misunderstand me. This does not mean that when things go wrong (like a divorce) you will be thrown out of the family. It means that we share upholding the institution of marriage (and the Ten Commandments) while understanding that we live in a fallen world and things go wrong. This is holding a shared vision of what Christ would have us be.
I think this very thing is the root of the United States of America problems. We as a nation do not share a moral consensus of upholding marriage or the Ten Commandments. If we agree that the home and the Ten Commandments are the blueprint for an orderly society then we know where we are going as a nation. Sadly, the family problems are a reflection of our country's cultural problems.
I love you all and this is my prayer...
""But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations".
Psalm 33:11
Sunday, September 30, 2012
An angel unawares?
Just what does an angel look like...? Well this isn't quite what I had in mind...
While Bill and I were taking a stroll along the fishing pier we chanced to meet an old guy. We started chatting about fishing and ended up talking (or perhaps listening) as this guy spun a very long tale. Old guy talked about many, many things; growing up out west in the mountains, hunting, fishing, getting trapped on a breakwater during a Northeaster, his military service, his trucking business, and on and on. It was a chance encounter and it was rather odd to be talking to a complete stranger. I wondered if he had a bit too much to drink or if he was just lonely -yet he talked of a wife and a large connected family. I found myself really wanting to listen as he puffed away on three cigarettes. The most striking thing were his tales of picking up canned goods for very little money at warehouses and then donating them to the poor and needy in his parish. He once picked up 40 skids of toilet paper that was going to be thrown away because the outer cardboard boxes had gotten wet. He loaded the toilet paper on top of a load of steel and hauled it to the local parish school, rectory, and church. The priest didn't have to purchase toilet paper for a year.
We finally bid our new friend "good evening" and wondered why such a chance encounter. Perhaps... an angel unawares? Old guy was in a pretty rough package but it does make you think about how God looks upon the heart... not the packaging.
Have you met any angels lately?
We finally bid our new friend "good evening" and wondered why such a chance encounter. Perhaps... an angel unawares? Old guy was in a pretty rough package but it does make you think about how God looks upon the heart... not the packaging.
Have you met any angels lately?
Monday, August 27, 2012
Sunset Beach
We had just finished enjoying one of Door County Wisconsin's fish boils. We wandered out of the White Gull Inn in Fish Creek, Wisconsin and walked a short distance to Sunset Park. A large quiet crowd had gathered to watch the sunset. People were sitting everywhere quietly chatting with family and friends. A few couples were sipping wine in glasses, others had a good book along and the family dogs were laying quietly. Children played near Mom and Dad. A lovely, lovely, picture of family life in America. It was beautiful. As the sun slipped below the horizon the crowd broke out into spontanous applause. Lovely!
Water... the stuff of life
It is the summer of 2012. Most the the U.S. is experiencing a significant drought. Water is just one of those things that you just don't think about until it's in short supply. Corn and soybeans are dead in the field in many places. Ranchers have been forced to sell off their herds because there is nothing to graze on. We are simply "hosed" without H two O.
Our area has not been hit as hard by the drought. Fall is coming and the trees are being to turn... I was thinking about the blessing of water while driving home last evening. As I crested a hill I could see 12 miles. There were rolling hills, red barns, white farm houses, corn fields, woods, and in the distance Lake Michigan. A few wispy clouds floated overhead and some mist was just beginning to rise from the hay fields. How many water molecules must there be locked in this beautiful scene? I cannot comprehend a number that big. A million trillion? I am sure that is way too small. Most plants are at least 80% water, water vapor is invisible, our bodies are at least 60% water. Without water there is no reproduction in plants or animals. Within this seemingly simple molecule is the stuff of life. I am thankful for water and the great God who sends it. I ran across this verse a few days after I wrote this...
"But they deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water." 2 Peter 3:5
Our area has not been hit as hard by the drought. Fall is coming and the trees are being to turn... I was thinking about the blessing of water while driving home last evening. As I crested a hill I could see 12 miles. There were rolling hills, red barns, white farm houses, corn fields, woods, and in the distance Lake Michigan. A few wispy clouds floated overhead and some mist was just beginning to rise from the hay fields. How many water molecules must there be locked in this beautiful scene? I cannot comprehend a number that big. A million trillion? I am sure that is way too small. Most plants are at least 80% water, water vapor is invisible, our bodies are at least 60% water. Without water there is no reproduction in plants or animals. Within this seemingly simple molecule is the stuff of life. I am thankful for water and the great God who sends it. I ran across this verse a few days after I wrote this...
Monday, August 20, 2012
Good fences make good neighbors.
The first time I heard this little proverb was at the Menno-Hof Museum in Shipshewana, Indiana. I was puzzled by its meaning and left the museum with only a vague idea as to the point that was being made by the Amish community. Many years have gone by... now I get it! I think my discussion here will be in a different context; however let me explain.
This proverb is from a poem written by Robert Frost in 1914. The poem describes two neighbors that are rebuilding a stone wall that runs between their properties. They are working side by side on opposite sides of the stone fence. A discussion ensues between the neighbors about the need for a fence and the conclusion is drawn that "good fences make good neighbors".
The original poem deals with property boundaries.
Interpersonal relationships also need boundaries. These invisible understandings between people keep people in their proper place in relationships. Most people conflicts arise when boundaries either don't exist or are intruded on. I am going to explain this delicate balance with some examples.
Criticism
This is often in the form of constant verbal criticism of another family member. The person on the receiving end feels like a worm and the person dishing out the criticism feels that they are dominate.
This can also happen between "friends". Nasty remarks, mean Face Book posts or text messages that jab anothers feelings are all part of this game. If you are on the receiving end of the criticism you need to lay down a firm boundary.
Here are somethings that you can do:
Get up and walk away (while they are mid-sentence)
Tell the criticizer that they are being hurtful and you won't listen to their abuse anymore.
Point out "that was mean" or " your rude and your wrong".
With a boundary laid down your verbal abuser will likely back off.
Do not confuse constant unproductive criticism with loving correction. Listen to correction. Set a boundary on verbal abuse.
Money
Generous family members often get taken advantage of by those they love. You should never ask family members for money or loans unless you are in catastrophic circumstances. Children should be taught that your wallet is NOT their wallet. If you find yourself being asked for money by family members your most powerful boundary is the word "NO". Don't feel guilty about refusing money- they shouldn't be asking in the first place. "Get a job" is also an important thought for those that sponge off family and friends.
Family members should not be helping balance checkbooks... that's what personal bankers are for. Older family members need to be careful who they trust with their finances.
Keys and access to your home.
Grandchildren, "friends", neighbors. You love them but that doesn't mean they should have free run of your place. Sometimes a grandchild ends up with a bad friend that you wouldn't want to have in your home.
Again just say "NO".
How do you set interpersonal boundaries?
This proverb is from a poem written by Robert Frost in 1914. The poem describes two neighbors that are rebuilding a stone wall that runs between their properties. They are working side by side on opposite sides of the stone fence. A discussion ensues between the neighbors about the need for a fence and the conclusion is drawn that "good fences make good neighbors".
The original poem deals with property boundaries.
Interpersonal relationships also need boundaries. These invisible understandings between people keep people in their proper place in relationships. Most people conflicts arise when boundaries either don't exist or are intruded on. I am going to explain this delicate balance with some examples.
Criticism
This is often in the form of constant verbal criticism of another family member. The person on the receiving end feels like a worm and the person dishing out the criticism feels that they are dominate.
This can also happen between "friends". Nasty remarks, mean Face Book posts or text messages that jab anothers feelings are all part of this game. If you are on the receiving end of the criticism you need to lay down a firm boundary.
Here are somethings that you can do:
Get up and walk away (while they are mid-sentence)
Tell the criticizer that they are being hurtful and you won't listen to their abuse anymore.
Point out "that was mean" or " your rude and your wrong".
With a boundary laid down your verbal abuser will likely back off.
Do not confuse constant unproductive criticism with loving correction. Listen to correction. Set a boundary on verbal abuse.
Money
Generous family members often get taken advantage of by those they love. You should never ask family members for money or loans unless you are in catastrophic circumstances. Children should be taught that your wallet is NOT their wallet. If you find yourself being asked for money by family members your most powerful boundary is the word "NO". Don't feel guilty about refusing money- they shouldn't be asking in the first place. "Get a job" is also an important thought for those that sponge off family and friends.
Family members should not be helping balance checkbooks... that's what personal bankers are for. Older family members need to be careful who they trust with their finances.
Keys and access to your home.
Grandchildren, "friends", neighbors. You love them but that doesn't mean they should have free run of your place. Sometimes a grandchild ends up with a bad friend that you wouldn't want to have in your home.
Again just say "NO".
How do you set interpersonal boundaries?
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Just not my gig...
We often spend a lot of time trying to fix our weakness. While I think that we should spend some time working on improving ourselves I think our time is better spent captializing on our strengths. Our weakness' are often there for a lifetime. We are all wired differently and should not expect to be good at everything. Weakness serve to keeps us humble. We should not spend a lifetime working to "fix" what we are not made to do. It is best to find out what you are really good at and then hone that gift.
Here's a cool Bible verse about this very thing.
"Kenaniah the head Levite was in charge of the singing; that was his responsibility because he was skillful at it".
1 Chronicles 15:22
"Train a child in the way he is bent (natural gifts) and when he is old he will not turn from it."
Proverbs 22:6
What is your gift?
Here's a cool Bible verse about this very thing.
"Kenaniah the head Levite was in charge of the singing; that was his responsibility because he was skillful at it".
1 Chronicles 15:22
"Train a child in the way he is bent (natural gifts) and when he is old he will not turn from it."
Proverbs 22:6
What is your gift?
How to change the world.
Our church hosts Kid's Camp every year. We have 130 inner city youth come for a weekend of rural fun at our small town church. We swim, canoe, hike, and pet farm animals. We serve up lots of delicious food with a large helping of love. Friendships form across cultural lines as our church's young adults serve as councilors. Our church and community work hard to host this huge group. We do all this because we want to share what Jesus has done for us. When Jesus is discovered as Lord and Friend lives are transformed. How do you change the world? WE don't change the world... Jesus changes the world. We are to introduce our friends to Jesus the World Changer.
"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Alighty".
Zechariah 4:6
Tell me about how Jesus is changing your world.
"Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Alighty".
Zechariah 4:6
Tell me about how Jesus is changing your world.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Things I learned from a horse...
- Sometimes it’s time to quit trotting and go for the canter. Don’t let fear hold you back.
- Set your goal and keep working at it. If you had started 5 years ago it would be done by now.
- You have to really work at it. That may mean some extra training in a class that is out of your comfort zone.
- Having patient people (and horses) mentor you will help you reach your goals.
- Sometimes you’ve got to ride the difficult one. It will stretch you and improve you.
- Put a smile on someone’s face. Lift their burden and make their day with your acts of kindness.
- Be nice. Sometime in your life the shoe will be on the other foot.
- There are lots of opinions out there about how to do things…figure out what works in your situation.
- Be positive. You can do it!
- Cheerful, willing workers are appreciated. Be one!
- Be humble enough to ask for help.
- Ask questions. Let people teach you by being teachable.
- Stay balanced.
- Think of your goal as an investment in your life.
- If you fall off get back on.
- Don’t be stubborn as a mule.
- Sometimes it’s good to kick up your heels and feel your oats!
from the Honeymooners...
Here's a great little nugget of truth...
Josh called me after his honeymoon with his sweet wife, Michelle. They had a wonderful trip. Josh told me that he and Michelle had rented a bicycle built for two to ride around Mackinaw Island. He said "At first we had trouble with it (the bike) but then we got in sync and got the hang of it". Relationships are like that too. Marriage takes time, work, and trial and error to create a smooth running marriage. Congratulations Josh and Michelle... may you happily ride on into your future!
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Taking correction... Part 2
... you have to read this one slowly:
Best is the man who can himself advise;
He too is good who hearkens to the wise;
Who, himself being witless, will not heed
Another's wisdom, is worthless indeed.
Hesiod
( c. 720 B.C.)
Best is the man who can himself advise;
He too is good who hearkens to the wise;
Who, himself being witless, will not heed
Another's wisdom, is worthless indeed.
Hesiod
( c. 720 B.C.)
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Taking correction...
Taking correction is not easy to do. None of us like to hear about where we need to improve. However it is an important thing to listen to the wisdom of others.
"Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies one made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith".
1 Timothy 1:18-19
Any thoughts on how to be heard when you see a shipwreck happening?
"Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies one made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith".
1 Timothy 1:18-19
Any thoughts on how to be heard when you see a shipwreck happening?
Make someone's day.
I recently went to Wal-Mart bought a huge cart load of stuff. I got in line behind a acquitance of mine who also had a huge load of stuff. We chatted while we unloaded our carts... it was a lenghtly process. After I had unloaded my stuff I then realized that the poor guy behind me had less than ten items in his cart and a very patient 2 year-old in the cart. I quickly apologized. He patiently answered that it was OK and so on. When I finished my order I took (with his permission) his milk and put it on my bill. He thanked me and I thanked him for his patience. As I pushed my cart away I over heard him and the clerk saying" I've never seen that happen before". I smiled... it made my day.
I cannot take credit for this random act of kindess. I actually learned this from a youth minister, Pastor Mike. Pastor Mike was known and loved for his great road trips. When Pastor Mike unloaded about a million teenagers at McDonalds he often bought the people who rolled in behind our group their meal. I always admired his consideration. To me that is what being a Christian is about. Others before self. Thanks Pastor Mike for teaching me!
Please share random acts of kindness here:
I cannot take credit for this random act of kindess. I actually learned this from a youth minister, Pastor Mike. Pastor Mike was known and loved for his great road trips. When Pastor Mike unloaded about a million teenagers at McDonalds he often bought the people who rolled in behind our group their meal. I always admired his consideration. To me that is what being a Christian is about. Others before self. Thanks Pastor Mike for teaching me!
Please share random acts of kindness here:
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Relationships
Relationships have to be nurtured.
Relationships take...
Time
Grace (none of us are prefect)
Patience
Effort
Talk
Money
Kindness
When we don't nuture relationships ... well-- they just die.
How do you stay in touch?
Relationships take...
Time
Grace (none of us are prefect)
Patience
Effort
Talk
Money
Kindness
When we don't nuture relationships ... well-- they just die.
How do you stay in touch?
"Fear of the Lord"
When reading my Bible I have always found the phase "fear of the Lord" rather confusing. This phase is found frequently in scripture. We as Christians are admonished to "fear the Lord". Is this the same kind of fear that we feel when we are running from danger? We are also taught that God cares about us as a loving Father. I could never quite resolve these two ideas in my mind.
Now I think I understand. Let me explain. "Fear of the Lord" is submitting to God's sovernity over our lives. It is realizing that God runs the show and we must be respectful of that fact. EVERYTHING we have and achieve is because God's grace has allowed it to happen.
Example 1: A person achieves a Olympic gold metal in a race. That person achieved that goal by the grace of God. God provided the air the person breathes, their large lung capacity, their long legs, and a strong heart. The person can set the goal, work hard, have a great coach and the mental outlook to withstand the pressure but the goal cannot be achieved without the gifts God provides to accomplish that goal.
Example 2: We all live by God's provision. Everything we have and need is dug out of the ground (mining), in the air, or grown. The chair you are sitting on is made of metal (mined), wood (grown) and plastic (soybean product). The food we eat, the energy that is produced, the tools we use, and the products we make are all from the hand of God.
Example 3: God has set the world up to support mankind's endeavors. The water cycle, decomposition ( the world would be a mess without rot), growing seasons, the perfection of the placement of the sun (not too close-we would fry; not to far-we would freeze). It's easy to think that we are so wise, talented and hard working that we achieved so much when really we are just working with the big plan that God put into place.
When this basic respect for God's authority and sovernity is lost- disrespect for all authority is gone and society suffers the consquences.
Parents should submit to God. Parental leadership in this area is vital to the future of our society.
Children should submit to their parents guidance.
Students should obey their teachers and the school rules.
Submission to authority is a choice. People cannot be forced to "fear the Lord".
Teachers deal with this everyday in the classroom. Students have no "fear" of any consquences if they do not follow school rules because their parent will go and defend the child's bad behavior and "get them off the hook".
The authority of police and all leaders is called into question. Judges fear for their lives, policemen are frequently shot in the line of duty.
"Fear of the Lord" is fundmental for an orderly society.
What are your ideas for restoring a culture of respect to our society?
Now I think I understand. Let me explain. "Fear of the Lord" is submitting to God's sovernity over our lives. It is realizing that God runs the show and we must be respectful of that fact. EVERYTHING we have and achieve is because God's grace has allowed it to happen.
Example 1: A person achieves a Olympic gold metal in a race. That person achieved that goal by the grace of God. God provided the air the person breathes, their large lung capacity, their long legs, and a strong heart. The person can set the goal, work hard, have a great coach and the mental outlook to withstand the pressure but the goal cannot be achieved without the gifts God provides to accomplish that goal.
Example 2: We all live by God's provision. Everything we have and need is dug out of the ground (mining), in the air, or grown. The chair you are sitting on is made of metal (mined), wood (grown) and plastic (soybean product). The food we eat, the energy that is produced, the tools we use, and the products we make are all from the hand of God.
Example 3: God has set the world up to support mankind's endeavors. The water cycle, decomposition ( the world would be a mess without rot), growing seasons, the perfection of the placement of the sun (not too close-we would fry; not to far-we would freeze). It's easy to think that we are so wise, talented and hard working that we achieved so much when really we are just working with the big plan that God put into place.
When this basic respect for God's authority and sovernity is lost- disrespect for all authority is gone and society suffers the consquences.
Parents should submit to God. Parental leadership in this area is vital to the future of our society.
Children should submit to their parents guidance.
Students should obey their teachers and the school rules.
Submission to authority is a choice. People cannot be forced to "fear the Lord".
Teachers deal with this everyday in the classroom. Students have no "fear" of any consquences if they do not follow school rules because their parent will go and defend the child's bad behavior and "get them off the hook".
The authority of police and all leaders is called into question. Judges fear for their lives, policemen are frequently shot in the line of duty.
"Fear of the Lord" is fundmental for an orderly society.
What are your ideas for restoring a culture of respect to our society?
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Good thought...
"Influence is a local phenomenon"
Josh's graduation speaker... May 12, 2012 Northwestern University, Orange City, IA
How do you rock your world for the "common good"?
Josh's graduation speaker... May 12, 2012 Northwestern University, Orange City, IA
How do you rock your world for the "common good"?
Definition of Spoiled...
"She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy."
Ezekiel 16:49
Ezekiel 16:49
Control vs. Leadership
Trying to "control" people is a bad thing. First of all it doesn't work. Second you are signing up for everyone to hate you... passionately. Those who rule with an iron hand, order others around, and demand things are difficult people. Controllers do not listen to or seek input from their subordinates. The order is issued without any thought or consideration as to what the subordinates viewpoint on the project might be. Controllers either find themselves embroiled in conflict or simply feared. If you are a controlling person... 1.) admit it and 2.) fix it.
Leadership is a very different style. A leader sets things up for success and then steps back and lets things happen. People have the freedom to participate or not. By giving people the option of participation it allows people to take ownership of the project. It also allows for input which may result in an improved project.
Here are some examples:
Family control: Mom (or Dad) set up a family gathering and demand that everyone will be there at the time and place they have chosen. There are no excused absences. People are made to feel guilty if they do not participate. No one really wants to come and ultimately the family withdraws from each other.
Family Leadership: Mom (or Dad) float an idea for a gathering to all. Input as to times, dates, and activities are taken note of. After considering every one's thoughts. Mom and Dad set a time and date and invite all who can make it. It is optional and their are no emotional penalties to not attending. Plans are made to ensure that a "good time can be had by all". Things are planned so that there are various options (food and activities) so people do not find themselves forced into food and activities that they hate. Leaders also set boundaries for family members if needed. A wise leader will choose these battles carefully. Family members find themselves wanting to gather because it was so much fun.
Controlling boss: The boss orders his employees to do things his way. Employees have no input as to how to approach the project and are severely criticized if they do not produce the desired results. The boss micromanages and interferes with the employees work thus slowing things down.
Leadership boss: The boss outlines the project that needs to be done and the timeline for completion. The boss takes volunteers for each piece of the task. If their are no volunteers the boss is then in the position to assign tasks. Input is taken, materials are made available, and employees are asked to accomplish the task. The boss is there to supervise, problem solve, and help as needed. If employees refuse to work (their option) then the boss (his option) may fire the employee. Employees take pride and ownership of the project and great things happen.
What are your thoughts on leadership?
Leadership is a very different style. A leader sets things up for success and then steps back and lets things happen. People have the freedom to participate or not. By giving people the option of participation it allows people to take ownership of the project. It also allows for input which may result in an improved project.
Here are some examples:
Family control: Mom (or Dad) set up a family gathering and demand that everyone will be there at the time and place they have chosen. There are no excused absences. People are made to feel guilty if they do not participate. No one really wants to come and ultimately the family withdraws from each other.
Family Leadership: Mom (or Dad) float an idea for a gathering to all. Input as to times, dates, and activities are taken note of. After considering every one's thoughts. Mom and Dad set a time and date and invite all who can make it. It is optional and their are no emotional penalties to not attending. Plans are made to ensure that a "good time can be had by all". Things are planned so that there are various options (food and activities) so people do not find themselves forced into food and activities that they hate. Leaders also set boundaries for family members if needed. A wise leader will choose these battles carefully. Family members find themselves wanting to gather because it was so much fun.
Controlling boss: The boss orders his employees to do things his way. Employees have no input as to how to approach the project and are severely criticized if they do not produce the desired results. The boss micromanages and interferes with the employees work thus slowing things down.
Leadership boss: The boss outlines the project that needs to be done and the timeline for completion. The boss takes volunteers for each piece of the task. If their are no volunteers the boss is then in the position to assign tasks. Input is taken, materials are made available, and employees are asked to accomplish the task. The boss is there to supervise, problem solve, and help as needed. If employees refuse to work (their option) then the boss (his option) may fire the employee. Employees take pride and ownership of the project and great things happen.
What are your thoughts on leadership?
Monday, April 16, 2012
Things we can all agree on...
Capture the Spirit.... American ideals we can all agree on...
Respect
Courage
Loyalty
Graciousness
Determination
Honesty
Reliability
Americans should apply these ideals to all our political discussions.
What American ideals would you add to this list?
Respect
Courage
Loyalty
Graciousness
Determination
Honesty
Reliability
Americans should apply these ideals to all our political discussions.
What American ideals would you add to this list?
Dissatisfaction vs. complaining...
There is a difference.
Chronic complaining makes you unhappy and negative. Nothing changes.
Some dissatisfaction with your life motivates you to press forward make changes. Things get better.
Your thoughts?
Chronic complaining makes you unhappy and negative. Nothing changes.
Some dissatisfaction with your life motivates you to press forward make changes. Things get better.
Your thoughts?
How to ...get a job.
1. Be a contributor. The sign says "Help wanted" not "Get your paycheck here".
2. Be nice. Look good, smell good, and display a good sportsmanship attitude.
3. Don't have a stupid e-mail address. Be extremely careful about what you post on Facebook. I know of several people that did not get the job because of what was on Facebook.
4. Listen to advice and get some help with your resume or interview skills.
5. Google "interview questions". Think over your answers before you go in for a face to face interview. What will you say when asked "why do you want to work here"? or what is your greatest strength or weakness?
6. Don't whine or complain about anything... especially your old job or boss.
7. Don't be a trouble maker. Employers have enough to worry about.
8. Be willing to learn, retrain, and try something new.
9. Determine what your assets are and then market them to the company that needs those skills. If you don't know what your strengths are get some input from someone who is wise and knows you well.
10. Take a minimum wage, part-time, or temporary position. This is likely a dress rehearsal for a more permanent position.
11. Apply lots of places.
2. Be nice. Look good, smell good, and display a good sportsmanship attitude.
3. Don't have a stupid e-mail address. Be extremely careful about what you post on Facebook. I know of several people that did not get the job because of what was on Facebook.
4. Listen to advice and get some help with your resume or interview skills.
5. Google "interview questions". Think over your answers before you go in for a face to face interview. What will you say when asked "why do you want to work here"? or what is your greatest strength or weakness?
6. Don't whine or complain about anything... especially your old job or boss.
7. Don't be a trouble maker. Employers have enough to worry about.
8. Be willing to learn, retrain, and try something new.
9. Determine what your assets are and then market them to the company that needs those skills. If you don't know what your strengths are get some input from someone who is wise and knows you well.
10. Take a minimum wage, part-time, or temporary position. This is likely a dress rehearsal for a more permanent position.
11. Apply lots of places.
Friday, March 9, 2012
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