31 Dec, 2010
Looking Back, Looking Forward
UConn's win streak ends at 90 in loss to Stanford
AP – 9 mins ago
STANFORD, Calif. – Stanford really does have UConn's number.
Top-ranked Connecticut's record 90-game winning streak in women's basketball ended Thursday night when No. 9 Stanford outplayed the Huskies from the start in a 71-59 victory at Maples Pavilion — where the Cardinal have their own streak going.
Stanford hasn't lost in 52 games at home. The Cardinal took an early 13-point lead, never trailed and didn't let the mighty Huskies back in it after halftime in this one. They kept pounding the ball inside and banging the boards.
UConn fans accustomed to watching coach Geno Auriemma's team blow past opponents hadn't seen a loss since the 2008 NCAA semifinals — Stanford got the Huskies that time, too, 82-73 in the Final Four at Tampa, Fla.
"At some point reality had to set in, and today reality set in," Auriemma said. "I'm not destroyed about it. Winning that many games in a row, it's unheard of."
Read the Full Story.
Story and Photo courtesy of news.yahoo.com.
Straining Toward the Goal
12Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. 16Only let us hold true to what we have attained.
What does God's Story teach us about looking back?
The year 2010 has been quite a year in the sports world, and it's not quite over. Last night, the longest streak in college sports came to an end as Stanford beat UCONN in Women's College Basketball. It's pretty amazing that Stanford was the last team to beat UCONN in 2008. It is also ironic that the team who previously held the streak of 88 games, the UCLA Mens Basketball team in the early 70s, lost to Notre Dame on both ends of their streak. In both cases, Stanford and Notre Dame, went into the games with confidence.
In today's God's Story scripture, Paul reminds us to keep our eyes on the goal. It's very easy to hang our heads when we feel defeated. But we have to look up and move on. Whether it's in a game like basketball, or it's in life.
As we come to the end of another year, many of us will look back on the year and convince ourselves we either lost or won. That it was either a bad year or a good one. BUT THE GAME'S NOT OVER! We must continue in the confidence that we are victors because of what Jesus has done for us and in us.
Was 2010 a good year for you, or are you looking forward to a fresh start in 2011? Regardless of the successes or failures of 2010, thank God for the experiences He has brought you through and ask Him to guide and direct your steps through 2011.
How can I connect Today's Story, My Story, and God's Story to Others?
Get together with your closest friends and talk with one another about the successes and failures of 2010. Pray with and for one another sometime this weekend as the new year begins.
30 Dec, 2010
What's New?
I hate when people ask me what’s new. Depending on when I’ve talked to them last, lots of things or next to nothing may have happened. Sometimes the ‘new’ isn’t that great. Or even that new.
I’ve noticed the things in my life that I have to keep working on making new are my relationships. When I got married 17 years ago, my life was new. It was exciting. I moved from South Carolina to Pennsylvania. I went from being working full time to working part time. I had to learn how to share a closet, cook for two, and live with someone else.
After 17 years, I still have to learn how to share a closet (it’s easier if we both have our own!), cook for 4 (my kids like to eat, too) and live with 3 other people (I’m sure I’m not easy to live with, either).
Clipart courtesy of Vanderbilt.edu
God’s Story
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NASB)
….if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
What does today’s Scripture Story teach us being new?
When we become a child of God, we are no longer the same person on the inside as we once were. We are made new! The Bible promises that God provides for us new mercies each day. He never fails!
As we begin a new year, take this time to make your commitment with the Lord new each day. Don’t let your decision to follow Jesus become stale. Stay connected with Him. Find new ways to praise Him. Seek His direction and serve Him. Allow Him to work in your life by being available to do His will. Enjoy the compassion He provides and the love He lavishly pours out on you daily.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
What were some of the new relationships you made last year? How are you keeping them ‘new’ and fresh? Do you rehash the same stories? Have you cut yourself off from expanding your network of friends?
How did you relationship with Christ develop and grow in 2010? Did you keep your time with Him fresh and relevant? Did you dread doing your devotions? Do you re-pray the same prayers every day? Do you keep your relationship with Jesus separate from your friends so they don’t even know that you’re a Christian?
Let me ask you ~ what’s new?
29 Dec, 2010
Returned
—
A thief comes clean...
The money came in a plain, white envelope, addressed to Central Contractors’ Supply Co. of Johnstown – attention: Accounts Receivable.
Inside, a one-page, handwritten note accompanied the cash.
12-6-10, 3:04 p.m.
To Whom It May Concern,
Many years ago, 25-30?, I stole a hammer from this place of business. I knew it was wrong but I did it anyway.
Enclosed is $45 to cover the hammer plus a little extra for interest.
I’m sorry I stole it, but have changed my ways.
Hope God will forgive me for all the terrible things I have done in my life. This just being a small part.
The unsigned note was turned over to Lynne Gramling, company president.
Read more of the full story.
Psalm 32:1-5
Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
When I kept silent, my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
For day and night your hand was heavy on me;
my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.
Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity.
What does God's Story Scripture teach us about Forgiveness?
From the first day that Adam and Eve ate from the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" (Genesis 3:1-24) and changed our lives forever. Because of this we now feel things like guilt and shame.
We all have guilt or shame for things that have happened in our lives. Over, and over again God forgives us, and loves us despite our failures. There are countless stories in the Scripture that talk about forgiveness. God's forgiveness is also about, allowing God to free us from guilt that can hold you back. When we hold onto things in our past, we experience a "heavy heart" and we are not experiencing life to the fullest. There is freedom in asking for forgiveness, even 25+ years later.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to my life?
This person had taken the hammer 25 years ago, & I am sure that they on many different days felt bad that they had taken something. Or perhaps this was the first thing they had stole, that opened a door to a life of other sins. Or perhaps they took it and never looked back, until 25 years later, when they found God and remembered that fateful day in the hardware store.
Have you ever been so stirred by something that you where compelled to do what was right? It seems that something stirred in this person's heart so much that they where then compelled not only to write an apology, but to repay with interest.
God covers our sins. He wants to forgive you, He wants you to ask for forgiveness, He desires us to life a worthy life, He longs to give you freedom.
- What has been weighing on your heart from your past? have you asked for forgiveness from it?
- You may not have taken a "hammer" physically from a store, but do you need to repay, make right, or ask for forgiveness from someone because of your words, or actions.
- Take time to thank God for forgiving you, and setting you free from things that you messed up on.
- Once you bring stuff to God, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past" - Isaiah 43:18
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture and my story to others?
Too many people think that Christians are perfect, and often we want that to be our image and our brand. But really... we are all sinners, we all have junk in our lives, we all have regrets, and we are all not perfect. So why are we acting like we are.
- If you mess up this week and have to apologize, talk to your friends about it don't hide it. Chances are they have done the same thing.
- If you have wronged someone, be brave and tell them, you will never know how it will effect them, maybe they too have been holding on to what happened, maybe God can use you to set them free as well.
28 Dec, 2010
Resolutions
Glorifying God with your Goals
A new year means a fresh start. Nearly half of Americans make a New Year’s resolution, hoping that the turn of the calendar will give them inspiration to achieve their goals and dreams. Most resolutions have to do with improving one’s self: better health, losing weight, exercising regularly, getting a better job, improving grades, getting out of debt, becoming more organized, or taking a special trip. Recent research states that only about 12% of people have kept or achieved their resolution by the end of the year.
Statistics: wikipedia.com
Photo: google images
Genesis 11:1-9
Now the whole world had one language and a common speech. As people moved eastward, they found a plain in Shinar and settled there.
They said to each other, “Come, let’s make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”
But the LORD came down to see the city and the tower the people were building. The LORD said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.”
So the LORD scattered them from there over all the earth, and they stopped building the city. That is why it was called Babel—because there the LORD confused the language of the whole world. From there the LORD scattered them over the face of the whole earth.
What does God’s Story scripture teach us about goals and resolutions?
It seems pretty clear that the people of Babel were focused and driven. They had a goal in mind, which was to build this extraordinary tower, and they were determined to do it in their own might, even down to baking their own bricks instead of using stone that God had created. The root of their desire, according to verse four, was to make a name for themselves. God scattered the people and confused their language so they were unable to continue with their self-centered plans.How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture to my life?
If you plan to make goals and resolutions this New Year, are they all about you?- What if you were to make a resolution this year to introduce more friends to Jesus?
- What if you were to make it your goal to know God in a deeper way?
- What if you were to live in a way this next year that you made God’s name better known, and not your own?
How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture and my story to others?
- As the New Year approaches, ask others if they plan to make a New Year’s resolution. Ask them how different their life will be this time next year if they achieve their goals.
- Share with someone how you have been challenged to glorify God with your resolutions this year.
23 Dec, 2010
Rejoice and Regift!
Story excerpt courtesy of wikipedia.com
Photo courtesy of Christiannewswire.com
2 Corinthians 9:15 (NASB)
Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
God gave the world the best gift….Jesus Christ, His Son….our Savior.
How can we connect today’s God’s Story scripture to our lives?
I admit, rather proudly, that I have regifted. I’ve been a regifted recipient, as well. My husband and I received a regifted book for a wedding gift. Unfortunately, the giver didn’t notice that the person who gave it to him had written him a wonderful note in the back of the book. Regifting is a great way to share a blessing that you’ve received and may not need (or want).
When we get a great Christmas gift, we don’t want to regift it to anybody. We let everyone know the gift that we received that made our Christmas so special. We should remember that Jesus is the BEST Gift that we could ever receive. We don’t want to keep Him to ourselves, but let others know about Him, too. We need to rejoice about the gift of Jesus and then regift Him to everyone who comes into our lives.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
- Think about how much you love Jesus. Isn’t He the best gift you’ve ever received?
- Praise God for His indescribable gift!
- Remind your friends and family members why we celebrate Christmas.
- Don’t keep Him to yourself; share and regift the best gift – Jesus Christ! He really is the Gift that keeps on giving.
21 Dec, 2010
Do you know where Baby Jesus is?
In our home growing up we always had a Nativity scene. My parents always shared with us the reason for Christmas, it was to celebrate Jesus' birth. Somewhere along the line my mom began to hide "baby Jesus" from the nativity scene until Christmas morning when she would bring Baby jesus out and say, "Jesus is Born". We all laughed about it at first but it soon became a tradition to "hide baby Jesus" until Christmas morning. Until one Christmas morning, we asked where was baby Jesus? Our mom was frantically searching the house saying "I don't know? I don't know where He is?"
Survey: For many, Jesus isn't the reason for the season
Rusty Steil enjoys the sweet side of Christmas.
His family gathers at his Denver home where there's a little tree and gifts for his wife, step-daughters and three grandchildren. Jesus just has nothing to do with it. Steil, 47, is an atheist. He never goes to church or tells the Nativity story to the little ones.
But Christmas parties? Sure, Steil says. "Most atheists I know celebrate in some way. They will get together for solstice or holiday parties."
"A lot of Americans celebrate Christmas like they participate in yoga: unaware and unconcerned about its religious roots," says Ed Stetzer, LifeWay president and a Southern Baptist pastor.
"That's not surprising when more people encourage belief in Santa Claus (38%) than tell the Gospel story (28%) that undergirds the whole of Christianity," Stetzer says.
So few people hear the Nativity story of the birth of a savior unless they see Peanuts character Linus recite Luke 2:8-14 in A Charlie Brown Christmas.
Story from USA Today full article and Photo from google images
Luke 2: 8-12
"8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Read the Entire story of the Birth of Jesus in Luke 2: 1-20
What does Today's God's Story Teach us?
It is so amazing how much in awe the shepherds were when then heard the news from the angel of the Lord. The scripture tells us (vs 16 & 17) “So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child,” The shepherds told everyone and where not afraid. Wise men came from far away to see and give gifts to this baby. This story is not just any story, an AMAZING story. This baby was born on Christmas day, of God, to a virgin, in a stable, with straw around, and the shepherds could not keep quiet about it. Can you keep quiet about it?
How do we relate God's story Scripture to our lives?
Do you know where "Baby Jesus" is for your family this Christmas?
We are days before Christmas, and I know I have already been caught up in the crazy times of buying gifts and fancy wrapping paper, and getting excited about what I might be getting for christmas. How much time have a paused to think about were I am putting "baby jesus" in my christmas. What do you do to celebrate Christmas? What does christmas mean to you?
- Google a Christmas Lyrics to, Away in the Manger, or Silent Night, or What child is this (my favorite) ask God to help remind you through a simple song
- Read the Christmas Story from Luke 2: 1-20
- Take time away from the wrapping paper to think about how Crazy it is that God sent his son to be human for us, as a baby... That's Christmas!
How can I connect Today's Story, My Story, and God's Story to others?
- "What are you doing for Christmas/holidays?" Is such a common question, use it to open a conversations about what they may do as a family.
- Ask if they have family traditions at Christmas.
- Take the time to share your traditions
- Share the fact about many americans celebrate santa more than Jesus. Ask what they think.
21 Dec, 2010
Believe
Santa, are you for real?
At some point in all of our lives, we probably believed in Santa. I don’t remember specifically when it was that I stopped believing, but I do remember questioning how in the world certain things happened in my family’s home at Christmas if he did not exist. I remember one specific Christmas Eve, my brother and I made sure to keep our eyes on both of our parents as we left for the candlelight service at our church. When we arrived home together late that night, gifts were under the tree, our stockings were filled, and the glass door on our fireplace was open just a few inches. My growing mind told me that Santa was not real, but the evidence around me left me wondering what I should believe. (To this day my parents will not admit to their methods, but I think they just had a few special tricks up their sleeve that kept the magic alive for us for as long as possible.)
What does God’s Story scripture teach us about believing?
At some point in our lives we have to make our own decision about what we believe. Even though we do not see Jesus with our own eyes, we see the evidence of his life in the Word of the Bible, in the world around us, and in the lives of those who believe in him.How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture to my life?
Do you spend enough time with Jesus that others can see him in the way you live? Can they see evidence of his existence by looking at you?
How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture and my story to others?
Ask a friend what their belief was in Santa, or if they remember when it was that they stopped believing. Have some fun with your conversation and share some memories from when you were younger. This could be a great transition to talking about the life of Jesus and how sometimes the best way to prove his existence is to see the way he has made a difference in our own lives as we believe in him.
20 Dec, 2010
God's Majesty
- If you are able, try to catch at least part of the lunar eclipse on Monday night.
- Read Psalm 8 out loud several times today (maybe during the lunar eclipse if you are able to).
- One of the most majestic works God ever made was when he made himself come to life in the form of a newborn baby. As we approach Christmas this week, thank Him every day for entering our world, that we might re-enter His.
- Ask your friends tomorrow if they saw the eclipse, or at least knew about it.
- Listen for opportunities in your discussions to share part of God's Story.
17 Dec, 2010
"Like, you know what I mean?"
- Listen carefully to yourself as you have conversations with others over the next few days. Listen for those "annoying" words mentioned in Today's Story.
- Ask God to make your conversations with those who are not believers "gracious and attractive."
- Ask a friend if you can practice sharing part of God's Story with them. Ask them to listen for annoying words you might use. Ask them to make sure your Story-telling is "gracious and attractive."
- As you get together with family and friends to celebrate Christmas in the coming week, those times would be a great place to share God's Story with several folks all at once. Practice telling the story of Jesus arrival and ask if you can share it at your family gatherings.
16 Dec, 2010
Forgiveness Isn't Enough
Today's Story:
(Pictured above) Assistant Sal Alosi apologized after blatantly tripping Miami's Nolan Carroll on the sideline during Gang Green's 10-6 loss to the Dolphins Sunday.
The New York Jets assistant coach who tripped a Miami Dolphins player during a game has been suspended by the team without pay for the rest of the season and fined an additional $25,000. Sal Alosi, the Jets' strength and conditioning coach, will begin serving his suspension immediately and have no access to the team's practice facility.
General manager Mike Tannenbaum said Monday night "Hopefully we're going to learn from what happened yesterday and take full responsibility for it. We're really disappointed with Sal, with what happened, and we're going to hold him accountable for his actions." Alosi said in a statement that he respected the team's decision. "I let everybody down yesterday with my actions," said Alosi, fighting back tears during a conference earlier Monday. "My actions were inexcusable and irresponsible."
Nolan Carroll, a rookie, fell to the turf and lay there for several minutes before walking off. Alosi said he apologized by phone to both Carroll and Dolphins Tony Sparano on Sunday, and spoke to Ryan, Tannenbaum and Jets owner Woody Johnson about the situation. Ryan said he admired the fact Alosi never denied what he did, and "that he stood up and he took responsibility."
"He made a dumb mistake," Mangini said. "If he could take it back, I'm sure he would. It's disappointing it happened. I'm sorry for the whole situation." "I'm extremely thankful that my actions yesterday didn't result in any significant injury to Nolan or any other players," Alosi said.
Story excerpt courtesy of foxnews.com / Photo's courtesy of foxnews.com and latimes.com
2 Corinthians 2:5-11 (NIV)
5 If anyone has caused grief, he has not so much grieved me as he has grieved all of you to some extent—not to put it too severely. 6 The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. 7Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. 8 I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him. 9 Another reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything. 10 Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, 11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.
I’ve wronged others. Others have wronged me. Fortunately, none of these have played out on national television. I admit I admire Sal for admitting his wrongdoing and not trying to get out of it. He seems to be accepting responsibility for his actions. And I appreciate Nolan Carroll for not adding fuel to the fire by talking about it or making Sal feel worse than he already does.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
We often hear the Bible story about how many times we’re supposed to forgive those who wrong us (seventy times seven), but while we make a big deal about forgiving we often forget that when people make mistakes and admit it, they need comforting. Yes, there are consequences that come from all our actions, but we don’t need to kick someone when they’re down.
1st, ask God to reveal your inner most thoughts. Come clean. Repent and ask for forgiveness.
2nd, go to anyone that you’ve offended and ask for forgiveness. Reconcile what was wrong.
3rd, work on relationships of anyone that’s offended you and has asked for forgiveness. Encourage them in their walk with the Lord. Let him/her know by your actions that you forgive them. Encourage them. Let the Comforter (Holy Spirit) help you comfort someone else today.
It may not get played on national television for the world to see, but your actions will mean the world to someone who needs your forgiveness and comfort.
15 Dec, 2010
To give or not to give...
"People wait until late in their career to give back. But why wait when there is so much to be done?" Zuckerberg, who gave $100 million in September to the beleaguered public schools of Newark, New Jersey, said in a statement.
Luke 21:1-4
1 As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. 2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 3 "I tell you the truth," he said, "this poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on."
2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV
"Each Man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
What Does God's Story teach us about Giving?
Tis the season for giving, and also the season for hard times for many. God is not in the business of demanding things from the rich or the poor, from those that have or had money. God is in the business of your heart. This widow had some money, probably needed money, and yet she gave from all that she had. I doubt she knew that Jesus was going to point here out, nor did she give reluctantly. She wanted to give, she gave from her heart.
So what does God want us to give?
Some say 10%, Gates says 50%, I am not here to debate the % although I think God has something to say no matter what % you choose. In Corinthians it says that each should give what he has decided in his heart. The more we trust God the easier it is to give without worry. If it is less than two pennies is all you can give, then praise God.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to my life?
While I was a youth pastor I had a jr high student run back into the youth room out of breath after youth group, with her palm clutch tight.
"Here" she said, "Here is what I can give, its for the youth group" she opened her hand and dropped a crumpled dollar bill and two dimes. i looked up and smiled
I think its amazing that all of these billionaires are making a moral commitment to give. It sounds like they are giving based off a challenge put before them.
I am going to take a guess, and say you may not be a billionaire, I am not, my student was not, & the widow was not a billionaire, but God still looked upon her with favor. She gave with all that was within her, and that is all that God asks of you.
Our world says when you don't have money hide it, & save it for a rainy day. Our God says, What you give depends on the conversation you have with Him.
- Take time to ask God What he might have you give.
- If you have never thought about giving, ask God to make you a cheerful giver from the start.
- Be prepared, that what God lays on your heart my be scary, but trust in the LORD. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
- Ask God to Teach you to give with your heart, not your piggy bank balance.
- will God have you give your crumpled dollar or two coins?
How Can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to my friends lives?
Its pretty common with so many people on facebook, and the social network just in theaters, for a conversation to come up about facebook. Take that opportunity to bring up the "Giving Pledge". Talk about what it means to give. What can you give besides money. Take time to encourage others to be cheerful in whatever God may call them to give.
14 Dec, 2010
Clusters
To much of a good thing.
Every December, my family and I trudge out into the cold to select a Christmas tree. It’s usually far from being perfect, but it’s our tree, and our young children get very excited about helping to decorate it. We spread out the ornaments on our coffee table, and they select the special ornaments they have been given as gifts or their favorite family decorations and hang them on the tree. Their technique will hopefully improve as they grow, but right now they pick a branch or two and try to hang all of their ornaments there, leaving much of the rest of the tree bare. Instead of spreading them out to cover the whole tree, the kids love to hang their ornaments all together, right at their eye level. Even though our tree is at least seven feet tall and takes up a whole corner of our living room, most of the ornaments are clustered in one or two places on the lower branches, and the whole tree looks off balance.
Picture taken from freechristmaswallpapers.net via googleimages
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Jesus knows that it’s comfortable for us to hang around with other believers. Just like it is with my kids’ clustered ornaments and the many undecorated branches of our Christmas tree, what would have happened if the disciples only showed their faith to each other and only did good things for one another? The good news about Christ would never have reached any farther than the room they gathered in.
Do you have a great group of Christian friends? Good! But don’t get too comfortable staying there. Particularly at Christmas, it’s easy to want to stick close to just our family and friends, but if we stay in our comfortable clusters, those around us may never see the light of the Gospel that we have to offer.
Find an “undecorated branch” this week and be God’s light in that place. Whether it’s offering your lonely neighbor a ride to church on Christmas Eve, or sending a Christmas package to a child halfway around the world, get out there and shine your light.
13 Dec, 2010
Puffed Up or Built Up?
10 Dec, 2010
Don't Forget Your Helmet!
- Do you have a friends who are following Jesus but seem to be struggling to keep their eyes on Him? Remind them that God has a suit of Armor for us to wear in this battle against the evil one. Suggest they do the same exercise of memorizing and putting on the armor. Consider holding one another accountable for a couple of weeks. Be sure to share with one another about any difference you see in your relationship with Jesus.
- If you find yourself watching the NFL games this weekend chances are you'll hear someone talking about Today's Story, or one like it regarding the helmet-to-helmet hits this year. Use that as an opportunity to talk about today's DailyBide and the Armor of God.
9 Dec, 2010
Say What?
I worked at Pepsi® for 8 years in Knoxville, TN and started out as a receptionist. Part of my duties included taking orders from customers for their weekly soda deliveries. One day a gentleman called in to place his order and before I hung up, I asked him that name of the business. He told me, but I couldn’t hear him. I asked him to repeat it. He again told me the name of his company, but I still couldn’t understand what he said. Again I asked him to repeat the name of the business. I knew he was getting irritated because I kept having to ask him.
Finally, after about 4 or 5 times asking him to repeat what he said, the customer replied, very slowly and deliberately, “I said, Tennessee School for Deaf!”
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.” 27 For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.’ 28 “Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!”
Listening is so important. It’s a vital part of communication. We limit the power that we receive from the Lord when we don’t listen to Him. We can’t let things distract us from our time with the Father each day. The communication we have with Him can’t be one sided. We have to listen even more than we speak. How else will we be able to understand what wisdom His wants to share with us?
I was quite embarrassed that I had to ask the customer several times the name of his business. I know he thought I was making fun or trying to be funny by not ‘hearing’ him. I tried to assure him that I really couldn’t hear him, but the more I tried to explain, the worse I sounded.
Perhaps I wasn’t listening as much as I should have. Maybe I was distracted by co-workers in the office, the other phone lines ringing, the radio. It didn’t matter. I was responsible for getting all the information and listening and makings sure that the drivers knew who was calling and ensure that they got their order correctly. And I almost failed.
Have you had your ears checked lately? What about your spiritual ears? What’s keeping your from fully hearing (and understanding) the Word of God?
This week, determine to listen more to God. Really listen. Spend time alone with him without any distractions.
Talk to your friends, but listen to them more than you usually do. Wait for them to finish speaking; don’t interrupt their story.
Follow up with what they’re saying with more leading questions so you get to know them better than you currently do. Let them know that you are taking an interest in their lives and that you really care. Don’t turn a deaf ear to their needs. Your actions will speak louder than words and they’ll hear (and see) that you are being like Jesus.
8 Dec, 2010
12 Hours
Adam Sisson is a high school senior. The teenager has spent his entire life dreaming of his senior seasons in high school sports, where he expected to be a star for the Eastern Montgomery (Va.) High football,basketball and baseball teams. Then, just days before his final high school year began, Sisson was given a shock: He was told that he was too old to play in Virginia high school sports by exactly 12 hours.
As a result, the senior -- who turned 19 on July 31, the cut-off date to be within an age deemed eligible -- has spent his fall semester on the football sidelines and in courtrooms, trying to challenge the Virginia High School League statutes in hopes of re-gaining athletic eligibility for at least some of his final high school year.
…Since he wasn't given that chance, Sisson said he will keep cheering the Mustangs on from the sidelines, a fate which he and his father greeted with mixed emotions.
…"Even if I don't play I'll still be on that team as a champion," Adam said. "No matter what."
Story Excerpt Courtesy of news.yahoo.com
The Death of Lazarus
1 Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair. 3 So the sisters sent word to Jesus, "Lord, the one you love is sick." 4 When he heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it." 5 Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days. 7 Then he said to his disciples, "Let us go back to Judea." 8 "But Rabbi," they said, "a short while ago the Jews tried to stone you, and yet you are going back there?" 9 Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours of daylight? A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world's light. 10 It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light."11 After he had said this, he went on to tell them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up." 12 His disciples replied, "Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better." 13Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep. 14 So then he told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead, 15 and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him."
Read more on:
How Jesus Comforts the Sister, & even cries: John 11: 17-37
&
See Jesus raise his friend from the dead, (Its Legit, not creepy): John 11: 38 - 44
We live in a world of entitlement, where things go the way we want, and happen when we want it. We all want our lives to be the perfect story, just as we would have dreamed or imagined.
God wants us to live an abundant life (John 10:10) but never promises that things will be on our time. Jesus displays that even for his friends things don’t always work out the way we might hope. Mary & Martha wished Jesus would have come and healed their brother (v.3); the disciples wished they didn’t have to go to (v.8), Adam wanted to play football his senior year.
Jesus waited 2 days to see his friend, and by the time he arrived he had already passed away. Jesus said, “for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him” (v.15) Waiting on God’s timing sometimes means be patient and looking for where God’s Glory is in the situation.
Its getting close to the end of the year, sit down and think through or write down all the major events of your year. Or read through your "year in status" on Facebook. Take a moment & ask God to show you how 'His timing' was during the events of your year.
What do you need to have more patience with? Where do you see God's Glory in Your Story?
How can I connect Today's story, my story & God's Story to Others?
- Do you have friends that are dealing with things that feel unfair in life? Don’t discount their sadness and fears, but try thinking positively about their situation but pointing out where there is hope. Look for God’s Glory in their story.
7 Dec, 2010
Surprise Attack!
Pearl Harbor Day
Today is the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Perhaps you’ve seen scenes from Hollywood’s realistic version of the event, where airplanes appear in the sky while kids are playing outside, women are hanging laundry on the lines, and others are caught up in the events of their own lives. It started before 8 a.m. when many people were still sleeping. No one saw it coming. But no matter what they were doing at the time, they all become aware very quickly of what was going on -- they were under a surprise attack!
The US knew that Japanese ships were close, but the attack still came as a total shock to the American people. A dozen ships sank and 402 aircraft -- that were mostly still on the ground -- were either destroyed or damaged. More than 2,400 American military personnel died, and over 1,200 were wounded.
“Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up.”
We know that the devil is active in this world, and he wants nothing more than to catch us off guard and make us feel like we are losing the battle with sin. Peter is urging us to be on our guard and keep our defense up. The best way to do that is to be in God’s Word regularly, be in prayer about what’s going on in our lives, and be aware that our lives are a battle ground between good and evil.
Are you feeling “under attack” from the enemy? Is there an area of your life that you feel like he is in position to pounce on? Is your Bible just sitting around and not in use, like the US aircraft and ships were at Pearl Harbor? Or do you have God’s Word in your mind and your heart so that you are ready to defend yourself when the attack comes? Be alert, take time to pray, memorize scripture.
- Pearl Harbor Day is a national day of remembrance. When Pearl Harbor comes up in class or conversation, share this illustration so others will see how the Bible is relevant to history and current events.
- Do you have a friend experiencing the enemy’s attacks? Share with them how you use God’s Word to defend yourself against the devil’s schemes and encourage them to do the same.
6 Dec, 2010
Pure Singing
5 Things to Know About the New Season of The Sing-Off
Last year, Puerto Rican a cappella group Nota's take on the Jay Sean hit "Down" helped them shoot to the top on The Sing-Off, winning $100,000 and a Sony recording contract. A year later, a cappella music is again in focus thanks to Glee's recent best-selling single "Teenage Dream" (which coincidentally features former Sing-Off competitors, the Beelzebubs) and the return of The Sing-Off. TVGuide.com talked with the talent behind NBC's reality competition series at a recent Paley Center for Media event to discuss what's in store for Season 2.
1. The Competition is Bigger
After the season's success, twice as many groups auditioned this year. To make room, the series will now feature 10 competing groups instead of eight. "There was so much talent in the second season and we wanted to try and cover it as much as we could," host Nick Lachey tells TVGuide.com. "We also expanded from four to five episodes, so that opened it up for more talent to be included in the competition." There's also more diversity in the performers' styles and ages. Groups range from high school music students to music teachers. "A cappella really does span all ages and it's nice to see that represented in our show," Lachey says.
2. The Competition is Better
Because of the greater number and wider diversity of the groups, the race to the finish line is fierce. "Last year was great, this year is better," judge Shawn Stockman says. "The acts that are on this show are serious. You can really tell that this is what they do, this is something that they take very seriously and it makes the show that much better. It gives it that much more validity and value." Even the talent performing on the live finale, airing Dec. 20, has gone up a few notches. Look for performances from Sheryl Crow, Sara Bareilles and Neil Diamond, as well as from Lachey and all three judges.
3. Harsher Critiques, Sort Of
The increased talent on stage also means the judges will have to step up their game. "We definitely wanted to let these guys know that this is a serious competition," Stockman says. "This could change your life so you have to take this seriously." However, those in search of the next Simon Cowell will have to look elsewhere. The Sing-Off's judges hope to continue to be insightful without insulting anyone along the way, a trait for which the show was well-known last year. "You don't have to diss somebody on national television to give them constructive criticism," he says.
4. More Group Numbers
In the spirit of the show's friendly competition, this season will see all the remaining groups perform together at the top of every show. Executive producer Joel Gallen cites Glee, which features large group numbers, as part of the reason for the addition.
5. No Auto-Tune Allowed
While there might be a little more flash because of the choreographed group numbers, it's still very much about the music. Just like last year, there are no back-up singers, music accompaniment or auto-tune machines to assist the contestants. "It brings a certain type of talent and a certain type of energy that you don't even hear on the radio anymore," Stockman says. "It's refreshing to the audience's ears that they can turn on the TV and hear pure singing, and singing that you know is not touched or auto-tuned. It's just pure talent."
Story and Photo found at news.yahoo.com.
His Steadfast Love Endures Forever
A Psalm for giving thanks.
1 Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
3Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
5 For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.
Our family enjoyed the first season of the Sing Off last year. It was amazing to hear voices blend together in perfect harmony without the accompaniment of instruments. Groups singing their hearts out for the prize.
When was the last time you sang your heart out? Maybe it was at a concert of your favorite performer. Maybe it was in a car while you listened to the radio. Maybe it was with your ear buds in and you didn't even know you were doing it. To add to that question, when was the last time you sang your heart out to your Heavenly Father? God created us with voices to be used to give glory and praise to Him. We should not only be singing along to our favorite Top 40 song, but to our Father as well.
Spend some time alone today at some point singing praises to God. Don't worry about how good or bad you might sound. God is your only audience and He wants to hear your "joyful noise."
- Do you have some friends who will be watching the Sing Off tonight? Consider watching it with them. Be sensitive to what they might be saying about the groups and look for opportunities to share God's Story with your friends.
- If you aren't going to watch, listen for conversations tomorrow about the show. Listen for opportunites to share God's Story andHis desire for our voices.
3 Dec, 2010
Without Honor
James has 38 in homecoming, Heat win 118-90
CLEVELAND – LeBron James insisted it was nothing personal. The final score said otherwise.
James scored a season-high 38 points — 24 in a third-quarter clinic — to lead the Miami Heat in a 118-90 blowout win over the Cavaliers, taming a hostile Cleveland crowd even before halftime Thursday night.
"I have the utmost respect for this franchise, the utmost respect for these fans," James said afterward. But he spent part of the second half taunting Cleveland's bench.
The game that mattered most to the franchise turned into its worst loss of the season so far.
"I thought he played great," Cavs coach Byron Scott said. "Simple as that."
It was James' first game back in the city where he played for seven years and won back-to-back MVP awards, but failed to win an NBA championship.
Before the game, fans peppered him with obscene chants and booed every time he appeared on the giant TV screens beneath the scoreboard. They held up signs that read, "Quitness" and "Play Like It's Game Five" — a reference to his playoff failure against Boston last season, when many fans — and owner Dan Gilbert — felt James had quit. There were five guys wearing a single letter each on their white T-shirts that spelled out: LeBum.
Story Excerpt and Photo courtesy of news.yahoo.com.
Mark 6:1-3 (NIV, ©2010)
A Prophet Without Honor
1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed.“Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? 3 Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.
What does Today's Story teach us about being "without honor" in our home town?
There's not much doubt that LeBron James is one of the best players in the NBA today. But from the response he received from the crowd in last night's return to Cleveland, he has lost some honor in his hometown. He's not the only one to ever have that experience.
We see in today's scripture that even Jesus struggled to gain honor and respect from those in his hometown. Perhaps it was because they still saw him as the little boy who ran around with their children. Perhaps there was a reason that his family were "too common." Perhaps it was something else. What matters is that Jesus knows what it is like to not get respect when he shared God's Story in his hometown.
Where do you find it most difficult to gain the respect of others in order to share God's Story? Often we find that place to be our own families. Often, as high school and middle school students, we find it to be our closest circles of friends from before we were following Jesus. Why is that? Most of the time it is because they know us so well. They know the areas of our life in which we struggle, and they focus on those areas rather than the changes that have taken place in our lives. However, we can't let that hinder us from sharing God's Story and how He is working in Our Story.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to My Life?
- Do you sometimes feel without honor? Ask God to show you some ways to gain the honor of others with whom you'd like to share God's Story.
- Ask God to protect you from the feelings that might come with not getting honor and respect from those close to you.
How can I connect Today's Story, My Story, and God's Story to Others?
- Ask God to give you specific opportunities to share His Story with a family member who doesn't seem to honor you.
- Ask God to give you specific opportunities to share His Story with a close friend from before you were following Jesus.
- Ask God to work in the hearts of those same friends and family members, preparing the way for you to share His Story.
2 Dec, 2010
Lost and Found
Today’s Story
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
(NIV)
Jesus loves us so much that he seeks to know us. He cares about each of us as an individual. He wants a personal relationship with you. With me. And He makes a big deal about us being found.
I should never take for granted what Jesus did on the cross for my sin. Not only did He die for me, He took the abuse that was hurled at him. The spitting. The torment. The pain. All for me and my sin. And yet while I was sinful, deliberately disobeying Him, Jesus searched for me. He found me when I was lost in sin.
I love verse 5 where is says “he joyfully puts (the sheep) on his shoulders”. He carries me. Because I’m worth something. And my friends are worth something, too. They need to know that God loves them and is looking for them to come to know Him personally.
I don’t remember a time when I told Cassie that she was lost. I know I never said that she needed to get her life together and turn to the Lord. I simply shared how much I need Jesus and the difference that He makes every day in my life. The Holy Spirit does the drawing. We simply tell what God has done for us. It’s that easy! It’s 3Story® 101. And once you realize you’re lost, you’ll want to tell everyone Who you’ve found.
- Are you pointing the people in your life towards the Shepherd?
- Who on your wish list needs to hear from you today?
- Sing the first verse of Amazing Grace. Celebrate the fact that you were once lost, but now you’re found!
- Share your story with someone today!
1 Dec, 2010
Why the Delay?
Hundreds of people travel during the holiday season, in fact you may have just returned from traveling. There are these two words that for some reason can always make your excitement for the holidays dwindle, “FLIGHT DELAYED”.
So it begins, the groans heard across the room and the angered passengers saying,
“What! Did you say my flight is delayed”?
“But I am already late?”
“What about MY family”
“I am tired of traveling”
“Why ME, why is My Flight ALWAYS DELAYED!”
I am sure the passengers on Flight 2821 felt the same way:
L.A.-bound Delta flight diverted to Denver
Sunday, November 28, 2010
LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Travelers at Los Angeles International Airport had to wait an extra three hours for a Delta flight from Minnesota.
Flight 2821 was supposed to arrive at LAX at 9:17 a.m. from Minneapolis-Saint Paul.
The flight ended up being diverted to Denver, Colo. It finally landed in Los Angeles at 12:19 p.m.
Apparently, the flight was diverted because two passengers on board needed medical attention.
The pilot chose to divert to Denver instead of continue on with the flight to LAX as a precautionary measure.
(Copyright ©2010 KABC-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Luke 10:25-37 (New International Version, ©2010)
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” 28 “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.” 29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ 36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
What does Today's story and God's Story Scripture Teach us about "Delay's" in our life?
Jesus always brings our attention to the simple care of loving God & others. People in his time were always trapped in rules, business, & tradition, much like we are today. For the most part the things we spend our time on ournot bad, but are your eyes open to the things & people God places in front of you?
How will You Go and do Likewise?
The passengers on flight 2821 where “Delayed” for 3hours. Did you catch why? “Apparently, the flight was diverted because two passengerson board needed medical attention.” The pilot saw the need of the 2 people on his plane and chose to delay the other passengers because of it. The delay could have cost the airlines money, and angered many, yet two people (and their families) that where very grateful for the delay.
Like the pilot, the Samaritan chose to Delay his day. Two people passed the man, and the Samaritan stopped. What makes this special, is that Samaritans typically did not get along with Jews, in fact they where pretty hostile with each other,he was a hated foreigner, Jesus showed that love had no borders no matter whatsociety says.
How can I connect today's story & God's story's scripture to my life?
When you start your day first with, (27) “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’’ without a doubt you will beginto see the work of God in you daily.
Sometimes God calls us to stop our busy day to “Delay” for someone in need. Maybe you need to delay your life to spend some time with God?
Make time to increase your love for God today. Bring your focus back to Him who created you to be something beautiful.
The second part of verse 27 is “Love your neighbor as yourself”. How would you like others to Delay for you? Sometimes God calls us to stop our busy day to “Delay” for someone in need. Ask Him to show you how to love with no borders.
How can I connect today's Story, God's Story, and my story to others?
Will you allow a detour in your day?
Next time you are in a busy airport, at school, at home, or out shopping for Christmas presents, keep your eyes open for who God may be tugging on your heart to Delay your day. A delay could be as simple or as hard as:
- Smiling at, or saying a few kind words to the person in retail that looks like they may be having a rough day.
- Invite someone who’s is emotionally struggling, to hang out and just listen.
- Buy someone’s soda or nacho at school
- Give grace to someone you have not had patience with, and help them with a task.
- Stop and talk with someone that looks like they are having a bad day.
- If you are forced to Delay, instead of being angry, think of the people that may have needed that delay, like the two people that needed medical attention.
We are often so caught up in our lives we forget to look at the world around us. Allow God to show you where to be delayed.
Be Delayed this season, while placing someone’s’ needs before yours.
