The tone

“Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

I function and learn best when things are broken down and laid out for me. I guess you could say I like the detail of things. It just really helps me understand and grasp situations and God’s word so much better.

So before we leave the word gentle and move to deceitful, I thought we would take one last detailed look at gentle words through our tone.

Did you know the tone of your voice puts so much more emphasis on the words you use? Your tone can bring a word to life.

Did you ever have a professor who spoke monotone and it bored you to death? What about a preacher who spoke with so much enthusiasm it came out through their actions?

G always calls me out for my tone of voice with him, especially when I am grumpy or the “Crazy Kristi” is out, remember her? I am trying hard to not be that woman or mom, and I am trying to be gentler in my tone of speech with my three boys.

Therefore I am removing the tone of YELLING (which is a huge work in progress), the tone of sarcasm, the smart alec tone, and the disrespectful tone.

Goodness brethren there is so much associated with our words, and there is even more importance in the way we use them.

What tones do you use behind your words? Are you in need of a tone change? 

By the way if you ask your spouse be sure to listen, you will hear their heart.

Prayer: Lord may the words of our mouths be pleasing to You. May the tone we use with each word be pleasing to You. Amen

Cleaning the inside first.

“Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

We have hearts that our sensitive, hearts that are easily broken, and hearts that reveal the battle scars of life. We have hearts that are bitter, hearts that are angry, and hearts that are empty. But we all have hearts that are meant to be tended to, nourished, taken care of, and filled and fed with the word of God.

If we want to develop words that are uplifting, kind, and loving, then we must develop hearts that are kind, loving, uplifting and FULL of the word of God.

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11

We can never clean up our speech if we don’t clean up our hearts first!

Prayer: Lord create within me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me. Amen

The importance of our surroundings

“Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

Before we can continue studying the importance of words, and how to become wise with our words, it is extremely important that we understand how big our surroundings can influence us.

If we honestly want to become men and women who represent Christ with our words,our actions, and our lives, then we must surround ourselves with other brothers and sisters who also want to represent Christ with their words, actions, and lives. Like Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”

Remember a few days ago we talked about the speech of a fool vs. the speech of a wise man? Well if we are striving to be wise with our words yet we stay surrounded by those who are foolish in their speech, don’t you think after a while their foolishness will begin to rub off. YES (God’s word says so)

If we are around those who gossip all the time, we will find ourselves doing it too.

If we are around those who are negative, we too will begin to speak negatively.

If we are always hearing worldliness come from the mouths of our close friends, we to will begin to speak that way.

Read what Craig Groeschel says in his book “The Christian Atheist”

If you are surrounded by naysayers or others dangerous to your progress, ditch them. Surround yourself with new friends, good friends. Amy and I once realized that we were becoming prideful about our ministry, and increasingly critical about others. Every time we’d hang out with certain close friends, we’d find ourselves talking about how ineffective other ministries were. Our prideful attitude was growing. Our way is best. Everyone else is doing it wrong. We knew our attitudes were displeasing to God, but we continued becoming negative and critical of others. We tried to explain to our friends that we didn’t want to criticize others, but they didn’t get it. When we realized that we were allowing our friends to influence us negatively, we decided to gently distance ourselves. We started hanging around different friends. It may sound cruel, but “bad company corrupts good morals.” If you honestly want to change, surround yourself with people who will help, people who believe you can do it.

Makes sense doesn’t it?  Can you relate?

Look at what Paul tells the church in Galatia, “But it takes only one wrong person among you to infect all the others-a little yeast spreads quickly through the whole batch of dough!” Galatians 5:9

Think about this with me. After God converted Saul to Paul who did Paul surround himself with, the same Pharisees as before?

After Jesus left and took His seat next to God, who did the disciples surround themselves with, each other or those who opposed Christ?

When you became a follower of Jesus Christ did you stay surrounded by the same people you hung out with before? If you have how is your relationship with Christ growing? Are they nourishing you spiritually?

What about a recovering alcoholic, do you think they stay surrounded by their drinking buddies?

Read this last comment made by a pastor at a church in Nashville.

There are basically two kinds of people that walk this earth, people who breathe life into you, and people who suck the life out of you. I made a decision years ago that while I want to minister to difficult people in my personal life I was going to choose to surround myself and my family with people who would breathe life into us.

Is your surroundings breathing life into you, or sucking the life out of you? If you answered the latter part than maybe it is time for you to change your surroundings?

Prayer: Jesus one of the first things You did was surround yourself with a group of men who believed in You. Thank You for showing us the importance of who we surround ourselves with. Help us to breathe life into others. Amen

Gentleness please!

“Gentle words bring life and health, a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4

Okay for those of you who have really been doing the S.S.A.L.S with me I am going to mess you up just a little bit. I am switching our verse for this week. One because I know as stewards of God’s word you can do it, and two, well, because it is what the Lord found to be appropriate and whatever my Father wants I want. I know you will do great!

There are two key words I want to point out, gentle and deceitful. Today we will focus on the word gentle! Someone who uses gentle words is one who is kind and mild-mannered. Which now days is becoming very rare.

Let me tell you why I say that. 

Have you ever ridden in the vehicle with someone who has road rage? If so, then you know they don’t always use the most kind and mild-mannered words, do they?

Have you ever been to a high school, college, or NFL football game? Then you will agree the speeches of some fans around you are not very kind or mild-mannered, especially when there team is not doing so well. Being a wife of a football coach, a sister-in-law to another high school coach, and an NFL coach, I have heard my fair share of not so gentle words. It is a good thing I love me some Jesus, because I would have to return some not so kind words back, especially when they talk about those three men I love and adore.

What about the words spoken between you and your husband/wife when you are angry with one another. I know I have never thrown out words of gentleness or even been mild-mannered. Have you?

What about when you are around those who talk bad about other people, are the words they use gentle? What are your words like when you talk about others? Are they gentle?

What about the times your kids fight, or you and a sibling or friend have fought, were there gentle words involved? What if someone who wanted to say something ugly about you, did it using gentle words? Just think about it.

Here is my point, gentle words according to Proverbs 15:4 bring life and health. They do not bring death and sickness like the words spoken in flesh do. The Bible is full of words that bring life and health. So if we can begin to speak those words, and I mean God’s actual words, we too will begin to bring life and health to all who hear us speak.

For example, when you find yourself in a conversation, see how many gentle words you speak.  If you find your conversation between your spouse getting heated, just start saying as many gentle words as you can and see what happens. When that car pulls out in front of you start speaking words of gentleness about the driver. When a friend begins talking about someone else just start saying as many gentle words as you can.  When your kids fight make them say at least ten words that are kind and gentle to each other. If you need help coming up with gentle words, the fruits of the Spirit are always good-Galatians 5:22-23 and of course so is any word used from Genesis to Revelation.

Life and health brethren, life and health!

Prayer: Lord it is Your words that bring life and health. Help us to store up as much of them as we can, so when we do speak our words will be an outpouring of life and health onto others. Amen

Do you believe God owes you something?

"As your words are taught, they give light; even the simple can understand them.” Psalm 119:130

We speak to people and of people as though they owe us something. “I do this for you, you do this for me.” We even deep down expect things in return, even when we publically say, “No, no I did it because I wanted to, not because I wanted something in return.”

We use words in such a way that will validate our interior motives. If I speak this way, he or she will react in this way. If I say this I know it will get a rise. If I speak in this manner I know it will come across as loving, when really I am doing it because I want you to feel guilty. Maybe we even speak as though we are “Spiritually in-tune” when in reality the words of our hearts are so far from spiritual. Or maybe we use words to detour others from knowing who we truly are.

Even our prayers become full of words and requests as though God owes us something in return. We even mutter such things as, “God please do this or that.” And yet the whole time we are speaking He is looking directly at our heart and seeing and hearing something completely opposite.Why, because we are afraid to really pour out our hearts to the very one who created them? 

When did God ever tell us not to pour out the very brokenness, hurt, fear, and anger of our hearts? Yet we truly believe it is wrong and selfish to do so. Are we not the children of God, is He not our one true Father? Does He not deserve honesty, sincerity and the joy of being our Father, healer, comforter, provider and Savior?

Brethren it is honesty He wants; sincerity that we truly believe in who He is. We should believe so much in whom He is that we don’t feel selfish or ashamed to cry from the pit of our sinful souls confessing to our Father, our Creator the true conditions of our hearts and our deepest needs.

And when did we ever begin to believe that God owed us something?

I mean we truly believe God owes us healing, or that God owes us a better life, or a less stressful life. We even believe that He owes us happiness, love, success and peace. Wow, how have we gotten here? God does not owe us any of that! Nor do we deserve any of that. Instead He gives us that because of His love for us, because of His Son.

God owes us nothing, we owe God EVERYTHING! He was the one who gave up His Son. He was the one who watched as they beat, rejected, mocked, and nailed His Son to the cross. He was the one who watched as His Son hung there and died a criminal’s death. And it was the words of Jesus, NO, it was the honest and sincere heart of Jesus that spoke the words, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” It was then the blood of Jesus that covered us, restored us, healed us, and gave us life.

God owes us nothing, yet gave us EVERYTHING.

Are you willing to give Him everything?

Prayer: Lord move me past the third line, I want no longer to save this life, I want to lose this life for You, Your glory, Your honor. Lord it is Yours, Lord it is Yours, Lord it is Yours, take it. I now know God You owe me nothing, but I owe You everything, and I have kept almost everything from You. Forgive me Father. Amen

Whose do you value more?

“As your words are taught, they give light; even the simple can understand them.” Psalm 119:130

Why do we value the words of humans over the words of the Lord? Is it because they are instant? Maybe we do it because we would rather hear what we want to instead of hear the truth. Maybe we have become deaf and are unable to hear God speak. 

Whatever the reason may be for you, I encourage you today to turn to God’s spoken word for the encouragement you need, the questions you need answered, the comfort you are searching for, the healing you need, the restoration of your brokenness, and for the mere fact that He is dying to lavish you with His words of love.

Prayer: Lord forgive us for turning to the words of humans rather than to Your word. Lord I pray that we will not find satisfaction in any other word but Yours. Amen

24 hour challenge

“The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

James made a very good point when he said, “My dear brothers and sisters, be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” James 1:19

Do people know you for always being the one to speak or the one to listen? Are you always trying to get a word in?

For the next 24 hours turn off the flow and put your ears to work. You will be amazed not only in the difference it makes with others, but in your prayer life as well.

I bet if you listen long enough you will hear God speak!

Prayer: Lord for the next 24 hours close my mouth and open my ears. I want to hear from You. Amen

From the very mouth of God.

“The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

Every written word in the entire Bible is God’s spoken word.  We have the amazing privilege of reading God’s actual words. How amazing is that?

Not only do we have that amazing privilege, but every day we step outside we get to see the power of God’s words through creation.

Take a look around you, did you know God spoke those trees into existence. Look up; yup He spoke that beautiful blue sky into existence.

Feel the warmth of the sun, God spoke that into existence.

See the gazillion stars and the moon that lights the night’s sky, God spoke them into existence.

Now, look in the mirror, you my brethren were spoken into existence. And not only were you spoken into existence, but you were created in His image.

Prayer: Lord thank You for displaying the power of Your words. Thank You that we have the opportunity and privilege to see and read Your word. Amen

Wisdom in the works

“The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

There is so much to say about one who is wise and in my hopes of becoming one of them, I understand more and more the importance of not only knowing God’s word but applying His word out every second of my life, in every situation, every trial, and every circumstance.

How does one become wise and how do they live?

1. They know what God’s word says
2. They are obedient to His word
3. They apply God’s word
4. They bring God’s word to life through their speech, actions, behavior, and in their character.

The wise…

Hate evil, pride, arrogance, corruption, and perverted speech. Proverbs 8:13

Words lead to life. Proverbs 10:11

Are sensible and turn off the flow. Proverbs 10:19

Give wise advice. Proverbs 10:31

Speak words that are helpful. Proverbs 10:32

Use wise discernment. Proverbs 11:9

Have good sense and remain silent. Proverbs 11:12

Are trustworthy and can keep a confidence. Proverbs 11:13

Stay calm when insulted. Proverbs 12:16

Tell the truth. Proverbs 12:17

Bring healing. Proverbs 12:18

Encourage. Proverbs 12:25

Give good advice to their friends. Proverbs 12:26

Control their tongues. Proverbs 13:3

Use gentle words that bring life and health. Proverbs 15:4

Are cool-tempered. Proverbs 15:18

Say the right things at the right time. Proverbs 15:23

Think before speaking. Proverbs 15:28

Drops a matter before a dispute breaks out. Proverbs 17:14

Uses few words; is even tempered. Proverbs 17:27

Keep their mouth shut and stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23

Put fires out by stopping the gossip. Proverbs 26:20

Give heartfelt counsel. Proverbs 27:9

Quietly hold back. Proverbs 29:11

Do these define your life, your character, you?

Prayer: Lord make me wise! I want every one of these verses to define my life. Amen

Hear from God

 “The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

Lord tune our ears to hear from You today. Lord reveal the secrets of our heart and open our eyes to our foolishness and wisdom. Show us all areas where we have spoken as a fool, and fill our heart with joy to know of the times we have spoken as one who is wise. Amen

You might be a fool if….

"The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

How bout’ some good ole East Texas slang?

-You might be a fool if… you constantly lie-Proverbs 6:12

-You might be a fool if …your heart is perverted.-Proverbs 6:14

-You might be a fool if…you stir up trouble constantly.-Proverbs 6:14

-You might be a fool if…you cover up your harmful intentions.-Proverbs 10:11

-You might be a fool if…you lie by hiding hatred, and if you slander.-Proverbs 10:18

-You might be a fool if…talk too much.-Proverbs 10:19

-You might be a fool if…you have a tongue that deceives.-Proverbs 10:31

-You might be a fool if…you speak only what is corrupt.-Proverbs 10:32

-You might be a fool if…your evil words destroy a friend. –Proverbs 11:9

-You might be a fool if…you belittle a neighbor.-Proverbs 11:12

-You might be a fool if…you’re a gossip that reveals secrets.-Proverbs 11:13

-You might be a fool if…you are quick tempered.-Proverbs 12:16

-You might be a fool if…you tell lies.-Proverbs 12:17

-You might be a fool if…you make cutting remarks.-Proverbs 12:18

-You might be a fool if …you lead your friend’s astray.-Proverbs 12:26

-You might be a fool if…you use harsh words to stir up anger.-Proverbs 15:1

-You might be a fool if…you’re a hot head.-Proverbs 15:18

-You might be a fool if…you spout evil words.-Proverbs 15:28

-You might be a fool if…tell about a person’s faults.-Proverbs 17:9

-You might be a fool if…you being quarrels.-Proverbs 17:14

-You might be a fool if…you give advice before listening to the facts.-Proverbs 18:13

-You might be a fool if…you love to talk.-Proverbs 18:21

-You might be a fool if…your words are always stirring up trouble.-Proverbs 24:1

-You might be a fool if…tell lies about others.-Proverbs 25:1

-You might be a fool if…you are a quarrelsome person starting fights.-Proverbs 26:21

-You might be a fool if…you try to use smooth words to hide your wickedness.-Proverbs 26:23

-You might be a fool if…you pretend to be kind.-Proverbs 26:24

-You might be a fool if…you give full vent to anger.-Proverbs 29:11

-You might be beyond a fool if…you speak without thinking.-Proverbs 29:20

The truth is, if this describes our speech, than brethren we are fools. I wonder today how many of us are being honest with ourselves and admitting our own foolishness. It is so much easier to deny it and become defensive towards others, instead of just admitting our own fool like speech. I think today is the day we get honest with ourselves and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and reveal our need for change.

I don’t know about you but I want to be changed, I want every part of my speech to be Christ-like. I don’t want to speak like a fool; I don’t want to have a heart like a fool. I don’t want to participate with those who choose to speak like fools. I want to be among the wise! 

Let me ask you something. When was the last time you stopped yourself or someone else from preceding in foolish talk; gossip, lies, anger etc. Do you find yourself wanting to but don’t in fear of offending them. Well just remember we offend God more by allowing it to continue.

I encourage you today brethren to find a godly friend who you trust and know will keep you accountable in your speech. It must be one who displays wise speech themselves. Ask them to help you and call you out when you begin speaking foolishly. When they do, listen to them, don’t get mad, or defensive, remember you gave them permission to do so.

Prayer; Lord place godly people in our lives who are willing to call us out and keep us accountable in our speech. Lord make our speech Christ-like. Replace the fool within us and make us wise. Amen

The acronym of Words

“The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

The more I study the meaning of words, the more and more God reveals to me how quick I am to speak without thinking of the effects my words have on others, especially when it comes to my husband. So I came up with an acronym of the word, words. I have done this in hopes that before I allow a word to come out of my mouth or off of my fingertips, I will evaluate them as follows;

Wise and well-chosen

Obedient

Respectful

Discernment

Self-Control

Is this a wise and well-chosen word?

Does this word fall under the obedience of God’s word?

Is it respectful to the person it will be spoken to?

How will this word be discerned?

Is it being used with self-control?

By the time I get done breaking down my words, I will have given the Holy Spirit plenty of time to minister to my heart. I will become more aware of the heart of the intended receiver and I will have thought before I spoke, which is HUGE!

I want my words to be an outpouring of love, encouragement, kindness, and peace at all times.  I want my husband and boys to be encouraged and blessed by my words and I want them and everyone else to see and hear Christ.

Therefore, I have challenged myself to really begin thinking on every word. This is my challenge, along with using the acronym, I am going to look at every person I speak to as though their heart is their face. In doing this I will be able to see the effects my words have on their hearts.

If I utter a word about someone, I am going to ask myself,” would I say this to their face if they were standing in front of me and how would this make them feel if they heard it?”  If I wouldn’t say it to their face, or if it would hurt them when they did hear it, then I am not going to speak it. Could you imagine if we all did this how different our conversations would be?  

Have you realized how much easier it is to be hiding behind something or someone when speaking- Text messaging, email, letter, writing? Well friends those typed words are just as hurtful, powerful, and in need of being checked as our spoken words.

Everything you say has an effect on someone.

Prayer: Lord make me stop and think about the heart of those who will hear or read my words. Make me always stop and allow the Holy Spirit to take control and speak for me. Amen

Reply Not

"The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs15:28

Several weeks ago I opened up my blog to post my devotional, when there before me was my very first negative comment, left by an “Anonymous” writer. Their words were harsh, personal and very intentional.  Knowing their purpose was to throw darts, I couldn’t help but to put my computer down, hit my knees and cry out to the Lord.  

You see a year ago, my flesh would have taken over and I would have fought right back using my own harsh words. But today I didn’t and brethren as I sit here and type this, my heart is full, and my eyes are tear-filled, because today I am new, today I am changed, and today the Spirit within me had a far better idea and I followed His leading and placed it in the hands of the Lord.

Our God knows the very name of this person and He knows the very condition their heart was in when they wrote it. He also knew the hurt that would fill my heart. Because of our all-knowing God it made it that much easier for me to dust my feet and allow the Lord to tend to my heart and the heart of the person who wrote it.

There in that fetal position I asked the Lord to examine me. Examine my heart, my intentions and reveal to me if those words spoken from that “anonymous” writer were true, and if so than I cried out for the Lord to change me.

I got up leaving it all at the foot of the cross. Now understand those words spoken stirred within me, why, because words are so powerful, especially negative, hurtful words, but those words did not have control over me.

A few days later as I was lying in bed to go to sleep, God and I were having one of what I like to call “daddy daughter times” which are very intimate and precious times to me. It consists of me laying my head in the lap of my Father, while He gentle rubs my head and speaks love into my heart until I fall asleep.

I have to tell you this sweet daddy of ours, spoke a prayer into my heart for this “anonymous” writer that changed something in me that I can’t explain. It was as though I could hear and understand the words of the Holy Spirit as he interceded on my behalf. He spoke and said things that only He could. His words were so powerful so meaningful and so very loving. I knew in that moment God had brought me to a deeper place of Spiritual maturity as His child.

“The godly think before speaking; the wicked spout evil words.” Proverbs 15:28

Do you struggle with your words? If so join me this week as we dive into the word of God allowing His words and mighty power to begin a work within us.

Prayer: Lord remind us how powerful our words are and the impact they make on the lives of those who hear them. Amen

Words, words, words!

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.” James 3:1

The words you speak make a profound impact on the lives of those who hear them. They can build a person up or tear a person down. They can steer a person closer to the Lord or away from the Lord.

Words once spoken are like a branding iron on our hearts and minds. They are etched in, thus leaving a lasting impression.

Words can determine the outcome of our lives.

Take the little girl who always heard words of hate spoken in her home. She now struggles with bitterness and anger.

The little boy, who heard he was never good enough, now settles for less because he still believes he will never be good enough.

The young woman, who always heard she was fat and ugly, now struggles with an eating disorder and depression.

The nagging words of a wife leave her husband feeling drained and frustrated.

The disrespectful words of a wife leave her husband feeling unappreciated.

The unloving words of a husband leave his wife feeling vulnerable and broken.

Even a lack of words from a husband leaves his wife feeling desolate and not important.

Shaming words from a teacher leave the student feeling empty, unable, and embarrassed.

The hurtful name calling of a friend has now left scars on the heart of the one who received them.

BUT

Positive words build one’s confidence

Encouraging words bring hope and healing.

Loving words strengthen the heart.

God’s words are food for the soul; they bring life, laughter, joy, and healing. They are consistent, loving, and always truthful. They are to change and transform us. It is these very words that we as teachers should be using.

What are your words doing to the heart of those who hear them?

Prayer: Lord take control of what I say and keep my lips sealed. Help me to pattern my speech after Yours. Amen

It produces, accomplishes, and prospers.

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should teach in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.” James 3:1

Let the Holy Spirit guide you, direct you, and speak through you. Take a step back and don’t get in the way of God’s word at work. It does not need help!

Just as Isaiah says, “The rain and snows come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to and will prosper everywhere I send it.” Isaiah 55:10-11

As a teacher, who teaches from the word of God, you can always rest assure that God’s word will prosper and will be used for His glory not ours.  

Prayer: Lord thank You for the amazing power that comes from Your word. Amen

Why do you teach?

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.” James 3:1

As teachers we are to let everything we do reflect the integrity and seriousness of our teaching. Our teaching must be so correct that it can’t be criticized. For then those who want to argue will be ashamed because they won’t have anything bad to say about us. (Titus 2:6-8)

“For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with self-control, right conduct, and devotion to God.” Titus 2:11-12

“You must teach these things and encourage your people to do them, correcting them when necessary.” Titus 2:15

Does your life reflect right teaching?

Maybe you should ask yourself why you teach.

Do you do it for the attention and praise?

Do you do it to impose your views on other people?

Do you do it to feel like you are on God’s good side?

Do you do it to encourage others?

Do you do it because you have a desire for others to receive the same mercy and grace you have?

Whatever the reason, let God examine the motives and intentions of your heart.

I truly believe that as a body we are to hold our teachers and leaders accountable. We should expect right living not just in public but in their personal lives also.  

Prayer: Lord help us to never be afraid to hold our brothers and sisters, teachers and leaders accountable to Your word. Lord make us willing to obey you so we can teach your ways to sinners, and they will return to you. Convict us of any Pharisee living and teaching that might be within us. Amen

Written for you

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of us should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will   be judged by God with greater strictness.” James 3:1

It didn’t matter how much darkness surrounded him or even the thickness of the prison walls that imprisoned him. It didn’t matter the pain his body endured, God’s word, God’s faithfulness, and the calling that God had entrusted him with would not be bound. “But the word of God cannot be chained.” 2 Timothy 2:9

There in the midst of his suffering Paul sat and wrote with joy, excitement, yearning, and hope. Knowing that by the power of the Holy Spirit and the will of God, his ministry would not be hindered but continue through the work of Timothy and us.

I can just vision Paul sitting in that dark, damp, cold prison cell shivering, hungry, aching, and ever so weak. Smiling as he writes to Timothy his dear son who is carrying on the ministry why he is in chains. I can hear is weak, quite voice, as he offers praise and prayer to the Father on behalf of Timothy and us.

Paul is a teacher who has gone from one extreme to the other. And now on the side of Christ he has endured more suffering, more ridicule, more lashes than ever before, all for the sake of Christ Jesus who rescued him from the path of destruction.

His purpose should now become our purpose. His guidance given to Timothy should be our guidance.

We must keep ourselves pure so we can be a utensil God can use for his purpose. (2 Timothy 2:21) We must run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. We should follow anything that makes us want to do what is right. We must pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. We must not get involved with ignorant arguments that only start fights. We must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone. We must be able to teach effectively and be patient with difficult people. (2 Timothy 2:22-24)

As teachers we must remember, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God’s way of preparing us in every way fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

We must preach the word of God. Be persistent, whether the time is favorable or not. We must patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage people with good teaching. And we must never be afraid to endure suffering for Jesus Christ. My brethren the time is coming when our faith will be tested, will we endure and preserver or will we coward down too afraid to suffer for Christ?

Paul took on the likeness of Christ in every way. He suffered, He was beat half to death, and he was questioned, mocked and ignored. He was abandoned by many, yet he pressed on. He did not allow any of those things to hinder the message of Christ Jesus, nor should we.

Don’t let any part of your life hinder Christ’s name and message from being heard.

Prayer: Lord you did not give me a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline. Lord though my body is weak my soul is willing, may I endure anything if it will bring salvation and eternal glory in Christ Jesus to those God has chosen. Amen

No ordinary Book

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.” James 3:1

There were many who were before Him, yet He was the only “perfect” teacher. He set the example for us to follow, and in order to ensure we get it; He left us 66 books that make up the Bible. All of which are God breathed.

There is no reinventing of this Book. It is to be taught just as it is written. For God’s word is the only word that will remain. It is the only word that will penetrate all the way to the core of our souls, convicting, changing and transforming us to take on the likeness of Christ. It is the only word that is true and faithful. It is the very rock for us to stand on. It is the only rock that will not be washed away when the storms of life come crashing against us.

It is not just any ordinary book; it is “The” book of life, hope, reassurance, promise, truth, joy, love, romance, healing, and intimacy. It is the book that when opened brings you even closer to the presence of God.

It lights up the darkness, it shatters hardened hearts, it restores the broken, and it demolishes all evil. There is nothing greater than the word of God.

God’s word speaks for itself, all it needs is to be shared and it will do the rest.

There are many who refuse to hear, read, and know the word of God. There are many teachers and leaders who misuse God’s word. There are many who never open it because they don’t want the accountability that comes from hearing it. There are many who refuse to live by it.

“For the word of God is full of living power. It is sharper than the sharpest knife, cutting deep into our innermost thoughts and desires. It exposes us for what we really are. Nothing in all creation can hide from him. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes. This is the God to whom we must explain all that we have done.” Hebrews 4:12-13

As teachers and leaders we are to take in as much of God’s word daily as we can. We are not to just teach from it we are to live by it and be changed by it.

As teachers and leaders we are to have a strong and steadfast belief in the trustworthy message we were taught; then we will be able to encourage others with right teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong. (Titus 1:9)

We also need to promote the kind of living that reflects right teaching. (Titus 2:1)

It is vital as teachers and leaders that we stand on the solid foundation of God’s word. Every aspect of our lives are to be a walking example of Christ and that can only be done by reading, knowing, and doing what God’s word says.

Prayer: Lord may every area of mine and Garrett’s lives reflect Your nature, Your word. Lord we never want to just speak of Your word but we want and desire to live out Your word. O’ Father there is so much seriousness in being a teacher. Examine us both daily. May our way of living always lead others to the cross and never away. May we always be the same just as you are the same, yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever. Amen

Beyond being "2"

Daddy and I had just finished up playing basketball with the FCA group at the High School. We got home and got ready for bed when I looked over at your daddy and said, "Babe my reflux is so bad, it is killing me. I really think I could be pregnant." Your daddy laughed and said, "Honey we are not going to go through this again buying thousands of tests.(we tried for 3 years for your bubba, and in those three years mommy had taken a lot of tests.)." Well the great man your daddy is he went to the store and bought mommy her 10 thousandth test anyway.

Daddy got home and  I rushed into the bathroom with mixed emotions and before I knew it my very first test was positive. (I was ten weeks pregnant with your brother and the tests were still negative) 

Now here you are the "big" 2 and you my sweet Dax make our home and our family complete. You will never know the joy you and your brother bring to your daddy and me. You are speaking in full sentences that amazes everyone. You are very active, healthy and extremely funny. Oh I adore you sweet boy your busyness and all. 

At just the ripe age of 2 you are already falling in love with Jesus, you are comprehending and understanding His word more and more everyday. Your prayers are precious and the day you went outside and lifted your money up to Jesus was the day I knew God was living in you and is going to use you for His glory.

We pray that today will not just be the day we celebrate you turning two, but it will be the day we celebrate two years of you being a child of God.  Dax your daddy and I want you to live a life above what the world offers you, we want you to live a life that God's word offers you. Right now at 2 we want you to know all there is to know about Jesus. 

My sweet baby boy, God has a specific plan for you, He had your life laid out before a single day had passed. And mommy and daddy want to celebrate with you today because we know in our hearts that you are a child of God and your name is in the Lambs book of Life.

Stick to the Lord's path all the days of your life. Seek His word precious boy and never settle for anything less than what God's word says. Never give in to temptation, surround yourself with those who hunger for Christ and live according to His word, and always examine yourself according the standards of Christ and not the world's.

Dax God has made you wonderfully complex! He watched you as you were being formed in my womb, He loves you and wants to lavish you with His love. Let Him sweet boy!

Lord You made all the delicate inner parts of Dax. You knitted him together within my womb and I praise You, we praise You for making Dax so wonderfully complex. Lord today we celebrate You and the life You have breathed into our precious baby boy. May he be committed to You all the days of his life. Use him for Your glory. Lord we pray Dax will be a man of integrity, who delight's in doing everything You want. Day and night may he think about Your law. May he be like a tree planted along the riverbank bearing fruit each season without fail. May his leaves never wither and may he prosper in all he does. Amen

Greater strictness

“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged by God with greater strictness.” James 3:1

How often do we overlook the depth of this passage and go forth with our desire to want to teach. James very specifically says those of us that teach or hold a leadership role will be judged by God with greater strictness.

Why, because every word we say and the way we live affect the spiritual lives of others. We must teach directly from the word of God and live out the word of God 24/7. In our homes, in our social lives, in our personal lives, God’s word must be lived out.

For those of us who teach or hold any type of leadership role we must be held to a higher standard and accountability because we are in a position of either leading others to the cross or away from the cross.

In Matthew Jesus says, “But if anyone causes one of these little ones who trusts in me to lose faith, it would be better for that person to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around the neck.” Matthew 9:42

I don’t know about you but for me, if I saw a leader in our church participating in sin and notice I said participating (that means they are willfully doing it) I would lose a lot of respect for them, one because they are contradicting the word of God and two they are causing many others to stumble. It is the same way with any of us who teach or share the Good News.

When G and I first got married we attended a church G had attended when he was little. G and I adored the Pastor. He would get up there every Sunday and preach with passion. It was not long after G and I moved to Texarkana that we found out this Pastor had been having multiple affairs with different women for years. WOW, we were stunned, remembering the man was human, we were still stunned.

This man would counsel men and women who were living in adultery all while he himself was doing it. Are you getting my point? Yes the man is human but enough with that excuse we are all stinkin’ human and yes we are all sinners, but we are children of God  who are to live above all of that, we are to live like Christ Jesus. We are to die to our old sinful ways. And we who teach are to live just as Christ instructs us to live, because WE WILL be judged with greater strictness.

I don’t know about you but I never want to lead someone away from the cross, I never want to live a life that contradicts the very Word of God. I want to live above that, I want to be better than that, and I want my College babies and anyone else God calls me to teach to desire to live above and beyond.  Not because we think we are better than everyone else but because God is better than everyone else and He deserves better than just average worship, average living, average teaching. He deserves to be respected with the utmost respect because He is God the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. There is no one greater than Him. We should be disgusted if we call ourselves Christians and yet live as the world lives. We might as well spit in the face of God.

Prayer: Lord You know why I am so passionate about You, You have brought me through some horrible sinful living and have placed me on this side of the Cross. You have delivered me from death, You have covered me with Your blood, and  You have filled me with a passion to live above and beyond the old way of sinful living. For that I am ever so grateful. Thank You Lord for giving me distaste for sin and the things of this world, but most of all thank You for what You have done for me. Amen