Bitterness 1

 Guarding my heart against bitterness and resentment has been a goal of mine for a while. I could detect my mind rehearsing a list of ways that do not or did not measure up. Growing up with an angry father and a perfectionist mother, guilt has been a motivator or a way of being disciplined. But living under a cloud of shame and guilt only leads to discouragement. I hope and pray that I haven’t passed on this cloud to my own kids. A few years ago, I decided to reverse this vicious thought cycle (guilt, try harder, disappointment in self, discouragement) by filling my thought time with gratitude and positive goals. I believe I’ve made progress, but constantly need to clean up my mental mess. 

8 Habits found in valuable employees

 Inc.  magazine

While technical skills and other hard skills defined in the job description matter, it's an employee's people skills and a whole host of other personal attributes that are crucial for long-term success.

Most companies undervalue soft skills or the impact people development will have on an organization. They assume the hard stuff holds more weight and makes the business go around. In turn, when difficult personalities and egos emerge, when sudden change and uncertainty takes place, and when conflict seems inevitable, it's the employees with the natural ability to communicate and respond to crisis who hold the most value. 

When crafting the people elements for fostering a great company culture, here are eight employees you'll want to consider hiring:      

1. People who are active listeners.

Effective communication isn't just about talking; it is also the ability to listen and understand what's happening on the other side of the fence. The best people-centered employees will listen and reflect back what they hear to clarify ("What I hear you saying is ..."), and they'll ask questions to probe the other person's feelings or opinions. This can be as simple as: "Tell me how you feel about this."

2. People with emotional intelligence (EQ).

While IQ still remains the best predictor of job success, once you land a job and start thinking about increasing your role, managing multiple priorities, getting promoted, leading others, and navigating political landscapes, IQ will be begging for EQ to show up. Daniel Goleman, the foremost authority on emotional intelligence, has put together these nine important questions to help a person evaluate his or her emotional intelligence.

3. People with a high degree of patience.

People with patience have the capacity to process a situation about to go south, get perspective, listen without judgment to someone they disagree with, and hold back from reacting head on. Practicing this rare business virtue may mean deciding to sit on your decision. By thinking over things with a rational and level head, you'll eventually arrive at a  more sane conclusion. These are the people you want to build a company culture around.

4. People who avoid drama.

Employees with emotional intelligence have a clear advantage: they cut through the drama by telling the facts as they see them and how it affects them. Let me unpack that further: These people are able to diffuse an emotionally-charged moment with a calm demeanor, explain the outcome they're hoping for, and ask for other ideas for solutions with an open mind. By hiring people with the ability to manage conflict, you'll see more constructive, productive, and respectful discussions taking place, which can help resolve hairy situations to everyone's satisfaction.

5. People who can manage their emotions.

Self-control (or "self-management") is a personal competence developed in every person. The question behind self-control is: Can I manage my emotions and behavior to a positive outcome? Not everyone can. Daniel Goleman says this about people with self-control:

"Reasonable people--the ones who maintain control over their emotions--are the people who can sustain safe, fair environments. In these settings, drama is very low and productivity is very high. Top performers flock to these organizations and are not apt to leave them."

6. People who reject the idea of multitasking.

Productive people are successful in managing their time because they avoid juggling many things. Research says multitasking is a myth and can be damaging to our brains. You end up splitting your focus over many tasks, losing focus, lowering the quality of your work and taking longer to hit your goals.

7. People who value and practice well-being during work hours.

Top employees are looking for companies that allow them to integrate work and life during their schedule, and the smartest bosses are giving them that flexibility because it makes business sense. One example is the workplace habit of taking short, frequent breaks. A 2016 study showed that hourly five-minute walking breaks (out in nature with a friend, for example) boosted energy levels, sharpened focus, and improved mood throughout the day. These "microbursts of activity" increase motivation and concentration and enhance creativity, according to researchers at Stanford University.

8. People who self-manage extremely well.

Forget time management?--you want people who are good managers of "self." By managing your life, tasks, and priorities efficiently, you can seamlessly transition to more productivity, higher work satisfaction, and better personal well-being. And that's what the most valuable employees do to reach their most optimal level of self-management. For example:

1. As noted earlier, they don't multitask or juggle too many things.
2. They start and end meetings on time, and don't get sidetracked or allow the agenda to get hijacked.
3. They set boundaries and say no to people when needed, so their time is protected.
4. They identify the time of the day when they're most productive and focus their energy on doing the most important things during those times.
5. They're aware of time-wasters such as visitors dropping by their workspace to gossip; they ensure they don't spend time in useless meetings, distracting phone calls, and anything that else that disrupts their state of flow.

Civility 05/04

 Witnessing civility in a discussion has been hard to find in some circles, especially around election time. Some news sources play up the uncivil discourse for monetary gain while we watch many take sides regarding who is on which side of an issue. It’s hard to know how to respond to a provoking comment by acquaintances and friends. During the pandemic, one individual, who I had see for a long time, immediately asked upon seeing him, “Where are you in taking vaccinations?”  Another became angry in a conversation when I suggested that we all be sensitive to those who have health concerns. He said, “I have my rights, too!!”  But regardless of the uncivil tones, following Jesus is to point others to His way of doing life. One principle I’m learning is whatever I’m reading or listening to is driving my fear and worry, it’s not of God. God leads us with love, faith and hope, not negativity. I’ve got a lot to learn as I seek His peace and calmness. 

There's a famous story of these two shoe salesmen who are sent to a foreign country to assess the market to see whether or not their shoes might be worth selling there. The first shoe salesman goes and spends a few days scouting the area. Then, he sends a message back home. He reports back, "Research complete. Unmitigated disaster. No one here wears shoes." This guy is thinking, "I have to get on the first plane back home."

The second salesman from the other company does the same thing. He scouts out the area for a few days and sends a message back home. He says, "Research complete. Glorious opportunity. No one here wears shoes." Instead of seeing an obstacle, this second person saw an opportunity. "No one was wearing shoes. We can give these people shoes."

“Even on especially hard days, I began to notice Him everywhere, setting a table before me in the presence of my enemies, pursuing me with his love. Both the child and the cynic walk through the valley of the shadow of death. The cynic focuses on the darkness; the child focuses on the Shepherd.” - Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life

Why Pray 03

 This series has been challenging and convicting. I don’t know about you, but I need to step up my praying life. Words like these come to mind to describe a prayer strategy:  intensity, private, constant, consistent, honest, request, Spirit led, active, all day, everyday, inexplainable, trust, mysterious, inexpressible, non anxious. A praying life is counter cultural and life transforming. 

“As we wait and pray, God weaves his story and creates a wonder. Instead of drifting between comedy (denial) and tragedy (reality), we have a relationship with the living God, who is intimately involved with the details of our worlds. We are learning to watch for the story to unfold, to wait for the wonder.” - Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life

Grace in the Gray 5

 I do not like conflict at all. I would rather keep my distance from quarrelsome negative people but that is nearly impossible. I recently spent a day with a relative by marriage who seems to take great pride in provoking a reaction on any number of issues. I was not enthused about being with him and prayed that God would give me a peace that would override my emotional reaction to his comments. His grace came through and I did not say anything back to his negativity. My emotions remained calm when usually I’d rather walk away or be inflamed on the inside. I’m not sure I was kind, but I didn’t retaliate. I need to ask for His grace to generate kindness!!

Why Pray 02

 I often forget that God’s handling of my issues is not a written contract, negotiated in good faith. He does not owe me an explanation nor an answer to my big or small questions. My role is to surrender to the King, the Creator and Lord of the universe. Many of my questions will go unanswered. They may even be unanswered when we meet Jesus in Heaven, I’m not sure. His sovereignty over rides my requests and complaints, but I know He loves me. Aceiptuee

Strongly states to pray about everything:  “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God”. --Philippians 4:6

“What do I lose when I have a praying life? Control. Independence. What do I gain? Friendship with God. A quiet heart. The living work of God in the hearts of those I love. The ability to roll back the tide of evil. Essentially, I lose my kingdom and get his. I move from being an independent player to a dependent lover. I move from being an orphan to a child of God.” - Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life

Why Pray 01

Talking to our Father about everything includes asking Him for things that we are not ready to accept. But more than that, I do not know all of what is going on behind the scenes. Our Father knows all and He is completely trustworthy. If I believe in Him and His love, I need to adjust and accept the outcome, yet continue talking all things out with Him. Scripture includes lament and complaint, combined with accepting His sovereignty. 

 “When confronted with suffering that won't go away or with even a minor problem, we instinctively focus on what is missing,...not on the Master's hand. Often when you think everything has gone wrong, it's just that you're in the middle of a story. If you watch the stories God is weaving in your life, you... will begin to see the patterns. You'll become a poet, sensitive to your Father's voice.” - Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life

Grace in the gray 4

 Luke 6:22-23 has some hard teaching!

[22] “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! [23] Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.

It’s not easy to do what is right or what is good for the person who has offended us. I took the first step in forgiveness with a family who was so difficult to work with at school. At a funeral this morning, the usher sat us in front of that family. I sighed, “Just great”, but immediately recognized this as an opportunity to be civil. I was tempted to stiff them by ignoring them totally, but I recognized them and said hello. I know this may sound trivial, but my small step made me feel much better, giving me confidence to go another step the next time. I’m sure God will give me many more times to practice civility, without expecting the other party to so much at all. 

Why pray 4/30

 Imagine a mentor or friend who gives each of us undivided attention. Full focus, intense eye contact, listening without interruption. But more than that, it’s not just an act. He truly cares and has our best interests at heart. He wants to help us with every detail, yet wants us to make wise decisions.I need to develop this perspective - our Father is one hundred present available all the time.  What full affection and attention when we have that Person’s focus and listening ability. If only I’d remember this!

“Without the Good Shepherd, we are alone in a meaningless story. Weariness and fear leave us feeling overwhelmed, unable to move. Cynicism leaves us doubting, unable to dream. The combination shuts down our hearts, and we just show up for life, going through the motions.” - Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life

Who I am 10

 I grew up with the idea that it was extremely important to be concerned about what people think. Shoveling someone’s snowy sidewalk, helping a neighbor with their chores or any good deed was not out of a desire to help but to be known as a helping person. What would the neighbors think if I didn’t help out?  I hope I haven’t dumped these bad motivators on my kids. Feeling guilty for what I haven’t done or that I haven’t done enough is a weight on our backs that is unnessary. I’m learning what people think is not nearly important as what God is doing in my heart. Guilt and shame as motivators do not change a person’s heart. I can easily become my own prison warden, making sure I do not break free of my cell walls. The closer I lean in on what Jesus is doing is the jail break I need. 

Bob Goff says: “ The people I enjoy the most aren’t looking to me for validation; they have already arrived there for themselves knowing they are not perfect but that God loves them anyway. They recognize that life is trying to put them in a prison cell of head fakes and faulty expectations. It’s refreshing to be around them, and if this is the kind of person you are becoming, lay out the red carpet and invite these people into your life.”

“By your words I can see where I’m going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path. I’ve committed myself and I’ll never turn back from living by your righteous order. Everything’s falling apart on me, God; put me together again with your Word. Adorn me with your finest sayings, God; teach me your holy rules. My life is as close as my own hands, but I don’t forget what you have revealed. The wicked do their best to throw me off track, but I don’t swerve an inch from your course. I inherited your book on living; it’s mine forever— what a gift! And how happy it makes me! I concentrate on doing exactly what you say— I always have and always will.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬-‭112‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Who I am 9

Without Christ, we are pretty much stranded to go through life alone, foolish about whatever self built kingdom we are pursuing.  When the storms of life come our way, we could easily plunge into despair without His presence. The few verses before Phil. 4:13 talk about Paul’s difficulties, but he is confident that Christ will carry him through. May you and I set this verse as a life reminder to recalculate when we get discouraged. 

Bob Goff says:  “ Jesus’ friends were distracted arguing about who got the big chairs next to Him in heaven. Jesus interrupted their silly argument by dropping some eternal clarity on them. He said that unless they changed and became like children, they would never enter the kingdom of God. I had been raised to think you just prayed a prayer and somehow the right combination of secret words opened up heaven’s gates, but evidently there’s more to it. It’s a childlike faith—not a childish one—Jesus said would do the trick.”

Who I am 8

Knowing Christ as our Lord and Savior brings hope far beyond our imagination. Having Him in our lives brings a glimpse of heaven as He guides us and builds His character in us. I’ve been distracted far too many times with unreasonable expectations or standards that will make no difference in anyone’s life. But you and I will have an eternity to enjoy together, with no evil or pain. I hope we can develop a full on focus to be all in for Him, no matter what we are doing or where we are. All brokenness will be restored. Let’s commit our short lives to live for Him on purpose with no regrets or reservations. 

Who I am 7

 Evil works in subtle ways through division, disillusionment, discouragement, or disappointment. My thinking time often dwells on these issues, spiraling me out of alignment with Christ. But it is by His grace and mercy that He pulls me back to dwell on Him, and not on myself. All things, good and bad, can work for our betterment if we keep focused on His love for us. Our hold ups, hang ups, habits, or holes we’ve fallen into are opportunities to recalibrate who we want to be. 

Bob Goff states: “ Don’t wait until you are old to ask yourself: What have I done with all that time? Why not ask yourself right now? What am I going to do with all the time ahead of me? What do you want your answer to be? Once you decide what you want the future to look like, make a couple of moves like your life is actually yours to live—because it is.”

Who I am 6

Growing up I felt that I could never measure up to my parents’ expectations nor my own standards that I thought were so important. But as I’ve grown in my faith, I’ve learned that God loves me despite what I think or what the majority might be doing or saying. Christ has helped me conquer many of my fears but there are always new issues that arise. I’m praying the same for you, Neil, that you get it settled in your heart that you give it your all to be the man Jesus is calling to be. I’m rereading Bob Goff’s book “Undistracted”. He stares in chapter 6: “ The only script God has for us is Jesus. He doesn’t care about your alma mater or who you voted for or what your position is on the big topic of the day. He doesn’t care what’s in your bank account or whether you lead from in front or behind at a church. He doesn’t even care if you work at Disneyland. His only measuring stick for you is His Son, whom He loves.”

Who I am 5

 You and I are made new, . We should not feel stuck in the way we live, think, or feel. We can change into better men, a process that takes a lifetime because we will never be perfect until we see Christ. I’m thrilled you want to be more like Christ and I look forward to many more discussions to witness the change in you. 

Who I am 4

 We each have regrets and past failures. But these goof ups do not mean that God gives up on us. He uses the past to teach us that He loves us and wants to work in us to bring Him honor. He is our Creator and life changer. Imagine the man you will be as God builds His love into your life. He is the change maker. 

God made you the way you are for His reasons - to honor Him even more. The quality of your inner self, your character, your friendly welcome personality are qualities that most do not possess like you. You and I are deeply loved.

Who I am 3

I’ve always had a hard time forgiving a few people who do not seem to change with their consistent negative attitude. But I’m working on letting it go. Not forgiving and holding on to my own negativity only hurts myself. I can be my own worst enemy. I become more bitter and negative toward others, feeling trapped and victimized. But God is showing me my need to focus on what is good and true, those things that will outlast what is temporary. Disciplining myself to nip the negative thoughts in the bud, taking every thought captive yo Christ is a challenge, but very possible with His grace. You and I have a living hope that will last all through eternity. 

Who I am 2

Being a child of God is humbling. Our Father accepts us as we are and went to great lengths through Christ to allow us to be His children. We have no reason to be proud and arrogant because He did it all on our behalf. Sometimes I have operated from a privileged mindset, that I’m above all the down and out problems of the world. But no one is immune to suffering hardships. Yet, He continues to provide all we need to grow up into the people He wants us to be. I’m praying for you, Neil, that you continue to look up to Him for the strength and wisdom you need each day. May we both grasp the meaning of being a child of God, praying like a child, depending on our Father’s leading and training. 

Who I am 1

 I grew up with the feeling of being second best, or someone who didn’t deserve credit for any accomplishment. I’d never be good enough to be excellent at anything. But God is still teaching me that I’m loved beyond measure, and my mission is not to be important but to trust His leading. I’m His child living for His purpose, not mine. You and I are loved by our Father who wants to change us more and mor each day.  Like the verses stated, God does not look at a man’s outward appearance but his heart. 

Car window

Caleb, I’m confident you are able

To Rejoice in hope, saying to our culture’s pull -“ Nope”

You’ll be patient in affliction; saying no to our culture’s addictions

You’ll be persistent in prayer. because you’re a man who cares

You’re an example of peace to all due to you’re answer to Christ’s call  

Grace in the gray 2

 I’m wondering if God is teaching me (in some very personal ways) how to think Biblically, not so much what to think. Following Christ is changing the way I think, feel and act, toward God, others, and myself. The following jumped out in today’s reading: “ God even calls His chosen people Israel, which means “wrestles with God.” Maybe healthy relationships with God and people are built not on reluctant compliance but on a mutual trust that makes space for us to vent and work through it all.”  Working out my faith is a process that takes reflection, evaluation and a recalibrating. Like the reading said, if God remained mute or didn’t respond to anything, I could just go on like I have, becoming more if I have been - which may not be the best way to honor Him or best for me. 

Why Pray 4/29

 

Perhaps my past praying has been so weak because I didn’t want to change who I was on the inside.  My pride has kept me from praying deeply and specifically.  A friend recently told me, “I believe God can move mountains, and I should pray that way.  But God can also prepare my feet to climb over that mountain, and I also need to pray for that strength.”  May we deepen our praying, that we may be changes more, transformed into the likeness of Jesus.

Everything you do is connected to who you are as a person and, in turn, creates the person you are becoming. Everything you do affects those you love. All of life is covenant.
Imbedded in the idea of prayer is a richly textured view of the world where all of life is organized around invisible bonds or covenants that knit us together. Instead of a fixed world, we live in our Father's world, a world built for divine relationships between people where, because of the Good News, tragedies become comedies and hope is born.” - Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life: 

Peace

  

Peace is a commodity that can only be found with time spent seeking the face of God. The world can’t offer us peace because it has nothing in which to place its hope, trust, and security. Kingdoms come and go. Leaders move in and out of power. What societies value changes like the passing of the tides. Our only constant is God. He has been, is, and forever will be the Creator, Sustainer, and Lord of all. All authority has been given to him. He governs the change of seasons. He thwarts the plans of our enemy. And he longs to offer total and sustained peace to all who place their hope and trust in him.

Isaiah 26:3 says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Our God has peace in store for us in every situation if we will choose to keep our mind stayed on him and trust him. The world says that peace can only come when you’ve worked your fingers to the bone and have finally attained all you want. You can only have peace when you have enough money, friends, the right job, or the right spouse. You can only have peace if friends, family, and bosses like you. God’s way is to draw you into himself and offer you peace in the midst of your circumstances. He doesn’t want you to wait until everything gets worked out before you can have rest—he’s offering you rest right now.

Grace in the gray 1

 One statement jumped out: “ I want to cultivate a “tell me more” posture. I may win fewer arguments, but I might just learn a thing or two…”. With so much division and polarization in our culture, peace is very much needed to resolve and restore relationships. Disagreements on most any issue seems to be out in the open and I’m often fraud to bring up a topic, fearing I’m going to be taken the wrong way. I’ve been praying lately that others will see calmness, peace, and hope in what I say. Sometimes remaining silent prevents me from saying something stupid or offensive. A goal lately has been ‘say less, pray more.’  

Undistracted

 Chapter 1

From time to time we all find ourselves in dangerous places when we think we are safe. Distraction is what leads us into this kind of minefield. 

“You and I need to recognize the signs that we are becoming distracted.”

“Rather than making decisions consistent with who God says we are, we might be acting like the person someone else wants us to be.”

Sometimes we are so busy looking up and looking forward trying to figure out the next moves in our lives—or looking backward at all the places we have been—that we don’t look down and figure out where we actually are.

Why Pray 4/28

 Spurgeon’s comment is very sobering:  “He who prays without fervency does not pray at all. We cannot commune with God, who is a consuming fire, if there is no fire in our prayers.” I’m guilty of half hearted praying, not pleasing, not in anguish. I’ve often prayed with a transactional perspective - if God answers or doesn’t, I’ll be ok with whatever. But today’s verses do not teach a casual attitude in praying at all. I need to step my up my praying to a whole new level, being vulnerable with my weakness but courageously asking

“God also cheers when we come to him with our wobbling, unsteady prayers. Jesus does not say, “Come to me, all you who have learned how to concentrate in prayer, whose minds no longer wander, and I will give you rest.” - Paul Miller, A Praying Life

Why Pray 4/27

 To be honest, my prayer life is far from where it could be. The questions asked in today’s reading are very directed at self evaluation. There have been times I’ve prayed from a fatalistic view, as if asking for anything to change seemed out of line. During those times, I’ve prayed for better coping skills and resilience to meet the inevitable challenge. Other times I’ve prayed with specific requests, then forgotten about asking our Father, only to discover that He answered abundantly. I certainly want to be more faithful, disciplined, and excited to pray. I hope this devotional series ignited a fire for all of us. 

“I seek God daily because I need to. When I don’t meet God personally, thoughtfully, and humbly, I suffer the consequences. It’s analogous to forgetting to eat. I suffer because I am hungry, not because I feel guilty. “I’m hungry and I need to eat” is different from “I really should have eaten, and I failed again.” - David A. Powlison, How Does Sanctification Work?

Being a learner

 1 Corinthians 10:6-11

[6] Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. [7] Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.” [8] We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. [9] We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, [10] nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. [11] Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.

Entitled Christian thought

 5 Signs You’re An Entitled Christian

1. You impose unrealistic demands on others

2. You see others as “competition”

3. You have a hard time compromising

4. You crave the spotlight

5. You struggle with receiving feedback

BONUS: You complain a lot and rarely express gratitude.

Dave Adamson

The Lord’s Prayer

 Matthew 6:9-13

[9] Pray then like this: 

    “Our Father in heaven,

    hallowed be your name. Sacred, holy, respected with awe, set apart  never taken for granted, never used in a casual indifferent manner

    [10] Your kingdom come, - the reign of peacemaking, purity, meekness, His presence in you (Luke 17:10), God governing our hearts, working out His agenda

    your will be done,  life is about Him and nothing else  His agenda is the agenda of history, sociology, psychology, government, political science- all disciplines  

        on earth as it is in heaven. - the kingdom is not only  something for the distant future, but the here and now as well as the then  it’s for the urgency of the moment and the planning on a calendar everything needs to be recalibrated to the kingdom agenda  we are to look for the kingdom 

    [11] Give us this day our daily bread, 

    [12] and forgive us our debts,

        as we also have forgiven our debtors. 

    [13] And lead us not into temptation,

        but deliver us from evil.

21/63 - Caroline Leaf

 5 Step Cycle

1 Gather read watch listen what you are thinking and feeling and how thoughts and feelings are affecting actions

2 - reflect - ask answer and discuss what is going on with thoughts and feelings. Be objective with yiurself as if you are reflecting as an observer

3 - Write a journal, document reflections. Organize your thoughts and feelings but how you want to change. Not a complaint journal but a learning journal 

4 - Recheck, reanalyze, recalculate by talking it out with a supportive person

5 - Write down how you are taking action. Not just a me a gal agreement to what is going on bu how you are changing.

You are not a victim to life experiences. You are not a bystander but a participant who becomes a first responder. 

2 Cor 12:9. His grace is enough

Rom 12:2 transformed not conformed. Action toward Hope, faith and love. No longer a bystander.  

A new creature with new purpose and meaning. A new identity

Michael Sprague. Banged up people. Banged up leaders. Banged up families. Betrayal. Failure. Depression. Feeling Alone. Addictions. Tough Circumstances. Impossible Health Hurts. Broke. Wrong Choices. Self-destructiveness.  It’s easy to wonder if there’s any hope. Just like with the horse... more than a few reach for the shotgun.

When people are banged up it’s easy for some to just want to put banged up people down. Write them off. But just because someone is banged up doesn’t mean he or she isn’t worth anything! A horse may have to get out of the race for a time but it’s good for something. Ask Seabiscuit. You never know. 

The same is true with banged up people. They may drop out of the race for a time but their best days can be ahead. I see this all the time. It’s called REDEMPTION. It’s called GRACE. It’s called a SECOND CHANCE. 

I think this was the spirit of Jesus when he started his ministry with these words, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,

Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor.

He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives,

And recovery of sight to the blind,

To set free those who are oppressed,

To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.”

Remember, Jesus isn’t the religious guy. He is the life-giving guy. Lean into Him.

AUTONOMY. a must for self management and self regulation. As our ability to manage our mind improves our autonomy improves. We have a choice to respond to life. I’ve got this. I can handle this. Recognize toxic thoughts - trauma, victimization, bad habits. Toxic stress and anxiety. Being aware of toxicity through journaling and talking it out will change your perspective, transforming you. Recognize your well being. Supportive relationships vs manipulating relationships. Patient health awareness. 

Recognize the communication between two halves of brain. Depression anxiety sadness grief va satisfaction, joy, calmness. Tsunami style, catstrophizing inflexible fixed approach, fearing the next crisis vs I will deal with it. Over thinking second guessing vs getting unstuck and taking a risk at problem solving   Black and white, perfection thinking vs progressive learning to problem solve

  WISDOM. THINKINGLearning to allow neuron-plasticity to grow the kind of thinking to help you be empowered

“Be strong and get to work. You will experience the Lord’s provision, presence, and empowering grace in ways you never otherwise would. Don’t fear what the rest of the world fears. Jump into the river of God. Your life will never be the same.” - Susie Larson

Hope 4/26

What an awesome truth that God is described as Hope. The apostle Paul stated this truth with an emphasis of full confidence. Since He is Hope, He will fill us with all joy and peace in believing that He is Hope. But it’s more than trying to pull myself up by my own effort. Without the power of the Holy Spirit, my own efforts at being hopeful will be temporary. Being renewed by the mercy of His hope each day brings a rhythm and practice of His presence, and His kingdom established in the here and now.

“Be strong and get to work. You will experience the Lord’s provision, presence, and empowering grace in ways you never otherwise would. Don’t fear what the rest of the world fears. Jump into the river of God. Your life will never be the same.” - Susie Larson

Hope 4/25

I often think I’m suffering from amnesia!  I depend on myself to figure out solutions, feel victimized by circumstances, or get frustrated with people that I think should know better.  I forget who I am in Christ and do not think about the ripple effect of sin. Life is not perfect just because I say that I believe in what the Bible says. I often fail to take hold of the treasure I’ve been given, the Savior of the world who is transforming me to depend on Him, not myself or the false idols of power, prestige, or possessions.

“No matter if you are experiencing fears, gut wrenching pain and loss or  thundering beauty, adventure, and joy... I pray you will be ambushed by the presence of Jesus today and be awakened to a greater fullness of your calling in this world and the world to come. 2 Cor. 4:7 “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.”  - Michael Sprague

Hope 4/24

 It doesn’t take long to jot down a list of topics with uncertain outcomes. Anxiety can take over my thoughts at a rapid pace when I do not dwell on our Creator’s presence and His knowledge of every detail. Uncertainty requires hope and faith  the opposite is disillusionment and discouragement. Rather than feeling victimized by uncertainty or unfairness, I want to train myself to walk toward Hope. Scripture and the Holy Spirit’s power enable me to do just that, even though the uncertainty remains. 

“Hope waits but does not sit. It strains with eager anticipation to see what may be coming on the horizon. Hope does not pacify; it does not make us docile and mediocre. Instead, it draws us to greater risk and perseverance.” - 

Dan Allender

Swimming with sharks

 Swimming With the Sharks without Getting Eaten Alive

Michael Sprague

Life is not for the fainthearted. Our world simmers from Russian aggression to Islamic State militants

to our Southern Border Chaos to Religious Liberty Persecutions/Pressures Worldwide to juggling massive debt to values clashes. I wonder if God laughs at our madness or cries out of compassion. How do we negotiate it all? How do we swim with the sharks and not get eaten alive? I sure don’t have all the answers and I don’t think you can make it out of life’s waters without being harpooned… but I’ve been experiencing the fruit of the “With” Principle.

Christianity is not a subject to be mastered, but an infectious way to live “With” Jesus and shared “With” Others

Mark 3:14 says, “And he appointed twelve, so that they would be with him and that he would send them out.” 

Paul practiced this same approach with Barnabas, Timothy, Titus, Silas and so many faithful men and exhorts us in the “With” Principle throughout Timothy and Thessalonians. I have been having lots of appointments and Bible studies with leaders. What stands out to me is the value of the “With” Principle. It is the simple truth that the best discipleship and spiritual formation flows out of being “With” people while the Holy Spirit is in your midst. My work is not flowing out of any program, canned approach, special expertise or an agenda. I am planting a seed, watering it and watching it grow. I shepherd leaders, enfold strays and relate to people, not as a job, but as a way of life. It is just sort of like breathing. I don’t know any other way.

It is so easy to approach relationships out of agendas sometimes hidden agendas. I’m enjoying the “With” Principle. I don’t have to have all the answers and don’t have to always be on the top of my game. I am a fellow traveler and sometimes struggler. In fact, a while ago, when I taught on the topic of failure, it produced the greatest discussion in a long time. I disciple out of a man’s life by asking questions. I disciple out of my life by sharing victories, defeats, experiences and learnings, and I disciple out of Jesus’ life through the Word of God. I’m seeing the kingdom is at its best when underground, counter-cultural, stealthy, quiet, humble, hopeful and positive. Too much of the Faith seems to be negative, loud, problem-centered and angry.

I feel like Andrew who got to tell his friends, “You have to see this!! We’ve met the Messiah!” (John 1:42) I have seen leaders freed up from bondage. I’ve seen men truly hear His voice and enjoy Truth chase away lies. Some with dark clouds and shark bites have discovered hope. I walk with leaders living in shark infested waters who choose to cling one more day to Jesus even as they await their rescue. Yup, walking “With”men has been good this month. Give it a try. Somebody needs to be “With” you and With “Jesus”.

Improv Discipleship

 

How Discipleship Mirrors Sketch and Improv Comedy 

APRIL 21, 2023  |  HUNTER WILLIAMS 

©Photo by Matthew Jungling on Unsplash 

  

I would never say discipleship is a laughing matter. It’s a glorious process in which the Spirit works to form God’s people into the likeness of Christ. It’s the call of all Christians and the purpose of every church. Discipleship is serious business, but I think comedy provides a helpful way to understand it.

Every discipling encounter takes one of two forms: planned or unplanned. I’ve come to frame these forms of discipleship as “sketch discipleship” and “improv discipleship.”

Advertise on TGC

Sketch Discipleship (Set-Aside Moments to Teach)

“Sketch discipleship” refers to planned discipleship, and the name comes from a specific form of comedy.

In the acting world, a sketch is a short scene or vignette performed by a group of actors or comedians. These sketches are scripted, rehearsed, and performed within a specific time frame. Saturday Night Liveis the most recognizable example.

Many of our discipling encounters take on a form similar to sketch comedy. They’re set-aside moments dedicated to reading Scripture, teaching biblical truths, praying, and facilitating Christ-centered conversation. These moments are expected, planned, and often rehearsed.

Biblical examples of this form of discipleship can be seen in the righteous man’s consistent meditation on God’s law (Ps. 1:1–3), the devotion of the early church to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship (Acts 2:42), and the example of daily prayer given by Christ (Matt. 6:9–13).

Modern examples of sketch discipleship could include a family that schedules daily Scripture reading at breakfast or a Sunday School teacher who preps to teach a class. It could be two friends who read and discuss a classic Christian book or a parent rehearsing how she’ll lovingly correct her teenage son. No matter the location or number of people, this form of discipleship is typically mapped out. It follows a pattern and is usually predictable in its scope and outcome.

While planned discipleship might be the most common way discipleship is explained, it’s not the most common way discipleship is experienced. Broadly speaking, discipleship is formation, meaning whatever is forming our identity, character, and direction in life is discipling us. Planned teaching moments shape us, but so do life’s unplanned moments. Understanding this aspect of our spiritual formation leads us to the next form of discipleship: improv.

Improv Discipleship (Sought-After Teachable Moments)

Improv (improvisation) is an acting form in which the performance is unplanned, unscripted, and created spontaneously by the performers. Typically, the only direction given is a suggested topic or scenario. The actors must improvise and turn these minimal directions into comedy gold.

Whatever is forming our identity, character, and direction in life is discipling us.

 

Similarly, improv discipleship takes life’s unexpected moments and turns them into teachable moments that point to Christ. It usually involves our reactions to situations and responses in conversation.

Biblical examples of this form of discipleship can be seen in the “as you go” style of teaching the Israelites were to give their children (Deut. 6:4–9) and the theological correction Priscilla and Aquila gave Apollos after hearing him teach in the synagogue (Acts 18:24–28).

Modern examples of improv discipleship could include a father apologizing to his son after losing his temper or a grandmother pointing out God’s glory in creation while taking her grandchildren on a walk outside. It could be a college student praying for a friend after she receives bad news or a believer declaring the goodness of God in the gospel after a neighbor expresses his doubts. Often it looks like responding to news events or social media controversies with insights grounded in biblical wisdom.

In acting and in certain forms of music (like jazz), good improvisation can seem effortless. But in reality, it takes a lot of skill, cultivated and practiced over time. If we want to be more effective in improv discipleship—faithfully pointing to Christ in the unplanned moments of life—we need to develop and practice skills.

That’s why activities like personal Bible reading, prayer, and meditation are called “spiritual practices” or “spiritual disciplines.” What we discipline ourselves to practice privately will spill out of us relationally, when opportunities arise. Conversely, if we aren’t practicing spiritual disciplines and cultivating Christian wisdom in between discipling encounters, then what spills out of us in the unplanned moments of life won’t be of Christ.

How Sketch and Improv Work Together

In college, we had a comedy group on campus called “informal” that performed a mix of sketch and improv comedy. Several group members lived on my dorm floor, and I saw how well their two brands of comedy complemented each other. I learned that some of the funniest moments in their sketches were improvised and some of their greatest improvisations flowed out of their sketches. Their improvement in one always sharpened their skills in the other, increasing their overall success as a group.

What we discipline ourselves to practice privately will spill out of us relationally, when opportunities arise.

 

Similarly, sketch and improv discipleship differ, but they’re not designed to work in isolation. A wise disciple recognizes the relationship between the two forms of disciple making and moves seamlessly between them. I say “wise” because discipleship isn’t just a mission we pursue; it’s a skill we develop. It requires wisdom.

Wisdom is the ability to apply the right knowledge at the right time in the right way. Similar to a comedian’s ability to tell a joke with the right timing and delivery, or an athlete’s ability to adjust his playing style in the middle of a game, a wise disciple of Jesus can apply one form of discipleship then another, depending on the circumstance.

As you strive to fulfill the Great Commission, I pray the ideas of sketch and improv discipleship provide you with a helpful framework and renew your joy in making disciples.

Disappointment vs Resentment

 How many times do I need to remind myself that hope does not rest in the things of this earth nor in people. Putting total trust in people can be dangerous because each person is fallible. Each of us will be accountable for everything we have said and done, and my over reaction to what I think is fair or unfair will come back to haunt me. God is good and He alone can be truly trusted. He will bring good out of the bad all for His glory. My job is to be faithful to Him, resting in His peace and presence. I can be resentful bitter and angry but those emotions counter any good that could be His working. My role is to deny these emotional reactions and follow Him, looking for His kingdom and His righteousness. 

Bob Goff says that our Father is looking for more than a mental agreement to the information. He wants us to do something with it. 

Hope 4/23

 As followers of Jesus, it’s essential to stick with following Him. We are called to persevere in a number of life issues, to hang on to hope during the chaos—moving forward, heading toward the day when Christ returns or takes us home. Life in our broken sinful world means coping with crises, trauma, and disorder. But we are His workmanship. He is bringing purpose out of the chaotic, meaning into what most interpret as meaningless.

“Jesus is with you. He reaches for you. He speaks peace to your soul and healing to your heart. You need Him more than your desires, and He holds you more firmly than your fears hold you. Try letting go. Try trusting Him here. Try imagining the good things He has planned for you.” - Susie Larson

Hope 4/21

 If my life were displayed in a film I’m not sure many would see hop on what I have said. But I’ve felt the hope offered in the Bible time and time again. The darkest times have resulted in hope because nothing can separate us from His love. That’s an awesome statement in Romans 8, one that should hello us endure most anything. 

“I seek God daily because I need to. When I don’t meet God personally, thoughtfully, and humbly, I suffer the consequences. It’s analogous to forgetting to eat. I suffer because I am hungry, not because I feel guilty. “I’m hungry and I need to eat” is different from “I really should have eaten, and I failed again.” - David A. Powlison, How Does Sanctification Work?

Hope 4/22

 How do you dredge up hope during your times of crisis?  How do you become hopeful even though you are disappointed and discouraged?  It seems when I’m in a funk or I’ve hit a low, I sense that the evil force in our world is trying to undermine my faith and hope. Romans 8:1 reminds me that I’m no longer condemned and do not need to feel ashamed and guilty. Rather than feeling victimized by a predicament or problem, Inness to take action and call out my downcast attitude fir what it, reaching up to Him. 

“May the Lord Himself establish you in His best purposes for you. May He strengthen you with holy conviction and gritty faith to climb every mountain He's assigned to you. May He increase your capacity to love and encourage others.” - Susie Larson

Dangerous 7

 It’s scary to ask God to break and disturb my comfortable lifestyle. Most of us live a cushy life with no persecution or physical suffering because of our faith. My life has been privileged compared to most global citizens, but as our culture rapidly, changes, I wonder if we will be able to continue in such luxury. The political upheaval, distrust, anger, and loneliness we feel could be warning signs of things to come. I worry about the increase in teen depression and suicide, which can be symptomatic of so many cultural issues. I worry about my grandchildren growing up in a world that devalues integrity and character. What will their world be like with a minority knowing anything about church, Scripture or a sovereign God?  I wonder if I’m being too negative or if I’m another frog that isn’t aware of the rising temperature in the pot. We cannot change our entire culture overnight but we can encourage a few to be courageous Christ followers.

“At some point in my life of faith I realized I knew plenty of things about Jesus but hadn’t actually done anything with Jesus. I was like a professor who taught the class but wasn’t a practitioner. I knew the verses about the poor and the widows and the orphans. Meanwhile I had never done a single thing to be like Jesus to them.” Excerpt, Undistracted, by Bob Goff

Dangerous 6

 My prayers are much too safe, and I fear that I will grow too comfortable with my comfort as a retiree. I have struggled with how available I am for His use since retiring as I’ve missed being around youth so much of my life. But I now I’m burned out from the busy life of a rigorous schedule  I’m praying that God will show me new opportunities to be sent.by Him. My tiredness is matched by a restlessness that wants to do more, yet not be committed to an everyday list of ‘to do’s’ to feel guilty about. 

Lord. Empower us with wisdom and passion to be doing the right activities that will make a difference in your Ingdom

Dangerous 5

 I want life to be safe and comfortable. But statistically, I’m guessing most of us have either come out of a crisis or we are headed into one. The hazards of living in a broken world with sinful people (including my own sin) has consequences that are not pleasant. I’d like to avoid conflict, loss, and grief, but my chance of avoiding these calamities does not look good. The conclusion is that life is not about me getting my way. Our Lord is searching for those who love Him and are surrendered to Him. I wonder if most of us are too busy to even see the need to be broken and surrendered to Him. We live in a culture plagued by noise, schedules, and constant distractions. Praying to be broken, contrite, reflective, and surrendered might require waiting, quiet commitment to be unnoticed, and a rut hum of constant conversation with our Lord. 

“Do not presume to do the work of God from any foundation other than an ongoing relationship with Him. How can we possibly think we will have wisdom, untiring love, and strength to persevere unless we sit daily at the feet of the Savior?” - Diane Langberg

Dangerous 4

 It seems like our culture is filled with fear and anxiety. I’m sure there have been other times in history when fear dominated the thinking of many, but so many lack the emotional support and foundation of values to be resilient. If there could be a plan to undermine confidence in the future, from a secular view, it would include strategies for enhancing anger, division, despair and disillusionment. It’s easy to be sucked into a vortex of negativity if we are not steadfastly rooted in God’s sovereignty and love. Life is filled with tests to filter out our anxieties and trust Him more deeply. 

Lord, empower us to see through the strategies to undermine our faith in you. Help us to surrender ourselves to your sovereignty and protection from despair, frustration, and division. 

Dangerous 3

 Asking God to search my heart, revealing what is holding me back from Him, is very revealing. Knowing a lot of faith related information is not what God wants. I can feel arrogant at times that I’ve accumulated religious information but when I see my practice of kindness, patience, justice, and humility, I’m convicted of my sinful self. 

Lord, You know us better than we know ourselves. Open our eyes to see what we need to change that we may live for you with no regrets and no reservations. Amen. 

“How do you think your life might change if you prayed daily a daring, faith-filled prayer of whole-life devotion to the one who gave it all for you?” - Craig Groeschel, Dangerous Prayers

Dangerous 2

 Craig Groeschel:  “Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves, when our dreams have come true because we have dreamed too little, when we arrived safely because we sailed too close to the shore. Disturb us, Lord, when with the abundance of things we possess, we have lost our thirst for the waters of life; having fallen in love with life, we have ceased to dream of eternity, and in our efforts to build a new earth, we have allowed our vision of the new heaven to dim. Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly, to venture on wider seas, where storms will show your mastery; where losing sight of land, we shall find the stars. We ask you to push back the horizon of our hopes; and to push back the future in strength, courage, hope, and love. This we ask in the name of our Captain, who is Jesus Christ. Amen!.” 

I have often found myself praying in a fatalistic mindset. Instead of asking God to intervene and make a way, I’ve prayed that God would help me accept what ever outcome He allows to happen. It’s as if I’ve adopted the attitude “It is what it is.”  Craig Groeschel emphasizes the point that God is in pursuit of us, wanting us to fully surrender and be available to Him. Our Father is approachable and He constantly searches for those who desire Him, who want to glorify Him, wanting to be put to good use.  Let’s commit to pray boldly with risk.  May God change my fatalism to believing that my praying matters!

Dangerous Prayer 1

 I’m learning that many of my prayers are half hearted at best, despite my anxiety. But if I know that my Father cares, what’s holding me back from praying boldly?  It’s often my focus and passion to surrender my will to Him deeply and fully.  I’m also too distracted with other goals that do not compare in weight or magnitude. Reading God’s Word, praying, praising Him, and searching for what He would have me do or say are daily exercises that bring great return. Neglecting them squelches my desire to listen to the Holy Spirit or the desire to honor Christ. Life becomes all about me without a desire to honor Him. Even doing good things without the right perspective can turn into a selfish rabbit trail. The need to exercise these godly habits is an everyday battle with new circumstances to work it all out. But He is faithful each and every day. I hope you sense this to be true throughout your life. 

Hope 4/20

This is a great reminder to me:  “Hope is not passive. “. Inner to exercise hope, step into it. I cannot wait for hope to just happen. Just like like lifting weights or running a mile, I need to start small and work up to the goal. I need to take action toward Hope each day by my mental mindset. ,talking issues out, praying, gratitude, music, reading verses aloud, and the list goes on of what I can do to build my rythym of hope. If our physical bodies are strengthened by weights and food, how much more will our hearts be strengthened by our almighty and everlasting God? 

“The Son of God came into the world to save sinners. You do not need to fear telling the truth about yourself. He already knows.” - David A. Powlison, Making All Things New

Hearing God 24

This statement jumped out:  “We must ultimately move beyond the question of hearing God and into a life greater than our own—that of the kingdom of God. Our concern for discerning God’s voice must be overwhelmed by our worship and adoration of him and in our delight with his creation and his provision for our whole life.”  As I’ve focused on getting an answer to my prayer, or wanting God to show up, I’ve missed worshipping Him at times. As Rick Warren has taught, life is not about you or me. It’s about the glory of Christ. The more I rest in His love, I’m in awe of Him. How could the Creator be that interested in me?  

Hope 4/19

Great questions: “Will you put your hope in Me, the source of all things no matter what you are facing? Or is your hope in the resource of a person or job?” I’m guilty of putting Hope in resources that are temporary. I’ve also built false hope in certain leaders who have sadly, even disgustingly, disappointed. I’m slowly learning to guard myself from these discouragements, and I’m trying to build a stronger foundation of hope in the King of kings, looking for His kingdom and His righteousness.

“I seek God daily because I need to. When I don’t meet God personally, thoughtfully, and humbly, I suffer the consequences. It’s analogous to forgetting to eat. I suffer because I am hungry, not because I feel guilty. “I’m hungry and I need to eat” is different from “I really should have eaten, and I failed again.” - David A. Powlison, How Does Sanctification Work?

Needing Doscipleship

 Michael Sprague

Could the foremost need of our day be the disciplemaking of men and women? Do you agree or disagree? What would happen if we focused more time and energy on developing disciples?

Now think about Jesus’ life and ministry and run it through the diagram. He started small, stealthy and unconventional, but the work rippled in all directions.

Now, think through the strategy of the early church and run it through the diagram. See a pattern?

If the first and foremost need of our day is disciplemaking … what does that mean for you? Ponder deeply.

My application is stay steady, faithful, and focused on the disciplemaking of leaders. Nothing flashy, showy, or grandiose is required. If I abide in Jesus, He will bring the fruit. If I build trust-filled relationships, good things will come. I just need to keep my hand to the plow and live out grace-adventures. How about you?