Becoming a Christian
To become a Christian it is important not only to understand and agree with Christian beliefs, but also to rely on these things for your life and salvation. We must put into practice what we believe by forgiving others and by living a life free from corruption.
Believe
An important step in becoming a Christian is to realise that no man is perfect. Although compared to others we may be above the average, who amongst us could say that they live a life without any hint of self-interest or desire.
How shall we answer the heavenly Judge when he calls us to account? Let us contemplate that Judge, not as our own unaided intellect conceives of him, but as he is portrayed to us in the Bible, with a brightness which obscures the stars, a strength which melts the mountains, an anger which shakes the earth, a wisdom which takes the wise in their own craftiness, a purity before which all things become impure, a righteousness to which not even angels are equal. Let Him, I say, sit in judgment on the actions of men, and who will feel secure in standing before His throne? (John Calvin)
Rather than despairing over our own nature we should turn to God, knowing that He offers us forgiveness for all that we have done wrong. Instead of God demanding punishment for our sin He has given us a way out, a lifeboat which can save us from the sinking ship.
His chosen one, Jesus Christ, the true child of God, who he loved and committed all things to, was given up as a sacrifice in our place. Being both divine and human, it meant that he could be a unique mediator between man and God. His death was an offering by all believers to say sorry for their sins and to beg forgiveness from a holy God. When we follow Jesus we are partakers of this sacrifice, and so the things which we have done in the past will not be used against us.
When we commit ourselves to becoming Christians we are adopted into the family of God, to become sons and heirs. God, who has done so much for us in the past, will continue to help us in the future. His tender care and awesome wisdom will never fail us. We can rest on Him as a loving Father who will love us, protect us and guide us in all the tough times which lie ahead.
Christian life
To follow Jesus means that we have a faith which trusts in God and loves the pure things of life.
It is impossible that faith ever stop doing good. Faith doesn't ask whether good works are to be done, but, before it is asked, it has done them. It is always active. Whoever doesn't do such works is without faith; he gropes and searches about him for faith and good works but doesn't know what faith or good works are. (Martin Luther)
We must love others even when they do not love us. We must help and care for those who have wronged us and caused us trouble. There can be no excuses - we must love and forgive, just as our Heavenly Father has forgiven us. We must let no good deed go undone, nor any chance of helping others be missed. We must live as Jesus lived and use his life and his teachings as the model for our own lives.
The road ahead may be difficult, but we can choose no other way. When trouble comes we know that we can trust in God who has promised that he will never allow us to go through more than we can bear. We will also have the spirit of God dwelling within us, helping us, strengthening us and leading us in the right path, producing the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control.
Your decision
If you want to turn to God there is no need for delay. He is ready and willing to adopt you as his own child, all that you have to do is ask. Whoever comes to Him will never be turned away, so just ask Him to forgive you and plead for help on the journey ahead.
The Christian life is not easy if it is attempted in isolation. You should try to find a church close to your home where you can hear more about God and meet others who share your faith. If you would like to find churches in your local area just search the databases shown below.
United Kingdom United States May God help you and strengthen you on the way ahead.
Believe
An important step in becoming a Christian is to realise that no man is perfect. Although compared to others we may be above the average, who amongst us could say that they live a life without any hint of self-interest or desire.
How shall we answer the heavenly Judge when he calls us to account? Let us contemplate that Judge, not as our own unaided intellect conceives of him, but as he is portrayed to us in the Bible, with a brightness which obscures the stars, a strength which melts the mountains, an anger which shakes the earth, a wisdom which takes the wise in their own craftiness, a purity before which all things become impure, a righteousness to which not even angels are equal. Let Him, I say, sit in judgment on the actions of men, and who will feel secure in standing before His throne? (John Calvin)
Rather than despairing over our own nature we should turn to God, knowing that He offers us forgiveness for all that we have done wrong. Instead of God demanding punishment for our sin He has given us a way out, a lifeboat which can save us from the sinking ship.
His chosen one, Jesus Christ, the true child of God, who he loved and committed all things to, was given up as a sacrifice in our place. Being both divine and human, it meant that he could be a unique mediator between man and God. His death was an offering by all believers to say sorry for their sins and to beg forgiveness from a holy God. When we follow Jesus we are partakers of this sacrifice, and so the things which we have done in the past will not be used against us.
When we commit ourselves to becoming Christians we are adopted into the family of God, to become sons and heirs. God, who has done so much for us in the past, will continue to help us in the future. His tender care and awesome wisdom will never fail us. We can rest on Him as a loving Father who will love us, protect us and guide us in all the tough times which lie ahead.
Christian life
To follow Jesus means that we have a faith which trusts in God and loves the pure things of life.
It is impossible that faith ever stop doing good. Faith doesn't ask whether good works are to be done, but, before it is asked, it has done them. It is always active. Whoever doesn't do such works is without faith; he gropes and searches about him for faith and good works but doesn't know what faith or good works are. (Martin Luther)
We must love others even when they do not love us. We must help and care for those who have wronged us and caused us trouble. There can be no excuses - we must love and forgive, just as our Heavenly Father has forgiven us. We must let no good deed go undone, nor any chance of helping others be missed. We must live as Jesus lived and use his life and his teachings as the model for our own lives.
The road ahead may be difficult, but we can choose no other way. When trouble comes we know that we can trust in God who has promised that he will never allow us to go through more than we can bear. We will also have the spirit of God dwelling within us, helping us, strengthening us and leading us in the right path, producing the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control.
Your decision
If you want to turn to God there is no need for delay. He is ready and willing to adopt you as his own child, all that you have to do is ask. Whoever comes to Him will never be turned away, so just ask Him to forgive you and plead for help on the journey ahead.
The Christian life is not easy if it is attempted in isolation. You should try to find a church close to your home where you can hear more about God and meet others who share your faith. If you would like to find churches in your local area just search the databases shown below.
United Kingdom United States May God help you and strengthen you on the way ahead.
From the Doctor’s Diary-12- Jesus Saves
" Because he loves me, says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name." (Psalms 91:14)
Jesus has averted many potentially disastrous accidents in our lives. I remember one incident in particular. After finishing my work for the day at the clinic, I walked to my car parked in the vicinity of the clinic. I started my car and had just moved forward turning to the right, when I heard a snapping sound at the left front of the vehicle. Disembarking to check after stopping the car, to my shock I found the left joint wheel broken and the left tyre lying in an ackward position.
After getting a mechanic and having the thing fixed, as I travelled, I thought of the incident. It may look trivial on the whole but suppose it had happened in the middle of traffic or at a busy intersection or when the vehicle was in full speed; the consequences would have been disastrous. Jesus averted a great calamity by letting the thing that happened, only just as I started the vehicle.
Often we as believers tend to consider such happenings as trivial or of no importance when infact God works silently day in and day out averting dangers and disasters for us. May all the glory be to Him for doing so.
Jesus has averted many potentially disastrous accidents in our lives. I remember one incident in particular. After finishing my work for the day at the clinic, I walked to my car parked in the vicinity of the clinic. I started my car and had just moved forward turning to the right, when I heard a snapping sound at the left front of the vehicle. Disembarking to check after stopping the car, to my shock I found the left joint wheel broken and the left tyre lying in an ackward position.
After getting a mechanic and having the thing fixed, as I travelled, I thought of the incident. It may look trivial on the whole but suppose it had happened in the middle of traffic or at a busy intersection or when the vehicle was in full speed; the consequences would have been disastrous. Jesus averted a great calamity by letting the thing that happened, only just as I started the vehicle.
Often we as believers tend to consider such happenings as trivial or of no importance when infact God works silently day in and day out averting dangers and disasters for us. May all the glory be to Him for doing so.
From the Doctor’s Diary-23-Water Baptism
Water Baptism by itself does not guarantee a place for the believer in heaven. In other words one does not take water baptism to go to heaven. The Bible says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8, 9)
But that doesn’t mean one should not take water Baptism. Water Baptism is taken by the believer after one accepts Jesus Christ as Saviour for the following reasons:
1) It is the Lord’s command (Mathew 28:18-20),
2) It is an act of being obedient to God (Mark 16:16)
3) It is an Apostolic Doctrine for the New Testament Church (Acts 2:36-38, 41)
4) It is a pledge of a good conscience (1 Peter 3:18 -22)
5) It is a public profession of faith in Jesus &His victory over Satan (Romans 6:3-5)
6) It fulfills all righteousness (Acts 10:44-48) (Mathew 3 13-17)
7) It is an act of faith (Colossians 2:11-12)
Some say, “Let God speak to me directly, then I’ll submit to this. He has spoken about it clearly in His Word. Perhaps He has been speaking but they are not hearing.
Let me give you an example.
One day as I traveled to my clinic in my car, I heard the still small voice of God telling me, “Sir” has not taken Water Baptism yet.” Very unusual I thought because I hadn’t been thinking about that man or praying for him. God was referring to a man who left his vocation in teaching and administration to serve God. He is a good believer working for the Lord in his capacity; often I had been telling him for the past 2 years that Water Baptism is important and that he should take it. And now the still small voice tells me “Sir has not taken water baptism yet”
I parked my car and walked to the clinic; got busy with seeing my patients. After I had seen a few, guess who walked in? “Sir & his Wife.” After exchanging pleasantries I asked him why he had come. And he said, “Doctor, did you forget? You told me to come here today. I was surprised. I asked him. “When did I ask you to come?” Yesterday Night”, he said.
“But I didn’t meet you yesterday night.” I replied smiling. “Well, I called you at 8.00 p. m. and you told me that I can come and meet you today at 10.00 a. m.””. It couldn’t have been. I was preaching at another place yesterday at 8.00 p. m. “But that’s impossible! I called you at home and you gave me an appointment today.
“Sir! I came home at around 10.00 p. m. yesterday and there were no phone calls after I had left home according to the servant of whom I enquired when I came back. “Look! He said; Isn’t this your number? You gave it to me three months back when I saw you last. When I saw the number, I immediately knew what this was all about. The number that he showed was of my phone which I had already cancelled and given back to the exchange. This was an astounding miracle that God had done just to bring this man once again to me so that I tell him to get Water Baptized. Sure, he must have dialed the number that he had. But perhaps God or his angel answered him on the phone and said “Come tomorrow, 10.00 a.m.” I laughed and told him the thing that God had spoken to me while I traveled to the clinic that morning. God’s voice being very clear “Sir has not taken Water Baptism yet”
He and his wife listened very intently as I once again spoke to them about Water Baptism; They left after a while astounded at what had happened. But the tragedy of it all
I met this man after about 3 months and while conversing I asked him, “Sir, so did you finally take Water Baptism?”
“No he said, God has yet to speak to me about it”.
Jesus once said, “In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
“You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving” (Matthew 13:14)
But that doesn’t mean one should not take water Baptism. Water Baptism is taken by the believer after one accepts Jesus Christ as Saviour for the following reasons:
1) It is the Lord’s command (Mathew 28:18-20),
2) It is an act of being obedient to God (Mark 16:16)
3) It is an Apostolic Doctrine for the New Testament Church (Acts 2:36-38, 41)
4) It is a pledge of a good conscience (1 Peter 3:18 -22)
5) It is a public profession of faith in Jesus &His victory over Satan (Romans 6:3-5)
6) It fulfills all righteousness (Acts 10:44-48) (Mathew 3 13-17)
7) It is an act of faith (Colossians 2:11-12)
Some say, “Let God speak to me directly, then I’ll submit to this. He has spoken about it clearly in His Word. Perhaps He has been speaking but they are not hearing.
Let me give you an example.
One day as I traveled to my clinic in my car, I heard the still small voice of God telling me, “Sir” has not taken Water Baptism yet.” Very unusual I thought because I hadn’t been thinking about that man or praying for him. God was referring to a man who left his vocation in teaching and administration to serve God. He is a good believer working for the Lord in his capacity; often I had been telling him for the past 2 years that Water Baptism is important and that he should take it. And now the still small voice tells me “Sir has not taken water baptism yet”
I parked my car and walked to the clinic; got busy with seeing my patients. After I had seen a few, guess who walked in? “Sir & his Wife.” After exchanging pleasantries I asked him why he had come. And he said, “Doctor, did you forget? You told me to come here today. I was surprised. I asked him. “When did I ask you to come?” Yesterday Night”, he said.
“But I didn’t meet you yesterday night.” I replied smiling. “Well, I called you at 8.00 p. m. and you told me that I can come and meet you today at 10.00 a. m.””. It couldn’t have been. I was preaching at another place yesterday at 8.00 p. m. “But that’s impossible! I called you at home and you gave me an appointment today.
“Sir! I came home at around 10.00 p. m. yesterday and there were no phone calls after I had left home according to the servant of whom I enquired when I came back. “Look! He said; Isn’t this your number? You gave it to me three months back when I saw you last. When I saw the number, I immediately knew what this was all about. The number that he showed was of my phone which I had already cancelled and given back to the exchange. This was an astounding miracle that God had done just to bring this man once again to me so that I tell him to get Water Baptized. Sure, he must have dialed the number that he had. But perhaps God or his angel answered him on the phone and said “Come tomorrow, 10.00 a.m.” I laughed and told him the thing that God had spoken to me while I traveled to the clinic that morning. God’s voice being very clear “Sir has not taken Water Baptism yet”
He and his wife listened very intently as I once again spoke to them about Water Baptism; They left after a while astounded at what had happened. But the tragedy of it all
I met this man after about 3 months and while conversing I asked him, “Sir, so did you finally take Water Baptism?”
“No he said, God has yet to speak to me about it”.
Jesus once said, “In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
“You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving” (Matthew 13:14)
For Those Who are Hidden
God has taken of His treasured ones and placed them in safe keeping until the time of their call. This can be a very lonely place if we don't recognize that we are in this position according to the hand of God.
How many of you now feel forgotten by God although you have served Him faithfully? How many of you are wondering why the promises that you believe you have received have not come to pass? God has not forgotten! He is faithful to bring forth what He has promised and will do so at the appointed time.
Hab 2:2-3
2 Then the Lord answered me and said,
" Record the vision
And inscribe it on tablets,
That the one who reads it may run.
3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time;
It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail.
Though it tarries, wait for it;
For it will certainly come, it will not delay.
NASU
This was God's reply to the prophet Habakkuk when he complained to the Lord that the land had become filled with evil and he couldn't comprehend what he viewed as God's lack of response.
The Prophet had complained,
Hab 1:13
Why are You silent when the wicked swallow up
Those more righteous than they?
NASU
I am amazed at the Lord's patience with us who endeavor to feebly serve Him. He didn't admonish the prophet for his lack of faith in the promise of God, He simply told him that the promise is sure.
What so many of us fail to grasp is that the Lord of all creation never does anything in a vacuum. What He has promised us is connected to, and interwoven with, every other other promise to each individual, , as well as the bringing forth of His purpose throughout the earth.
Many of His people are hidden and many of His people are in the process of preparation . They have been rejected by the world, and their ministries misunderstood by many of the body of Christ. Yet when the time is right according to the will of God He shall bring forth everything He has spoken, and those He has kept hidden in the womb of preparation shall be birthed forth to reveal His glory
From hiding to manifestation according to the promise of God! Pastor G
How many of you now feel forgotten by God although you have served Him faithfully? How many of you are wondering why the promises that you believe you have received have not come to pass? God has not forgotten! He is faithful to bring forth what He has promised and will do so at the appointed time.
Hab 2:2-3
2 Then the Lord answered me and said,
" Record the vision
And inscribe it on tablets,
That the one who reads it may run.
3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time;
It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail.
Though it tarries, wait for it;
For it will certainly come, it will not delay.
NASU
This was God's reply to the prophet Habakkuk when he complained to the Lord that the land had become filled with evil and he couldn't comprehend what he viewed as God's lack of response.
The Prophet had complained,
Hab 1:13
Why are You silent when the wicked swallow up
Those more righteous than they?
NASU
I am amazed at the Lord's patience with us who endeavor to feebly serve Him. He didn't admonish the prophet for his lack of faith in the promise of God, He simply told him that the promise is sure.
What so many of us fail to grasp is that the Lord of all creation never does anything in a vacuum. What He has promised us is connected to, and interwoven with, every other other promise to each individual, , as well as the bringing forth of His purpose throughout the earth.
Many of His people are hidden and many of His people are in the process of preparation . They have been rejected by the world, and their ministries misunderstood by many of the body of Christ. Yet when the time is right according to the will of God He shall bring forth everything He has spoken, and those He has kept hidden in the womb of preparation shall be birthed forth to reveal His glory
From hiding to manifestation according to the promise of God! Pastor G
From the Doctor’s Diary-7-Legalism
Christians are caught up in all kinds of legalism in their lives. Here is an account of one such incident that a patient of mine recounted. She was very particular that her children, 2 teenager sons, read the Bible and pray before they had dinner every evening. The sons were not so much in favor of this but to please their mother they nevertheless did it. One evening the younger son was hungry and pleaded with his mother that he eat before the evening family prayer. The mother forbid him from doing so, telling him that, that would be a dishonor to God and that she would not serve him food. The little talk snowballed into an argument with neither willing to give up. Finally the boy ran to the kitchen and filled his plate with the food prepared for dinner. The mother, seeing this ran after him and snatched the plate from his hands and spat into it. On seeing this, the boy started weeping uncontrollably and receded to a corner and did not pray or eat that evening; neither did he talk to his mother for several days.
This mother, as she told me this story of hers was guilt ridden regarding the whole thing. A day after the incident, as she was resting in her room, lightning struck her house and a whole lot of valuable items were destroyed. This made her think and she finally came to a conclusion that it was because of her insensitivity to her boy that God had punished her.
Whether this was God’s way of dealing with the problem thus, is not the question here, but the legalism in the attitude of the mother.
It’s good to give our best time to the Lord, but would God be angry if we prayed after dinner?
The Bible says,
“You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.” (Galatians 5:4)
“The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself.”(Galatians 5:14)
“But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.” (Galatians 5:1
“We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.” (1 Timothy 1:
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:12, 13)
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Legalism destroys our own peace and we bring misery to others too. So let’s abide by the advice given by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ-
“I desire mercy, not sacrifice.”(Matthew 12:7)
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”(Matthew 5:7)
This mother, as she told me this story of hers was guilt ridden regarding the whole thing. A day after the incident, as she was resting in her room, lightning struck her house and a whole lot of valuable items were destroyed. This made her think and she finally came to a conclusion that it was because of her insensitivity to her boy that God had punished her.
Whether this was God’s way of dealing with the problem thus, is not the question here, but the legalism in the attitude of the mother.
It’s good to give our best time to the Lord, but would God be angry if we prayed after dinner?
The Bible says,
“You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.” (Galatians 5:4)
“The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself.”(Galatians 5:14)
“But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.” (Galatians 5:1
“We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.” (1 Timothy 1:
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:12, 13)
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Legalism destroys our own peace and we bring misery to others too. So let’s abide by the advice given by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ-
“I desire mercy, not sacrifice.”(Matthew 12:7)
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”(Matthew 5:7)
7 Success Principles for Business Owners
By Karen Pina
Many clients, friends, and family have often described me as one of the hardest working women they know. I have frequently been asked, "Karen how do you find time for all the things you do in your business and keep God and family balanced?" This question prompted me to share my 7 business success principles with you.
Success Principle #1 Carve out time for God and then YOU first thing in the morning
I am up by 5:00 am praying and out the door for my walk by 6:00 am. This consecrates my day and focuses me on God’s priorities for the day.
Success Principle #2 Prioritize your daily activities
Success principle #1 mentioned starting the day with prayer . . . I'm not talking about just any ole’ prayer. It’s entrepreneurial and strategic prayer. Let me illustrate, to determine business priorities, I do two things. First, I always enter prayer with a pad, pencil, and my calendar. I pray for wisdom, guidance, and God’s divine will for the activities I should take on for the day. I often refer to this as my “things to do after I pray list.” Secondly, I purposely block off time for the things I know will bring money into my business. I see too many business owners focusing on things that simply don’t impact their pockets. When we waste time focusing on activities and affairs that equal a big fat “0,” we are not pleasing God, our commanding officer. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs--he wants to please his commanding officer. These are Timothy’s admonishing words (2 Timothy 2:4).
Success Principle #3 Don’t let technology slow you down
You don't have to answer the phone or check email every time you hear a ring or an inbox chime. We all know the general business rule . . . return phone calls within 24 hours. So, how about taking advantage of it? You have 24 hours to return calls and respond to emails. Instead of reacting to every minute interruption, block off some time on your calendar to follow the rule and then follow through. Here’s a gentle reminder: We have caller ID, voicemail, and email autoresponders; let’s use them so we can stay focused on the main thing.
Success Principle #4 Tackle the big fish first
Most business owners either drag out the big projects or procrastinate in starting them. I hear Ralph Marston’s words ringing true here. “The surest way to make a task more difficult is to put it off until later. The cost of anything continues to rise the longer you take to pay for it.” Adopt success principle #4 and complete the big-ticket items while they are still easily manageable.
Success Principle #5 Act like you are in the promise land
Being a Christian business leader is a privilege, a blessing, and the fulfillment of God’s promise to you; therefore, your actions should reflect all of the above. Let me expound. When you were in Egypt (going to work for someone else in a worldly system) you complained about that. Sound familiar? It’s exactly what the children of Israel did. When God ushered them into the promise land, they complained about the “creature comforts” of Egypt. Stop wasting precious ingenuity and time complaining about the ups and downs of business. You are in the Promise Land now; seek out the milk and honey and be obedient, faithful, and grateful. I know you’ll have more energy to invest in a successful business by ditching the draining-complaining habit.
Success Principle #6 Outsource the personals
If you can afford it, I wisely suggest you hire a house cleaning, grocery, and errand service. If you can’t afford it, you can stock up on your groceries for a month and rally family and others in your support system to clean and run errands. This will help you stay focused while working at home. You have to set boundaries in order to work at home. I italicized the words work at home for emphasis. Emphasis announcement: You are working . . . not cleaning house, grocery shopping, and running errands. If you were working a “real job,” you couldn’t run errands every day, and you certainly couldn’t leave each day for extended periods of time to clean your house. Hint, hint . . . you can’t do it in your business for any period of time and continue to experience success either.
Success Principle #7 Dream big yes, but don’t forget to set HUGE goals
As I coach visionaries, I notice they have no problem with dreaming big. Where I find they come up short is in setting gigantic goals to bring them into what they envision. If you watch me, you’ll notice I take massive action. I have a clear, colossal vision (Habaukkk 2:2) and must take tremendous action in order to see it come to pass.
You didn’t need me to share these strategies. Most likely you are already aware of them. I have found what separates the highly successful from the mediocre is not that they know the 7 strategies in this article, but they consistently do them. Successful people do the things most won’t do to be and have what most won’t be and have. Which are you?
Summing it up, as a small business owner, your dream of creating a better future for you and your family is paramount. Renew your mind by telling yourself, “going back to work in Egypt isn’t an option for me.”
Here’s a re-programming exercise I use to help me stay in the business of succeeding: Visualize some of your worst days on the job, feel how it felt to be at the mercy of others, recall the corporate politics and the incompetent bosses.
This exercise helps me put things in proper perspective quickly. I remember what made me go into business for myself, and this is enough motivation to keep me on the right thinking path to prosperity.
It is an undeniable fact that business ownership is tough. Turn to the experts to get the support you need. You can find expertise by reading books, e-zines, articles, courses, videos, and seminars. If you are really serious, partner with me as a professional coach to hold you accountable for the actions and goals you say you want to achieve.
Successfully,
Karen M. Pina
GOD’s Coach
Many clients, friends, and family have often described me as one of the hardest working women they know. I have frequently been asked, "Karen how do you find time for all the things you do in your business and keep God and family balanced?" This question prompted me to share my 7 business success principles with you.
Success Principle #1 Carve out time for God and then YOU first thing in the morning
I am up by 5:00 am praying and out the door for my walk by 6:00 am. This consecrates my day and focuses me on God’s priorities for the day.
Success Principle #2 Prioritize your daily activities
Success principle #1 mentioned starting the day with prayer . . . I'm not talking about just any ole’ prayer. It’s entrepreneurial and strategic prayer. Let me illustrate, to determine business priorities, I do two things. First, I always enter prayer with a pad, pencil, and my calendar. I pray for wisdom, guidance, and God’s divine will for the activities I should take on for the day. I often refer to this as my “things to do after I pray list.” Secondly, I purposely block off time for the things I know will bring money into my business. I see too many business owners focusing on things that simply don’t impact their pockets. When we waste time focusing on activities and affairs that equal a big fat “0,” we are not pleasing God, our commanding officer. No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs--he wants to please his commanding officer. These are Timothy’s admonishing words (2 Timothy 2:4).
Success Principle #3 Don’t let technology slow you down
You don't have to answer the phone or check email every time you hear a ring or an inbox chime. We all know the general business rule . . . return phone calls within 24 hours. So, how about taking advantage of it? You have 24 hours to return calls and respond to emails. Instead of reacting to every minute interruption, block off some time on your calendar to follow the rule and then follow through. Here’s a gentle reminder: We have caller ID, voicemail, and email autoresponders; let’s use them so we can stay focused on the main thing.
Success Principle #4 Tackle the big fish first
Most business owners either drag out the big projects or procrastinate in starting them. I hear Ralph Marston’s words ringing true here. “The surest way to make a task more difficult is to put it off until later. The cost of anything continues to rise the longer you take to pay for it.” Adopt success principle #4 and complete the big-ticket items while they are still easily manageable.
Success Principle #5 Act like you are in the promise land
Being a Christian business leader is a privilege, a blessing, and the fulfillment of God’s promise to you; therefore, your actions should reflect all of the above. Let me expound. When you were in Egypt (going to work for someone else in a worldly system) you complained about that. Sound familiar? It’s exactly what the children of Israel did. When God ushered them into the promise land, they complained about the “creature comforts” of Egypt. Stop wasting precious ingenuity and time complaining about the ups and downs of business. You are in the Promise Land now; seek out the milk and honey and be obedient, faithful, and grateful. I know you’ll have more energy to invest in a successful business by ditching the draining-complaining habit.
Success Principle #6 Outsource the personals
If you can afford it, I wisely suggest you hire a house cleaning, grocery, and errand service. If you can’t afford it, you can stock up on your groceries for a month and rally family and others in your support system to clean and run errands. This will help you stay focused while working at home. You have to set boundaries in order to work at home. I italicized the words work at home for emphasis. Emphasis announcement: You are working . . . not cleaning house, grocery shopping, and running errands. If you were working a “real job,” you couldn’t run errands every day, and you certainly couldn’t leave each day for extended periods of time to clean your house. Hint, hint . . . you can’t do it in your business for any period of time and continue to experience success either.
Success Principle #7 Dream big yes, but don’t forget to set HUGE goals
As I coach visionaries, I notice they have no problem with dreaming big. Where I find they come up short is in setting gigantic goals to bring them into what they envision. If you watch me, you’ll notice I take massive action. I have a clear, colossal vision (Habaukkk 2:2) and must take tremendous action in order to see it come to pass.
You didn’t need me to share these strategies. Most likely you are already aware of them. I have found what separates the highly successful from the mediocre is not that they know the 7 strategies in this article, but they consistently do them. Successful people do the things most won’t do to be and have what most won’t be and have. Which are you?
Summing it up, as a small business owner, your dream of creating a better future for you and your family is paramount. Renew your mind by telling yourself, “going back to work in Egypt isn’t an option for me.”
Here’s a re-programming exercise I use to help me stay in the business of succeeding: Visualize some of your worst days on the job, feel how it felt to be at the mercy of others, recall the corporate politics and the incompetent bosses.
This exercise helps me put things in proper perspective quickly. I remember what made me go into business for myself, and this is enough motivation to keep me on the right thinking path to prosperity.
It is an undeniable fact that business ownership is tough. Turn to the experts to get the support you need. You can find expertise by reading books, e-zines, articles, courses, videos, and seminars. If you are really serious, partner with me as a professional coach to hold you accountable for the actions and goals you say you want to achieve.
Successfully,
Karen M. Pina
GOD’s Coach
From the Doctor’s Diary-22-Jesus Heals
Our loving Heavenly Father says,
“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:10, 11).
Many years back, I suffered from severe tonsillitis for 6 yrs. At least twice a year this sickness used to trouble me and when it happened, I found it very difficult to swallow food and even water for at least a week. I used to sit up all night with fever. My throat used to dry up and I would walk here and there in my room, not knowing what to do. Medicines only had a temporary effect on my sickness but no cure. My medical college professors said that it was due to allergy that this happened.
In 1992 I suffered greatly because of this ailment. I did everything that I could. I had my medicines regularly, I prayed with fervour. Those were the days when I had started learning the Word of God and knowing of what faith in God can do for me. I used to hear a lot of Christian Radio Programmes. One evening someome gave me an audio cassette titled “Living stone and success”. The preacher spoke authoritatively from the Word and then said that he was going to pray for the sick and that those who needed healing may come forward.
I thought in my mind, “It’s true that this message was preached 10 years ago. But if God healed people then, he was able enough to heal me now”
The preacher said, “Lay your right hand on the part of your body that is sick and now let’s pray!”
Quickly I laid my hand on my throat and cried out to God, “God, have mercy and heal me; I am suffering greatly”. “Be healed in Jesus Name”, the preacher said as he prayed. Suddenly I felt a warmth come all over my body. All the pain in my throat vanished. All the fever departed. I felt a new power surge through my body. I knew God had healed me. I praised him loudly, giving thanks for his wonderful love.
It’s been 10 years since the Lord healed me of tonsillitis and till today it has never recurred. Great is his faithfulness.
“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:10, 11).
Many years back, I suffered from severe tonsillitis for 6 yrs. At least twice a year this sickness used to trouble me and when it happened, I found it very difficult to swallow food and even water for at least a week. I used to sit up all night with fever. My throat used to dry up and I would walk here and there in my room, not knowing what to do. Medicines only had a temporary effect on my sickness but no cure. My medical college professors said that it was due to allergy that this happened.
In 1992 I suffered greatly because of this ailment. I did everything that I could. I had my medicines regularly, I prayed with fervour. Those were the days when I had started learning the Word of God and knowing of what faith in God can do for me. I used to hear a lot of Christian Radio Programmes. One evening someome gave me an audio cassette titled “Living stone and success”. The preacher spoke authoritatively from the Word and then said that he was going to pray for the sick and that those who needed healing may come forward.
I thought in my mind, “It’s true that this message was preached 10 years ago. But if God healed people then, he was able enough to heal me now”
The preacher said, “Lay your right hand on the part of your body that is sick and now let’s pray!”
Quickly I laid my hand on my throat and cried out to God, “God, have mercy and heal me; I am suffering greatly”. “Be healed in Jesus Name”, the preacher said as he prayed. Suddenly I felt a warmth come all over my body. All the pain in my throat vanished. All the fever departed. I felt a new power surge through my body. I knew God had healed me. I praised him loudly, giving thanks for his wonderful love.
It’s been 10 years since the Lord healed me of tonsillitis and till today it has never recurred. Great is his faithfulness.
Psalm 40 – Waiting but Trusting
1 ¶ For the director of music. Of David. A psalm. I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no-one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. 6 ¶ Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced; burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. 7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come—it is written about me in the scroll. 8 I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart." 9 I proclaim righteousness in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, as you know, O LORD. 10 I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly. 11 ¶ Do not withhold your mercy from me, O LORD; may your love and your truth always protect me. 12 For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart fails within me. 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me. 14 May all who seek to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. 15 May those who say to me, "Aha! Aha!" be appalled at their own shame. 16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" 17 Yet I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; O my God, do not delay. (Psalms 40:1-17 NIV)
Notes v1 Lit ‘Waiting I have waited’, an intensity of waiting, earnestly waiting, even anxiously?
v2 No wonder given the circumstances!
Incredible experience of God’s salvation from the edge of disaster.
v3 Released into a new level of praise and worship. Led to exultant praise and the certain knowledge that the testimony of this experience would be used by God to bring others to faith.
v4 The experience leads to some derived theology – a new understanding of the nature of God.
v5 Particularly David is struck by the way in which God is intimately involved in the circumstances of his life.
v6-8 David has a new understanding that what God desires primarily is a relationship with his people. This leads David to a point of deeper personal commitment. Lit ‘My ears you have dug’ Difficult translation decision here. In Septuagint ‘a body you have prepared for me’ (quoted in this form in Hebrews). The reference seems to be to Hebrew slave laws. No Israelite could be a slave for longer than 6 years. Were automatically freed on the 7th year. However, if a slave had been well treated, had enjoyed living with and working for a kind master, could ask to be made a slave for life. The sign of this was for the slaves ears to be pierced through with an awl into the door-post of the home. This marked the slave and the master as joined for life. The slave was committed to a lifetime of service and the master was committed to a lifetime of provision. The slave came to this point of personal decision after long experience of the master’s good character. David’s experience of God has led him to the point of personal life-long commitment – this is itself the gift of God. God prepares God’s people to get them to the point of total commitment so that he can then use them. Slaves has one ear pierced, David has both – emphasis.
v9-10 Embarks on a ministry of public proclamation – a fulfilment of the prophetic word of v3b.
v11 An acknowledgement that God’s work can only be done by God’s power – asks for mercy, love, truth and protection.
Comment:
I wish to God it ended here. A wonderful cameo of how God brings us from the edge of disaster through an experience of God’s supernatural salvation, into a new dimension of praise and worship, the prophetic promise of a successful ministry, a deeper understanding of God which leads to a response of total personal commitment, then the release into the promised public ministry, but with a healthy reliance on God. It would be wonderful! It would be the kind of experience we would have no hesitation in choosing for ourselves or others. But what happens next?
v12 Troubles without number – opposition. Personal sin. I cannot see – confusion and loss of direction. My heart fails – crisis of faith Heart is the centre of the human spirit in Hebrew where emotions, courage, motivation spring from – crisis of feelings? What is David’s response to impending disaster? The same as in v1 - prayer.
v13 Be pleased – submission to the will of God, To save – request for deliverance, Come quickly – earnest and intense.
v14-16 Whereas v2 was a testimony of past experience David now gives a ‘faith’ testimony of future experience of the judgement of God on his enemies and the praise God will receive from his people.
v17 The psalm ends as it began – David awaiting God’s deliverance, earnestly, intensely, anxiously? But looking only to God and trusting.
Application:
Isn’t this mostly what ministry is – waiting but trusting? Although we may experience fantastic evidences of God at work and leading people into new levels of praise and worship, new understanding of God, new levels of commitment and new ministries. Isn’t the reality that usually there are another 20 situations where we are still waiting? Any fool can praise and trust God when the blessing of God is a felt reality – only those with a deep, intimate, profound relationship with God, and a deep understanding of his character and nature can praise and trust God while standing at the edge of disaster.
[James 1:2-4, 12] Explains why this waiting is necessary. Maturity is only achieved through trials PLUS perseverance, i.e. through waiting but trusting. If God wishes to bring us to maturity and completeness he can ONLY do it through trials over extended time periods.
Conclusions:
1 Waiting times, therefore, are not a sign that God’s NOT working, but that God IS working. Bringing us to maturity and completeness.
2 ‘Breakthrough’ events, such as in Psalm 40:1f, are only ‘breakthrough events BECAUSE of the extended ‘waiting but trusting’ time that went before them.
3 God’s promise to us is that he will give us wisdom to understand our ‘waiting but trusting’ times of trials if we ask him [James 1:5]
Notes v1 Lit ‘Waiting I have waited’, an intensity of waiting, earnestly waiting, even anxiously?
v2 No wonder given the circumstances!
Incredible experience of God’s salvation from the edge of disaster.
v3 Released into a new level of praise and worship. Led to exultant praise and the certain knowledge that the testimony of this experience would be used by God to bring others to faith.
v4 The experience leads to some derived theology – a new understanding of the nature of God.
v5 Particularly David is struck by the way in which God is intimately involved in the circumstances of his life.
v6-8 David has a new understanding that what God desires primarily is a relationship with his people. This leads David to a point of deeper personal commitment. Lit ‘My ears you have dug’ Difficult translation decision here. In Septuagint ‘a body you have prepared for me’ (quoted in this form in Hebrews). The reference seems to be to Hebrew slave laws. No Israelite could be a slave for longer than 6 years. Were automatically freed on the 7th year. However, if a slave had been well treated, had enjoyed living with and working for a kind master, could ask to be made a slave for life. The sign of this was for the slaves ears to be pierced through with an awl into the door-post of the home. This marked the slave and the master as joined for life. The slave was committed to a lifetime of service and the master was committed to a lifetime of provision. The slave came to this point of personal decision after long experience of the master’s good character. David’s experience of God has led him to the point of personal life-long commitment – this is itself the gift of God. God prepares God’s people to get them to the point of total commitment so that he can then use them. Slaves has one ear pierced, David has both – emphasis.
v9-10 Embarks on a ministry of public proclamation – a fulfilment of the prophetic word of v3b.
v11 An acknowledgement that God’s work can only be done by God’s power – asks for mercy, love, truth and protection.
Comment:
I wish to God it ended here. A wonderful cameo of how God brings us from the edge of disaster through an experience of God’s supernatural salvation, into a new dimension of praise and worship, the prophetic promise of a successful ministry, a deeper understanding of God which leads to a response of total personal commitment, then the release into the promised public ministry, but with a healthy reliance on God. It would be wonderful! It would be the kind of experience we would have no hesitation in choosing for ourselves or others. But what happens next?
v12 Troubles without number – opposition. Personal sin. I cannot see – confusion and loss of direction. My heart fails – crisis of faith Heart is the centre of the human spirit in Hebrew where emotions, courage, motivation spring from – crisis of feelings? What is David’s response to impending disaster? The same as in v1 - prayer.
v13 Be pleased – submission to the will of God, To save – request for deliverance, Come quickly – earnest and intense.
v14-16 Whereas v2 was a testimony of past experience David now gives a ‘faith’ testimony of future experience of the judgement of God on his enemies and the praise God will receive from his people.
v17 The psalm ends as it began – David awaiting God’s deliverance, earnestly, intensely, anxiously? But looking only to God and trusting.
Application:
Isn’t this mostly what ministry is – waiting but trusting? Although we may experience fantastic evidences of God at work and leading people into new levels of praise and worship, new understanding of God, new levels of commitment and new ministries. Isn’t the reality that usually there are another 20 situations where we are still waiting? Any fool can praise and trust God when the blessing of God is a felt reality – only those with a deep, intimate, profound relationship with God, and a deep understanding of his character and nature can praise and trust God while standing at the edge of disaster.
[James 1:2-4, 12] Explains why this waiting is necessary. Maturity is only achieved through trials PLUS perseverance, i.e. through waiting but trusting. If God wishes to bring us to maturity and completeness he can ONLY do it through trials over extended time periods.
Conclusions:
1 Waiting times, therefore, are not a sign that God’s NOT working, but that God IS working. Bringing us to maturity and completeness.
2 ‘Breakthrough’ events, such as in Psalm 40:1f, are only ‘breakthrough events BECAUSE of the extended ‘waiting but trusting’ time that went before them.
3 God’s promise to us is that he will give us wisdom to understand our ‘waiting but trusting’ times of trials if we ask him [James 1:5]
From the Doctor’s Diary-15-Our Homes
Jesus said, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.” (John 14:23) (NIV)
An easily noticeable and admirable fact in this verse is that Jesus said, that He and His Father wants “to make their home” with the one who obeys His teaching. Jesus didn’t say He and the Father were going to stay in such a person’s house. They were going to make their home with him.
A house differs from a home in that; a house may not really be a home. A home is different. Home is where one is cared for, loved, cherished and nourished by one’s own. A home need not be a house too, for in India where I live, there are the poor, some of whom who live in huts and concrete pipes. No one can or will dare to call huts and pipes, houses but they are homes to families. Homes they can come back to, after work; whatever work it may be, perhaps even begging. A curtain at one end of the concrete pipe and another curtain at another end for privacy and that’s the home for some for decades.
Wherever it be, the Lord said He and the Father were going to make their home with the ones faithful to Him. How wondrous this promise.
Pity the rich and affluent, living in mansions sans Christ and rotting away spiritually in their rebellion to His voice.
A home with the presence of the triune God is blessed. Not that such a home has no problems, but this one has a blessed promise for it.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalms 46:1) (NIV)
An ever present Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.
But nothing here is forever though, not even our blessed homes.
King Solomon once wrote,
“Then man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets. (Ecclesiastes 12:5c) (NIV)
Yes, that’s the final destination of all who are born on earth. Sadly for some, this may not be the very thing that they desire though, for they land up in torment in the place prepared for the devil and his cohorts. But for those who have walked the narrow path, what a homecoming it would be with the prophecy of Revelation 21 being fulfilled.
“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:3, 4) (NIV)
Looking at it in another way, home now for us is where our spirit and soul live, that is our fleshly body. But that too is a temporary home for our spirit and soul. For this fleshly body will not last long. The Apostle Peter speaking of this says,
“I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.” (2 Peter 1:13, 14) (NIV)
Be that as it may, believers have a glorious promise from the Lord and we read this in the Apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians,
“Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” (2 Corinthians 5:1) (NIV)
The “earthly tent” here being our physical bodies now and “the eternal house in heaven” being the glorified bodies that we will receive when we enter eternity.
The things that we call “Homes” here and now on earth could be rightly termed “Temporary Homes.” Be it our physical bodies, be it our congregations or be it our shelters where we and our loved ones live. Every believer in Christ is exhorted in the Word of God to look forward, to hope and pray for something more everlasting- “An Eternal HOME.” Praise the Lord.
An easily noticeable and admirable fact in this verse is that Jesus said, that He and His Father wants “to make their home” with the one who obeys His teaching. Jesus didn’t say He and the Father were going to stay in such a person’s house. They were going to make their home with him.
A house differs from a home in that; a house may not really be a home. A home is different. Home is where one is cared for, loved, cherished and nourished by one’s own. A home need not be a house too, for in India where I live, there are the poor, some of whom who live in huts and concrete pipes. No one can or will dare to call huts and pipes, houses but they are homes to families. Homes they can come back to, after work; whatever work it may be, perhaps even begging. A curtain at one end of the concrete pipe and another curtain at another end for privacy and that’s the home for some for decades.
Wherever it be, the Lord said He and the Father were going to make their home with the ones faithful to Him. How wondrous this promise.
Pity the rich and affluent, living in mansions sans Christ and rotting away spiritually in their rebellion to His voice.
A home with the presence of the triune God is blessed. Not that such a home has no problems, but this one has a blessed promise for it.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalms 46:1) (NIV)
An ever present Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.
But nothing here is forever though, not even our blessed homes.
King Solomon once wrote,
“Then man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets. (Ecclesiastes 12:5c) (NIV)
Yes, that’s the final destination of all who are born on earth. Sadly for some, this may not be the very thing that they desire though, for they land up in torment in the place prepared for the devil and his cohorts. But for those who have walked the narrow path, what a homecoming it would be with the prophecy of Revelation 21 being fulfilled.
“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:3, 4) (NIV)
Looking at it in another way, home now for us is where our spirit and soul live, that is our fleshly body. But that too is a temporary home for our spirit and soul. For this fleshly body will not last long. The Apostle Peter speaking of this says,
“I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.” (2 Peter 1:13, 14) (NIV)
Be that as it may, believers have a glorious promise from the Lord and we read this in the Apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians,
“Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” (2 Corinthians 5:1) (NIV)
The “earthly tent” here being our physical bodies now and “the eternal house in heaven” being the glorified bodies that we will receive when we enter eternity.
The things that we call “Homes” here and now on earth could be rightly termed “Temporary Homes.” Be it our physical bodies, be it our congregations or be it our shelters where we and our loved ones live. Every believer in Christ is exhorted in the Word of God to look forward, to hope and pray for something more everlasting- “An Eternal HOME.” Praise the Lord.
How Do I Raise Balanced Children?
7 Leadership Strategies for Raising Godly Children
By Karen M. Pina
Raising children is no easy task and it’s not getting any easier. At the same time, the word of God remains the same even in a world that is changing by the moment. In this article, we provide 7 strategies to teach your kids about priorities and intimacy with the Lord.
By now, we have all heard start early with spiritual disciplines as your child's personality is completely developed by age 5. Certainly, this is true and you should start early. What happens when life happens and does not allow you to start as early as you would have liked to? The good news is that it is not too late. It takes 30 days or more to break a habit. So if by age 10 certain spiritual disciplines are not in place in your child’s life, just start re-training them, gradually introducing the new Godly habits and replacing the old ungodly habits.
Strategy #1 -Be the Balancing Act
God loves just weights. This tells us He loves balance, and as His children He wants us to truthfully balance the things in our lives and our children's lives. When you think of the word balance what percentages come to mind, 50% - 50%, 20% - 20%, 80% -20%? OR is it my child spends a lot of time in this area of his/her life for a season (perhaps baseball or basketball season), and little time in the other areas of our lives (perhaps sleepovers, parties, etc...)? And then when it's not baseball or basketball season, nor party time, we spread out our time evenly to other categories of our lives like work/chores, time with God, and family time. Let your children see you spending time building relationships with God and others, time for recreation, rest, church and spiritual devotion, entertainment, hobbies, sports, work, family and community time. As the parent, set the tone, the pace, be the weighing scale, and monitor areas that are getting out of balance.
Strategy #2 - Be the Model
When you model balance, your children will follow suit. Remember our actions are as important, if not more important than our words. Let them see you reading the Bible and ask them to read with you. Let them see you praying, and encourage them to pray with you. How about implementing a family fast day? Let them hear you talking about God, and include them in your dialogue. Children of all ages imitate what they see. If you seek God in prayer in the midst of a trial, they will too. If you mirror an intimate relationship with God, you will see the rewards in their relationship with God.
Strategy #3 – End the Day With God
Set aside 15-30 minutes each night with your children evaluating your day. Try reflective journaling. Each of you can ask the following questions: What choices did I make today? How does God feel about them? How did I relate to others? Is there something I need to seek forgiveness for before going to bed? What were my challenges and opportunities in keeping His Word today? Share your answers. Yes, be transparent and honest with them, but most importantly with God.
Strategy #4 – Busy on Purpose or Frantically Busy
Think about how many things you are currently involved in on a week-to-week basis. Now ask yourself, how many of those things have a specific leading from the Lord? Routinely, we take on responsibilities and even "fun" activities that are more life draining than they are life sustaining. I strongly urge you to partner with God and allow Him to create your family’s schedule by asking Him, Is this something You want me/us doing? The answer to this question will find you busy on purpose versus running in 14 different flesh-inspired directions.
Strategy #5 - Write a Life Mission Statement
There are many things we strive to achieve in life for ourselves and for our children. Here are a few: healthy self-esteem, a good education, and success. But how about wanting your children to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ above anything else? God desires we hunger and thirst after Him, and seek Him more than any other person/thing in the world. What are your children thirsty for? What are you thirsty for? We urge you and your children to sit down and write your own mission statements. The statement conveys what you want your life to be most concerned with. Take into consideration your God-given gifts, talents, abilities, and passions.
Strategy #6 - Apply For the Transfer
As your children start getting older you need to learn the mystery of transferring responsibility. When your children are younger, you are “the be-all end-all” in providing direction and order. As they get older, gently prompt them to integrate the spiritual disciplines you have taught them into their own lives.
For instance, ask them to pray about what God would have them do in certain situations even about helping around the house. Whatever they believe God would have them do, encourage them to go for it. This way they are accountable to God for what they do or don't do, not you. Yes, they may flounder, blunder and make some mistakes. Hold them accountable for the mistakes and redirect them back to God again. This practice will expand their learning capacity to trust and lean on God, and make decisions that please him, not you. They will need these skills later in life.
I admonish you to turn your child over to the Lord, actively surrender expectations and attachment to results, and let God raise them. I am confident He has some pretty creative ways of disciplining them while maintaining fear, reverence, and respect in their relationship. This strategy is sure to be a hit because you get to keep their respect in the learning process. To tell the truth, you may gain more than you already have!
Strategy #7 - Set limitations
No good thing does God withhold from us. As His child, we may ask him for more material possessions, more friends, a promotion on our job, or a new house. Certainly there is nothing wrong with any of these things. At the same time, what we may need is more grace, more peace, more joy, or to spend more time with Him to fill up our mind, will, emotions, and body with what they crave – His presence.
It should be no different with your children. What do they really need when they ask for one more material possession, to spend the night at a friend’s house, or to sign up for another activity after school? Our flesh is never satisfied and as parents we must set limitations and define how much is enough.
Closing Thoughts for God's Leaders
John Maxwell says leadership is influence. Our ability to influence our children is tied into their respect for us. It is natural for us to resist being influenced by those we do not respect. On the other hand, we emulate those we do respect. To lead our children, we have to become leaders worth following. Loving them unconditionally, providing for them, spending time listening to them, setting limits, and teaching them Godly wisdom are all part of our role as reputable leaders.
Sure effective parenting is a tough, time-consuming, wonderful job, but it is one of the greatest callings in life, and we need God's parenting wisdom for the job. Do not look for a formula based parenting tool, or a pre-fab approach. We need to “specialize” in our parenting by seeking God's wisdom based on each child's gifting, character and temperament.
Our children are on loan to us for a short time. You are momentarily in charge of an eternal being! Use this time gracefully balanced between creativity and wisdom.
Living in wisdom everyday,
Karen M. Pina
Raising children is no easy task and it’s not getting any easier. At the same time, the word of God remains the same even in a world that is changing by the moment. In this article, we provide 7 strategies to teach your kids about priorities and intimacy with the Lord.
By now, we have all heard start early with spiritual disciplines as your child's personality is completely developed by age 5. Certainly, this is true and you should start early. What happens when life happens and does not allow you to start as early as you would have liked to? The good news is that it is not too late. It takes 30 days or more to break a habit. So if by age 10 certain spiritual disciplines are not in place in your child’s life, just start re-training them, gradually introducing the new Godly habits and replacing the old ungodly habits.
Strategy #1 -Be the Balancing Act
God loves just weights. This tells us He loves balance, and as His children He wants us to truthfully balance the things in our lives and our children's lives. When you think of the word balance what percentages come to mind, 50% - 50%, 20% - 20%, 80% -20%? OR is it my child spends a lot of time in this area of his/her life for a season (perhaps baseball or basketball season), and little time in the other areas of our lives (perhaps sleepovers, parties, etc...)? And then when it's not baseball or basketball season, nor party time, we spread out our time evenly to other categories of our lives like work/chores, time with God, and family time. Let your children see you spending time building relationships with God and others, time for recreation, rest, church and spiritual devotion, entertainment, hobbies, sports, work, family and community time. As the parent, set the tone, the pace, be the weighing scale, and monitor areas that are getting out of balance.
Strategy #2 - Be the Model
When you model balance, your children will follow suit. Remember our actions are as important, if not more important than our words. Let them see you reading the Bible and ask them to read with you. Let them see you praying, and encourage them to pray with you. How about implementing a family fast day? Let them hear you talking about God, and include them in your dialogue. Children of all ages imitate what they see. If you seek God in prayer in the midst of a trial, they will too. If you mirror an intimate relationship with God, you will see the rewards in their relationship with God.
Strategy #3 – End the Day With God
Set aside 15-30 minutes each night with your children evaluating your day. Try reflective journaling. Each of you can ask the following questions: What choices did I make today? How does God feel about them? How did I relate to others? Is there something I need to seek forgiveness for before going to bed? What were my challenges and opportunities in keeping His Word today? Share your answers. Yes, be transparent and honest with them, but most importantly with God.
Strategy #4 – Busy on Purpose or Frantically Busy
Think about how many things you are currently involved in on a week-to-week basis. Now ask yourself, how many of those things have a specific leading from the Lord? Routinely, we take on responsibilities and even "fun" activities that are more life draining than they are life sustaining. I strongly urge you to partner with God and allow Him to create your family’s schedule by asking Him, Is this something You want me/us doing? The answer to this question will find you busy on purpose versus running in 14 different flesh-inspired directions.
Strategy #5 - Write a Life Mission Statement
There are many things we strive to achieve in life for ourselves and for our children. Here are a few: healthy self-esteem, a good education, and success. But how about wanting your children to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ above anything else? God desires we hunger and thirst after Him, and seek Him more than any other person/thing in the world. What are your children thirsty for? What are you thirsty for? We urge you and your children to sit down and write your own mission statements. The statement conveys what you want your life to be most concerned with. Take into consideration your God-given gifts, talents, abilities, and passions.
Strategy #6 - Apply For the Transfer
As your children start getting older you need to learn the mystery of transferring responsibility. When your children are younger, you are “the be-all end-all” in providing direction and order. As they get older, gently prompt them to integrate the spiritual disciplines you have taught them into their own lives.
For instance, ask them to pray about what God would have them do in certain situations even about helping around the house. Whatever they believe God would have them do, encourage them to go for it. This way they are accountable to God for what they do or don't do, not you. Yes, they may flounder, blunder and make some mistakes. Hold them accountable for the mistakes and redirect them back to God again. This practice will expand their learning capacity to trust and lean on God, and make decisions that please him, not you. They will need these skills later in life.
I admonish you to turn your child over to the Lord, actively surrender expectations and attachment to results, and let God raise them. I am confident He has some pretty creative ways of disciplining them while maintaining fear, reverence, and respect in their relationship. This strategy is sure to be a hit because you get to keep their respect in the learning process. To tell the truth, you may gain more than you already have!
Strategy #7 - Set limitations
No good thing does God withhold from us. As His child, we may ask him for more material possessions, more friends, a promotion on our job, or a new house. Certainly there is nothing wrong with any of these things. At the same time, what we may need is more grace, more peace, more joy, or to spend more time with Him to fill up our mind, will, emotions, and body with what they crave – His presence.
It should be no different with your children. What do they really need when they ask for one more material possession, to spend the night at a friend’s house, or to sign up for another activity after school? Our flesh is never satisfied and as parents we must set limitations and define how much is enough.
Closing Thoughts for God's Leaders
John Maxwell says leadership is influence. Our ability to influence our children is tied into their respect for us. It is natural for us to resist being influenced by those we do not respect. On the other hand, we emulate those we do respect. To lead our children, we have to become leaders worth following. Loving them unconditionally, providing for them, spending time listening to them, setting limits, and teaching them Godly wisdom are all part of our role as reputable leaders.
Sure effective parenting is a tough, time-consuming, wonderful job, but it is one of the greatest callings in life, and we need God's parenting wisdom for the job. Do not look for a formula based parenting tool, or a pre-fab approach. We need to “specialize” in our parenting by seeking God's wisdom based on each child's gifting, character and temperament.
Our children are on loan to us for a short time. You are momentarily in charge of an eternal being! Use this time gracefully balanced between creativity and wisdom.
Living in wisdom everyday,
Karen M. Pina
From the Doctor’s Diary-14- Miracle
"MIRACLE"
---------
Lake St. Louis, USA
(Written in April 2000)
It was barely a month ago that Jesus brought up this plan of us four (Me, my wife, 2 Daughters) coming to the USA (from India).Till then He had only mentioned often that we would be going to the States in the future. Our elder daughter's exams were getting over and the counsel of the Lord was that I must temporarily take leave from my medical practice and start praying and working on the matters pertaining to visiting the USA for 2 months. "It's impossible", was the quote that we heard from everyone when we told them of our plans.
There was discouragement pouring in from all sides but the Holy Spirit kept on urging us that Jesus was on our side and a miracle was on the cards if we trusted in Jesus.
First things first and so we immediately contacted my brother-in-law who lived in St. Louis. He was very receptive to the idea and said he would send the necessary papers right away but added a word of caution that our application for visa may be rejected by the US Consulate. All the agents we approached said, "It's, not possible", "You are a Doctor, they'll never let you in", "Perhaps you should try alone, don't waste money on the visa forms", "You and your wife are so young, they'll never let you in." But we insisted in knowing the details and what papers were needed on our behalf.
There were other problems too. My passport validity was soon expiring and I had already applied for a new one through an agent 45 days back. When this plan came up I contacted him and asked why I had not yet received the new passport since so much time had elapsed since I applied for it. He enquired regarding the matter and informed me that since my old passport was issued in Bombay ,some verifications were to be done there ,hence the delay. That afternoon my father came to our rented house and said-we have bad news, the police had come home and said that there was a police case registered against me and unless that was solved I could not get my passport. I knew this was a satanic bombshell to discourage us and we remained calm. That evening we traveled to the police station to enquire of the special officer what was up and he informed us that the computer had picked up a case registered against us for which a verdict was not yet passed. We told him that it was true that there was a case registered against us in a vehicle accident in 1994 but the verdict was already done with and the insurance company were only involved in the case now. He checked the records and found it was true, so he said he will send the report in a couple of days. But we urged him saying that this was urgent and I needed the passport right away.
He said it was not possible to do anything now as it was Friday and we would have to wait until Monday when the report could be sent. That caused a bit of a dejection but we still praised the Lord on our way back that He had solved yet another problem for us by His abundant grace. The next morning I thought it would be better to go and see the officer again and remind him of our matter. I did not find him at the station, so I thought I 'd check on the agent to give him this news, but I did not find him either. So I decided to go home and check on other matters to be done, little knowing that I was to witness another wonderful miracle.
My wife opened the door and she was smiling. What's up? I asked. She went inside and brought a cover which was self explanatory, it was my new passport. We just praised the Lord for the great miracle that He had done for us. She said it had come by post and my father had brought it. But it could not have been! is the usual phrase heard in this circumstance, but remember with God all things are possible
There were other problems immediately. We didn't know that our 2 year old child needed a new passport and so we had to apply it afresh after deleting her name from my wife's passport. But a new rule had come wherein we could get a new passport for her within 2 days. And so in a couple of week’s time we were ready with all necessary documents to visit the American Consulate for a visa. Not many were hopeful, not many encouraging but Jesus has His ways. He would always encourage us. Have a positive attitude He would say ,do not think anything negative, dwell on my Word to remove all unbelief. I memorized a lot of verses pertaining to the situation and would speak it out loudly to increase our faith and remove all unbelief.
The day at the Consulate was tiring and it was past noon when we were ushered in for the interview. There were 3 counters (3,4&5).And the Holy Spirit indicated to my wife that we must go to counter No.3.So though we initially stood in the counter No. 4 queue ,we shifted to No.3 queue .It was wonderful to hear the words, "Go pay your visa fees, your visas will be sent by courier today". Our hearts were filled with praises for this great work of God for us. We were thankful to the US Consulate for granting us the 2 month visit visa.
Everyone who heard it said it was a miracle. I wonder how many of them really know what a Miracle is. A near perfect definition is-A miracle is an event that appears inexplicable by the laws of nature and so is held to be supernatural in origin and an act of God. It involves the direct intervention of God. God is the Creator and He can work in ways that are impossible for us.
Miracles are a common thing for the believer. As you read this testimony you will understand the working of miracles from the spiritual view point and also know that once the battle is won in the spiritual world, things happen automatically in the physical realm. Holiness, Faith, Consecration, Faithfulness all count. But ultimately it's
"Not by might and not by power but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty".(Zechariah 4:6).Praise the Lord .
---------
Lake St. Louis, USA
(Written in April 2000)
It was barely a month ago that Jesus brought up this plan of us four (Me, my wife, 2 Daughters) coming to the USA (from India).Till then He had only mentioned often that we would be going to the States in the future. Our elder daughter's exams were getting over and the counsel of the Lord was that I must temporarily take leave from my medical practice and start praying and working on the matters pertaining to visiting the USA for 2 months. "It's impossible", was the quote that we heard from everyone when we told them of our plans.
There was discouragement pouring in from all sides but the Holy Spirit kept on urging us that Jesus was on our side and a miracle was on the cards if we trusted in Jesus.
First things first and so we immediately contacted my brother-in-law who lived in St. Louis. He was very receptive to the idea and said he would send the necessary papers right away but added a word of caution that our application for visa may be rejected by the US Consulate. All the agents we approached said, "It's, not possible", "You are a Doctor, they'll never let you in", "Perhaps you should try alone, don't waste money on the visa forms", "You and your wife are so young, they'll never let you in." But we insisted in knowing the details and what papers were needed on our behalf.
There were other problems too. My passport validity was soon expiring and I had already applied for a new one through an agent 45 days back. When this plan came up I contacted him and asked why I had not yet received the new passport since so much time had elapsed since I applied for it. He enquired regarding the matter and informed me that since my old passport was issued in Bombay ,some verifications were to be done there ,hence the delay. That afternoon my father came to our rented house and said-we have bad news, the police had come home and said that there was a police case registered against me and unless that was solved I could not get my passport. I knew this was a satanic bombshell to discourage us and we remained calm. That evening we traveled to the police station to enquire of the special officer what was up and he informed us that the computer had picked up a case registered against us for which a verdict was not yet passed. We told him that it was true that there was a case registered against us in a vehicle accident in 1994 but the verdict was already done with and the insurance company were only involved in the case now. He checked the records and found it was true, so he said he will send the report in a couple of days. But we urged him saying that this was urgent and I needed the passport right away.
He said it was not possible to do anything now as it was Friday and we would have to wait until Monday when the report could be sent. That caused a bit of a dejection but we still praised the Lord on our way back that He had solved yet another problem for us by His abundant grace. The next morning I thought it would be better to go and see the officer again and remind him of our matter. I did not find him at the station, so I thought I 'd check on the agent to give him this news, but I did not find him either. So I decided to go home and check on other matters to be done, little knowing that I was to witness another wonderful miracle.
My wife opened the door and she was smiling. What's up? I asked. She went inside and brought a cover which was self explanatory, it was my new passport. We just praised the Lord for the great miracle that He had done for us. She said it had come by post and my father had brought it. But it could not have been! is the usual phrase heard in this circumstance, but remember with God all things are possible
There were other problems immediately. We didn't know that our 2 year old child needed a new passport and so we had to apply it afresh after deleting her name from my wife's passport. But a new rule had come wherein we could get a new passport for her within 2 days. And so in a couple of week’s time we were ready with all necessary documents to visit the American Consulate for a visa. Not many were hopeful, not many encouraging but Jesus has His ways. He would always encourage us. Have a positive attitude He would say ,do not think anything negative, dwell on my Word to remove all unbelief. I memorized a lot of verses pertaining to the situation and would speak it out loudly to increase our faith and remove all unbelief.
The day at the Consulate was tiring and it was past noon when we were ushered in for the interview. There were 3 counters (3,4&5).And the Holy Spirit indicated to my wife that we must go to counter No.3.So though we initially stood in the counter No. 4 queue ,we shifted to No.3 queue .It was wonderful to hear the words, "Go pay your visa fees, your visas will be sent by courier today". Our hearts were filled with praises for this great work of God for us. We were thankful to the US Consulate for granting us the 2 month visit visa.
Everyone who heard it said it was a miracle. I wonder how many of them really know what a Miracle is. A near perfect definition is-A miracle is an event that appears inexplicable by the laws of nature and so is held to be supernatural in origin and an act of God. It involves the direct intervention of God. God is the Creator and He can work in ways that are impossible for us.
Miracles are a common thing for the believer. As you read this testimony you will understand the working of miracles from the spiritual view point and also know that once the battle is won in the spiritual world, things happen automatically in the physical realm. Holiness, Faith, Consecration, Faithfulness all count. But ultimately it's
"Not by might and not by power but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty".(Zechariah 4:6).Praise the Lord .
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT DEPRESSION?
By Dr. Ann Shorb
Christian Counseling & Educational Services
http://www.ccesonline.com Major depression can greatly affect a person's ability to function at home and/or at work, and inhibit the enjoyment of life in any way. Some people suffer depression only once but others may experience it several times in their lifetime.
Answer the questions below to determine if you are experiencing depression. If you answer True to at least four (4) of the following statements, you may be suffering from depression. If you answer True to the majority of the following statements, you are certainly experiencing depression and you need to seek professional help. See a doctor or a counselor before the depression gets worse.
T or F - I feel sad and blue most of the time.
T or F - I feel like crying more than I did six months ago.
T or F - I feel hopeless and helpless most of the time.
T or F - I have no motivation.
T or F - I'm not interested in things I used to enjoy.
T or F - Recently I have wondered if life is worth living.
T or F - I am not sleeping well, or I want to sleep all of the time.
T or F - I have lost my appetite.
T or F - I am easily irritated.
T or F - I am more anxious about things than I used to be.
T or F - My energy level has dropped recently
T or F - I dread the morning. It is hard to get up.
T or F - I have been thinking about myself a lot recently.
T or F - The face looking back at me in the mirror is sad.
T or F - My self-concept needs improving.
T or F - I worry about the past, the present and the future.
T or F - I've had more headaches, upset stomach, constipation, rapid heartbeat, etc. in the last six months than usual.
T or F - I think that people have noticed that I am not working as well at my job, or enjoying life like I used to.
Is Depression A Sin? Christians often ask this question. The answer is Not necessarily! While harboring sin or sinful attitudes in your life can certainly produce depression, other possible causes include experiencing a significant loss or having a physical problem that causes body chemistry to be imbalanced. Great men in the Bible, such as David (in many of his Psalms), Elijah (I Kings 19), Moses (Exodus 18), and Jonah (Jonah 4) experienced depression. In each of these situations God sent someone to help the suffering individual but He did not condemn him. Psalm 23:18 says, The Lord is close to the broken hearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Whatever the cause, God cares about the person experiencing depression.
Some Interesting Facts
- One in four women and one in ten men will develop depression some time in their life.
- Men experience depression differently than women. Men tend to get angrier.
- Depression can affect children as well as adults and the elderly.
- Suicide may result when depression has not been treated successfully.
- Depression has been called the common cold of the mind.
- Between 80-90% of the people seeking treatment get well.
What Are Some Symptoms
Of Depression?
Everyone feels sad sometimes due to a significant loss such as a death, a divorce or losing a job. Anger turned inward can also cause sad feelings. When these feelings are not dealt with properly and they continue over a long period of time, a person usually experiences a major depression.
Look For These Symptoms
- Feelings of sadness for over two weeks
- Not wanting to spend time with friends and family
- Increased irritability
- Changes in sleep and appetite patterns
- Frequent crying spells
- Difficulty concentrating
- Forgetfulness
How Can You Help A Depressed Person?
We often feel uncomfortable around a depressed person because we don't know what to say or do for him. This may cause us to make some serious mistakes when we try to help them. So what can you do to help?
Let him be honest about his feelings.
Allow him to talk about his negative, depressed
feelings. Don't say, You shouldn't feel like that.
Be there for him. A depressed person may have lost someone important in his life. Let him know you care and will be there for him.
Be aware. A depressed person often tries to avoid
dealing with his feelings, or to pretend he is fine. If he fails to get help, he will only become more depressed. Help him get help.
Avoid saying . . .
Just trust God.
Just get over it.
If you would just do . . .
You have lots going for you. You shouldn't
feel so bad.
When to Seek Help . . .
Major depression is a serious illness and can be fatal if left untreated. A person cannot face this illness alone. Seek professional help for yourself, or for someone you care for when you see . . .
- Three or more symptoms of depression
- Response to your attempts to help
- No family or friends there for support
- There are suicidal thoughts
- The person turning to substance abuse
- The individual cannot take care of his family or himself.
Dr. Ann Shorb is the founder of Christian Counseling & Educational Services, an accomplished professional speaker, and the author of A Light for My Path, a weekly email devotional. Visit her website http://www.ccesonline.com for a free subscription to A Light for My Path.
Christian Counseling & Educational Services
http://www.ccesonline.com Major depression can greatly affect a person's ability to function at home and/or at work, and inhibit the enjoyment of life in any way. Some people suffer depression only once but others may experience it several times in their lifetime.
Answer the questions below to determine if you are experiencing depression. If you answer True to at least four (4) of the following statements, you may be suffering from depression. If you answer True to the majority of the following statements, you are certainly experiencing depression and you need to seek professional help. See a doctor or a counselor before the depression gets worse.
T or F - I feel sad and blue most of the time.
T or F - I feel like crying more than I did six months ago.
T or F - I feel hopeless and helpless most of the time.
T or F - I have no motivation.
T or F - I'm not interested in things I used to enjoy.
T or F - Recently I have wondered if life is worth living.
T or F - I am not sleeping well, or I want to sleep all of the time.
T or F - I have lost my appetite.
T or F - I am easily irritated.
T or F - I am more anxious about things than I used to be.
T or F - My energy level has dropped recently
T or F - I dread the morning. It is hard to get up.
T or F - I have been thinking about myself a lot recently.
T or F - The face looking back at me in the mirror is sad.
T or F - My self-concept needs improving.
T or F - I worry about the past, the present and the future.
T or F - I've had more headaches, upset stomach, constipation, rapid heartbeat, etc. in the last six months than usual.
T or F - I think that people have noticed that I am not working as well at my job, or enjoying life like I used to.
Is Depression A Sin? Christians often ask this question. The answer is Not necessarily! While harboring sin or sinful attitudes in your life can certainly produce depression, other possible causes include experiencing a significant loss or having a physical problem that causes body chemistry to be imbalanced. Great men in the Bible, such as David (in many of his Psalms), Elijah (I Kings 19), Moses (Exodus 18), and Jonah (Jonah 4) experienced depression. In each of these situations God sent someone to help the suffering individual but He did not condemn him. Psalm 23:18 says, The Lord is close to the broken hearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Whatever the cause, God cares about the person experiencing depression.
Some Interesting Facts
- One in four women and one in ten men will develop depression some time in their life.
- Men experience depression differently than women. Men tend to get angrier.
- Depression can affect children as well as adults and the elderly.
- Suicide may result when depression has not been treated successfully.
- Depression has been called the common cold of the mind.
- Between 80-90% of the people seeking treatment get well.
What Are Some Symptoms
Of Depression?
Everyone feels sad sometimes due to a significant loss such as a death, a divorce or losing a job. Anger turned inward can also cause sad feelings. When these feelings are not dealt with properly and they continue over a long period of time, a person usually experiences a major depression.
Look For These Symptoms
- Feelings of sadness for over two weeks
- Not wanting to spend time with friends and family
- Increased irritability
- Changes in sleep and appetite patterns
- Frequent crying spells
- Difficulty concentrating
- Forgetfulness
How Can You Help A Depressed Person?
We often feel uncomfortable around a depressed person because we don't know what to say or do for him. This may cause us to make some serious mistakes when we try to help them. So what can you do to help?
Let him be honest about his feelings.
Allow him to talk about his negative, depressed
feelings. Don't say, You shouldn't feel like that.
Be there for him. A depressed person may have lost someone important in his life. Let him know you care and will be there for him.
Be aware. A depressed person often tries to avoid
dealing with his feelings, or to pretend he is fine. If he fails to get help, he will only become more depressed. Help him get help.
Avoid saying . . .
Just trust God.
Just get over it.
If you would just do . . .
You have lots going for you. You shouldn't
feel so bad.
When to Seek Help . . .
Major depression is a serious illness and can be fatal if left untreated. A person cannot face this illness alone. Seek professional help for yourself, or for someone you care for when you see . . .
- Three or more symptoms of depression
- Response to your attempts to help
- No family or friends there for support
- There are suicidal thoughts
- The person turning to substance abuse
- The individual cannot take care of his family or himself.
Dr. Ann Shorb is the founder of Christian Counseling & Educational Services, an accomplished professional speaker, and the author of A Light for My Path, a weekly email devotional. Visit her website http://www.ccesonline.com for a free subscription to A Light for My Path.
The Heart of the Gospel The fundamental nature of the heart
I've been relatively healthy all my life yet recently I had a little scare. When walking only short distances my heart would start to pound. It rang in my ears in a similar way to the sound of one of my kids bouncing a basketball off the garage door, which of course results in my yelling "stop it right now"(not that any of you would say something like that). This response of my heart to what in the past would have been such a small demand to function was a little disconcerting. There was even a couple of times where it seemed a rush surged to my head and I became dizzy.
You know the thoughts that might go through your mind at a time such as this, "I'm having a heart attack", or "Lord please don't take me before I have completed what I've been called to do", or simply "man, I gotta get my life straight". Of course during such incidents we are struck with a glaring sense of our own fragility. Life is fleeting and those of us who know Christ often have a true awareness of purpose. We may sometimes feel as if there is not enough time to finish what we've been called to do before the door closes on this life and the door of eternity opens. Let's face it we're always in midst of a transition, some subtle and some not so. However the final transition is something that one might dread yet another long for with anticipation depending on their particular situation. Of course that begs a question that we might ask ourselves, "which one am I?".
It's not my aim in this particular writing to wax philosophical but I guess I have a tendency sometimes to over analyze, especially when it comes to matters of self. Therefore the above also got me thinking about the heart in general. Obviously if our heart quits, for all intents and purposes we do as well, baring mechanical continuation. That's why we have phrases in our culture like, "the heart of the matter", which seems to imply, the very central point or substance of a particular thing. Our physical heart is seen as vital to our existence. Of course there's the brain as well and other vital organs, yet it's not my purpose here to get into a physiological debate let alone an anatomy lesson.
How the Hebrew people perceived Heart Now I don't know about you but I have a penchant for linking chains of logic together. I started then thinking about how the physical heart represented the foundation of life. To the ancient Hebrew people and in their covenant writings, God's revelation of Himself (the Old Testament to Christians),the heart is portrayed metaphorically in various ways. It can mean the intellect or the emotions. It can also mean the desire or the will. Moreover it can of course even mean courage. Additionally one of the ways that the heart is portrayed to those that God had called to be the bearers of His presence in the earth from ancient times was as the total of someone's personality, who they were in essence. This is metaphorical conception of the heart that I found myself thinking about.
As the physical heart in many ways represents to us the very center and foundation of life, so in a way does the spiritual heart represent the very essence of our spiritual existence. The condition of our heart is representative of the condition of our life before God.
Jesus spoke to that very point in Matthew 15:19-20. Mt 15:19-20
19 " For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. 20 "These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man."
NASU
At this particular occasion the Pharisees and Scribes were upset with the disciples of Jesus because they perceived that they had broken the "tradition of the elders" because they hadn't ceremonially washed their hands before eating. Jesus used this instance as an juncture for teaching in which he pointed out that they were violating the command of God for the sake of their traditions (15:3-6). Ending with this poignant statement,
Mt 15:7-9
7 "You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you:
8 'THIS PEOPLE HONORS ME WITH THEIR LIPS,
BUT THEIR HEART IS FAR AWAY FROM ME.
9 'BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME,
TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE PRECEPTS OF MEN.'"
NASU (c.f. Isa. 29:13)
The Lord went on to say that it's not what we eat the makes us unclean but that which we speak for our words reveal our hearts. After these rather hardy exchanges of course the disciples came to their master, having been the focal point of the attack and as usual their depth perception was at the time less than skin deep. They were even concerned that Jesus' words had offended the religious leaders. This might have been a valid concern in the culture in which they lived because those very religious leaders could cause a myriad of troubles. You can imagine from the earliest childhood they had been taught in their homes that they were to respect the leaders of Israel.
Jesus instructed His disciples saying,
Mt 15:14
14 "Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
NASU
To this, Peter the disciples' point man, asked a further question, "explain the parable to us". To which Jesus replied,
Mt 15:16-20
"Are you still lacking in understanding also? 17 "Do you not understand that everything that goes into the mouth passes into the stomach, and is eliminated? 18 "But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. 19 " For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. 20 "These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man."
NASU
Certainly the disciples had heard the Scriptures all their lives, they of course would have known by rote the various meanings of the phrase "heart" although they may not have been able to enumerate them at that particular time, as with all cultures it most likely was implicit in the context of the statement. Jesus was getting to the "heart" of the matter. It wasn't ceremonial defilement that was of utmost importance but the the sin that was at the very center of humanity. David, Scripture declares, was a man "after God's own heart (1 Sam. 13:14)". This was because David valued God's will above his own and was used in this particular passage to be a contrast to Saul, who had done his own thing because it was expedient at the given moment. It was of the lack of obedience that Saul was removed, and it was because of his obedient heart that David was appointed.
What's the point? So what's all this about? It was the very heart of humankind that needed changed on an individual level.
The covenant God had spoken these words to the prophet Jeremiah,
Jer 17:9
9 "The heart is more deceitful than all else
And is desperately sick;
Who can understand it?
NASU
Yet the living God would later promise the prophet Ezekiel that,
Eze 11:19-20
19 "...I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, 20 that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God.
NASU
"They will be My people, and I shall be their God." Do you hear the covenant formula in this statement? This was the promise of the New Covenant in Christ Jesus. The very essence (heart/soul) would change of those that God had called to Himself as they responded to the message of the Gospel.
The heart of the Gospel What is the heart of the Gospel, the very center and essence of God's message? That's simple, Jesus is that heart. It is His blood that pumps through the spiritual arteries and veins of the body of Christ bringing life giving oxygen and taking away impurities. We had mentioned above that when the natural heart stops the body that it beat within stops as well. Yet the heart of the Gospel, Jesus, will never stop clensing and bringing life becaue He is eternal, He is God. We can trust that even if our hearts fail us He never will. If my heart were to stop beating tomorrow I have the confidence that the new covenant life that beats within me would escort me into the presence of God because His life is eternal. This confidence is not based on anything which I have done, but on the sure truth that God is faithful and the blood of Christ paid the price for my sin.
Do you have that confidence as well? Pastor G
You know the thoughts that might go through your mind at a time such as this, "I'm having a heart attack", or "Lord please don't take me before I have completed what I've been called to do", or simply "man, I gotta get my life straight". Of course during such incidents we are struck with a glaring sense of our own fragility. Life is fleeting and those of us who know Christ often have a true awareness of purpose. We may sometimes feel as if there is not enough time to finish what we've been called to do before the door closes on this life and the door of eternity opens. Let's face it we're always in midst of a transition, some subtle and some not so. However the final transition is something that one might dread yet another long for with anticipation depending on their particular situation. Of course that begs a question that we might ask ourselves, "which one am I?".
It's not my aim in this particular writing to wax philosophical but I guess I have a tendency sometimes to over analyze, especially when it comes to matters of self. Therefore the above also got me thinking about the heart in general. Obviously if our heart quits, for all intents and purposes we do as well, baring mechanical continuation. That's why we have phrases in our culture like, "the heart of the matter", which seems to imply, the very central point or substance of a particular thing. Our physical heart is seen as vital to our existence. Of course there's the brain as well and other vital organs, yet it's not my purpose here to get into a physiological debate let alone an anatomy lesson.
How the Hebrew people perceived Heart Now I don't know about you but I have a penchant for linking chains of logic together. I started then thinking about how the physical heart represented the foundation of life. To the ancient Hebrew people and in their covenant writings, God's revelation of Himself (the Old Testament to Christians),the heart is portrayed metaphorically in various ways. It can mean the intellect or the emotions. It can also mean the desire or the will. Moreover it can of course even mean courage. Additionally one of the ways that the heart is portrayed to those that God had called to be the bearers of His presence in the earth from ancient times was as the total of someone's personality, who they were in essence. This is metaphorical conception of the heart that I found myself thinking about.
As the physical heart in many ways represents to us the very center and foundation of life, so in a way does the spiritual heart represent the very essence of our spiritual existence. The condition of our heart is representative of the condition of our life before God.
Jesus spoke to that very point in Matthew 15:19-20. Mt 15:19-20
19 " For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. 20 "These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man."
NASU
At this particular occasion the Pharisees and Scribes were upset with the disciples of Jesus because they perceived that they had broken the "tradition of the elders" because they hadn't ceremonially washed their hands before eating. Jesus used this instance as an juncture for teaching in which he pointed out that they were violating the command of God for the sake of their traditions (15:3-6). Ending with this poignant statement,
Mt 15:7-9
7 "You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you:
8 'THIS PEOPLE HONORS ME WITH THEIR LIPS,
BUT THEIR HEART IS FAR AWAY FROM ME.
9 'BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME,
TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE PRECEPTS OF MEN.'"
NASU (c.f. Isa. 29:13)
The Lord went on to say that it's not what we eat the makes us unclean but that which we speak for our words reveal our hearts. After these rather hardy exchanges of course the disciples came to their master, having been the focal point of the attack and as usual their depth perception was at the time less than skin deep. They were even concerned that Jesus' words had offended the religious leaders. This might have been a valid concern in the culture in which they lived because those very religious leaders could cause a myriad of troubles. You can imagine from the earliest childhood they had been taught in their homes that they were to respect the leaders of Israel.
Jesus instructed His disciples saying,
Mt 15:14
14 "Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit."
NASU
To this, Peter the disciples' point man, asked a further question, "explain the parable to us". To which Jesus replied,
Mt 15:16-20
"Are you still lacking in understanding also? 17 "Do you not understand that everything that goes into the mouth passes into the stomach, and is eliminated? 18 "But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. 19 " For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. 20 "These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man."
NASU
Certainly the disciples had heard the Scriptures all their lives, they of course would have known by rote the various meanings of the phrase "heart" although they may not have been able to enumerate them at that particular time, as with all cultures it most likely was implicit in the context of the statement. Jesus was getting to the "heart" of the matter. It wasn't ceremonial defilement that was of utmost importance but the the sin that was at the very center of humanity. David, Scripture declares, was a man "after God's own heart (1 Sam. 13:14)". This was because David valued God's will above his own and was used in this particular passage to be a contrast to Saul, who had done his own thing because it was expedient at the given moment. It was of the lack of obedience that Saul was removed, and it was because of his obedient heart that David was appointed.
What's the point? So what's all this about? It was the very heart of humankind that needed changed on an individual level.
The covenant God had spoken these words to the prophet Jeremiah,
Jer 17:9
9 "The heart is more deceitful than all else
And is desperately sick;
Who can understand it?
NASU
Yet the living God would later promise the prophet Ezekiel that,
Eze 11:19-20
19 "...I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, 20 that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God.
NASU
"They will be My people, and I shall be their God." Do you hear the covenant formula in this statement? This was the promise of the New Covenant in Christ Jesus. The very essence (heart/soul) would change of those that God had called to Himself as they responded to the message of the Gospel.
The heart of the Gospel What is the heart of the Gospel, the very center and essence of God's message? That's simple, Jesus is that heart. It is His blood that pumps through the spiritual arteries and veins of the body of Christ bringing life giving oxygen and taking away impurities. We had mentioned above that when the natural heart stops the body that it beat within stops as well. Yet the heart of the Gospel, Jesus, will never stop clensing and bringing life becaue He is eternal, He is God. We can trust that even if our hearts fail us He never will. If my heart were to stop beating tomorrow I have the confidence that the new covenant life that beats within me would escort me into the presence of God because His life is eternal. This confidence is not based on anything which I have done, but on the sure truth that God is faithful and the blood of Christ paid the price for my sin.
Do you have that confidence as well? Pastor G
Is Your Marriage in The Red?
8 Principles to Keep Your Vow Till Debt Due Us Part
Here are 8 Pina Principles to sidestep obstacles, crossover financially, and win in your marriage:
1 - Use Your Strengths
Typically every marriage has a spender and a saver. Generally one person is better at saving. The saver can view the spender as immature and irresponsible. On the other hand, the spender sees the saver as too frugal and a dream killer. Instead of letting it divide you, use the strength of the saver to stick to your financial savings plan and build financial security for the family.
2 - Trim the Excess Fat
The average household carries about $10k in credit card debt. To begin eliminating excessive debts you need more money to conquer the habits that enslaved you. You can gain more money by reducing the "extras" and your living expenses. Cut out the monthly shopping sprees, eating out at extravagant restaurants, stop loaning family and friends money, and increase your insurance deductibles. We had to give up going to Starbucks and Stop & Shop everyday and purchase a home warranty to alleviate unexpected home repair costs. Where can you slash costs? Every little bit adds up and can go towards paying extra to eliminate your debt.
3 - Be a Team
According to a Harris Interactive survey, only 50% of couples maintain combined accounts while 18% keep separate bank accounts. Wow! Only half were team players with their spouse. To win financially utilize a team approach. One thing that has always been true for my husband Stanley and I is that what I have is his and whatever he has is mine. So when I wasn't working, he dipped into his 401k savings repeatedly for our expenses and when he wasn't working, I did the same and carried the load financially. If I ate, he ate. When I paid "my bills," "his bills" were paid in tandem. If I treated myself to something special, I treated him as well. This set the tone for us, in the sense we never fought about this is "my money" or that is your bill. After all, arguing is not going to reduce your monthly debt!
4 - What's the Grand Total?
As Stanley and I began to take steps to become financially free, we identified our total debt amount. I'll never forget that day. I called Stanley on the cell phone and said, "What do you think our total debt is?" He guessed a couple of numbers and neither of them were accurate. I couldn't believe the number either. Why? Because we constantly guesstimated our debt by saying it's about $20k or we don't have a lot of debt only $25k. It was neither. The truth about your total debt will set you free. Find out your grand total and use it to mobilize your debt free campaign.
5 - Get a Grip
Get a grip and keep track of your money and budget. It can be as simple as an Excel spreadsheet to track income and expenses or a software package such as Microsoft Money or Intuit's Quicken.
6 - Talk, Talk, Talk
Find a way to communicate in a healthy manner about your family's financial plan and goals. As we know, money can be the number one stressor in marriage. It is what some couples fight about the most. Many of these fights are the result of unclear or unspoken expectations. We strongly urge you to block off time for financial planning and discussions to track progress or lack thereof.
7 - Move Forward Now
I shoulda did "x" or I woulda did "y" isn't gonna get you free in your finances. It's done now. Don't pout about it, blame your partner, or let it paralyze you into inactivity. Think of it like this, the longer you do nothing, the longer you stay in bondage. Commit to moving forward now.
8 - Fess Up
You need help with your finances. Admit it...things have snowballed into some serious debt and you are in the red. If so, get some help. It could be a combination of a financial planner, securing additional income, or a coach to identify the things you believe about money that are keeping you in debt. In either case talking to an objective professional partner can ease some of the tension.
Being in a financially out of control relationship is no fun and certainly isn’t glorious. If you need the professional help I referenced in this article, get it and get financially free. There is help…even some professionals come to your home. So what's your excuse now?
Financially free,
Karen M. Pina
GOD’s Coach
1 - Use Your Strengths
Typically every marriage has a spender and a saver. Generally one person is better at saving. The saver can view the spender as immature and irresponsible. On the other hand, the spender sees the saver as too frugal and a dream killer. Instead of letting it divide you, use the strength of the saver to stick to your financial savings plan and build financial security for the family.
2 - Trim the Excess Fat
The average household carries about $10k in credit card debt. To begin eliminating excessive debts you need more money to conquer the habits that enslaved you. You can gain more money by reducing the "extras" and your living expenses. Cut out the monthly shopping sprees, eating out at extravagant restaurants, stop loaning family and friends money, and increase your insurance deductibles. We had to give up going to Starbucks and Stop & Shop everyday and purchase a home warranty to alleviate unexpected home repair costs. Where can you slash costs? Every little bit adds up and can go towards paying extra to eliminate your debt.
3 - Be a Team
According to a Harris Interactive survey, only 50% of couples maintain combined accounts while 18% keep separate bank accounts. Wow! Only half were team players with their spouse. To win financially utilize a team approach. One thing that has always been true for my husband Stanley and I is that what I have is his and whatever he has is mine. So when I wasn't working, he dipped into his 401k savings repeatedly for our expenses and when he wasn't working, I did the same and carried the load financially. If I ate, he ate. When I paid "my bills," "his bills" were paid in tandem. If I treated myself to something special, I treated him as well. This set the tone for us, in the sense we never fought about this is "my money" or that is your bill. After all, arguing is not going to reduce your monthly debt!
4 - What's the Grand Total?
As Stanley and I began to take steps to become financially free, we identified our total debt amount. I'll never forget that day. I called Stanley on the cell phone and said, "What do you think our total debt is?" He guessed a couple of numbers and neither of them were accurate. I couldn't believe the number either. Why? Because we constantly guesstimated our debt by saying it's about $20k or we don't have a lot of debt only $25k. It was neither. The truth about your total debt will set you free. Find out your grand total and use it to mobilize your debt free campaign.
5 - Get a Grip
Get a grip and keep track of your money and budget. It can be as simple as an Excel spreadsheet to track income and expenses or a software package such as Microsoft Money or Intuit's Quicken.
6 - Talk, Talk, Talk
Find a way to communicate in a healthy manner about your family's financial plan and goals. As we know, money can be the number one stressor in marriage. It is what some couples fight about the most. Many of these fights are the result of unclear or unspoken expectations. We strongly urge you to block off time for financial planning and discussions to track progress or lack thereof.
7 - Move Forward Now
I shoulda did "x" or I woulda did "y" isn't gonna get you free in your finances. It's done now. Don't pout about it, blame your partner, or let it paralyze you into inactivity. Think of it like this, the longer you do nothing, the longer you stay in bondage. Commit to moving forward now.
8 - Fess Up
You need help with your finances. Admit it...things have snowballed into some serious debt and you are in the red. If so, get some help. It could be a combination of a financial planner, securing additional income, or a coach to identify the things you believe about money that are keeping you in debt. In either case talking to an objective professional partner can ease some of the tension.
Being in a financially out of control relationship is no fun and certainly isn’t glorious. If you need the professional help I referenced in this article, get it and get financially free. There is help…even some professionals come to your home. So what's your excuse now?
Financially free,
Karen M. Pina
GOD’s Coach
