Finally, brothers . . .
whatever is just. . .
dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8b, NRS).
Good Morning!
Several ducks walked slowly across one of our busy city streets. Believe it or not, four lanes of traffic were stopped by the feathered flock. Drivers were mandated by law in our area to stop for the synchronized waddling ducks. Apparently, the ducks were not influenced by the idling vehicles lined up from either direction. They certainly took their time to cross the street. Seriously . . . think about it . . . the ducks actually had the right of the road . . . and the drivers complied . . . there were no . . . hmm . . . ruffled feathers.
In case you have not heard the expression “to ruffle someone’s feathers,” it means to annoy or irritate someone, which comes from the idea that feathers of a bird appear ruffled from excitement and/or fear. Most of us know at least one individual who seems bent on ruffling feathers. Actually, let's get honest . . . you and I have learned through life experiences how to irritate and/or annoy others with a fair amount of expertise. Seriously, we become experts at ruffling feathers.
Conversely, the Apostle Paul wrote about changing our behavior through changing the thought process. Christ-followers are to first focus on whatever is true, whatever is honorable, and then whatever is just. The rarely used word “just” refers to righteous, being right with God and others. “Just” thoughts challenge us to consciously behave in a right way rather than irritating and/or annoying family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, or anyone else. Righteous or just conduct is determined by choosing to have a “mindset” produced by the Spirit of Christ: “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit” (Romans 8:5, NRS).
Refuse to ruffle someone's feathers.
Surrender to the Spirit of Christ.
Set your mind on whatever is true, honorable, just . . .
Determine to be just or righteous in your attitude and actions.
Learning with you to think and act in a just manner,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
The Value of Honor
Finally, brothers . . .
whatever is honorable. . .
dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8b, NRS).
Good Morning!
Tim played in a soccer tournament all weekend. His team worked their way to the final game and won. While winning the game is the desired outcome, the process of playing with honor needs to be a priority. In other words, the players need to honor the rules, the opponents, the officials, the teammates, and even themselves. That said, there are players on every team that fail to honor anyone and anything. Mastering the game with honor has long-term value for life.
The Apostle Paul made a priority list of healthy and whole thinking. Christ-followers are to first focus on whatever is true and then whatever is honorable. The thought process dictates behavior (attitude and actions). The components of honor include honesty and integrity.
Honorable thinking and conduct reflects intimacy with Christ. The Spirit of Christ produces honorable thoughts in a Follower. In turn, the Follower, chooses to receive or deny honorable thoughts. Surrender of dishonorable thoughts is key to the process of honorable thinking.
Each day provides opportunities to honor or dishonor God and people through thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
Be honorable.
Determine if your attitude and actions are honorable.
Choose to think on whatever is honorable.
Keep an attitude of honor.
Act in honor.
Honor God.
Honor others.
Learning with you to be honorable,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
whatever is honorable. . .
dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8b, NRS).
Good Morning!
Tim played in a soccer tournament all weekend. His team worked their way to the final game and won. While winning the game is the desired outcome, the process of playing with honor needs to be a priority. In other words, the players need to honor the rules, the opponents, the officials, the teammates, and even themselves. That said, there are players on every team that fail to honor anyone and anything. Mastering the game with honor has long-term value for life.
The Apostle Paul made a priority list of healthy and whole thinking. Christ-followers are to first focus on whatever is true and then whatever is honorable. The thought process dictates behavior (attitude and actions). The components of honor include honesty and integrity.
Honorable thinking and conduct reflects intimacy with Christ. The Spirit of Christ produces honorable thoughts in a Follower. In turn, the Follower, chooses to receive or deny honorable thoughts. Surrender of dishonorable thoughts is key to the process of honorable thinking.
Each day provides opportunities to honor or dishonor God and people through thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
Be honorable.
Determine if your attitude and actions are honorable.
Choose to think on whatever is honorable.
Keep an attitude of honor.
Act in honor.
Honor God.
Honor others.
Learning with you to be honorable,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Friday, July 27, 2007
Mind Walking
Finally, brothers,
whatever is true . . .
dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8a, NRS).
Good Morning!
Sometimes things are not as they appear. I have a friend that looks successful from top to bottom; however, he has emotional pain that elicits troubled thinking. He admits that the troubled thoughts often drive him to do what he does. We have talked about the freedom and fulfillment he would experience through the true rather than troubled thinking. When all is said and done, a life based on whatever is untrue becomes meaningless.
The Apostle Paul described a healthy and whole thought process—focusing on whatever is true. Accordingly, an individual consciously renews the mind on a daily basis. Renewal is an exchange process. Without the renewal process, our perception is limited and skewed—the renewal process begins with a sifting and sorting what is in the mind through the help of the Spirit of Christ. I call it “mind walking” with Christ Jesus. Each thought is evaluated as the question is asked, “Is this true—does this thought unite with the thoughts of Christ?”
Take a mind walk.
Ask Jesus to go into the corridors of your mind.
Seek to sift and sort the thoughts.
Throw out untrue thoughts.
Dwell on the truth today.
Give thanks for the ability to dwell upon true thoughts.
Enjoy your walk!
Learning with you to take a daily mind walk,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
whatever is true . . .
dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8a, NRS).
Good Morning!
Sometimes things are not as they appear. I have a friend that looks successful from top to bottom; however, he has emotional pain that elicits troubled thinking. He admits that the troubled thoughts often drive him to do what he does. We have talked about the freedom and fulfillment he would experience through the true rather than troubled thinking. When all is said and done, a life based on whatever is untrue becomes meaningless.
The Apostle Paul described a healthy and whole thought process—focusing on whatever is true. Accordingly, an individual consciously renews the mind on a daily basis. Renewal is an exchange process. Without the renewal process, our perception is limited and skewed—the renewal process begins with a sifting and sorting what is in the mind through the help of the Spirit of Christ. I call it “mind walking” with Christ Jesus. Each thought is evaluated as the question is asked, “Is this true—does this thought unite with the thoughts of Christ?”
Take a mind walk.
Ask Jesus to go into the corridors of your mind.
Seek to sift and sort the thoughts.
Throw out untrue thoughts.
Dwell on the truth today.
Give thanks for the ability to dwell upon true thoughts.
Enjoy your walk!
Learning with you to take a daily mind walk,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Thursday, July 26, 2007
The Spirit of Christ
. . will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7b, NRS)
Good Morning!
I watch the sun move over the horizon from my home office window. An assortment of pinks and blues in the early morning skies underscore the creative work of God. As the day dawns, I have learned to become still to know the presence of God. Stillness increases an awareness of His presence and powerful activity. Let’s be honest . . . without time to be quiet and know the presence of God (Psalm 46:10) . . . busyness . . . pressures . . . problems begin to crowd into the mind and heart. Quietness of the heart and mind connects Christ followers with His presence and peace.
God is always present; however, humanity chooses whether to be connected or disconnected from His presence. That said, it is powerful to realize that God, according to His will, initiates connecting humanity with Himself through “His great love for us” (Ephesians 2:4). The Apostle Paul stated that knowing the presence of Christ allows an individual to experience peace, shalom, that guards the heart and mind.
How can the mind and heart be guarded with shalom when there are so many difficulties in this world? The bottom line to the answer of this question is: we can’t be enslaved to both the shalom of Christ and the problems of this world. A choice must be made.
Shalom is received through surrender to the unique and active work of the Spirit of Christ. Now come on . . . think about this . . . the Spirit of Christ . . . with infinite power . . . moves within our inner being and guards the mind and heart with shalom. The pressure of living is transformed through shalom, experienced through the abiding presence of the Spirit of Christ.
Be still.
Recognize the presence of God.
Connect with the presence and peace of Christ.
Surrender to the work of the Spirit of Christ within you.
Experience the powerful shalom that guards your heart and mind.
Learning with you to experience shalom through the Spirit of Christ,
Kerrie
Good Morning!
I watch the sun move over the horizon from my home office window. An assortment of pinks and blues in the early morning skies underscore the creative work of God. As the day dawns, I have learned to become still to know the presence of God. Stillness increases an awareness of His presence and powerful activity. Let’s be honest . . . without time to be quiet and know the presence of God (Psalm 46:10) . . . busyness . . . pressures . . . problems begin to crowd into the mind and heart. Quietness of the heart and mind connects Christ followers with His presence and peace.
God is always present; however, humanity chooses whether to be connected or disconnected from His presence. That said, it is powerful to realize that God, according to His will, initiates connecting humanity with Himself through “His great love for us” (Ephesians 2:4). The Apostle Paul stated that knowing the presence of Christ allows an individual to experience peace, shalom, that guards the heart and mind.
How can the mind and heart be guarded with shalom when there are so many difficulties in this world? The bottom line to the answer of this question is: we can’t be enslaved to both the shalom of Christ and the problems of this world. A choice must be made.
Shalom is received through surrender to the unique and active work of the Spirit of Christ. Now come on . . . think about this . . . the Spirit of Christ . . . with infinite power . . . moves within our inner being and guards the mind and heart with shalom. The pressure of living is transformed through shalom, experienced through the abiding presence of the Spirit of Christ.
Be still.
Recognize the presence of God.
Connect with the presence and peace of Christ.
Surrender to the work of the Spirit of Christ within you.
Experience the powerful shalom that guards your heart and mind.
Learning with you to experience shalom through the Spirit of Christ,
Kerrie
Monday, July 23, 2007
Shalom
Note: The next devotion will be sent on Thursday, July 26.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding . . . (Philippians 4:7a, NRS)
Good Morning!
A friend of mine is ill. The illness has created havoc in her life. A few of her health challenges include loss of hair, retention of fluid, nausea, and exhaustion. And, yet, she has peace . . . a peace that passes all understanding.
Authentic peace or shalom transcends pressures, problems, disappointments, and suffering. Why? Shalom can be defined as an ongoing experience and activity of the presence and goodness of God. Accordingly, God is faithful to be present (never to leave or forsake you and I) and to be eternally and perfectly good.
Shalom quiets and unifies the mind and heart, which produces wholeness. The continual ongoing activity of Jehovah (God) Shalom within individuals guards the heart much like a sentinel from the ancient days would guard the city gates, protecting the city from an invading attack. Shalom guards against the power of pressures and problems from invading the mind and heart.
Shalom is a gift.
Receive shalom.
Surrender disappointments and ensuing distress.
Experience shalom today.
Shalom.
Learning with you to live in shalom,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding . . . (Philippians 4:7a, NRS)
Good Morning!
A friend of mine is ill. The illness has created havoc in her life. A few of her health challenges include loss of hair, retention of fluid, nausea, and exhaustion. And, yet, she has peace . . . a peace that passes all understanding.
Authentic peace or shalom transcends pressures, problems, disappointments, and suffering. Why? Shalom can be defined as an ongoing experience and activity of the presence and goodness of God. Accordingly, God is faithful to be present (never to leave or forsake you and I) and to be eternally and perfectly good.
Shalom quiets and unifies the mind and heart, which produces wholeness. The continual ongoing activity of Jehovah (God) Shalom within individuals guards the heart much like a sentinel from the ancient days would guard the city gates, protecting the city from an invading attack. Shalom guards against the power of pressures and problems from invading the mind and heart.
Shalom is a gift.
Receive shalom.
Surrender disappointments and ensuing distress.
Experience shalom today.
Shalom.
Learning with you to live in shalom,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Remember to say Thank You!
. . . With thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6c, NRS)
Good Morning!
I have a complaint about driving on dark country roads. It is just down right difficult to see, especially in the isolated areas. With that in mind, you might understand that the headlights of a train startled me on my way home last night. The light pierced through the darkness, illuminating my car as well as the road. In those few moments I could see what had been hidden in the dark--an abandoned car blocking part of my lane. If it had not been for the light, I would have most likely hit the car. I am grateful for the light.
There are times that I forget to say thank you for the inbreaking power of the Light of Christ in the darkness of this world. The Light illuminates the way through any and all of the pressures and problems. Jesus said, "I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness" (John 12:46, NRSV).
Belief that Christ is the Light of the world changes how we see everything. What a difference the Light makes . . . more than enough reason to be grateful . . . and to give thanks.
Remember to say thank You for living in the Light.
Refuse to complain-- seek the Light with gratefulness.
Give thanks.
Give thanks for the inbreaking power of the Light within every circumstance.
Give thanks for the illuminating power of the Light.
Give thanks for living in the Light.
Learning with you to give thanks for living in the Light,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
I have a complaint about driving on dark country roads. It is just down right difficult to see, especially in the isolated areas. With that in mind, you might understand that the headlights of a train startled me on my way home last night. The light pierced through the darkness, illuminating my car as well as the road. In those few moments I could see what had been hidden in the dark--an abandoned car blocking part of my lane. If it had not been for the light, I would have most likely hit the car. I am grateful for the light.
There are times that I forget to say thank you for the inbreaking power of the Light of Christ in the darkness of this world. The Light illuminates the way through any and all of the pressures and problems. Jesus said, "I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness" (John 12:46, NRSV).
Belief that Christ is the Light of the world changes how we see everything. What a difference the Light makes . . . more than enough reason to be grateful . . . and to give thanks.
Remember to say thank You for living in the Light.
Refuse to complain-- seek the Light with gratefulness.
Give thanks.
Give thanks for the inbreaking power of the Light within every circumstance.
Give thanks for the illuminating power of the Light.
Give thanks for living in the Light.
Learning with you to give thanks for living in the Light,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
In Everything
. . . But in everything by prayer and supplication . . . (Philippians 4:6b, NRS)
Good Morning!
Would you and I pray more if the divine activity initiated through prayer could be seen? Too often, we put prayer aside for "pocket praying." It is the familiar prayer to most of humanity, "GOD HELP ME!" The pocket prayer is valid; however, life changes when we pray about everything.
Prayer is the key to everything in life. Even the physiological and physical state changes when we enter into authentic prayer, focusing on God rather than upon pressures and problems. The Apostle Paul stated the importance to experience everything in life through prayer and supplication. In other words, prayer was not as much about the outcome but the experience.
Connecting with God through prayer in the power of Christ is so astounding that we are compelled to pray without ceasing. Praying through the power of Christ, who is the Light of the world, pierces the darkness of situations, producing clarity and Light. Through prayer we are able to see the divine possibilities in the most impossible situations. The list of what prayer is endless. Perhaps the most important component to the act of prayer is that it produces awareness of the presence of God, increasing faith and commitment to Him.
Pray.
Refuse to dictate the desired outcome of situations in prayer.
Pray.
Surrender everything to the control of God in prayer.
Pray.
Experience connecting with God through the power of Christ.
Pray.
Pray without ceasing.
Pray.
Pray in everything.
Pray.
Learning with you to pray about everything,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
Would you and I pray more if the divine activity initiated through prayer could be seen? Too often, we put prayer aside for "pocket praying." It is the familiar prayer to most of humanity, "GOD HELP ME!" The pocket prayer is valid; however, life changes when we pray about everything.
Prayer is the key to everything in life. Even the physiological and physical state changes when we enter into authentic prayer, focusing on God rather than upon pressures and problems. The Apostle Paul stated the importance to experience everything in life through prayer and supplication. In other words, prayer was not as much about the outcome but the experience.
Connecting with God through prayer in the power of Christ is so astounding that we are compelled to pray without ceasing. Praying through the power of Christ, who is the Light of the world, pierces the darkness of situations, producing clarity and Light. Through prayer we are able to see the divine possibilities in the most impossible situations. The list of what prayer is endless. Perhaps the most important component to the act of prayer is that it produces awareness of the presence of God, increasing faith and commitment to Him.
Pray.
Refuse to dictate the desired outcome of situations in prayer.
Pray.
Surrender everything to the control of God in prayer.
Pray.
Experience connecting with God through the power of Christ.
Pray.
Pray without ceasing.
Pray.
Pray in everything.
Pray.
Learning with you to pray about everything,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Worried
Do not worry about anything . . . (Philippians 4:6a, NRS)
Good Morning!
A little girl explained to me the challenges of first grade this fall. I could hear anxiety in her voice as she gave a complete list of possible problems. Yikes . . . I felt anxious listening to the top fifty worries. I could have responded with anxiety, adding to her worries by saying, “Yes . . . you are right. Life is going to change when you go to first grade. You will face many hurdles and challenges. In fact, there are more possible problems with each grade level. So face it little girl, life can be down-right difficult.”
No worries—I restrained from adding stress upon the little first-grader. I reminded her that some worries can be managed by preparing ahead; however, ultimately, worry needs to be replaced with peace. So, we prayed for Jehovah Shalom, the God of Peace, to guard her from being worried. After all, we have two choices: 1) Be worried. 2) Be at peace. These choices oppose one another. A conscious choice must be made to either be worried or to be at peace.
The Apostle Paul said,
“Do not worry about anything.” (NRS)
“Be anxious for nothing.” (NKJ)
“Never worry about anything.” (NJB)
“Don't fret or worry.” (Message)
Authentic peace comes from God--Shalom--can be defined as knowing the presence and goodness of God. Shalom guards the heart from worry and anxiety. The root cause of worry is fear. Throughout the ages, humanity has been a slave to fear. Without knowing the presence of God, fear rules our thoughts, words, attitudes, and actions. Peace is produced through commitment and conformity to the presence and power of God.
Shalom.
Be at peace.
Refuse to be worried.
Choose to manage life through the presence and goodness of God.
Consciously let go of your worries.
Seek to connect with Jehovah Shalom.
Experience shalom through knowing the activity of the Spirit.
Manage life with peace.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Jehovah Shalom.
Be at peace.
Shalom.
Learning with you to be at peace,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
A little girl explained to me the challenges of first grade this fall. I could hear anxiety in her voice as she gave a complete list of possible problems. Yikes . . . I felt anxious listening to the top fifty worries. I could have responded with anxiety, adding to her worries by saying, “Yes . . . you are right. Life is going to change when you go to first grade. You will face many hurdles and challenges. In fact, there are more possible problems with each grade level. So face it little girl, life can be down-right difficult.”
No worries—I restrained from adding stress upon the little first-grader. I reminded her that some worries can be managed by preparing ahead; however, ultimately, worry needs to be replaced with peace. So, we prayed for Jehovah Shalom, the God of Peace, to guard her from being worried. After all, we have two choices: 1) Be worried. 2) Be at peace. These choices oppose one another. A conscious choice must be made to either be worried or to be at peace.
The Apostle Paul said,
“Do not worry about anything.” (NRS)
“Be anxious for nothing.” (NKJ)
“Never worry about anything.” (NJB)
“Don't fret or worry.” (Message)
Authentic peace comes from God--Shalom--can be defined as knowing the presence and goodness of God. Shalom guards the heart from worry and anxiety. The root cause of worry is fear. Throughout the ages, humanity has been a slave to fear. Without knowing the presence of God, fear rules our thoughts, words, attitudes, and actions. Peace is produced through commitment and conformity to the presence and power of God.
Shalom.
Be at peace.
Refuse to be worried.
Choose to manage life through the presence and goodness of God.
Consciously let go of your worries.
Seek to connect with Jehovah Shalom.
Experience shalom through knowing the activity of the Spirit.
Manage life with peace.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Jehovah Shalom.
Be at peace.
Shalom.
Learning with you to be at peace,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Monday, July 16, 2007
Is That Your Best?
Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
(Philippians 4:5, NRS)
Good Morning!
The other day I walked into a coffee shop for a meeting. Apparently a woman did not like the taste of her purchased coffee. So, she held a caffeine-cranky-crazed-conversation. If you have spent any time in a coffee shop--you have heard this kind of tirade at one time or another. Anyway . . . the caffeine deprived customer repeatedly said, "Is that your best?"
Even after she received her new cup of coffee, she left muttering, "I can't believe that was their best service or coffee."
I do understand crankiness--it is a malady that humanity succumbs to at one time or another. That said, the Apostle Paul supported the gentleness approach, reminding the Philippians the Lord is near. While some have translated this to mean that the second coming of Jesus is near, most likely the words were a reminder that God remains close and hears humanity. Moses spoke of the nearness of God in Deuteronomy 4:7--For what other great nation has a god so near to it as the LORD our God is whenever we call to him? (NRS)
The nearness of God changes our thoughts, words, and behavior. Christ-followers are given the honor to manage life in the best way through the power of the Spirit. The New Testament Greek word for gentleness is praütēs, denoting strength and meekness merging together. In the English language, a gentle individual may be referred to as weak or lacking courage; however, praütēs, refers to an individual humbly aligned to the will of God. Gentleness is produced as the power of the Spirit merges with a surrendered Christ follower.
Be your best.
Choose to manage life through the best Way.
Consciously respond to others with gentleness.
Seek to connect with God.
Experience gentleness through the power of the Spirit.
Manage life with gentleness.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on the gentleness of Christ--quiet strength.
Let your gentleness be known to everyone.
Be your best--be gentle.
Learning with you to be gentle,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
(Philippians 4:5, NRS)
Good Morning!
The other day I walked into a coffee shop for a meeting. Apparently a woman did not like the taste of her purchased coffee. So, she held a caffeine-cranky-crazed-conversation. If you have spent any time in a coffee shop--you have heard this kind of tirade at one time or another. Anyway . . . the caffeine deprived customer repeatedly said, "Is that your best?"
Even after she received her new cup of coffee, she left muttering, "I can't believe that was their best service or coffee."
I do understand crankiness--it is a malady that humanity succumbs to at one time or another. That said, the Apostle Paul supported the gentleness approach, reminding the Philippians the Lord is near. While some have translated this to mean that the second coming of Jesus is near, most likely the words were a reminder that God remains close and hears humanity. Moses spoke of the nearness of God in Deuteronomy 4:7--For what other great nation has a god so near to it as the LORD our God is whenever we call to him? (NRS)
The nearness of God changes our thoughts, words, and behavior. Christ-followers are given the honor to manage life in the best way through the power of the Spirit. The New Testament Greek word for gentleness is praütēs, denoting strength and meekness merging together. In the English language, a gentle individual may be referred to as weak or lacking courage; however, praütēs, refers to an individual humbly aligned to the will of God. Gentleness is produced as the power of the Spirit merges with a surrendered Christ follower.
Be your best.
Choose to manage life through the best Way.
Consciously respond to others with gentleness.
Seek to connect with God.
Experience gentleness through the power of the Spirit.
Manage life with gentleness.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on the gentleness of Christ--quiet strength.
Let your gentleness be known to everyone.
Be your best--be gentle.
Learning with you to be gentle,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Friday, July 13, 2007
Dare-Stare
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again -- rejoice!
(Philippians 4:4, NLT)
Good Morning!
A lone wolf blocked the road last night. The lone wolf seemed to lack upfront—friendliness . . . a true loner . . . one who avoids being with others. I actually had to stop for the loner, who blocked my lane, staring me down. Seriously, the lone wolf stood and stared. Okay, I might sound a little dramatic . . . but, seriously, the wolf stared at me. Actually, it seemed to be giving me a stare-dare communicating the message, “I dare you to cross me.” Yikes! I know I had the advantage over the lone wolf in my car . . . but . . . yikes!
Some individuals push others away, avoiding the pain of rejection through connection, resulting in a dejected, dismal, and depressed way of living. They live without joy, which is an elusive concept to loners. These disconnected individuals use an ongoing non-verbal communication, like the stare-dare, that gives the message: “DO NOT COME NEAR.”
A true connection with God and others comes through the power of Christ. Paul described the union with Christ as filled with joy. The words, chara, describing inner joy and chairein, meaning rejoice, are used in the book of Philippians. These two words share the Greek root for the word, “grace.” Joy can be experienced on a daily basis through the acceptance of the grace of God given through the work of Christ.
Choose to connect with God and others.
Refuse to stare-dare, communicating joyless, lone-living.
Seek to connect with God.
Experience the joy of connecting with God.
Communicate joy through the act of rejoicing.
Rejoice.
Ask the Spirit to connect you with others.
Rejoice.
Take time to meditate on the gift of being filled with Joy.
Rejoice.
Be still to know God, the source of Joy.
Rejoice.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Communicate the joy of connecting with Christ.
Rejoice.
Learning with you to rejoice, refusing to do the stare-dare,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
(Philippians 4:4, NLT)
Good Morning!
A lone wolf blocked the road last night. The lone wolf seemed to lack upfront—friendliness . . . a true loner . . . one who avoids being with others. I actually had to stop for the loner, who blocked my lane, staring me down. Seriously, the lone wolf stood and stared. Okay, I might sound a little dramatic . . . but, seriously, the wolf stared at me. Actually, it seemed to be giving me a stare-dare communicating the message, “I dare you to cross me.” Yikes! I know I had the advantage over the lone wolf in my car . . . but . . . yikes!
Some individuals push others away, avoiding the pain of rejection through connection, resulting in a dejected, dismal, and depressed way of living. They live without joy, which is an elusive concept to loners. These disconnected individuals use an ongoing non-verbal communication, like the stare-dare, that gives the message: “DO NOT COME NEAR.”
A true connection with God and others comes through the power of Christ. Paul described the union with Christ as filled with joy. The words, chara, describing inner joy and chairein, meaning rejoice, are used in the book of Philippians. These two words share the Greek root for the word, “grace.” Joy can be experienced on a daily basis through the acceptance of the grace of God given through the work of Christ.
Choose to connect with God and others.
Refuse to stare-dare, communicating joyless, lone-living.
Seek to connect with God.
Experience the joy of connecting with God.
Communicate joy through the act of rejoicing.
Rejoice.
Ask the Spirit to connect you with others.
Rejoice.
Take time to meditate on the gift of being filled with Joy.
Rejoice.
Be still to know God, the source of Joy.
Rejoice.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Communicate the joy of connecting with Christ.
Rejoice.
Learning with you to rejoice, refusing to do the stare-dare,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Bugged
And now I want to plead with those two women, Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. And I ask you, my true teammate, to help these women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. And they worked with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are written in the Book of Life. (Philippians 4:2-3, NIV)
Good Morning!
The triple digit heat drove the bugs in our area to regroup and come out in full force during the night. I entered a battle with these bugs on the drive home last night. The army of bugs hit my car, plastering the windshield and headlights with unbelievable force. The force created sounds similar to being shot at by a pellet gun. While, these ferocious bugs lost their life in the battle they made it difficult for me to see on the darkened roads. You might say . . . hmm. . . well . . . that they bugged me!
The battle of the bugs pales in comparison to the battles within humanity. That said, we need to face the fact that conflict happens. People “bug” (annoy, irritate, and infuriate) one another. Ultimately, the goal is not to avoid conflict but to manage it by moving from the chaos and confusion in the battles of conflict to reconciliation.
The Apostle Paul discussed conflict that occurred between two women leaders in the church at Philippi. These two women, Euodia and Syntyche, evidently were bugged with one another. Most of us would prefer to avoid conflict; however, avoidance often creates divisiveness. The key to conflict is to face and manage conflict. The Apostle Paul asked for help to ensure that these women would reconcile rather than continue with the conflict. The conflict needed to be examined for a solution to be found, which in the end would reinforce the value of cohesiveness and unity.
Admit that you are bugged by something and/or someone.
Evaluate who and what bugs you.
Seek God to bring peace through reconciliation.
Take time to meditate on the peace of Christ, the Reconciler.
Be still to know the presence of the Reconciler.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Refuse to remain in a bugged-state of being.
Resolve whatever has bugged you.
Celebrate the power of reconciliation.
Learning with you to refuse to remain bugged by something and/or someone,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
The triple digit heat drove the bugs in our area to regroup and come out in full force during the night. I entered a battle with these bugs on the drive home last night. The army of bugs hit my car, plastering the windshield and headlights with unbelievable force. The force created sounds similar to being shot at by a pellet gun. While, these ferocious bugs lost their life in the battle they made it difficult for me to see on the darkened roads. You might say . . . hmm. . . well . . . that they bugged me!
The battle of the bugs pales in comparison to the battles within humanity. That said, we need to face the fact that conflict happens. People “bug” (annoy, irritate, and infuriate) one another. Ultimately, the goal is not to avoid conflict but to manage it by moving from the chaos and confusion in the battles of conflict to reconciliation.
The Apostle Paul discussed conflict that occurred between two women leaders in the church at Philippi. These two women, Euodia and Syntyche, evidently were bugged with one another. Most of us would prefer to avoid conflict; however, avoidance often creates divisiveness. The key to conflict is to face and manage conflict. The Apostle Paul asked for help to ensure that these women would reconcile rather than continue with the conflict. The conflict needed to be examined for a solution to be found, which in the end would reinforce the value of cohesiveness and unity.
Admit that you are bugged by something and/or someone.
Evaluate who and what bugs you.
Seek God to bring peace through reconciliation.
Take time to meditate on the peace of Christ, the Reconciler.
Be still to know the presence of the Reconciler.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Refuse to remain in a bugged-state of being.
Resolve whatever has bugged you.
Celebrate the power of reconciliation.
Learning with you to refuse to remain bugged by something and/or someone,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Stand Firm
Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends! (Philippians 4:1, NIV)
Good Morning!
We are having another day of record triple digit heat. As you might expect, there are some individuals that battle with their attitudes and actions when the heat turns up. There are always exceptions to our expectations. After a meeting last night, 101 degree heat blasted our group as we left the building. I developed a little attitude and dared the group to jump through the sprinklers that were turned on. And, yes, one individual took the dare. Yup . . . without hesitation . . . the individual, a close friend of mine, jumped through the sprinklers. As we erupted into laughter, I was reminded of the value of experiencing joy. There are certain principles of life that should never be compromised. Joy is a vital component of living fully and wholly.
As far as the Apostle Paul was concerned, a Christ-follower stands firm on specific principles. The word "stand" can be read as "belief." Throughout the book of Philippians, he connected the act of rejoicing despite challenges and/or circumstances in life. Difficulties can not only be managed, but managed with joy, when an individual connects with the presence of Christ. Joy occurs through a connection with Christ; however, humanity often depends on the details of life to determine the joy factor.
Living under the control and through the connection of Christ activates joy when an individual is cognizant of the gift of being in Christ.
Stand firm (believe) in the principle of rejoicing.
Take time to meditate on the presence of Christ.
Be still to know His presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Rejoice!
Stand firm--refuse to lose your joy!
Carry the joy of living throughout the day and into the night!
Learning with you to stand firm (believe) and rejoice,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
We are having another day of record triple digit heat. As you might expect, there are some individuals that battle with their attitudes and actions when the heat turns up. There are always exceptions to our expectations. After a meeting last night, 101 degree heat blasted our group as we left the building. I developed a little attitude and dared the group to jump through the sprinklers that were turned on. And, yes, one individual took the dare. Yup . . . without hesitation . . . the individual, a close friend of mine, jumped through the sprinklers. As we erupted into laughter, I was reminded of the value of experiencing joy. There are certain principles of life that should never be compromised. Joy is a vital component of living fully and wholly.
As far as the Apostle Paul was concerned, a Christ-follower stands firm on specific principles. The word "stand" can be read as "belief." Throughout the book of Philippians, he connected the act of rejoicing despite challenges and/or circumstances in life. Difficulties can not only be managed, but managed with joy, when an individual connects with the presence of Christ. Joy occurs through a connection with Christ; however, humanity often depends on the details of life to determine the joy factor.
Living under the control and through the connection of Christ activates joy when an individual is cognizant of the gift of being in Christ.
Stand firm (believe) in the principle of rejoicing.
Take time to meditate on the presence of Christ.
Be still to know His presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Rejoice!
Stand firm--refuse to lose your joy!
Carry the joy of living throughout the day and into the night!
Learning with you to stand firm (believe) and rejoice,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Weighed Down
. . . Who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. (Philippians 3:21, NIV)
Good Morning!
I have a friend that literally lost half of her body weight. She looks and behaves like a different person. The process of losing the weight has enabled her to let go of the burdens trapped in her thought process and emotions. In other words, her mind and spirit were weighed down . . . but . . . now the weight has lifted . . . she is free!
There are situations and circumstances that become burdens, weighing individuals down. The power to lift and live free is possible through the liberating power of the Spirit of Christ. Liberation requires active ongoing surrendering to Christ. Some individuals translate surrender as a limited action; however, in the economy of God the action of surrender is a continual activity which leads to experiencing Christ's ongoing-divine-dynamic-transformational power. That said, a person must will not experience liberation until there is a belief that God really has the power to lift the burden.
The Apostle Paul lived with the pressure of trying to be a perfect Jew. The type "A" pressured-filled man surrendered the way he lived by the rules. He had never known another way of living and believed that there was no other way. Then he encountered Christ and realized the only way to live was to become a follower. The pressure of trying to attain perfection lifted when he asked Christ to rule his life. You see, he discovered Christ to be the Perfection that he needed.
There is a difference between knowing Christ lifts the weight and pressures of living and believing He can do it for our own life. Liberation requires belief and surrender.
Believe.
Surrender.
Enter into an on-going transformational process.
Be still to know God’s presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Recognize what is weighing you down today.
Surrender the burdens.
Discover the freedom of losing whatever weighs your body, mind, and soul down!
Learning with you to lose what weighs me down and be free today and tomorrow,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
I have a friend that literally lost half of her body weight. She looks and behaves like a different person. The process of losing the weight has enabled her to let go of the burdens trapped in her thought process and emotions. In other words, her mind and spirit were weighed down . . . but . . . now the weight has lifted . . . she is free!
There are situations and circumstances that become burdens, weighing individuals down. The power to lift and live free is possible through the liberating power of the Spirit of Christ. Liberation requires active ongoing surrendering to Christ. Some individuals translate surrender as a limited action; however, in the economy of God the action of surrender is a continual activity which leads to experiencing Christ's ongoing-divine-dynamic-transformational power. That said, a person must will not experience liberation until there is a belief that God really has the power to lift the burden.
The Apostle Paul lived with the pressure of trying to be a perfect Jew. The type "A" pressured-filled man surrendered the way he lived by the rules. He had never known another way of living and believed that there was no other way. Then he encountered Christ and realized the only way to live was to become a follower. The pressure of trying to attain perfection lifted when he asked Christ to rule his life. You see, he discovered Christ to be the Perfection that he needed.
There is a difference between knowing Christ lifts the weight and pressures of living and believing He can do it for our own life. Liberation requires belief and surrender.
Believe.
Surrender.
Enter into an on-going transformational process.
Be still to know God’s presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Recognize what is weighing you down today.
Surrender the burdens.
Discover the freedom of losing whatever weighs your body, mind, and soul down!
Learning with you to lose what weighs me down and be free today and tomorrow,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Monday, July 9, 2007
Contagious Words and Actions
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ . . . (Philippians 3:20, NIV)
Good Morning!
You and I repeatedly use specific words and actions that reflect our identity. Throughout the years of life we refine these details until people identify a specific word or behavior as a part of our identity. Accordingly, there are individuals who watch, listen, connect, and imitate the specific way we talk and act. Has anyone adopted your “signature” way(s)? That's a big WOW! I mean seriously . . . talk about power! For good and unfortunately not so good, our signature words and behavior are recorded into the minds and hearts of other individuals. And . . . this is a big AND . . . our specific signature words and/or behavior may be reflected in their life and subsequently recorded into the lives of others in their life circle. Yikes! Words and actions are contagious!
The Apostle Paul communicated the need to reflect or imitate Christ . . . as Christ-followers . . . citizens of heaven. Christ-followers develop a Christ-like perspective, focusing beyond the circumstances on the earth to the presence and power of Christ.
Becoming more like Christ is a continual transformational process made through the power of the Spirit. The reflection of Christ is actually seen within our attitudes, words, and actions as we move through the process of studying, surrendering, and integrating the ways of Christ within our being. The Apostle Paul explained: “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV).”
Your words and actions are contagious!
Enter into an on-going transformational process of your words and actions.
Be still to know God’s presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Reflect the Truth.
Let others "catch" the Christ-like words and behavior reflected in your life.
Learning with you to spread the contagious words and actions of Christ,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
Good Morning!
You and I repeatedly use specific words and actions that reflect our identity. Throughout the years of life we refine these details until people identify a specific word or behavior as a part of our identity. Accordingly, there are individuals who watch, listen, connect, and imitate the specific way we talk and act. Has anyone adopted your “signature” way(s)? That's a big WOW! I mean seriously . . . talk about power! For good and unfortunately not so good, our signature words and behavior are recorded into the minds and hearts of other individuals. And . . . this is a big AND . . . our specific signature words and/or behavior may be reflected in their life and subsequently recorded into the lives of others in their life circle. Yikes! Words and actions are contagious!
The Apostle Paul communicated the need to reflect or imitate Christ . . . as Christ-followers . . . citizens of heaven. Christ-followers develop a Christ-like perspective, focusing beyond the circumstances on the earth to the presence and power of Christ.
Becoming more like Christ is a continual transformational process made through the power of the Spirit. The reflection of Christ is actually seen within our attitudes, words, and actions as we move through the process of studying, surrendering, and integrating the ways of Christ within our being. The Apostle Paul explained: “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV).”
Your words and actions are contagious!
Enter into an on-going transformational process of your words and actions.
Be still to know God’s presence.
Slowly read today’s scripture.
Let the Word of God settle into your mind and heart.
Center your thoughts on Christ.
Reflect the Truth.
Let others "catch" the Christ-like words and behavior reflected in your life.
Learning with you to spread the contagious words and actions of Christ,
Kerrie
(All devotions written by Kerrie Palmer ©2007 All Rights Reserved)
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