Thursday, December 22, 2016

How Are You at Christmas and on the New Year

Well, I can't help but think about Christmas and the New Year. But before I do let me add:
Wow, I can't believe that it has been several months since I last posted. Trust me, it wasn't intended. Sometimes career things just get in the way. But I am back and should be posting at least once a week from now on. 
So how's it going for you? Seriously, I want to know. You can email me directly at tguthriebiz@gmail.com and let me know. I would LOVE to correspond with you.

Christmas and the New Year
Hmmm, think about that question, "How are you?" How often are we asked that question? Daily, weekly, always? YES.

But how do we answer? Usually something like, "Hey, doing ok!" It is outside the boundaries of human acceptance to answer the question honestly. And why? Because the person asking, "how are you?" isn't really asking "how are you?" They are really just saying, "Hi!" And we know it.

But I AM asking: HOW ARE YOU?" How are you at Christmas and on the brink of a New Year.

Well, since there is no way I can really know I can only throw a few possibilities out there:

  • fulfilled
  • eager
  • desperate
  • lonely
  • happy
  • successful
  • frustrated
  • thankful
  • etc.
I find myself at a time of self-renewal. This new year will be a time of casting off the fears and personal restraints that I have allowed to keep me from achieving my long-held goals (to the degree that I wanted to that is.) Yes, I have had success. But often not to degree I have hoped for. There is only one reason for not achieving the levels that I have wanted. ME! It's not the economy, my finances, my age, my education or lack thereof, or any other possible thing. I can't blame the weather, the environment, or the government. At the end of 2016 I can honesty say that TONY and TONY alone stands in the way of all TONY wants to accomplish. 

That is changing. NOW!

Now what about YOU?  Where are you? What is your honest self-assessment? I want you to think about you. Honestly. Fairly. Accurately. Don't beat yourself up or over-glorify yourself. Just look into the mental mirror and see the reality of what reflects back at you. 

What needs to change for you? 

Christmas and the New Year
For me I realized that I had started several good things but I just didn't push through. One HUGE success (from my perspective) is my Expository Pastoral Preaching Facebook Group. Now at 400+ members (and growing). I started it and saw it explode in membership in a few weeks. But then put it on the back burner. That will change. In 2017 that group will get much more of my attention.


I will also focus more passionately on my relationship to the Lord. As in other things that has slidden a little backwards as well. But that has changed.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10
No, I haven't sinned greatly. But allowing a relationship to slip means priorities have slipped. For me, a clean heart is the renewed passion to dedicate myself more whole-heartedly to the Lord. 

I will rededicate myself to my health and wellness goals and strive to encourage others to do the same. I have a real passion for health and wellness, particluarly for people my age and above. I think we all think in weird ways when it comes to health and wellness. But here's the deal (and the deal has never changed by the way). To lower the risk of getting sick and diseased we have to:
  1. Eat healthier
  2. Exercise daily
  3. Supplement with GOOD nutritional supplements and ALKALINIZE your system.  
  4. PERIOD!
That's it! Stop the excuses and do what needs to be done to get in and stay in good health. Be PREVENTION-MINDED!

Here are 2 good questions to ask yourself:
Do I want to die quickly? Or do I want to live longer?
Again, what about you? 

For me the three things mentioned above are NOT resolutions. They are truths! Now, it's your turn.

  • What does the mental reflection tell you? 
  • What needs to change?
  • Where do priorities need to be adjusted?
  • Is it time to think about you?
  • Do you have a book in you?
  • Do you want to launch out in business?
  • Where is the Lord in your life?
Think about these things. Please, contact me. I'd love to correspond with you.

Blessings, 

Tony Guthrie
404-933-0418











Monday, July 25, 2016

What To Do When Evil Seems to Win

4 You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: "He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us"? 6 But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." 7 Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

what-to-do-when-satan-wins
The words from the Scripture above are potent and tend to impact my spirit. I certainly understand that in order to not have fellowship with worldliness, which God detests, is a two-fold process. 

(1) Resist the Devil with Intention - We want to see him run from us as we resist him by declaring our absolute commitment to our Lord. We intentionally resist him. Satan has no power where he is not welcome. And he is never welcome in a Christian heart, life, or home that has been dedicated to the Lord Jesus.  Satan will run from those environments.

(2) Draw Near to God in Submission - Each day as we dedicate ourselves in purity and spiritual cleanliness we not only draw closer to the Lord, but He draws closer to us (vs 7 above). As the writer of Hebrews 10:22 stated:
"let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."
I am sure that you know these truths as well. But what happens when you make such commitments but the actions of others or when circumstances that are seemingly beyond your control allow Satan to settle in and do the  damage he desires to do? What happens when the first half of John 10:10 is allowed to rule? "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy ..." What happens when evil wins? What do you do?

What to Do When Evil Wins | Never Compromise God's Word


Truth is one of the Christian's most potent weapons. We shall know the truth and it will set us free. Jesus disarmed his opponents by speaking His Father's truths to them. We also have this same power. We simply confront the situation with the truth of God's word and trust the results to God:
14 As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming;15 but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ ... (Ephesians 4)

what-to-do-when-satan-wins
These words from Ephesians tell us to remain steady. No matter how crafty and deceitful Satan is, we don't waver. Even when Satan can influence a solid Christian to compromise his or her values, we don't waver. Even if the efforts of Satan are stealing the joy, killing the relationship, and destroying something beautiful and good; we don't waver. We don't fall for the craftiness of lost or evil men. We don't allow ourselves to be drawn into deceitfulness or scheming. We stand firm on the TRUTH of God's word and speak it in the authority of the Holy Spirit and in the power of the name of Jesus. We are not child-like in our faith. We are mature and strong. We don't waver! Our weapon is truth and we use it to the glory of God! We show grace and love to those we speak truth to, but we speak truth without compromise.

What to Do When Evil Wins | Trust the Situation to God


James 1: 2-4 reads as follows:
2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
There are times when God allows our faith to be tested. The testing referred to in James 1 is the process of purifying gold. Rough gold would be melted under intense heat and as the metal liquified the impurities would rise to the top. Those impurities would be scrapped off and the gold would be allowed to harden. That process would be repeated until no more impurities rose to the top. This is what causes gold to be considered pure

When it seems that evil is winning or even has won, you and I simply have to trust the situation to God. We need to view it as a test of faith. God has allowed us to be thrown into the fire and we need to stand firm in the heat. We need to endure it. We need to allow God to use the situation to make us better, stronger, more faithful, and pure in His eyes.

When evil wins, it hurts. Especially if the evil has destroyed a faithful Christian heart, a beautiful and loving marriage, a church, a business, or a friendship. But we have to trust the situation to our loving Lord. We can only pray for wisdom (James 1:5), speak the truth in love, and then simply see how God may use even the evil for His ultimate purposes (Romans 8:28).

I trust these words have been a blessing to you. 

Tony Guthrie, PhD.
tguthriebiz@gmail.com
404-933-041

Monday, July 11, 2016

The Purity of a Pure Heart

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." Matthew 5:8
This verse has always been significant for me. In my younger years I struggled with its meaning. What did it mean to be "pure in heart?" I knew how to live in purity outwardly even though I, like all people, failed at it regularly. But the "in heart" part was puzzling for me. I wondered if it had to do with my thoughts which were so difficult to control. I reasoned that if my thoughts were impure then my heart was as well. But again, possessing regular pure thoughts proved so challenging. In fact, if I can be transparent, it was practically impossible. 

Often when I reflect on Matthew 5:8 the words of Paul in Ephesians 5:3 come to mind:
But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints.
 "ALL impurity" is not to even be named among you. How could there be any hope for me or anyone else? I struggle with keeping my thoughts in check. And, if you are honest, you do as well. So, what's the bottom line?


The Purity of a Pure Heart | Knowing Your Heart

pure-in-heart
Jesus was always having to explain to the Pharisees that the outward expressions of the Law were not what made them right in God's sight. They were so focused on ceremonial washings and cleansings. They expected to see God as a result of these outward rituals. 

But Jesus came to make us pure inwardly. This inward purification is not based on what we do outwardly but is completely based on His sacrifice for our sins. What He did makes us pure in heart. It is true that no one will see God unless his or her soul has been delivered from all sin. It is through the blood of the cross that we have hope to see God.




The "actions" of the purified heart naturally follow our redemption. We may struggle with impure thoughts and actions but living continuously in those things will not be the norm. Prayerful and heart-felt repentance will be the norm for those whose hearts have been purified by the sacrifice of our Lord. We will not endorse impurity at any level for ourselves or anyone else. Paul's words related to not allowing impurity to even be named among us will take on new meaning for us. We will not live by those words so much out of obligation but more out of a desire to honor the Lord for just how far He went to purify us.

So, how's your heart? Has it been redeemed and made pure? If so, are you living in purity out of a desire to honor the Lord in every area of your life? This is a question I deal with regularly.


The Purity of a Pure Heart | Seeing God

People often talk about the day that they leave this earthly realm, enter God's presence and see Him. They, like I do, put it in very positive terms. We all look forward to that day. But none of us can truly imagine what it will be like. We merely know that it will be awesome. 
pure-in-heart

The expression "they shall see God" is actually a reference to possessing God and being happy in the knowledge that He has purified us. It has more to do with the here and now than it does with the eternal. The statement is simply a Hebraistic expression. These expressions were common in Jesus' day. It may be an expression, but it's meaning is potent. Seeing God is living in the joy of His presence. 

Living in His presence will help monitor the thoughts of our mind and our outward actions. Knowing He is with us will help us to evaluate everything we do and live righteously out of an overwhelming desire to do so.

I trust these words have been a blessing, 

Tony Guthrie, PhD.
tguthriebiz@gmail.com
404-933-0418

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Friday, July 8, 2016

Thoughts on Philippians 2: 1-4

These are thought-provoking words, aren't they?


Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2: 1-4
Paul wrote these words immediately following his reminder that the Philippians would likely face suffering. He noted that suffering had been "granted" unto them. To truly fellowship with Jesus and to totally relate to the depths of His purpose in winning the world through the Gospel, one needed to be willing even to suffer persecution for the cause of Christ. 

As he moved into chapter 2 Paul stressed our need to be as much like Jesus as possible. The need for self-sacrifice and considering others more highly than ourselves are simply non-negotiable traits for faithful believers. Just before those powerful words of Philippians 2: 5-11, Paul reminded us that "if" we really are Christians and possesses the attributes of faithfulness then we will live and act as Jesus did. We would remove ourselves from the top of the priority list and look at the needs of others, even the lost, and strive to bless them. 


Philippians 2: 1-2  | A Simple Explanation


Paul uses the if/then approach in order to make a serious case. "If" you are truly living for Jesus and possess true Christian attributes "then" self-sacrifice and the consideration of others will be the natural spiritual result. So, let's look at the "if" terms and get a feel for their meaning, 


  • Consolation of Christ - Consolation is closely related to the word Comforter in John 14: 16-26 which references the Holy Spirit. But in Luke 2:25 the word consolation is in reference to Jesus as He is called the "consolation of Israel." So, the word consolation carries with it thoughts of both the Holy Spirit and the Lord Jesus. 
  • Comfort of love - The word comfort means stimulating force. The idea is to keep stimulating and motivating. Paul was encouraging the Philippians to keep on keeping on in comforting and consoling one another as they faced the struggles of sharing Christ with the world. 
  • Fellowship of the Spirit - The idea here is to participate with the Holy Spirit in His work of ministry. We are simply not strong enough to face the rebellious world with our own efforts or with any natural means. The work of the Holy Spirit is needed. 
  • Affection and Mercy - These words have to do with our hearts and our compassion for others. Paul was appealing to the Philippians' natural sympathy, tenderness, and feelings for others. 
In verse 2 Paul gets to the "then" aspect. If they possess the above qualities "then" they will desire to fulfill his joy by possessing the unity that a true church of God should possess. The unified church is a powerful church. Working together gets things done. The Gospel message goes out more efficienty and effectively when carried out by a team of believers who have the same passion and compassion for the lost. 

Philippians 2: 3-4 | A Sensible Application


3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Some passages of Scripture need no real explanation from a preacher, pastor, or teacher. Some simply lay it out there and there is no room for personal interpretation. These 2 verses are of that sort. They simply mean ...

  • Don't be selfish, especially in the work of the Gospel
  • Don't think you are more gifted or better than other Christians 
  • Be amazingly humble as the Lord Jesus was
  • Think more of others than you do of yourself (Hmmm, maybe reading Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People" is a good idea). 
  • Remember that people are always more interested in themselves than they are anyone else, so use that to your advantage when sharing thr Gospel with them.
Hopefully these thoughts resonated with you as they have with me.

Blessings, 

Tony Guthrie, PhD.
tguthriebiz@gmail.com




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Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Sad Truths About Being in Denial

We have all heard the words, at one time or another, "You are in denial." People say this to us when we simply cannot face the reality of something. This post will focus mostly on how parents can be in denial but the application can be stretched to most forms of denial.


being-denial
The term "being in denial" is used for a psychological defense mechanism postulated by psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud, in which a person is faced with a fact that is too uncomfortable to accept and rejects it instead, insisting that it is not true despite what may be overwhelming evidence. An individual who exhibits such behaviour is described as a denialist or true believer. Denial also could mean denying the happening of an event or the reliability of information, which can lead to a feeling of aloofness and to the ignoring of possibly beneficial information. [see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denial]

Parents often are in denial about the actions of their children. Our tendency is to trust what our kids tell us because we have a natural instinct and desire to believe them. We want to believe that they are always on the up and up with us. Again, this is natural. But this is also why it is easy for us as parents to fall into a state of denial when evidence suggests that our children are involved in less-than-wholesome activities.

I have noticed four characteristics of people in denial. I am sure there are others but these four top the list:


Being in Denial | Dismissal of Facts

Facts are facts. We know this. This is why we stand amazed when we can provide a fact to someone and they dismiss it. A person in denial will do all they can to "justify" their actions (or the actions of the child they are defending) in spite of undeniable facts and overwhelming evidence. The judicial system would not work efficiently if defense attorneys were allowed to dismiss facts. It is both facts and evidence, or lack thereof, that ultimately prove a person's guilt or innocence.

When a fact is presented it puts the person in denial in the awkward position of having to justify their actions. It is sad to watch this play out because it can cause immense damage to otherwise loving relationships. For example, a husband may present to his wife the overwhelming evidence that their son is visiting pornographic websites and posting inappropriate sexual material over the internet. This, of course, is the last thing any Christian woman wants to accept. She may move into a position of denial thus putting a huge strain on the marital relationship. Dad wants to address it swiftly and even forcefully but mom wants a soft approach. But when no serious price is paid by the son, he senses that his actions must not be that bad and likely will continue, although more cautiously.

Both parents involved should seek God's kind of wisdom. The Bible says in Psalm 1 that a person who meditates on God’s Word will be blessed. The wisdom of the Bible will help guide a person to avoid wrong friends and influences. Meditating—memorizing, studying and thinking about—brings the promise of being like a tree planted by a river. The person will have the life-giving nourishment that God provides through His Word. A further promise to that person is that God will guide their way in life.





Being in Denial | Providing Unhealthy Benefit of Doubt 

When parents are in denial it is commonplace to give a child the benefit of the doubt, oftentimes to an unhealthy degree. I know of a dad whose son was spending hours watching inappropriate Youtube videos. The dad caught his son doing so and simply enforced the verbal rule that the son was not to view those videos any longer. The son "said" that he would comply. The dad went into "benefit of the doubt" mode and assumed his son would never watch the videos again. Several months went by and this dad noticed that his son was always gazing at his laptop with his headset on. It was easy for the son to hide the screen by simply switching tabs if dad got too close. The dad felt something wasn't right and took the laptop from his son and viewed his history. This dad was heartbroken to discover that his son had deceived him when he had given him so much trust. It was a very painful scenario for both dad and son. The dad had no choice but to take the computer from his son for a designated period. Problem solved. 

The benefit of the doubt is a good approach in many situations. It shows trust and belief in other people and many times people will rise up and prove they can be trusted. But, as Ronald Reagan said, "Trust, but verify."

Being in Denial | Tendency to Blame Something Else

being-denial
When parents are in denial about the actions of a child the excuses and justifications begin to fly. As noted above an otherwise loving marriage can be strained or permanently damaged because the wife gets angry at her husband for pointing out what their son is doing. The son, in the example above, is involved in a horrific and frightening world that draws young boys into it by the thousands yearly. But the mother chooses to point out all the faults of the dad and remind him of his imperfections. Rather than focus intensely on the real problem, she shifts the discussion away from her son and toward the man who merely wants to help their son. Of course the dad knows that he isn't perfect but he also knows that one persons imperfections do not provide an open door for the corruption of others. He is merely trying to protect the son and knows that a forceful approach is the only solution. But mom is afraid that her son will get angry and draw away from her, perhaps even permanently.

This is a very difficult side of denial. Perhaps the dad should backoff a bit and try a softer approach. But this does not mean that internet and computer restrictions should not be enforced. If the mother wants to simply "have a chat" about it and trust that the son's actions will now be pure, she is exemplifying denial at its worst and very likely will be enabling the son to continue in this horrfic lifestyle. 

Being in Denial | Simplistic Solutions

As just noted, many times people feel like a little "chat" will solve the problem. The dad had a chat with his son about Youtube videos and the son continued. Children involved in an activity are involved in it because they think they enjoy it. They enjoy it so much that they don't want to stop doing it. Little chats and simplistic solutions typically only empower the child to contine. They have paid no price. They assume that the parent isn't really that concerned. If they were then the penalty would be more severe. But this activity only warranted a little chat. So, what's the big deal, right?

The penality should fit the crime. But when no penalities are enforced at any level the parent is actually (yet unintentionally) endorsing the activity. Little chats and other simplistic solutions tend to backfire. How many kids have been given little chats yet continued with their actions? Countless ones. Unfortunately prisons are filled with people who were given "chats" or minimal forms of discipline. 

Just my two cents.

I hope these thoughts have been helpful.

Tony Guthrie, PhD.
tguthrie1961@gmail.com
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Sunday, July 3, 2016

How to Deal with Discouragement

Hmmmm, how to deal with discouragement. It is an interesting question. Why? Because we ALL know what discouragement is. 



Most of us simply ride it out knowing that eventually things will get better. We will simply get over it with time. But that approach only works for the normal times of discouragement. And what are the "normal" disouragements? Things like:

  • not getting the promotion
  • a challenging season with your spouse
  • a "healable" illnes that lingers for weeks
  • Not getting the grade you had hoped for
Obviously the list above is not exhaustive. But those kind of things are "normal" and we have all faced those kinds of discouraging situations.

But what can you do when the discouraging feeling hangs on. You know what I am referring to, right? That season of discouragement that keeps on keeping on.  Here's a few thoughts:

Regroup and Refocus | Make the Decision To Overcome Discouragement


In much of my writing and teaching over the years I have pounded the idea of really "deciding" to act on your own behalf. People tend to "waller" in their discouragement. By doing so we not only stay discouraged ourselves but we also can discourage others. There is another solution. DECIDE to snap out of it. Tony Robbins often talks about completely changing your physiology and mindset in order to instantly feel better. He says that we have the power within us to take control of our own happiness. I totally agree. 

We simply have to stand up, slap our hands together, and say; 

"That's it! I am not going to stay this way. The Lord my God did not put me here to be in this state of discouragement! I have decided that this season of discouragement ends NOW!"

Reconsider | Are You Focused on the Right Things?


Maybe you feel discouraged because you are focusing on things that you shouldn't be. Maybe you are trying your hand at something that is not within your skillset. Maybe you are focusing on another person you have a relationship with when you should be considering yourself. 

Remember, it is far easier to change YOU than it is to change another person or a situation. 
Look at your life in totality. If you are discouraged more often than you are encouraged, then something has got to give. So you may want to ...

Reconnect | Use Your Skills and Spiritual Gifts


how-deal-discouragement
We all have spiritual gifts.  We are at our best and happiest when we are utilizing them. If you find yourself discouraged in life, career, or relationships it may be that you are in disconnect mode. The internet is amazingly powerful but if our computer is not connected to it, it is powerless. Our spiritual gifts and skills, properly utilized, will keep us focused and happy. 

Discouragement that lingers may be caused by a continual attempt on our part to involve ourselves in areas we have no business being involved in. Be honest with yourself. 

Remember | God is Still God


I recently read an article by Don Wilton on the subject of discouragement. In that article he stated: 
Shift your focus from your discouraging circumstances to God Himself.  Remember that He is love, and also that He is all-powerful.  Trust that God will help you because that's consistent with His character.

One on my favorite verses in God's Word is Isaiah 41:10:


Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you,

Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

This passage is so easy to understand. It has a simple exegesis (seminary word). God tells us that there is no reason to be fearful. He says that there is no reason to be dismayed (discouraged). He promises strength and offers help. He reminds us that He will hold us up so we can continue to move ahead. TRUST THIS!

In times of unending discouragement remember the Lord and don't be discouraged.

Blessings, 

Tony Guthrie
tguthrie1961@gmail.com

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Sunday, June 26, 2016

When You Don't Understand

when-you-don't-understand

Two of the most familiar verses in God's Word are Proverbs 3:5-6 which read:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
When you don't understand something that is happening in your life these words can be very encouraging. Oftentimes they can help us bring a new perspective to the stuff life brings. But sometimes the words in and of themselves aren't quite enough. Oh, how nice it would be if quoting Bible verses solves all the woes of the word! But I digress :-)

God's Word is powerful, no doubt. We should heed it's encouragements and divine insights. But we should also consider all that is happening so that we can best apply God's Word to the situation.

Here are a few thoughts related to this idea:


When You Don't Understand | Maybe It's You

Although we hate to believe it, accept it, or admit it; sometimes we are the problem. I know it's a crazy thought but some crazy stuff is true. Are you just being a problem child? Not being forgiving Hard-headed? Selfish? A block head? I realize that it takes real honesty and depth of consideration to deal with the idea that YOU just may be the problem. Time for some real integrity.

It may be true, just maybe, that you don't understand what's happening because you are not looking at that which will give you the undestanding. Yes, it is hard. But honesty, and Christian faith, dictates that you take a good look inside. Maybe, just maybe, you are just a tad responsible.

When You Don't Understand | Maybe It's the Situation

when-you-don't-understand
Of course it isn't you, right? So it must be the situation OR the other block heads involved in it. Yeah, that's the ticket. All kidding aside it just may be the situation that you don't understand. So if that is true then work on understanding it. Ask these questions:

  • Who/What is the situation about? 
  • Are the people involved really trying to be block heads? Not likely.
  • Has there been a simple miscommunication that needs to be clarified? Probably.
  • Can sitting down with the people involved for a few minutes solve the issue? YES!
  • Will taking a deep breath and getting your emotions in check help? Hmmm.
Lean not on your own understanding. Pray for wisdom and guidance then ask the questions above.


When You Don't Understand | Maybe It's Both

Most confusion involves more than one entity. When you don't understand something perhaps it is a combination of both you and the situation. Maybe there are block heads on both sides of the fence. This is likely true. As they say, "It's take two to tango."

Since this is likely the case then realize that there is no real need to be confused or in that "I just don't get it" state. Simply consider your fault/responsibility in the chaos and then seek to get clarity from the other side. It seems so easy, right?

Go for it!

When You Don't Understand | Maybe You Need to Sing

So often Christian people get in a less-than-positive situation (like being confused) and they run around asking everyone to pray and ask God to "fix" it. That's not always a bad thing to do. But considering James 1: 2-4 may bring a different approach to mind:

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
I think these verses are God's way of saying, "Hey, I know it's tough for you right now BUT I have you right where I want you." Just maybe you are in the confusing situation because God wants to teach you something. I mean, seriously, if God always fixed everything how could we ever learn anything OR gain any strength?

Why not just pray and ask God to show you why you are in the situation. I think He will. Then you will want to sing. Right?

I trust these words have been a blessing,

Tony Guthrie
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when-you-don't-understand

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

When You Lose Trust in Someone

Have you ever lost trust in someone? Perhaps you lost trust in your boss, your spouse, your child, or someone else. I think we have all experienced loss of trust to some degree. When you lose trust in someone it can be a painful experience. Why? Because it is not something we expect. We grant trust to people because they have shown, through various means, that they are trustworthy. That trust is meaningful and precious.

I always tell my children, "I will always trust you until you show me you can't be trusted." I believe that showing them that I trust them before they actually "earn" it will make them want to live up to that trust from their dad. So far, that has proven to be the case.

Here's a few ideas on what to do when you lose trust in someone.

When You Lose Trust in Someone | Take Time to Reflect

when-you-lose-trust-in-someone
What I mean by taking time to reflect is to get away and try to gain perspective. Try not to panic because if you do you will not make wise decisions and you may damage the chances of restoring the relationship (assuming you want to). Think about how important the relationship is and has been. Keep in mind that we ALL make mistakes and poor choices. The person you no longer trust may have not been thinking clearly or was focused in the wrong places for all the wrong reasons.

It is hard to forgive, especially if the pain you feel and experience is intense. But this is exactly what God wants us to strive to do ... as He forgave us. I was intensely hurt by my boss a few years ago. I wanted to lash out and return the pain to him 10-fold. But God reminded me of his loving grace toward me. I reflected and decided to walk away with grace and integrity.

When You Lose Trust in Someone | Take the Initiative

As much as you may want to run away from the situation or cast the person completely out of your life, the relationship just may be worth restoring for many reasons. Take the inititive (even if you come off as angry) and approach the offending party. Give them a fair chance to explain themselves and ask for forgiveness. Honestly listen to them. They may actually bring some perspective that you have not considered. They actually may not have intended to hurt you and cause you to lose their trust. Remember, people aren't perfect. Reflect on some of your bad choices in life. As Jesus said,
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

When You Lose Trust in Someone | Don't Play the Victim

Don't ever allow yourself to be the victim. You are so much better than that. Reach down inside yourself and find the strength to work through it for your own peace of mind or in the attempt at reconciliation. To use a Tennessee word, "wallering" around in self-pity and playing the victim only makes you look weak and needy.

Be strong and determined. This person is only one of many people in your life. Show the person that you have lost trust in that you will survive and endure. Focus on the other people in your life who love you and bless you.

When You Lose Trust in Someone | Walk Away with Grace 

when-you-lose-trust-in-someone
As I shared above there may be times when it is best to simply walk away with your head held high and your integrity in check. Lashing out in an attempt to return pain to them is the last thing God wants you to do. Remember that God said, "Vengeance is mine." Let God handle this person His way. You may be surprised at the turnaround He brings.

As I shared, I so wanted to hurt my former boss. I could have quite easily. But the pleasure would have been momentary. I looked inside myself and up above to heaven. The best move was to graciously walk away. Yes, I still feel betrayal and some anger. But each day gets easier and I actually pat myself on the back for being able to simply walk away.

I trust these words have been a blessing,

Tony Guthrie
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Monday, June 13, 2016

The Heart of God's Grace

I remember watching the mini-series Jesus of Nazareth as a teenager. Of course at the time I wasn't very knowledgeable about the Bible or biblical things. I didn't know that Hollywood took some liberties (for dramatic affect) with some of the biblical texts they made scenes from. Whatever liberties they took, I have discovered, were somewhat minor.

I rushed home every night to watch it. Obviously this was long before VCRs, DVRs, DVDs, etc. If you wanted to watch a show in 1977 you needed to be in front of the television when it was scheduled to come on. I was sitting right in front of the set when it came to Jesus of Nazareth. I thought (and still think) that of all the "Jesus's" in Jesus movies that Robert Powell was the best Jesus. To me, he captured the essence of the Lord. But really, how can we ever know, right? To me the movie is still the best of them all.

In the scene below Jesus is trying to reason with the Pharisees. The discussion is about their adherence to the Law (the Torah) and why they love it so much. Jesus is trying to clue them in on the fact that God loves mankind, fallen people, and sinners far more than the dusty law. He was trying to educate them on God's grace. Since he couldn't convince them with his logic, he demonstrated the heart of God's Grace in the scene.



Grace means that no matter who you are, where you've been, what you've done, who you've been with; you matter to God. He loves YOU ... period.

Some Christian people try to make the New Testament the "New Old Testament." They get bogged down on law (rules, regulations, obedience, etc.) Of course grace does not mean that one can live in any way one wants. It does not mean that we can throw caution to the wind and purposely live in a sinful way. But honestly, any person who has truly received God's grace has no desire to live in rebellion. True believers desire to walk in faith and righteousness. They will have no need to be forced into obedience.

The Heart of God's Grace | An Example from Matthew 11


Back in 1996 I was in a seminary class called The Work of the Pastor at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. The professor was Jim Shaddix. Dr. Shaddix opened the class by teaching us about how to grow in our relationship with Jesus. He noted that if we were to be effective pastors then we would need to learn from the Lord Himself. We needed to get in the yoke with Jesus and walk with Him daily. Dr. Shaddix based the lecture on Matthew 11:28-30.

If you read these verses you simply can't help seeing the grace of God that is all over them and contained within them.

  • Come to me all who are weary and heavy-laden ~ The weariness and weight came from trying to live up to the standards of a burdensome law
  • And I will give you rest ~ That's the heart of the good news ... Rest from the burdens of laws and religious standards. We are not saved through our efforts of righteousness but through God's gift of grace once we express our faith in the Lord.
  • Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me ~ This is what Dr. Shaddix stressed for us in the lecture. Learning the love, compassion, and service of the Lord is to be our focus. Jesus loved everyone ... with the heart of His Father's grace.
  • For I am gentle and humble in heart ~ Does this sound like someone who is trying to force laws and standards on us?
  • For My yoke is easy and My burden is light ~ Jesus was sharing that living under God's heart of grace is far easier and far less burdensome than trying to live up to religious standards. 

The Heart of God's Grace | What People Need


It is my conviction that too often God's people feel inadequate in their faith walk. Too many ask themselves, "Why can't I live consistently in my walk with the Lord?" They have been told by too many pastors and teacher's that they HAVE to live in a certain way in order to prove/demonstrate their faith. But I am convinced that faithful living is NOT demonstrated when we feel we HAVE to pray, witness, tithe, attend church, read our Bible and so on. I believe that a true believer will do those things because they want to. Their thinking is that "doing" righteous things is the least they can do. 

Heart of God's Grace
In Romans 7:13-25 Paul made it clear that he always wanted to serve the Lord faithfully; but didn't. It is his "want" that we should focus on. Nowhere in the passage does he condemn Himself because he didn't "do" acts of righteousness. He simply acknowledged the struggle of his desire to serve the Lord and his indwelling sin. He had a broken heart because of this struggle. He says in verse 17 that "It is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me." He acknowledges that even as a wretched man God still pours grace upon him. Read Romans 8:1 slowly and carefully, 

In my opinion God's people need to remember the Heart of God's Grace. They need to get in the yoke with Lord, learn from Him, and love all people as He did. Those that do this because they want to are in the right position. Those who try to do these things because they feel as though they have to are truly in a sad state.

Forced obedience is meaningless. Obedience out of a sense of desire is the result of God's Heart of Grace. 

Blessings,
Tony Guthrie
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Friday, June 10, 2016

Redeem the Time NOW!

15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. ~ Ephesians 5

redeem the time
We have all heard those potent words before: "Redeem the time," "Seize the day (Carpe Diem)", "Today matters," and so on. Ephesians 5 is a potent chapter that begins with the mandate to follow the example of God Himself. Immediately following that we are encouraged to live the purest life possible. Then, if those mandates aren't "heavy" enough, Paul adds the idea of being wise and not wasting time on foolish things. He literally says for us to make the most of every opportunity we have to live like God, to be pure, to let love shine, and to make our lives matter for the Lord

Redeem the Time | Look Inside 

What is on your heart and mind today? Seriously, what consumes you? If every thought is about you and your concerns and needs then you need to step back away from yourself and really look inside. Ephesians 5 opens with this concept of being like God Himself. God gave Himself up for us through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus. He thought of us ... those He wanted to bless. It is an easy cop-out to think only of yourself. What happens though when you and I stop focusing on "us" and start looking for ways to bless others. Looking inside ourselves helps us see our tendency to be just a bit too self-focused. Here are a couple of biblical thoughts:

3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. ~ Philippians 2
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." ~ Luke 6:38

Redeem the Time | Look Outside 

Where is the opportunity that is before you? The opportunity to bless, help, and encourage is outside of us. The desire to bless comes from within ... so the looking inside step is very crucial. But once that is settled, if you really look for it, there is opportunity all around you to make a difference.

I have a good friend named John. It seems that all this man does is look for people to bless. He finds people and strives to bless them. He blesses me. And here is the best part: as he blesses, he is blessed. I believe, check that, I KNOW that when we take the focus off of ourselves and make the most of every opportunity to bless others we ourselves will enjoy the best of blessings.

Redeem the Time | Look Ahead

redeem the time
The time we have today is to be used to imitate God, serve others, and enjoy the blessings from doing so. But living only for today is not wise. Paul added, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise." Part of wise living is knowing that tomorrow will be here ... tomorrow! The service and love we share today is laying the foundation for how we will enjoy life tomorrow and on into the future. 

How do you see your future? Look ahead. Visualize it in your mind's eye. See what serving others today will do for you tomorrow. Ah yes, this will motivate your actions for today. Making the most of today will reap blessing for today but lay the groundwork for a blessed tomorrow.




Redeem the Time | Look Above

This is the easy part of our drive to redeem the time. Looking towards heaven and remembering that the life and love you have are gifts from God Himself. "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." ~ Colossians 3:2

As we look above we can't help but sense God's presence with us and feel His love for us. We will remember that He has created us for His purposes. Look above!

I trust these thoughts have been a blessing for you.


Tony Guthrie

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The Heart of God's Grace

I remember watching the mini-series Jesus of Nazareth as a teenager. Of course at the time I wasn't very knowledgeable about the Bible ...