29 Jun, 2007
Stop fighting!
Student fights posted on web site
Lumberton, N.J. -- Modern technology has gotten four South Jersey students in big trouble.
Four children, ages 11 to 13, have been charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly videotaping a fight and then posting it on a popular Internet site.
The video shows two children viciously kicking and punching each other and a group of other kids cheering them on. Another video showed two other kids doing the same thing.
The video was placed on the Web site MySpace.com, a site for teens where they place their pictures and personal information.
Police said the kids in one video are seventh-graders at Lumberton Middle School. The two others are in the same age range at other area schools. They all appeared to be willing participants.
Police said a parent of a Lumberton student got wind of the video and told a school official, who then told police.
Police were thankful for the information and had this warning.
None of the kids in the video were seriously injured. Officials at Lumberton School district said that they have and will continue to foster Internet safety for children and parents.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story nbc10.com/news, 6/28/07
James 4:1-3 (NLT)
Warning Against Worldliness
1 What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2 You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the reason for quarrels and fights?
Perhaps James should have logged on to MySpace with the kids who posted their fight online.
James is writing today's scripture to followers of Christ. He makes it real simple. Quarrels between believers are always harmful and come from the evil desires within us.
There were lots of evil desires being expressed by the kids who went wild and displayed their quarreling on MySpace.
We often let our self-centered passions go wild, don't we? When we focus on worldly values like possessions, money, status, power and popularity, we develop an attitude that is anything but Christ-like.
Then we drag these attitudes into our friendships, families and churches. When we don't get our way, we quarrel and fight. Even if we don't throw punches, we often throw hurtful comments and display actions that are just as crazy!
So what do we do? James says we need to pray with the right motives. Rather than selfishly reaching for what we want, we must reach out to each other with Godly attitudes and actions. This will happen when we surrender our way to God's way and trust Him to give us what we really need.
Abiding in Christ means we focus on Him, face to face. This will result in a passion for Jesus and compassion for others.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Talk to God right now. Confess any part you have had in a quarrel or conflict with another person. Ask God to give you the humility and courage you need to go to that person and ask for forgiveness. Ask God to help you surrender your passions to His desires for you. Thank Him for empowering you to do your part to get along with His family and encourage your brothers and sisters in Christ.
- Pray every day for God to help you focus on His plan for you rather than your plan for pleasures. Then YourSpace will give way to Jesus.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- If you've been "fighting" with someone in your youth group, church, school, work place, or family - take the first step to make the relationship right again. Remember that it's better to do this face to face rather than online.
- Send an email of encouragement to a friend or family member who needs Jesus.
27 Jun, 2007
Too many dogs!
Takeru "Tsunami" Kobayashi, who has won six straight Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contests, suffered a serious jaw injury while training for the July 4 event, according to Agence France-Presse.
The Japanese eating legend was diagnosed with jaw arthritis and can barely open his mouth. In an entry on his blog entitled "Occupational hazard,'' Kobayashi said: "My jaw refused to fight any more.''
Kobayashi, 29, set his first world record as a rookie in the Nathan's Famous contest in 2001. He ate 50 hot dogs in 12 minutes, nearly doubling the previous record. He upped the ante last year with 53¾.
Joey "Jaws" Chestnut of San Jose, Calif., recently broke that record by downing 59½ dogs in a Nathan's Famous regional qualifier, setting the stage for a showdown next month.
Kobayashi's injury puts his status in doubt, though he said on his blog that he wants to compete at Coney Island. "I want to be the pride of my mother,'' he said.
Kobayashi's mother died earlier this year and he halted his competitive eating activities for several months while mourning.
A niche celebrity in Japan and America, Kobayashi still holds world records in many eating competitions, including hamburgers, bratwurst sausages, lobster rolls, cows' brains and rice balls.
photo & story courtesy foxsports.com, 6/26/07
Proverbs 23:19-21
19 Hear, my son, and be wise,
and direct your heart in the way.
20 Be not among drunkards
or among gluttonous eaters of meat,
21 for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty,
and slumber will clothe them with rags. (ESV)
What do you think today's God's Story scripture is teaching us?
That hot dogs are bad for you? Yes, they may be processed and unhealthy, but I think if Jesus were walking planet Earth today, He would love to come to your place for some hot dogs and onions on the grill!
Actually, I think there are several truths for us to think about:
God has a path that He wants His children (Christ's followers) to stay on.
Overeating is a problem, just like drinking too much.
Getting drunk and being a glutton are signs of a lack of discipline, which lead to poverty, which is more than just a lack of resources - it's being bankrupt of the peace that comes with being on the right course with God.
- Be honest with yourself and God (even though He already knows your real story) about anything in your life that shows a lack of discipline. It might be food, drinking, or____________?
- Be careful about judging others. Teenagers and alcohol is a serious problem, but let's remember that way too often, food is the "fix" or "party" for many of us who follow Jesus.
- In your journal, write down anything that is getting you off of God's path. Let Him help you make needed changes.
- Whenever you eat hot dogs this summer, let it remind you of the truths in today's scripture.
Talk to God right now... Thank Him for the right course He has for you... for His Spirit to give you the discipline you need to stay on it... confess any struggle you are having with food or alcohol... ask Jesus to build intimacy into your life so that you will be satisfied in Him and Him alone.
- Invite them over to your place and grill lots of hot dogs! Seriously, always look for the opportunity to deepen your relationships. Jesus often hung out with people and got to know them while they ate together.
- Use the hot dog eating champion's story as a conversation starter with your friends. Ask them what they like to fill up on or what makes them sick when they do? Then, do a gentle nudge with their thinking and ask them what fills their heart or soul? This may be an opportunity for your to share part of your story. You can talk about how you have discovered that only Jesus can really satisfy your soul.
26 Jun, 2007
Pickle in a Pepsi?
You can be cool as a cucumber with this new soda.
Pepsi Ice Cumcumber
Even though this soft drink doesn’t actually have any cucumber in it, it has been artificially flavored to resemble “the refreshing taste of a fresh cucumber” said Aya Takemoto, spokeswoman of Japan’s Pepsi distributor, Suntory Ltd.
"We wanted a flavor that makes people think of keeping cool in the summer heat," Takemoto said. "We thought the cucumber was just perfect." The mint-colored soda is on sale just for the summer and only in Japan, Takemoto said. She said initial sales were brisk, and Suntory aims to sell 200,000 cases over the next three months.
photo & story courtesy tmcnews.blogspot.com, 6/20/07
Psalm 34:8 (NLT)
8 Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the taste of God?
We don't know if David, the psalmist, ever drank a good soft drink, but he knew how good it was to taste the goodness and faithfulness of the LORD.
David wrote this after pretending to be insane in order to escape from King Achish. In Psalm 34, his theme is that whether God delivers us in times of trouble, we can be sure that He always hears and acts on behalf of those who love Him.
When David writes, "taste and see", he is not saying "hey, check out God if you feel like it." He is saying, "trust God, I know you'll like it."
Obedience is the best way to taste and see that the LORD is good. This is another way to understand what it means to abide in Him. Obeying Jesus will help us remain in His love and according to Christ's words in John 15, this will make us full of His joy! As we trust and obey Jesus daily, we will continue to acquire an even greater hunger for tasting His goodness.
It's interesting that Pepsi is trying this new cucumber flavor in Japan. If enough people taste it and say that it is good, it might make it to a vending machine near you and catch on here in the United States.
Many people you know have not tasted that the LORD is good. But if you showed them the sweet taste of trusting Jesus, your personal faith in Christ might catch on with your friends.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Soft drinks can be one of the most addictive, pleasure-giving options in life. Write down a list of whatever gives you pleasure and perhaps has become almost an addiction for you. It might be anything from music to sports to alcohol to shopping to_______________. Is your taste for these greater than your desire to taste the goodness of the LORD?
- Pray right now - Lord Jesus, thank you for your love and your faithfulness to me. I confess to you that I have been tasting more of _________________ rather than obeying you and tasting your goodness. Fill me with the joy that comes when I abide in You. Use the power of your Spirit to help me grow in your love and grace!
- Whenever you see or drink a Pepsi or eat a cucumber, let it be a moment of worship that reminds you to taste and see that the LORD is good!
- Read all of Psalm 34 to learn more of God's faithfulness to David.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Pray that your life will be an example to others of someone who is full of Christ's sweet joy.
- Get together with friends and serve cucumbers and Pepsi. When they ask why, share today's story and your story of tasting the goodness of the LORD.
- Forward this DAILYBIDE to some friends and family to encourage them.
25 Jun, 2007
"Nothing special"
"I don't want to die," Tomoji Tanabe told reporters Monday, while receiving a certificate from the Guinness World Records at a ceremony in southern Japan verifying him as the world's oldest male.
Tanabe, who lives in the southern city of Miyakonojo, took the title in January following the death of Puerto Rico's Emiliano Mercado Del Toro, who at 115 was also the oldest human. But Tanabe, born Sept. 18, 1895, was certified by Guinness only earlier this month, according to Kyodo News agency.
Tanade, a former city land surveyor, thanked his children and grandchildren for caring for him over the years and described Monday's event as "nothing special."
Coincidentally, the world's oldest person, a woman, is also Japanese. Yone Minagawa, 114, was born Jan. 4, 1893.
The number of Japanese living beyond 100 has almost quadrupled in the past 10 years, with the once-exclusive centenarian club expected to exceed 28,000 this year. Experts often attribute the longevity to a Japanese diet rich in vegetables and fish.
photo & story courtesy twincities.com, 6/21/07
Leviticus 19:32
32 “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about how we should treat the elderly?
God gave the Israelites a direct command to show respect for the elderly, because this brings honor to them and to God. This instruction is timeless, meaning we must also apply it today.
A lot of jokes are made about the elderly in our culture. It's often easy to ignore them and not spend time with them. When their memory fades, their hearing goes, their eyes fail, and their ideas are different than ours - we often disregard their opinios and God's command to give them honor.
Every old person is precious in God's sight. If we spend time with them, we will learn from their life experience and wisdom. And it will make their day!
I love today's story about Tomoji Tanabe saying that being the world's oldest man is "nothing special". He obviously has an incredible will to keep living by saying "I don't want to die."
My favorite part is that Tomoji writes in a daily diary. Think of the stories he could tell.
Wouldn't you love to hear his story and how it connects to the stories of others? I wonder if Tomoji knows about God's Story?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- First of all, be very honest. How about you and your friends? Do you show respect for the elderly like God's Word teaches?
- Talk to God through prayer right now. Thank Him for His instruction for us to care for and respect the elderly. Pray for one elderly person (other than a relative) you know. Ask God to show you how to encourage this person. Now thank God for your grandparents and remember to pray for any of them who are still living.
- Tomoji, the world's oldest man, has a journal. Try keeping a daily journal for thirty days. Write down a daily example of God's Story in your life and a daily example of what you learn from or see in elderly people.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?
- Pray for Tomoji in his relationship to God. He says, "I don't want to die." It's possible that he is unsure of his eternal destination. Pray that he will become a follower of Christ if he has not already received God's free gift of forgiveness.
- Once a month, help out an elderly person in your neighborhood.
- Write a letter of appreciation and love to your grandparents, even if they live nearby or you see them quite often. They love letters and email. If you don't have living grandparents, do this for another older couple or single.
- In your small group or youth group, develop a plan to reach out and honor the elderly in your community. It might involve visits to a nursing home or the homes of some older folks in your church or community.
- Use today's story about the world's oldest man, Tomoji Tanabe, to start a conversation with someone you know who needs Jesus. You could ask, "If you lived to be 111-years-old, what would you hope to know about God by that age?"
22 Jun, 2007
This junior higher got game!
A basketball scholarship is offered to a 14-year-old.
Eighth grader commits to USC
Ryan Boatwright, a speedy 5-foot-10, 145-pound rising freshman point guard from Illinois who has yet to make a decision on where he's headed for high school (he's choosing between East Aurora High and West Aurora High), accepted Floyd's scholarship offer while at USC's camp this past weekend.
"They were the first one to show interest in Ryan," said Boatwright's father, Mike. "A lot of people have said Ryan isn't that good, but he went to USC's camp and played well."
Boatwright played well enough that Floyd put forth a scholarship offer on the final day of camp. DePaul, Indiana and a few smaller schools had expressed interest, but USC was the first to step up with an offer.
"It shocked me," Mike Boatwright said of the offer. "But Ryan loved it there and he decided on his own."
Mike Boatwright said the biggest concern surrounding his 14-year-old son's decision is the potential local reaction.
"I'm tremendously concerned," he admitted. "It could get ugly as far as kids getting jealous. I also don't want it to get to his head. I want him to stay humble."
photo courtesy images.google.com & story foxsports.com, 6/19/07
1 Timothy 4:12
12 Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about what a young follower of Jesus can do?
Paul was a mentor to Timothy. (The Bible doesn't tell us if Paul taught Tim how to shoot hoops.) Paul gave Timothy some great advice that every young believer should apply.
We don't know exactly how old Timothy was, but evidently some people thought he was too young to be a pastor.
It's pretty normal for older Christians to look down on young people because they are...well you know...YOUNG! If older people are used to seeing immaturity in young people, it's easy for them to hold back on their trust of what young people can do.
Are you ready and willing to give the world a new perspective on young people?
Paul is teaching that younger Christians need to earn the respect of their elders by showing maturity. You can do this by being a Christ-like example in your talk, your love, your faith and in your purity of actions. No matter how old or young you are, God will use you to help build His Kingdom. He is simply waiting for you to live in such a way that the world around you will see Christ in you!
Ryan Boatright's dad is excited for his son, but is concerned that he remains humble.
God doesn't give out scholarships for living for Christ and serving Him, but He offers incredible eternal rewards. Can we remain humble?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that He uses everyone who is faithful to help build His Kingdom. Ask His Spirit to help you be faithful so that you might bring honor and glory to God. Ask His Spirit to help you mature in Christ daily. Offer yourself to be used by God in any way He chooses. Ask God to help you be honest about your maturity level if older believers don't seem to trust you yet. Ask Him to help you be patient as you strive to earn their trust.
- Every day, remember that abiding in Christ means that you focus first on being like Jesus and then serving like Jesus.
- Look for a weekly opportunity to serve Jesus with maturity.
- Memorize today's verse as a reminder to trust God to use you no matter your age.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story and our story to others?
- Sit down with an older follower of Jesus and ask him or her to tell you their story about what the Lord has taught them about living for Christ. If you're real brave, ask this person to mentor you by holding you accountable in your process of maturing in Christ.
- Encourage your small group or youth group by sharing today's DAILYBIDE with them. It's ok to be young and make a difference!
- Shoot some hoops with friends who need Jesus. Use today's story as a conversation starter to talk about what God is teaching you about serving Him.
21 Jun, 2007
Is there a God?
Study Sizes Up Gaps Between Christians, Atheists and Agnostics
A new study on America's atheists and agnostics compared the no-faith audience to those who actively participate in the Christian faith.
As more books asserting the absence of God are being published and listed as bestsellers, the Barna Group study found a significant gap between the atheist and agnostic group and the believers as well as some commonalities.
Those who openly identified themselves as an atheist, an agnostic or said they have "no faith" make up only 9 percent of the American adult population. Although only about 1 out of every 11 Americans, the no-faith group numbers roughly 20 million people in a nation of more than 220 million adults, the study noted.
Only about 5 million adults unequivocally use the label "atheist" and staunchly reject the existence of God. The rest have doubts of God's existence but do not outright reject a supreme being.
Most atheists and agnostics (56 percent) agree with the idea that radical Christianity is just as threatening in America as is radical Islam. Two-thirds of active-faith Americans (63 percent) perceive that the nation is becoming more hostile and negative toward Christianity.
"It is important for Christians to understand the environment and the perspectives of people who are different from them, especially among young generations whose culture is moving rapidly away from Christianity," said Kinnaman. "Believers have the options of ignoring, rejecting or dealing with the aggressiveness of atheists and those hostile to the Christian faith. By their own admission, Christians have difficulty handling change, admitting when they are uncertain of something, and responding effectively to divergent perspectives. These characteristics make the new challenges facing Christianity even more daunting."
The Barna study is based upon a series of nationwide telephone surveys conducted from January 2005 through January 2007 on 1,055 adults who identified themselves as atheists or agnostics and 3,011 active-faith adults aged 18 and older. Each study included at least 250 active-faith adults and 100 atheists and agnostics.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story christianpost.com, 6/12/07
Psalm 14:1-2
The Fool Says, There Is No God
To the choirmaster. Of David.
14:1 The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.”
They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds,
there is none who does good.
2 The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man,
to see if there are any who understand,
who seek after God. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about believing His existence?
The fool says in his heart, "There is no God."
I think this is pretty clear. What do you think?
Today's story about the study done by the Barna Group reveals some interesting data about the views of atheists and people who claim to be Christians.
A real atheist is either a fool or wicked - and sometimes both! An atheist is a fool because he is denying the proof that God exists. Wicked? Yes, because he or she is not only refusing to live according to God's truths, but leading others away from the truth of God. BUT, God loves fools so much that He wants them to become Christ's followers!
Is it possible that sometimes we live as though we are atheists? We may never say that there is no God, but David is writing about people who "say" this in their hearts.
As followers of Jesus, we live as atheists when we rely on ourselves rather than depending on Jesus. Some people practice atheism all week, except for one hour at a church on Sunday morning.
- Thank God that He has given all the evidence needed to prove His existence and love for you by coming to earth in the form of a human being - Jesus Christ! Confess any way in which you have been living as an atheist lately. Thank Jesus for His forgiveness and ask Him to help you rely on Him minute by minute. Ask Him to give you the daily desire to seek God for who He is and in all that you do.
- Every day, for at least one week (or for one month!) write down one bit of evidence you see for God's existence.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Pray for anyone you know who might be an atheist or at least trying to talk like one. Pray that he or she will recognize God's existence and become a follower of Jesus.
- Use the challenge to journal (see above) to be ready with lots of examples of how God's Story and your story have connected as you learn the stories of others. But remember, relationships are more effective than debates. Someone who does not believe in God's existence may have their eyes opened as they notice something unique about your "story".
19 Jun, 2007
Spinning out of control?
Out-of-control drag car kills six during Tennessee parade
SELMER, Tenn. — There were no guard rails between the crowds of spectators and a public highway where a drag-racing car bolted out of control, killing six people during a charity fundraising event.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol declined to make any statement today about road conditions or safety procedures during the Saturday evening parade of cars.
Tennessee Highway Patrol spokesman Mike Browning said the six who were killed included two 15-year-old girls and a 17-year-old girl. The accident injured 18 others, including a 5-year-old boy, who were taken to hospitals in Tennessee and Mississippi.
The crash happened during an "exhibition burnout" _ when a drag racer spins his tires fast enough to make them smoke _ at the Cars for Kids charity event in Selmer, located about 80 miles east of Memphis.
On amateur video of the crash, broadcast on WMC-TV in Memphis, the car's engine is heard revving loudly before the vehicle speeds down the highway. After a few hundred feet, the car skidded off the road in front of a drive-in restaurant.
Selmer Police Chief Neal Burks said "bodies were flying into the air when it happened."
There was a guard rail along at least part of the highway, but not along that stretch.
Nick Staples, who was at the show with his wife and three children from Columbus, Miss., said he was standing 20 feet from where the car plowed into the audience.
"There should have been guard rails," Staples said. "But even if there had been, it wouldn't have mattered."
photo courtesy ap & story honoluluadvertiser.com, 6/17/07
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the importance of God's Word?
Don't you think the apostle Paul sometimes felt like his life was spinning out of control? He was proclaiming the good news of Jesus, getting new churches started, developing young Christian leaders and the whole time... he's facing persecution, being thrown in jail, getting beaten up, getting shipwrecked, dealing with a chronic physical problem....
Perhaps Paul had days when his life felt like a speeding dragster spinning out of control.
But Paul was teaching Timothy and us that God's Word gives the directions needed for straightening out our lives and living for Him in a world that often seems to be spinning out of control.
Because God's Word is inspired and completely trustworthy, we should read it, study it, memorize it, apply it and share it. It explains how to know God, how to be saved from our sins, how to find joy and hope, how to..... yes, it covers everything we need to about God in this life and how to prepare for life after death.
Are you regularly studying it or are you just reading the same familiar passages? Are you relying on the scriptures to guard your mind against the false teachings of this world? Are you spending time in it to simply enjoy time with Jesus?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God for using His Holy Spirit to give the exact words to the authors He chose to write His Holy Word. Ask His Spirit to give you greater discipline to really study His word regularly and obey it. Thank Him for giving you His Scriptures to give you a clear mind and a motivated heart when your life seems to be spinning out of control.
- Memorize today's scripture as a reminder to depend on God's Word.
- Make a commitment to spend regular time in studying God's Word.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Encourage a friend who is a follower of Christ who may be "spinning out-of-control" right now. Email him or her today's DAILYBIDE and follow it up with a conversation about what both of you have learned.
- Think of a friend who is not yet a follower of Jesus and is "spinning out-of-control". Use today's story about the dragster accident as a way to share how God uses His Word to give you guard rails that keep you going straight down the best possible course for your life.
18 Jun, 2007
An Incredible Dad
What My Father Means To Me
My name is Richard E. Hoyt Jr., and I have cerebral palsy. I cannot speak or walk. To write this story, I'm using a computer with special software. When I move my head slightly, the cursor moves across an alphabet. When it gets to the letter I want, I press a switch at the side of my head.
I am half of Team Hoyt. We are a father-and-son team, and we compete in marathons and triathlons around the world. Our goal is to educate people about how the disabled can lead normal lives. We started racing in 1979. My high school was having a road race to raise money for a lacrosse player who was paralyzed in an accident. I wanted to show this athlete that life can go on, so I asked my dad if he would push me. My wheelchair was not built for racing, but Dad managed to push me the entire 5 miles. We came in next to last, but in the photos of us crossing the finish line, I was smiling from ear to ear!
When we got home, I used my computer to tell Dad, "When I'm running, I feel like my disability disappears!" So we joined a running club, had a special running chair built, and entered our first official race. Many of the athletes didn't want us to participate, but the executive director of the event gave us permission. Soon we were running three races a weekend, and we even did our first double event a 3-mile run and a half-mile swim.
Dad held me by the back of the neck and did the sidestroke for the entire swim. We wanted to run in the Boston Marathon, but we were not allowed to enter because we had not done a qualifying run. So in late 1980, we competed in the Marine Corps Marathon, in Washington, D.C., finishing in 2 hours, 45 minutes. That qualified us for Boston!
A few years later, after a road race in Falmouth, Massachusetts, a man came up to my dad and said, "You are quite an athlete. You should consider a triathlon." Dad said, "Sure, as long as I can do it with Rick." The man just walked away. The next year, the same man said the same thing. Again, Dad said he'd do it, but only with me. This time the man said, "Okay, let's figure out what special equipment you'll need."
So on Father's Day in 1985, we competed in our first triathlon. It included a 10-mile run, during which Dad pushed me; a 1-mile swim, during which Dad pulled me in a life raft with a rope tied around his chest; and a 50-mile bike ride, during which he towed me in a cart behind him. We finished next to last, but we both loved it. Soon after, we did our first Ironman Triathlon. We've now competed in more than 950 races, including 25 Boston Marathons and six Ironmans. During every event, I feel like my disability has disappeared.
People often ask me, "What would you do if you were not disabled?" When I was first asked, I said I'd probably play baseball or hockey. But when I thought about it some more, I realized that I'd tell my father to sit down in my wheelchair so I could push him. If it weren't for him, I'd probably be living in a home for people with disabilities. He is not just my arms and legs. He's my inspiration, the person who allows me to live my life to the fullest and inspire others to do the same.
Happy Father's Day, Dad. And thank you.
(To learn more about Team Hoyt, visit their web site.)
photo & story courtesy msn.com, 6/18/07
Proverbs 23:22-25 (NLT)
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and don’t despise your mother when she is old.
23 Get the truth and never sell it;
also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment.
24 The father of godly children has cause for joy.
What a pleasure to have children who are wise.
25 So give your father and mother joy!
May she who gave you birth be happy.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about bringing joy to our earthly fathers?
You don't have to think very hard to understand these verses in Proverbs. Look at the characteristics of children who bring pleasure and joy to a father:
- they listen
- they hang on to truth and live it
- they are wise, disciplined, and make good choices
- they are godly
If your daily purpose in life is to be godly and glorify the Heavenly Father, you will bring joy to your earthy father.
Now here's a connecting point to today's story about Team Hoyt - you may have a good relationship with your earthly father or you may feel almost "disabled" in how you get along. You may have a great dad like Mr. Hoyt who is very encouraging to you, or you may have a dad who discourages you or one who is absent from your life.
No matter what your situation might be, God wants you to do your part by being godly. It's God's way for you to bring pleasure and joy to your father and mother.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God right now for your dad, even though he's not or was not perfect. Thank God for your dad, whether you know him well or never knew him at all. If you're adopted, thank God for both of your dads. Confess any way you have not been bringing pleasure and joy to your dad, the way God's Word teaches. Ask God's Spirit to enable you to honor your dad in the ways presented in today's scripture.
- Whether you have a great father, a non-caring father, a missing father, or a step-father, pray for him every day. Ask God to work in his life spiritually. Ask God to help you be the son or daughter He wants you to be.
- If your dad is no longer living, or you don't live with your dad, or you don't know who your dad is, write a note to your Heavenly Father to express your heart and experience His heart for you.
- Ask God to help you learn from your experience with your dad to help you be a great Christian parent some day.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Share today's DAILYBIDE with some friends as a way to encourage them in their relationships with their fathers.
- Use today's story about Team Hoyt as a conversation starter with friends who need Jesus. Ask them about their relationship with their dad. Listen carefully. This may be a great opportunity for you to share how the Heavenly Father has changed your life story.
15 Jun, 2007
Do You Honor Your Father?
Study: Real fathers fail to measure up to televised versions
Many young people blame constant work demands — seldom portrayed on TV — for draining their fathers' energy and time from parenting, says Janice Kelly, a communications researcher at Marymount Manhattan College in New York.
She showed episodes from eight comedies to 108 college students. The programs were as diverse as The George Lopez Show, The Simpsons, My Wife and Kids and Everyone Loves Raymond. She asked the students to rate TV fathers and their own on such qualities as support, guidance, acceptance of other family members and oppositional behavior (for example, ridiculing children). On every measure, TV fathers were rated significantly better than the students' own dads.
Several studies confirm that fathers are spending more time than ever on child care, says Vincent DiCaro of the non-profit National Fatherhood Initiative. It's unknown whether Gen X and Y fathers — born between 1965 and 1994 — will be seen as more nurturing than baby-boom fathers, DiCaro says. There's very little research on the parenting of earlier generations of men, he says.
"It's disturbing to think that kids might judge their dad as worse than Homer Simpson," he says. "Ward Cleaver was one thing — nobody could measure up — but sitcom dads today are flawed at best."
photo & story courtesy usatoday.com, 6/14/07
Ephesians 6:1-3
Children and Parents
6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” (ESV)
Paul is quoting the Ten Commandments in this passage. Obviously, God has made it very clear that we must obey and honor our parents.
There is a difference between obeying and honoring our parents. To obey our dads, means that we do as we are told. To honor our fathers, means to love and respect them. Obeying is something that children do while living under their parents' care, but honoring parents is a responsibility for the rest of our lives.
We are never commanded to disobey God by obeying our parents to do something that is wrong. But we honor God when we honor our parents.
The word "honor" means to show respect, to reverence, even to hold in awe.
It's not important to measure your dad to TV dads, because your father is real. Perhaps your father has failed you big time. Each of us have have failed our fathers many times. So whatever the mistakes have been, whether they are incredible fathers or not, we are to honor our dads.
How will you honor your dad this Father's Day weekend?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God that He is the perfect, incredible Heavenly Father. Thank Him for being your Creator and spiritual Abba (daddy)! Thank Him for your earthly father. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you obey and honor your dad, not just this weekend, but consistently. Spend a couple of minutes just praying for your dad's needs - spiritual, emotional, physical....
- Pray for your dad every day. Ask him regularly how you can pray for him?
- Honor your dad by making it a priority to regularly talk with him and listen to him with an attitude of learning from him.
- If your dad is no longer living, or you don't live with your dad, or you don't know who your dad is, write a note to your Heavenly Father to express your heart and experience His heart.
- Tell your dad "I love you" not only this weekend, but every week.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Share today's DAILYBIDE with some friends as a way to encourage them in their relationships with their fathers.
- Use today's story about the TV dad study as a conversation starter with friends who need Jesus. Have some fun with this and ask them to compare their dad to a television father. Ask them about their relationship with their dad. Listen carefully. This may be a great opportunity for you to share how the Heavenly Father has changed your life story.
14 Jun, 2007
Is this for real?
God has released me, says Paris
Los Angeles - Paris Hilton believes her jail sentence was a message from God to change her party-loving lifestyle and become a positive role model for women who look up to her.
In her first interview since she was dramatically sent back to prison last Friday for probation violation in a drink-driving case, Hilton said her imprisonment has served as a life-changing wake-up call.
Her comments were made to veteran television journalist Barbara Walters in a phone-call from the hospital facility of the Los Angeles jail where she is being held.
"I'm not the same person I was," Walters quoted Hilton as saying on her ABC television program The View on Monday.
"I used to act dumb. It was an act. I am 26-years-old, and that act is no longer cute. It is not who I am, nor do I want to be that person for the young girls who looked up to me."
Hilton has said she will not appeal the decision to send her back to prison to serve her 45-day term.
'I know that I can make a difference'
She was controversially released after spending only three days behind bars last week, sparking a public outcry and prompting Los Angeles judge Michael Sauer to order her back to jail.
Hilton, who was dragged sobbing and wailing from court on Friday, suggested she intends to give up her lifestyle of endless VIP parties, red carpets and pursuing the limelight upon her release.
"I know now that I can make a difference, that I have the power to do that. I have been thinking that I want to do different things when I am out of here," she said. "I have become much more spiritual. God has given me this new chance."
Hilton's said her new-found spirituality had led her to believe that her jail stint was meant to be.
"I feel that the purpose of my life is to be where I am," Hilton told Walters. "My spirit or soul did not like the way I was being seen and that is why I was sent to jail. God has released me."
story courtesy news24.com, 6/12/07
James 2:14-20 (NLT)
Faith Without Works Is Dead
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.[f] Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
What does James teach us about genuine faith in today's God's Story scripture?
If James had been into cliches, he might have said, "you gotta walk the talk", or "talk is cheap".
His message is very clear - genuine faith shows up in how we live!
When someone becomes a Christ follower, he or she becomes a brand new person. There is new life! With Christ living in us, His Holy Spirit brings transformation in our desires, our character and our actions.
We will treat others as Jesus would treat them.
I thought we could stop covering the latest Paris Hilton story until her claim of beginning a new story. She says God has changed her.
No doubt, people are skeptical, including myself. I pray that her new "faith" is genuine and not another publicity stunt.
How about you? If you tell others that God has changed your life, do they belive you? Can they see your faith in action?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Spend some time alone with Jesus in complete humility and honesty. Let His Spirit point out to you if you are showing your faith through your actions.
- Make it your daily prayer to depend on Jesus with every part of your life. Ask Jesus to be seen in you to others.
- Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 and Galatians 5:22-25 for more on what it means to show your faith through your actions.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Ask Jesus to empower you to demonstrate His love every day by doing a good deed for at least one person.
- Make a written list of how you can show your faith in action to a friend from school, a family member, a person in your neighborhood and someone at your work place.
- Use today's story about Paris Hilton finding "faith" to talk to your friends who need Jesus. Ask them if they believe Paris has really changed? Ask if they can see your faith in action? This could be a great way for you to help them see their need for Jesus if you get vulnerable about how much you need Jesus.
- Pray for Paris Hilton to fully understand what it means to follow Christ and Christ alone.
13 Jun, 2007
What's love got to do with it?
"I was sure I was in love..."
Do you know what it feels like to be in love? Do you remember the first girl or boy who made your palms sweat? I do. I was 11 years old and I had just moved to a new neighborhood. I can remember the scene like it was yesterday. I was riding my bicycle when the neighborhood girls were all in a group and giggling as I rode by them. From the group there was one girl that almost made me fall off my bike every time I saw her. Everyday and every second, no matter where I was, I thought about her. I was sure I was in love.
photo courtesy images.google.com & today's DAILYBIDE written by
James Leon,
Matthew 22:34-40
The Great Commandment
34 But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. 35 And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. 36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” (ESV)
What does today’s God's Story scripture teach us?
Just when the Pharisees and others thought they were going to trick Jesus into giving a wrong answer, he gives them the simplest answer. He tells them to love God with all their heart, mind and soul and the people around them as they love themselves.
Jesus tells them when we put God on our minds first and chase after him, we will get closer to him and start taking on his character.
When we truly love God we do what he asks us to do, and we see things the way God sees them.
How can you connect today’s God’s Story scripture to your life?
So what does it mean to love God? I thought about that girl that I was in love with when I was 11. I thought about her in everything I did. That’s what Jesus means too.
Think about God in everything you do. When you have fun, have fun with God. When you’re in a not-so-good mood, talk it over with God. In every decision think about what God wants you to do.
Before you say anything about someone ask God if it should be said.
When you “love someone” you share your whole life with them. Jesus said to do this with God, and then to treat other people the way you want them to treat you---with a lot of love and forgiveness.
- Talk to God everyday and share a little bit of your life with him
- Ask God to show you how to love and forgive others
How can you connect today’s God’s Story scripture and your story to others?
- When your friends watch how you live, what would they say you love most of all? Can they tell what is most important to you?
- Your friends probably haven’t seen up close anyone who really loves God. What would they hear in your talk and see in your action to show them that God is real and living in your life?
- Help your friends see being a Christian isn’t about following a long list of rules. Let them see your faith in action. Talk to them about decisions you make and how God guides you to say “yes” or “no” to opportunities.
- Talk to your friends about what “rules or commandments” they live by. What is right and wrong to them? In your interaction with them let them know how Christians are free to do what is right because they love God and not because some rulebook says they have to do it.
12 Jun, 2007
Mine! Mine!
No more "Super Mario Bros"
Have you ever bought something that you thought you would love forever and never throw away? You probably think, “I have to have that. I need it!”
When I was six years old (in 1985) my uncle bought me a Nintendo Entertainment System for Christmas. I remember playing the first game made for NES called “Super Mario Bros” and saying, “I will never get tired of this game. It’s so fun I can play this forever.” About a month later after beating it hundreds of times I couldn’t stand it anymore and wanted a new game which then became the next game that I would “never get tired of.”
picture courtesy images.google.com & DAILYBIDE by James Leon, Long Island Youth for Christ - thanks!
Luke 12:13-21
The Parable of the Rich Fool
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” 16 And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, 17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (ESV)
What does today’s God's Story scripture teach us?
Jesus tells this story of a rich man who thinks only about how much more he can get. This man was like you and me. Instead of putting Jesus first and thinking of others, he thought only of himself and the more things he could get. Look at the Scripture verses and count the number of times he says “I will”. The problem with this man wasn’t the fact that he had so much, but that all his stuff was the first and most constant thought in his mind. God calls him a “fool” because he put his main focus on what wasn’t going to last.
How can you connect today’s God’s Story scripture to your life?
There is something in all of us that wants more. We always want the newest gadget or relationship because we think that we will finally be satisfied, but we find that we’re not.
Instead of thinking about things that leave you empty, focus on getting to know Jesus more. Your relationship to him is the most important part of your life and it will last forever. You can do this by first starting your day (every day) by praying and talking to Him.
And second, ask Jesus to help you make good choices throughout your day. Even if they are small choices, ask for God’s opinion and guidance. Don’t be a fool. Seek to get more of him and less of your old desires and the influences of this world.
How can you connect today’s God’s Story and your story to others?
- Spend more time today praying for your friends, reading God’s Word and talking with your friends than you spend playing games or watching TV. Do what is more important.
- Think of others and their needs. Look for ways to share with your friends what God has given to you.
- Sharpen your social and spiritual senses. Listen and watch carefully when you are with your friends. When your friends are going through tough times, be there for them and share the good news of Jesus with them.
11 Jun, 2007
Be careful not to judge each other
Does that Mom really watch MTV?
In the basement of a small church, 20 parents are having a lively (and loud) conversation. It almost sounds like an argument. The high school seniors from the church want to take a trip to the islands for their graduation celebration. They want the “freedom” and “excitement” of mingling with the likes of Flava-Flav, Fergie and Akon.One mom asks why “Princess Fergie” would want to be in the
Silence spreads across the room and people start whispering. Does this middle-aged mother actually watch MTV? Is this family really ‘Christian’ if they listen to secular music? The conversation quickly moves from the merits of the trip to whether Christians should be listening to the world’s music and watching MTV. Voices are raised, feelings are hurt.photos courtesy images.google.com & today's DAILYBIDE written by Nina from Long Island Youth For Christ
One mom asks why “Princess Fergie” would want to be in the
Silence spreads across the room and people start whispering. Does this middle-aged mother actually watch MTV? Is this family really ‘Christian’ if they listen to secular music? The conversation quickly moves from the merits of the trip to whether Christians should be listening to the world’s music and watching MTV. Voices are raised, feelings are hurt.photos courtesy images.google.com & today's DAILYBIDE written by Nina from Long Island Youth For Christ
Silence spreads across the room and people start whispering. Does this middle-aged mother actually watch MTV? Is this family really ‘Christian’ if they listen to secular music? The conversation quickly moves from the merits of the trip to whether Christians should be listening to the world’s music and watching MTV. Voices are raised, feelings are hurt.photos courtesy images.google.com & today's DAILYBIDE written by Nina from Long Island Youth For Christ
Romans 14:9-12
9 For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.
10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; 11 for it is written,
“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me,
and every tongue shall confess to God.”
12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.
Romans 14:19
19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us?
Paul was writing to the Romans who were struggling. The church there was filled with people who had become followers of Christ but were from different backgrounds. Some had been Jews who had grown up believing that belonging to God had to be proven to the world (and perhaps to God) by their good behavior – by following rules. The non-Jews didn’t have that background and tended to be filled with gratitude for their new life. Each thought the other should be ‘more like me’. They looked down on each other. This was hurting the church.
Paul wrote to correct them and to teach them that the “new” way of living was to love God and to love each other. Paul says every effort is to be made to live at peace with each other and to build each other up.
Christ came to earth, lived as a man among men, died and came back to life in order to give us life. He wants to be our Lord. Many of us spend our time judging other Christians and their behavior and in doing so spread the aroma of death all around us.
When we judge others we act like we are their lord. The only one who will rightly judge us will be God. We should live to honor and please him.
When we are make these choices it is easier to love people who disagree with us and think we are doing the wrong thing. When we love God it is easier to love people who we think are wrong too!
How can we connect today’s God’s Story scripture to our lives?
We’re surrounded by Christians who think differently than us. Christians differ on issues such as: what kind of church to attend; how to dress when at church; whether singing hymns or praise songs is more worshipful; whether baptism is by sprinkling or dunking; whether you can listen to rap, punk or rock music; whether you can have facial piercing; whether it’s right or wrong to eat meat … and on and on the differences go.
The issue isn’t “Do we all agree?” but “How do we treat people we disagree with?” God commands us to love each other and to accept each other as He has loved and accepted us.
- Ask God to help you love the person who thinks you are wrong.
- Choose to do something ‘their way’ and see what it feels like!
- Ask God to give you ideas about how to bless the one you disagree with or who thinks you’re the one who is wrong.
- Pray that every decision you make will honor God first and then leave the rest to Him.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s story scripture and our story to others?
- Think of a person you know and with whom you disagree.
- Make a decision to find ways to accept the person with whom you disagree (if you are a teen – think of something you are struggling with your parent over; and if you’re a parent – think of something your teen wants to do that you don’t think you can’t handle)
- Pray for that person and ask God to help you respect them (not look down on them)
- Tell the person that you want to better understand where they are coming from so that you can accept them more freely. Ask them to talk to you.
8 Jun, 2007
Lessons from a Missions Trip
Who are you going to serve?
I recently went on a missions trip with 25 students from my youth group. I was one of the 10 adult leaders. Two months before the trip, my left knee was injured while I was dancing and jumping during a time of worship at our youth winter retreat.
For almost two months, I tried to take care of my knee, by icing it, wrapping it, and elevating it. Every time it felt better I went back to normal activities---climbing stairs and walking for exercise. Immediately my knee would swell up like a balloon. The doctor prescribed medicine to reduce the swelling.
When I asked people to pray for our missions team and for the Lord to heal my knee, my close friends said, “Is your knee is bothering you? This always happens to you when you’re going on a missions trip. The enemy always attacks you in your legs before you go on a missions trip. You should have asked for prayer way before this.” They were right.
Two days before the trip my knee was really swollen. I could hardly walk. While I was praying, I told the Lord that as long as I can walk, I will go on this trip. At the airport I needed to use a wheelchair because it was a long distance to the gate. I wanted to save my knee for walking for when we arrived at the camp. There were many flights of stairs between the buildings where we ate and met at each day? So I just took one step at a time.
God did many awesome things in through our team while we served the people in that community. Some found new life in Christ. Some were healed. Some were set free from destructive habits and behavior. Some had a fresh experience with the Holy Spirit. Some were fed physically and some spiritually. The Enemy tried to destroy the work God was doing through us; but God is still the victor!
photo courtesy images.google.com & DAILYBIDE courtesy
Donna Carlino,
John 10:10-11
10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. (ESV)
What does today’s God's Story scripture teach us?
Jesus doesn’t sugar-coat the battle we are in with our enemy:
- Satan is a thief and a robber who wants to kill you.
- He also wants to take what God has for you and ruin it.
- He wants you to be afraid to obey and follow God.
But Jesus wants what is best for us:
- Jesus loved you enough to die for you so you can live.
- Jesus not only gives you eternal life; but freedom to live for Him here and now.
- Jesus wants you to know that He is good and loves you even when things don’t seem to be going right.
So, who are you going to serve? Will it be the one who hates you or the One who loves you?
How can you connect today’s God’s Story scripture to your life?
Remember...
- Satan tried to discourage me from going on this missions trip and tried to rob me of the joy of seeing God work on this trip.
- Jesus was faithful to allow me to participate in His work even though I couldn’t walk normally. I used my time to encourage our team mates and pray for them. I also prayed for the people God sent us to.
- God sometimes allows hindrances and discomfort in our lives so we will focus more on him.
- God always blesses obedience. That doesn’t mean that life is going to be easy or without trouble. It does mean that he is always with us and uses us when we do what we know he wants us to do. His love is real and people respond to real love.
How can you connect today’s God’s Story and your story to others?
When you start connecting God’s Story to others expect opposition and discouragement. Be prepared for struggles the enemy wants to use to stop you.
Ask God for wisdom and strength to keep going when the battles are tough.
Get involved in a missions trip with your church or youth group and learn by experience how God will use your service to others to tell his story to them.
If possible get some of your unbelieving friends to come on a service activity or a missions trip with you so they can see God at work in a group of young people. They will see it isn’t as weird as they thought, but it is more full of real life than anything they have ever experienced.
7 Jun, 2007
Who wants a good burger?
The Hidden Restaurant
My friend Sean invited me to lunch in midtown
We walked past all the fast food chain restaurants and into a hotel. We walked past all the hotel restaurants and into a back hallway. At the end of the hallway we pulled back a black curtain and saw 10 tables and a counter around an open kitchen packed with customers. On the grill huge burgers were sizzling. Once the aroma of those burgers hit my nose I was ready to order.
When my friend and I sat down with our fully loaded burger and a basket of fries I just had to ask him, “How did you find this place? I didn’t see any signs on our way here.”
Sean just smiled and said, “Once you’ve been here, you never forget where it is.”
He was right. As I ate my lunch I realized there were probably a 1000 people within 100 yards of this restaurant who didn’t even know it existed. Thanks to Sean now I knew.
Are you hungry for a good burger?
Follow me----I know a great place.
thanks to Jack Crabtree of Long Island YFC for today's DAILYBIDE
John 6:33-35
33 For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.”
35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. (ESV)
What happened in today's God's Story scripture?
Jesus is telling people who he really is using the analogy of bread. The people have been asking him questions to find out if he truly is God’s Son on earth in a human body. He got their attention when performed a miracle providing food for a massive crowd of people.
When Jesus tried to tell them he could offer them more than food to fill their stomachs they told him the food from heaven they knew about was the manna God gave to the Israelites when they were wandering in the desert.
Jesus said he was the new gift from God to them. He was the living bread that would nourish and satisfy their souls. Jesus offered himself and his message to them but most of them walked away. They wanted bread for sandwiches, not God’s truth and love in their lives.
It’s like Jesus offered to take them to a new place to eat that would satisfy their deepest desires but they resisted change choosing to keep eating (and believing) what they already had.
How can you connect today’s God’s Story (the Scripture) to your life?
When we come to know Jesus it is like we found a new place to eat where we get the best food that satisfies us like nothing else. Are you open to change?
We often say we want change but change can scare us. We like the security of staying where we are. Walking with Jesus is full of changes.
It’s tempting to live in the past even as a Christian. Whatever God did in us or for us a year ago is what we are still focused on. It’s easy to develop an expectation that God will do for us today exactly what he did in the past, but Jesus often wants to take us to a new place in our daily walk with him. Are you willing to go with him even if you don’t know your destination or if it is a big change in what you do?
You can’t grow without letting God change you both outside and inside. Let Jesus lead you to a new place in you relationship with him.
How can you connect today’s God’s Story and Your Story to others?
- In the same way I didn’t know that good burger restaurant existed, so many people in your life don’t even know Jesus is real. Start looking for ways today to show them Jesus can be alive in them.
- To what youth activity or meeting could you take a friend this week so they could start getting an appetite for God?
6 Jun, 2007
Fork in the road?
How will you handle your next one?
What will you do? Today? Tomorrow? In the future?
picture courtesy images.google.com
Proverbs 3:6 (NLT)
6 Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
According to Solomon's words in today's God's Story scripture, what is the key to making a good decision when facing that "fork in the road"?
Today, we look at the next verse in the passage most often used at graduation time or for anyone who is trying to make plans for the future.
Solomon wrote that we must seek God's will in all we do in order to receive His guidance. This means that everything we do, in every detail, must be turned over to His control. Let's look at what some of the words in this verse mean:
- Seek - this is the desire to trust someone completely. It comes from a word in the Old Testament Hebrew language that was used to describe intimacy developed through personal experience. This is very cool - it means that when we are learning to know who God is, we will grow in our love for Him, which results in a desire to let Him lead us completely!
- Show - this means to guide with intensity and focus. God loves us so much that He will do anything and everything to lead us in the best way for us. This does not mean that our path will be easy, but it does mean that He will enable us to go through difficulties to get us to our final destination.
To get to our future destination, we must make sure we're on the right road. To make good choices when facing that "fork in the road", we must follow the ONE who lovingly desires to give direction to our life.
- Thank God that He has a perfect plan for your life. Ask for His help in understanding more of who He really is, according to His Holy Word. Invite His Spirit to deepen your intimacy with God. Ask Him to remind you every day to seek His will for your decisions. Thank Jesus that even when the path is hard, He promises to go with you.
- Commit yourself to a greater level of intimacy with God in the next month. He will honor your desire.
- Review and keep praying about the "TOP FIVE DECISIONS" list you wrote out yesterday.
- Whenever you pick up a fork this week, thank God for helping you to seek His will in your decision making.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
When you're eating with friends or family this week, take your fork and use it to share what you learned in today's DAILYBIDE.