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While Laughing, Keep Your Balance! (Part II)

Life is our challenge. In the last section we discussed the role that Christ plays in our minds. Now we will examine how all that works its way out in our lives. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, discusses the importance of keeping ourselves balanced as we take on the challenges of life. Charles Swindoll gives us three areas we must deal with.

1. Balancing purpose and power (Phil: 2:12-13)
2. Balancing attitude and action (Phil: 2:14-16)
3. Balancing seriousness and joy (Phil: 2:17-18)

Balancing Purpose and Power

"So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure." (Phil:212-13)

In his letter to the Philippians, it is important to understand that Paul was not writting to try to convert the people. The subjects of his letter were already Christians. Therefore the idea of working out one's salvation must be referring to living out one's faith- carryig it out correctly. We are God's people. We are charged with the importance of obedience just as Jesus was our example and was "obedient to the point of death" (2:8), so we are to carry out our purpose with equal diligence.

The word "work out" was the same Greek term propularly used for "working a mine" or "working a field." Each had their own benefits that came from being faithful to its work. The mind would yeild valuable elements or ore and the field would yeld its crops. Paul was clear in his point: "By working out our salvation, we bring the whole purpose to completion . . . we carry out our reason for existence."

I think we sometimes get confused on what is our ultimate goal or purpose in our life. Spiritually speaking, it is "His good pleasure." We are to live our lives for God's greater glory - not our own selfish desires. The great thing is that we are not left alone to do this. God is at work in us! He gives us his power and strength to empower us to do his purpose. "Take special note that His pleasure (not our), His will (not ours), His glory (not ours) are what make life meaningful." This being said, this brings us to the potential conflict. We prefer to have things go our way. And, this brings us to that word again, ATTITUDE.

Balancing Attitude and Action

"Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain." (Phil: 2:14-16)

This verse shows us the balance of the negative and the positive. The first part speaks of the negative and the last part speaks of the positive. Therein lies the balance. Negatively - we need to watch our attitude! A bad attitude reveals itself from two sides: something we do alone - "grumbling" - and something we do when we are with others - "disputing." Both of these are joy stealers.

"What exactly is grumbling? It is not loud, boisterous grousing but rather low-toned, discontented muttering. It is negative, muted comments, complaining and whining. Disputing, however is vocal, Ill-natured argumentation . . . verbal expressions of disagreement that stir up suspiciion and distrubst, doubt and other disturbing feelings in others."

Swindoll poses the question if you've ever been around a "sourpuss"? I would have to say we all have. Notice how you can be having a great day - sun is shining, birds are singing, flowers blooming, and the world feels right. Then, WHAM! you run smack dab into a bad attitude person. Who is most likely to rub off on who? In very few cases does the good attitude influence the bad. Most of the time after spending a few minutes with this negative attitude in your midst, you start to "go over to the dark side". The sun doesn't shine as bright; all those birds that were singing are there just to poop on your windshield, and those flowers are just going to make you sneeze! Bad attitudes will steal our joy!

If you hope to laugh again you must learn to "do all things without grumbling or disputing." Verbal pollution takes a heavy toll on everyone. Furthermore who gave anyone the right to pollute the air with such pessimism. Someone once said "We have not more right to put our discordant states of mind into the lives of those around us and rob them of their sunshine and brightness thatn we have to enter their houses and steal their silverware."

In life we are all going to face circumstances that make us want to grumble and take a negative mindset. However, we must prove that we are different. Philippians 2:15-16 states, "... prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain."

There is no arguement that today we live in a world of crooks and perverts. Since we know this to be true; we, more than ever, must model lives that are not liek the majority. A positive attitude will make a major statement in this generation.

There are four major differences in those who know Christ and those who don't. As a child of God we are to be:

1. "Blameless. This suggest a purity of life that is both undeniable and unhypocritical . . . free of defect.
2. Innocent. This means unixed and unadulterated . . . inexperienced in evil . . . untainted in motive . . . possessing integrity.
3. Above reproach. This descrition is used of sacrificial lambs offered on altars and means free of blemish.
4. Lights. Acutally the term used her means 'luminaries,' meaning we are to shien like stars surrounded by darkness."

Paul goes on to tell us that we are to shine like stars, we are "holding fast the word of life." We are stars. Bold, blazing, light-giving stars! While the world turns in darkness and confusion, without light. So, Star, let your light shine! Why? "Jesus answers that question in the sermon He delivered on the mountain: Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in Heaven." Matthew 5:16. We don't need to stand up, shout, scream, or make a fuss. JUST SHINE!

Balancing Seriousness and Joy

"But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. And you too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me." (Phil: 2:17-18)

Paul used the term of "being poured out as a drink offering." This was a picture from the practice of pagans that would pur out a chalice of wine before or after their meals in honor of their gods. It was called a libation and was poured out either to gain the favor of or soften the anger of their gods. Paul had gotten serious. He did know know whether he would live or die in his current situation. If it was God's will that his life be pured out as a libation, and ment the end of his life; he knew it was worth every moment. Even if this imprisonment was his last; he would rejoice.

You see, Paul lived a balanced life. While living in what could be his last days (a point that would make most of us so serious) Paul still rejoiced. He refused to focus on the dark side. He would not even let the possiblity of sure death steal his joy. He even encouraged others to do the same. Throught this whole letter that Paul wrote, you cannot escape the themes of joy, rejoicing and laughter.

If we remain serious all the time, we will fill our minds with only the harsh and painful realities of live that keeps our perspective too tight and tunnel our hope for too long. In everything you do, I know you can find something every day to laugh about. "Experts tell us that laughter not only makes our serious lives lighter, but laughter also helps control pain in at least four ways: (1) by distracting our attention, (2) by reducing the tension we are living with, (3) by changing our expectations, and (4) by increasing the production of endorphins, the body's natural pinkillers. Laughter, strang as it may seem, turns our minds fro our seriousness and pain and actually creates a degree of anesthesia. By diverting our attention from our situation, laughter enables us to take a brief excursion away from the pain. Sometimes it is not literal pain but a too-serious mind-set." We need those moments away from our too-serious lives. We need to give ourselves persission to enjoy various moments in life - even when life it not perfect. This takes practice.

WARNING: All of this is not easy. Old habits are hard to break. Deep down inside of you is a voice that continues to nage you as you read this. It is saying, "'No, no, no No, NO!'" As soon as you attempt to bring some necessary balance into your life, you are going to have a fight on your hands. After all, self has had its way for years. Giving your freedomt to laugh aing and bring some needed joy into your life is not on self's agenda."

Regardless, this "invisible master" needs to be brought back under the authority of Christ if you ever hope to laugh again. "A life lived under the dominion of self is both unsatisfying and unproductive." Two ways to get started on a life in balance:

1. "Control self's urges to take the credit." When you let self rule, it lives for moments of personal gratification. Wean it away. Once you are able to see how out of balance you've become,you will have a fresh strength to control its urges. Self needs to be taken off it's "high horse." John Wooden, former coach of the UCLA Bruins basketball teams gives this helpful advise: "Talent is God-given, be humble; Fame is man-given, be thankful; and Conceit is self-given, be careful."
2. "Conquer self's tendency to take charge." The longer you live the more you will realize the value of having Chirst call the shots in your life. Self wants to call the shots in your life. "Self wants to gain the mastery and convince you that it is a reusalbe source of energy. It is not. Self cannot be trusted."

"But if we hope to bring things back into balance -- if we hope to change our habits of negative thinking, which leads to grumbling and a too-serious mentality -- we'll have to dethrone this master and give the right Master His rightful place over our lives. Not until we do, I remind you, will we begin to laugh again."

Friend of God

The below is a post from elijahlist.com:

"Friend of God"
by Kim Clement Sep 21, 2008

I recently held a small Bible study at my house, with my children and a few others of all ages. Some interesting points came out and I thought it would be nice to share with you.
Why Did God Create Man and Woman?

There are many reasons for God choosing to take a pile of dirt from the earth and breathe His own breath into it, but one of the most fascinating reasons, and one most rejected by human nature is - friendship.

Why would we even believe that friendship could be a possibility in our relationship with God? What makes friends? What are the ingredients that make up friendship? (I asked the group to give me their answers and they were enlightening to say the least.)

INGREDIENTS THAT MAKE UP FRIENDSHIP:
FUN: Friends have fun together. SECRETS: Friends share secrets with each other. INTERESTS: Friends share the same interests. COMMUNICATE: Friends love to communicate with each other whether near or from far.

WHAT DO FRIENDS DO FOR EACH OTHER?
They are LOYAL. They are PATIENT. They are FORGIVING. They will cover each other's faults. They are HONEST - "A mere friend will always agree with you, a true friend will argue." They are EQUAL - "Love is different to friendship. Love demands opposites and extremes. Friendship demands equality."

Now let's bring this into our relationship with God. Proverbs 16:28 says, "A whisperer will divide the closest of friends." (Also read Genesis 1:26-28.)

When God created man, it was His daily routine to walk in the Garden and speak to them as friends. Then the whisperer came into that Garden with intentions to divide this divine friendship.

Genesis 3:1, "NOW THE SERPENT WAS MORE CUNNING THAN ANY BEAST OF THE FIELD. AND HE SAID TO THE WOMAN, 'HAS GOD INDEED SAID, YOU SHALL NOT EAT OF EVERY TREE OF THE GARDEN?'"

She answered the serpent correctly, which meant that she knew exactly what God meant. At that point, the serpent used words that created all kinds of doubts. The word for devil is diablo, which literally means, to speak (breathe out) to divide, or to whisper in order to cause division.
Satan's only purpose is to use every breath that he has to cause division and suspicion, so as to break bonds and covenants. When the serpent said in Genesis 3:4, "You will not surely die," he was twisting what God had said and suggesting that God was trying to fool them or manipulate them into a lesser deal.

Once they acted upon the lie, their friendship with God was broken because now they did not feel equal in the sense that they could "communicate with Him" - spirit to Spirit. And when God came into the Garden to speak to them, what happened?

Adam ran and hid himself. The friendship was broken and from that point onward, man saw God as a monster - a terrible, mysterious, sinister and angry being. This was NOT true, but that is how they saw Him, and to make it worse, their nakedness was no longer a matter of natural beauty and life, but of shame.

Amazingly, God still found a few whom He would befriend, and when you read the stories about these people, you will find an amazing pattern that proves His desire to communicate with man as a friend does.

Abraham is called by God: "Abraham, My friend forever." Moses argues with God when God wants to destroy the Israelites in Exodus 32:7-14 (read the story, it's fascinating.) God actually told Moses, "Get out of My way," He said to let/leave Him alone, so that He could destroy the people. Notice how Moses behaves like a true friend would. He tells God that His reputation was at stake because those from the east would observe that God brought them out of Egypt to kill them in the mountains.

What Would a Friend Do When You're About to Do Something Outside of Your Character and Would Ruin Your Reputation?

A friend would stand in your way and warn you of the consequences of your actions and try to stop you in your wrath or anger. That's what a friend is and that's what Moses was to God - a friend. The Bible says that God relented of this evil. The word "relented" means to become more lenient, compassionate and forgiving. Moses, as a friend, literally caused God to become more lenient and compassionate and to "cool down."

Now let's look at Jesus and what He said about friendship. In Luke 12:1-4, Jesus is surrounded by an innumerable multitude of people, so crowded in fact, that they were trampling on each other. Instead of Jesus addressing the multitudes, He FIRST of all spoke to His disciples, and in verse 4, He calls them "My friends" and shares things with them that He would not share with the multitudes. So it's obvious that His disciples were in a friendship with Jesus, even though He was Lord of all and God's only Son.

John 15:15, "No longer do I call you servants...but now I call you friends...for all things I have heard from My Father, I have shared with you."

I love this passage because it adds credence to the fact that God created us, among many other reasons, to be a friend. Once you understand what the Biblical rendition of a friend is, it takes away the idea of modern friendship which barely exists anymore. We are so apt to say, "Meet my best friend," when in fact we have called many others, "My best friend."

Do we really know what a friend is according to Biblical standards? David was called the apple of God's eye. Abraham was called God's friend forever. The word "friend" is divided into two – Phileos, which comes from Phi-logos, and literally means someone to talk to. God created you so that He could have someone to talk to. Doesn't that make you feel wonderful?

Again, we see that there is most definitely a friendship that Jesus offers to those closest to Him and that a friendship would allow them to hear things that most others would not hear.
The Bible study turned out to be inspiring and certainly helped all of us to include the element of friendship in our relationship with God. After all, without friendship a marriage will never survive, and without friendship any relationship will ultimately fall.

Kim ClementProphetic Image ExpressionsEmail: hope@kimclement.com
Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep ElijahList website, email contact info, and author contact information intact.

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When Laughing, Keep Your Balance (Part I)

This lesson was a good lesson for those of us who are growing older. Guess what. That’s every one of us. We have so much more to offer than we know. If we could see our own full potential, it would blow our minds. Charles Swindoll used an article from back in 1967 called “Advice to a (Bored) Young Man”

“Many people reading this page are doing so with the aid of bifocals. Inventor? B. Franklin, age 79.
The presses that printed this page were powered by electricity. One of the first harnessers? B. Franklin, age 40,
Some are reading this on the campus of one of the Ivy League universities. Founder? B. Franklin, age 45.
Some got heir copy through the U.S. Mail. Its father? B. Franklin, age 31.
Now, think fire. Who started the first fire department, invented the lightning rod, designed a heating stove still in use today? B. Franklin, ages 31,43,36.
Wit. Conversationalist. Economist. Philosopher. Diplomat. Printer. Publisher. Linguist (spoke and wrote five languages). Advocate of paratroopers (from balloons) a century before the airplane was invented. All this until age 84.
And he had exactly two years of formal schooling. It’s a good bet that you already had more sheer knowledge than Franklin had when he was your age.
Perhaps you think there’s no use trying to think of anything new, that everything’s been done. Wrong. The simple, agrarian America of Franklin’s day didn’t begin to need the answers we need today.
Go do something about it.”

Examples like Ben Franklin are great. They can inspire us. However, they can also frustrate us. Think of the father who is without a job on the job hunt trying to support his family; stuck between panic and pressure. What about the mother at home with five children under the age of five who barely finds the time to get dressed before noon. Some of us are so busy, we do good to read about great examples, much less go try to be one ourselves. Mark Twain, humorist, wrote, “ Few things are harder to put up with than that annoyance of a good example.”

Okay, so what options are we faced with when confronted with these magnanimous examples. Charles Swindoll gave us three options. (1) we can fake it; (2) we can hurry the process; and (3) we can strive harder.

Faking it

When faced with the desire to be a great example or live up to the same type of example in our lives, instead of working toward the goal of becoming, we fake it. The example of Milli Vanilli back in 1990 who shocked the entertainment world with their scandal when it was discovered that they were not actually singing the songs, but lip-syncing them, caught many off guard. They had “faked” the expertise and talent to obtain a goal they had set for themselves. We sometimes learn all the right words to say and the prescribed behavior and fake our way though something without putting in the required effort and time. All to reach a prescribed goal or level. This will never get you anywhere.

Hurry the Process

Much like faking it, we as a microwave society, don’t feel we can put in the time and effort it requires to obtain our prize. We want it now and we want it quick. We don’t want to pay the price, stand in line, follow the prescribed course… Just give it to me NOW!

Strive Harder

Trying to obtain the prize when faced with such great examples, can cause us to work harder. While hard work in itself is not wrong. It is when we do nothing but live our lives under striving 24/7 that it becomes futile.

Swindoll poses the question: “I ask you, is that the Christian life? If the answer is not faking it and if it is not hurrying thing, is it striving hard for it? You want to live the rest of your life striving to please Him in all that you do? Some who are painfully honest will admit, ‘I’m doing my best. I’m trying. But I’m exhausted.’ Surely that’s not God’s plan.”

The Greatest Example

While Ben Franklin is an awesome example in what he accomplished during his lifetime, he was far from the best. What was true about Franklin is not true of our best example – Jesus Christ. While other great examples may inspire, they cannot enable. They can motivate, but they have no power to change us. Christ is the only example that can do all of it. He can inspire you to greatness and then He give you His power to accomplish it. Christ not only lived the exemplary life, He also made it possible for us to live the same kind of life. He gave us the pattern “without” and at the same time provided the power to do it “within”. When we follow Christ’s example, we are able to Laugh Again. We don’t have to fake it, rush it, or strive for it. If He controls our minds, He gives us the right attitude to bring about the right actions.

What On Earth Have You Done!?!

I got this idea from a good friend of mine and a blog that he posted earlier. I would like to do an experiment. I find that we like to focus in our lives on what we don't have, wish we did have, or feel we should have; instead of what we do have in our lives. I'm sure you've probably some time during your life had a "list" of things you wanted to do before you died. If you were to walk into the Dr's this morning for test and he was to come back into the waiting room and tell you that you only had 24 more hours to live. Would you look at all the things in your life you didn't get to do? Would there be regrets from that incomplete list? -- there are several places I could go with this on living with regrets.

However, I would like to take a different look at this situation. Instead of focusing on what you "wouldn't get to do;" let's focus on what you did get to do. Take some time, think about it, and make a list of all the things you have experienced in life so far. And for those of you who have a first reaction -- like I did -- that you have not accomplished anything in your life, I'm here to tell you, that's a total lie!!!! You have done things in your life that no one else in this list has done. You have experienced things in your life that you probably have not thought about in a long time. I can assure you, you have had accomplishments in your life. For some, it may be having children, some it may be traveling, some it may be works of art, some it may be experiencing the sunrise on the beach, some it may be meeting famous people, some it may be sitting in your grandmother's lap while she read you stories... there are so many things you have done in your life already.

Go ahead, using the comments section, and list out the things you have already accomplished/experienced in your life already. Be encouraged that you already have already been blessed by God in numerous experiences that have touched yours and others lives. I am sure as you do this, it will bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart! John 10:10 states that He has come to give us an abundant life. (para)

The Hidden Secret of a Happy Life

Charles Swindoll in this lesson of his book Laugh Again.., takes a closer look at cultivating the right attitude. It is absolutely true that our attitude toward the world around us affects how we treat others and reflects what we are ourselves. Swindoll stated "The dictionary on my desk defines attitude as 'a manner of acting, feeling, or thinking that shows one's disposition . . . opinion, mental set.' That means that how we think determines how we respond to others. As a matter of fact, I have found that my view of others is a direct reflection of my own 'mental set.'

Our attitude toward the world around us depends upon what we are ourselves. If we are selfish, we will be suspicious of others. If we are of a generous nature, we will be likely to be more trustful. If we are quiet honest with ourselves, we won't always be anticipating deceit in others. If we are inclined to be fair, we won't feel that we are being cheated. In a sense, looking at the people around you is like looking in a mirror. You see a reflection of yourself."

OUCH! So there really could be something to the old saying that we dislike some things in others that reflect what we see in ourselves. Maybe that person you don't get along with so well is exhibiting characteristics or behaviors we have in ourselves that we don't like. Something to ponder on.

Then the question arises: How do I develop the correct attitude? Well, first of all, we need an example to follow. As with everything else in life, what greater example could we have than Jesus Christ. Look at everything He faced and how He was treated. Watch what his response was toward others. While doing this, keep in mind that Jesus experienced every emotion we experience. In the face of dilemmas He went through, how could he not just smack some people in the head? How could He keep His cool under fire? How could he demonstrate such grace and compassion. "What was it that gave him the edge we so often lack? It was His attitude. To return to Webster's words, He acted and felt as He did because of His 'disposition,' His 'mental set.'"

Question: What is the most Christlike attitude on earth? While answers like love, patience, and grace come to mind, they are not the ones that Jesus Himself referred to when He described Himself in scripture. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light." In the above scripture, Jesus used the words "gentle and humble in heart." We might use the word unselfish today. Jesus was able to have the correct attitude, because He, Himself, was the last person he ever thought about.

Lets look a little closer at unselfishness. To be "humble in heart" is to be submissive to the core. It involves being more concerned about others and their needs than in your own. If you are truly unselfish, you will be generous with your time and possessions, energy and money. As you operate in this attitude of unselfishness, it will exhibit itself in your life as thoughtfulness and gentleness, an unpretentious spirit, and a servant-hearted leadership.

Today we are surrounded by peers who would tell us to grab all the gusto we can. After all, we only go around once in this life. Sound familiar? Ours is a day filled with self-promotion, taking care of ourselves first, winning by intimidation, pushing for first place, and many, many more self-serving agendas. The concept of unselfishness is a joke to the majority today.

Well, how do we pull it off? How do we change our attitude to be more "Christlike"? Paul tells us the secret in his letter to the Philippians. "If therefore there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interest, but also for the interest of others. (Philippians 2:1-4). We can see that it is "others" that is own his mind. Paul admonishes us to not allow a selfish attitude to sneak in and steal your joy.

We should always put others before ourselves. When we do that, we find that the focus comes off of "I" and is placed on others. This is a sure cure for what I call the "I" problem. It is when we become servants to others and develop our servants heart, that we find true joy coming back into our lives. This also will place us back in harmony and unity with one another.

Now, does having unity or harmony suggest we have to agree on everything? I agreeing on everything what harmony is all about? Absolutely not. Unity and Uniformity are two different things. "Uniformity is gained by pressure from without." This forces us to all look the same on the outside. However, "Unity comes from deep within. It is the inner desire to conduct oneself in a cooperative manner . . . to be on the same team, to go for the same objective, for the benefit of one another." Harmony promotes happiness. If you disagree, then you've obviously never been in a meeting or a family where there is no harmony; where every is out for their own agenda. There is total discord and bickering as everyone tries to make their own point.

So now we know we need an unselfish attitude, how do we accomplish it? Paul gave us the answer in Philippians 2:3-4 when he wrote, "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interest, but also for the interest of others. From this scripture, we gain three steps to cultivate an unselfish attitude. "First, never let selfishness or conceit be your motive. That's right, never. Second, always regard others as more important than yourself. Though this is not a natural trait, it can become a habit – and what an important one. Third, don't limit your attention to your own personal interest – include others… The goal is that we become so interested in others in helping them reach their highest good that we become self-forgetful in the process."

All being said, we again have the perfect example. Jesus Christ. He came down from heaven, leaving everything behind, and came to serve you personally. Paul knew this when he stated in Philippians 2:5-8 "Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond servant, and being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Jesus gave up everything, knowing he would become man and die. But, he did it because he placed you above Himself. He accepted everything that He would have to endure just so you would be given the opportunity to be saved. Swindoll list the following steps down from the above scripture that Jesus took to come to us.

1. He emptied Himself.
2. He took the form of a servant
3. He was made in the likeness of humanity
4. He humbled Himself by becoming obedient unto death.
5. He accepted the most painful and humiliating way to die – crucifixion.

Did Jesus do all this will grumbling and complaining? Of course not. How do we know how He did it? Hebrews 12:2 tells us, "Fixing our eyes on Jesus , the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." He saw those of us who would benefit from His sacrifice as "the joy set before Him." That brings us back to the theme of this study – JOY.

In this lesson, Swindoll emphasizes the importance of the attitude that releases joy and reveals to us the hidden secret of a happy life on earth – an attitude of unselfishness. Remember God will honor your decision to demonstrate the same attitude. Feelings of hate will be replaced with a relieving flood of peace and happiness. As Solomon has written "When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him" (Prov. 16:7) "When we acknowledge Jesus Christ is Lord and begin to release our cares, our disappointments, and our heartaches to Him, we not only keep our equilibrium, we also keep our sense of humor. Joys multiply when we have Someone to bear our burdens… joy can endure hardship as long as that Christlike attitude of unselfishness is in place."

Laughing Through Life's Dilemmas

How many times have you heard people refer to someone's age by the color of their hair. It seems as we like to equate a lot of grey hair as being a sign of wisdom. Some of us may more like to think that's why we are turning grey. However, does the amount of grey hair we have on our head make life's dilemmas easier to face? You would think that as we get older, we would be more able to distinguish right and wrong. All those "years" of experience, certainly we should be able to breeze right through any problems we face with little thought or effort.

Well, unfortunately that's not the case. "While we do get older, … decisions don't get any easier. In fact, the situations we face as adults are often more grizzled and ill-defined than we are!"

There are always two sides to every dilemma we face in life. There are also advantages and disadvantages to both sides. No matter which side you choose, you usually end up losing something.

Charles Swindoll's study on Philippians called Laugh Again looks at three kinds of dilemmas:

1. Volitional Dilemmas: When we want to do two different things at the same time. E.g. As a young married couple, do you start a family right out of graduate school, or do you concentrate on your career?

2. Emotional Dilemmas: Conflicting feelings about a difficult situation. E.g. Deciding whether a long time family pet, who's contracts a painful disease in old age, should be left to die naturally or put to sleep?

3. Geographical Dilemmas: When we desire to be in two different places at the same time. E.g. Do I move to a new town for a better job/pay and leave my familiar surroundings for new ones or stay where I am?

A lot of the time when we are faced with these types of dilemmas, we remember the phrase, between a rock-and-a-hard-place. The Apostle Paul wrestled with these same types of dilemmas.

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. (Philippians 1:21-24)

Paul was torn between going on and being with the Lord and staying where he was and serving Christ. In verse 22 he states "I do not know! I am torn between the two:…" Paul desired to be with God and at the same time he desired to stay on and see his brothers and sisters prosper in Christ.

When we are faced with dilemmas and we have to decide which way to go, we sometimes make up a list of "Pros" and "Cons". We hope by looking at all options on both sides of our situation, we can gain a clear picture of what route we need to take. This can be very useful; especially if either decision we make is the right one. A lot of times we have to just pray about our path and let the Lord decide for us.

At some point, we know that Paul got his answer and knew which path he was going to take.

Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. (vs 25, 26)

As much as he wanted to go on and be with Christ, he choose to stay and exemplify Christ to the Philippians by selflessly placing their needs above his own. Paul then moved right on in to doing the good work. He issued a challenge to the church to …

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. (vs 27-30)

Paul admonished the church to strive for proper conduct "in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." He asked them to strive for unity amongst themselves so that they would be able to stand firm. Paul knew that a church divided would not stand. He also knew if they were of one mind and spirit, that they would not fall.

I think it was as equally important that Paul reminded them of the fact that not only were they to believe on Christ, but that they were to also endure the suffering for Christ. Paul wanted them to be aware that they would run into suffering in their service, but take heart "since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now her that I have." they would make it through just like he had.

There are four reasons the Paul gives them to remember when conflict arises:

1. They are not alone
2. Ultimately the victory is theirs
3. Don't be alarmed by their opponents
4. Stand strong because the conflicts you face, Paul had already faced.

"Have you been hard-pressed by a dilemma lately? Are you being torn in two directions by a rock-and-a-hard-place decision? Choosing the best solution won't be easy. So put on your bifocals if you need them; muster all the wisdom you can from past experience; and don’t' forget to keep your commitment to Christ as strong, black and white, and well-defined as Paul's: "For to me, to live is Christ, to die is gain" (v.21)

Everything Worship Page

Charlie's Readers,

If you have a heart for God, and it appears you guys do, then you have a heart for worship; the two go hand in hand. I'm wanting to put together a list of what songs, prayers, verses, devotions etc... that people are worshiping to.

Please click on the title above or HERE to go to the Everything Worship Page and leave a comment or post about what you are reading or listening to when you worship God, either at home or at church.

Thanks, and I look forward to reading your comments,

Roy Bauer

What A Way To Live!

Charles Swindoll in his study of Laugh Again. Experiencing Outrageous Joy, he speaks of how we should live. He starts this study with a quote from one of our country's most important document – The Declaration of Independence:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident
That all men are created equal,
That they are endowed by their Creator
With certain unalienable Rights,
That among these are Life,
Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

If it was so important to our founding fathers to include it in the Declaration of Independence, then why have so few of us found it? Swindoll says its because "of one word pursuit". One thing we need to keep in mind is that our Joy does not come from the outside. It comes from the inside. Joy is not dependent upon our circumstances, but a mind-set. Joy is a choice, not a pursuit.
"Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl wrote,

Everything can be taken from a man but one thing:
The last of the human freedoms – to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way."

We have total control over our attitude – no matter what our circumstances may be. But that's really hard, you say. You don't know my circumstances. I may not know your circumstances, but I do know a mighty God who does know them.
I Need a Positive Mind-Set

Well, then how do I get a positive mind-set where I can choose joy no matter what my circumstances? The first thing we need to do is to look at where we truly get joy from. It is not from things; it is not from other; and it is not "out there somewhere" waiting to be discovered. Joy is available to us each and every day. We have to choose it over all other attitudes. Joy is not out there somewhere waiting on you go discover it. Joy is not dependent upon someone to give it. Joy is not in "things" that surround you. Joy is inside of you. Positive people are those who need virtually nothing tangible to give them joy. They are those who create their own reasons for joy. And they are those that choose it now, making it a present reality.

Now, realize, it is not as simple as just saying "I choose to be joyful." For us to choose joy, we have to set our minds on it. We have to set our minds on "…whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things." (Philippians 4:8).

Swindoll equated your mind like a bank that regularly receives deposits. By depositing the kinds of things in Philippians 4:8, we have an account that will consistently yield a high dividend called joy.

Confidence, Even Though a Victim

Paul remained confident in Christ, even though he was a victim of circumstance. Philippians 1:12-14 tells us that Paul focused on his trust in the Lord. This enabled him to endure his hardships. He also stated that because of his circumstances it allowed others to speak the Word of truth without fear. Paul saw his situation as an opportunity to have God glorified and not just something just happening to him. "Paul sees progress being made where many would see only regress."

They Said What?

Ever had a time when you found out someone was saying things about you to hurt you, and all you were doing was your job? Paul experienced the very same thing. He noted that there were people preaching the Gospel of Christ and at the same time – whether through trying to make themselves look better or get self-glory out of it – trash talking about Paul. Did Paul let this bother him? Not at all. See Paul knew that because Christ was the center of his life, he did not have to worry about what others were saying about him. It only mattered what Christ though of him.

Paul knew that it was more important the message that was being preached and not the messenger who was preaching it. Paul said in Philippian 1:18 "What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice, yes, and I will rejoice." You see, the message they were preaching was truth, and Christ was being preached. It was the messengers that may have had ulterior motives. Paul knew what battles to fight. This is contrasted with the message Paul sent to the Galatians where Paul chastised them for allowing the preachers to preach a false message. The Galatians were being exposed to a message of salvation by works. Paul would not stand for this false message to be spread. Here, however, Paul rejoiced in that , despite some impure motives, the good new of Jesus was still being preached.

It doesn't matter what people say about you. Don’t' try to be a people pleaser. As long as you are preaching the true Gospel, Jesus is pleased. No one else's opinion matters. There is freedom in not having to live your life under what others think.

There are three things we need to remember from Paul's example. We can stop pursuing happiness and choose to follow Christ. When we do, we will discover that Jesus will impact our lives in the same three areas that Paul described – our circumstances, our relationships, and our future.

1. When Christ is central, He broadens the dimensions of our circumstances. Jesus was not bound by Paul's chains, nor is He confined by our limitations. He is "able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think" (Eph.3:20)

2. When Christ is central, He delivers us from a preoccupation with others. Paul's joy wasn't dependent on others; he didn't need any one's approval – he had Christ's, and His was all that matters. When we put Jesus above all others, that brings us joy.

3. When Christ is central, He calms our fears regarding ourselves and our future. When Christ is at the center of our hearts and minds, we find contentment instead of insecurity, peace instead of anxiety, joy instead of fear. That give us a hope for the future.

Joy is Not Happiness

Tim Hansel, author of Holy Sweat, points out: Happiness is dependent upon our circumstances. I am happy when I get a new outfit. I am happy when I get a promotion. I am happy when I pay off my car. There is nothing wrong with being happy. We should get as much happiness out of life as we can. But, again, happiness is dependent upon circumstances.

However, Joy defies circumstances. It can coexist with doubt, ambiguity, and pain. It is a contentedness beyond circumstances, an indestructible kind of confidence. When we devote our time and energy in becoming what Jesus wants us to be. It is then that we find Joy. The joy that only comes from a life set in order by our pursuit of Christ and how He wants us to live. That brings to us that solid foundation which we can stand on – no matter our circumstances – and declare joy is our strength.

Swindoll concludes this lesson with the following:

"As Jesus said, we cannot serve two masters, for we'll always end up hating one and loving the other. "You cannot serve God and mammon" (Matt. 6:24b). Is happiness your mammon? Is pleasing God second or third or fourth to becoming happy? There's only one way to free yourself from the tyranny of 'the pursuit of happiness' and find true joy, and that's by making it your goal to please God instead."

With A Glance of Your Eyes by Francis Frangipane

Below is an article from Francis Frangipane that was posted 8/12/08 on the Elijah List (a daily devotional and reading). It shows of the love our Jesus has for us.

"Who is this that grows like the dawn, as beautiful as the full moon, as pure as the sun, as awesome as an army with banners?" Song of Solomon 6:10

In spite of all the controversy and strife in our world, regardless of the clashing opinions in today's religious wars, the focus of Christ still remains upon His Bride. It is our quest to turn our gaze toward Him.

Most of us sincerely love the Lord and are thankful for all He has done. However, too many are more comfortable celebrating what Jesus has done than accepting who He desires to be to us. We sing of His victories and teach of His mercies, yet rarely do we quiet our hearts and surrender to His presence. We want Him near enough to protect us but not so close that our consciousness is captured by His presence.

As awesome and liberating as it is to know what Jesus has done for us, until we actually surrender ourselves to Him, our religion will never be more than a "history lesson." Religion is not enough. It satisfies neither us nor Christ. Jesus wants to also know us.

You say, "But He does know us!" In His omniscience, He knows everything. But in His love, He seeks to know us as beings living in unbroken union with Him. He has the right to our souls, our secrets, and our dreams. He wants the person we are when no one else is looking. Yet, He will not force Himself. This is not the way of love.

This interpenetration of our lives in Him and His life in us is the only destiny with which Christ is content. At the end of the age, everything short of oneness with Christ will appear as sin.

God is Love

I know the fear of the Lord and that it is the beginning of true knowledge. But, like the apostle John, "I have also come to know and have believed the love which God has for us" (1 John 4:16). God is love. Let us consider that the apostle who fell before Jesus as a dead man on the Isle of Pathos, later wrote, "There is no fear in love" (1 John 4:18).

The Lord knows our fear of God is a strong deterrent from sin and a powerful ally in walking uprightly. Yet, to draw near to Him we must know more than the fear of God; we must believe in "the love which God has for us." God's love is perfect. It "casts out fear, because fear involves punishment." John tells us that "the one who fears is not perfected in love" (verse 18).

When it comes to entering the presence of God, it is to be expected that fear, guilt, or shame should seek to hold us hostage. But as we believe in the love God has for us, in the brightness of His mercy the shadows of our past cannot exist.

The Heart of God

Last week I asked, "If Christ were in the room, would you enter? How would you enter?" We spoke of our sin, fear and shame being barriers. These are due to our perception of ourselves. Yet, when the thought first awakened within you that you could enter His presence, something also awakened in Him. He says, "You have made my heart beat faster, my sister, my bride; you have made my heart beat faster with a single glance of your eyes" (Song of Solomon 4:9).

Your glance, even if it was no more than the briefest anticipation of being with Him, made His heart beat faster. The King James Version reads, "Thou hast ravished my heart." Jesus is not returning simply to destroy wickedness; He is coming for a Bride. At the end of the age our task is not simply to prepare for the rapture or the tribulation but for Christ!

You see, there is nothing more important to Jesus Christ than His Bride, the Church. He died for her. He lives to make intercession for her. His love proved itself capable and worthy of winning our full redemption. Our most noble task is to surrender to the love that reaches to us.

Longing for Jesus

How shall we respond? I am thinking of Mary Magdalene's love for Jesus. Yes, here in the love Jesus has for Mary, and in her response, we see flashes of Christ's love for the Church.
Mary is at Jesus' empty tomb. The apostles came, looked into the sepulcher, and went away bewildered. But Mary lingered, weeping. It is noteworthy that Jesus did not immediately come to the apostles; He came first to a woman. This tells us Jesus responds to love more than position; He comes first to those who want Him most. The apostles went away wondering, but there was something in Mary's inconsolably broken heart that Jesus Himself was drawn to.
In her sorrow she did not recognize Him. He said, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?" (John 20:15). Blinded by her tears, she supposes Jesus is the gardener.

"'Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have laid Him, and I will take Him away.' Jesus said to her, 'Mary!' She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, 'Rabboni!' (which means, Teacher). Jesus said to her, 'Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father'" (John 20:15-17).

The instant Mary sees the Lord she clings to Him. And here is the most astounding event: Christ interrupted His ascent to answer this woman's love! Jesus said, "Stop clinging to Me...I have not yet ascended." In His next appearance, Jesus appears to the disciples. He tells them, "Touch Me." For Mary, He broke protocol; whatever He meant in saying, "I have not yet ascended," He stopped His progression to be with her!

I am staggered by this response of Christ to Mary's longing. This is the nature of His love. His passion for His Bride rules His every thought and action! We are the "joy set before Him" (Hebrews 12:2). For us, He endured the anguish of the Cross. In so doing, Jesus demonstrated that His love for the Church is the highest, most powerful law of His Kingdom!

It is His passion for the Church that compels Him to come for us in His second coming. Yet, as He broke protocol for Mary, so He reveals His heart to us. If we will be satisfied with nothing less than Christ, it is Christ we shall possess. He will come to us. Of all the marvels in this universe, the greatest is the love Christ has for His Church. Though He is standing behind our walls, the glance of our eyes makes His heart beat faster!

Oh Lord Jesus, forgive me for using Your gifts for myself, while withholding myself from Your love. Lord, I will love You with a perfect love, for my love is the love with which You first loved me.

Francis FrangipaneMinistries of Francis Frangipane Email: francis1@frangipane.org

Set Your Sails For Joy

The more I read about Paul and what he went through, the more I find that he was an extraordinary person living an extraordinary life. There was a quote from today's lesson, "It's been said that if you were tot race Paul's journeys in the first century, it would be like tracking the path of a wounded deer running from a hunter, leaving one bloody trail after another… Physically, Paul must have been a wreck. Everywhere he traveled he carried on his body a shocking diary of scars that visibly testified to the murderous hatred and hardships he had endured."

It just blows me away that even with the life that Paul led, he still has the ability to give us a lesson in a life of Joy. He was able to do this only "Because he was confident that God was at work, God was in control, and that God allowed all things to occur for one purpose – His Greater Glory!"

Ella Wheeler Wilcox poem, The Winds of Fate states it so well:

Stanza One
One ship drive east and another drives west
With the selfsame winds that blow.
'Tis the set of the sales
And not the gales
Which tells us the way to go.

Paul definitely had his sails set for Joy! His holding onto God guided him like a compass to keep in on joy's course regardless of the gales that blew.

Paul also was not confused by his position. To the church at Phillipi, Paul was somewhat of a hero. They looked up to him. However, Paul did not take on that role. Instead, Paul looked upon himself as a "bond-servant of Christ Jesus."(Philippians 1:1a) Paul was confident in his role as a bond servant, which also gave him joy.

In Philippians 1:6, Paul spoke of his firm confidence in the Philippians' spiritual growth. "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." There are three reasons in this verse why Paul was confident enough to be joyful.

1. The Apostle was absolutely convinced that God was at work in the Church at Philippi,
2. He was in full control of that church, and
3. That everything about that church followed a plan for His glory.

"From the second stanza of her poem 'The Winds of Fate,' Ella Wheeler Wilcox hails one last reminder about setting our sales for joy.
Like the winds of the sea are the ways of fate,
As we voyage along through life:
'Tis the set of a soul
That decides its goal,
And not the calm or the strife.

As you prepare for your trek into the "calm and strife" of your day, you would do well to set your soul's course according to these three guidelines:

1. Confidence brings joy when you focus on the things for which you're thankful
2. Confidence brings joy when you let God be God
3. Confidence brings joy when you keep love within its proper limits

Let's take a lesson and learn how to give thanks. You can read the following scripture to help in that area:

1 Thessalonians 5:18; Ephesians 5:4, 18-20; Philippians 4:6; Exodus 15:1-21; Psalm 136; Psalm 103; and psalm 106.

Review of Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson

Dear Charlie's Readers,

I wanted to post a link to a book by Mark Batterson, Wild Goose Chase, that is perfect for anyone wanting to grow spiritually. It is about following the Holy Spirit, Wild Goose to the Celtics, and living a life full of adventure not routine.

The life of a believer was never meant to be boring, but it is sometimes isn't it? Look at David, Moses, Peter and Paul. Talk about adventure. Nowhere does God tell his followers that they are in for a boring, routine-filled life. On the contrary, Jesus issued a warning to His followers,

"Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." When you embark on your Wild Goose Chase, you never know where you're going to end up." Excerpt from Wild Goose Chase

Click here to check out the website and you can have a chance to win a free copy. The contest will be posted Tuesday the 19th.

Thanks Charlie for allowing me to post this review.

Have fun on your spiritual journey. That is what we were destined for.

Meet A Man Who Smiled In Spite Of.

I have … been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. II Corinthians 11:23-28

Paul went through all before he was arrested and had to spend two years chained to a Roman soldier (ref. Acts 28:30). In all this, not once did he ever grumble or throw a fit. On the contrary, Paul saw all his circumstances an opportunity to make Christ known as he made the best of his situation.

I don't know about you, but I can complain because the clock went off too early and I had to get up.

What did Paul have that we don't? Not a thing. We have access to everything – even more because we have his example – he had access to. It was Paul's attitude that made the difference for him. He truly lived above his circumstances and not under them.

Let's try it. What can it hurt? When we are faced with something that sparks that fuel inside of us to blow a gasket or heave that heavy sigh or crawl the person in front of us; try remembering what Paul did. Take a deep breath, smile and tell ourselves, we are not defined by this circumstance, we are above it. Better yet; remember what Christ did. Phillipians 1:6 tells us "being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." See we are going to make it after all!

Where are you in your circumstances?

I am starting a series of bible studies on the book of Phillipians. We held our first meeting yesterday and went over the introduction – who, what, when, and why. We discussed the fact that we lost a lot of our joy in life as we grew up. There was a comparison on how we looked at life as a child versus how we look at life now, as an adult. We all agreed that the biggest change was our responsibilities. Why does the increase of responsibilities mean we have to have less joy in life? Why don't we laugh now, like we did as a child? Are things just not that funny any more?

We discussed a quote of "Life is something that should be experienced and not endured." It became abundantly apparent the more the discussion went on that everyone in the room saw a lack of joy in their life. It appears we are all enduring life and not experiencing it. There were comments like, "I knew I needed to be in here." "How can I experience joy when I'm at work." and "Well I have kids now."

John 10:10 says: "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." God sent Jesus to us to give us life -- an abundant life. This includes JOY. Now at the risk of sounding too much like a "glass half full" philosophy, I am aware that we all experience trials and tribulations in this life. However, we still can have this joy in our life, even in the midst of these problems. God has called us to live above our circumstances, not under them.

This leads into the book of Phillipians. Paul wrote this Epistle while he was under arrest and chained daily to a Roman soldier. What a blessing it must have been for those soldiers. When Paul and Silas was in prison, beaten, backs bleeding, and in chains. They didn't grumble and complaint to God. They sang songs of Praise. And guess what, it changed the whole atmosphere of that place. In both instances, they knew no matter what their circumstances, they were above them and blessed by God.

What an awesome lesson we have. God has richly blessed us in all areas. God has even made a way in the midst of our trials that we can stand up and say: No matter what, I am blessed!.

Where are you in your circumstances?