“Life Lessons”

“Sensible instruction is a life-giving fountain that helps you escape all deadly traps.” —Proverbs 13:14 CEV

Simple living is made more productive and pleasant, when we are willing to listen to sensible instruction. Stan Smith, winner of the Wimbledon men’s singles tennis title in 1972, told Guideposts how he taught tennis lessons and life lessons at the same time.
    1. Set high goals. The higher the bar, the higher you will jump.
    2. Prepare thoroughly. That means practice, practice, practice, and take care of your body, mentally and physically.
    3. Avoid discouragement. Never give up, even if you have a setback, and avoid being envious of others’ success.
    4. Strive for self-control. If you blow your top, you lose your concentration.
    5. Be absolutely honest. Honesty assures a good reputation and peace in your life.
    6. Choose a good role model. Christ is the best role model you could choose.
    7. Look for God’s purpose in your life. Find your talents and work to make them grow. We are never too old to learn lessons that will help us to have the abundant life God wants for us.

“Our Perfect Example”

“Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” —I Peter 2:21 NIV

I’m sure that each of us can remember someone who has set an example for us. It may be a parent or a grandparent, perhaps a teacher or good friend. As I have mentioned before, my uncle George set an example for me. His preaching skills so impressed me as a youngster that I was influenced later to become a pastor.
    Our scripture verse reminds us that Christ suffered during his life. The Bible also says, “He humbled himself and became obedient to death, -- even death on the cross” (Philippians 2:8). Jesus bore his suffering without complaint and without blaming others. He sets the example for us. By following his example, we become a good example for others.
    In the book, “Leading to Ethics,” the authors write, “You have no choice about being a role model. You are one! -- The only choice you have is which role you’ll model.” Parents, your children are watching. They may not listen very well, but they have 20/20 vision. Executives, your employees are watching. Your kindness and work ethics will be reflected throughout the company.
    Simple living brings disappointment, tragedy and joy. Follow Jesus’ example and your life will be peaceful and will bring glory to God.

“Tidal Wave of Prayer"

 
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” —Isaiah 41:10 NKJV

Simple living can be thrown into confusion by an unexpected calamity. Linda Wanaselja was taking a photo on the boardwalk at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. She backed up and fell 7 ft. down and 10 ft. out onto the sand. She broke 8 bones, including a pelvic bone and three ribs. Her holiday turned into a nightmare, for she learned that she would be bedridden for eight weeks. She was devastated, and brought her fears to God. He answered her, “You’ll get through it, for I am with you. Just take it a day, an hour, a minute, a second, a breath at a time.” Linda said that prayers of Prayer Fellowship, along with those of family and many friends, carried her on a powerful tidal wave of prayer.
    The prayers seemed to cover all the details. She needed no surgery, but she had to be turned over eight times a day in order to avoid bedsores, and eighteen pillows had to be tucked around her. Four family members faithfully cared for her during this critical time.
    Linda asked herself, “Why do I feel so positive in all this?” She knew the answer: 1) Faith that God was upholding her in his righteous right hand. 2) The great tidal wave of prayer provided by her loving family and friends were keeping her attitude up –—way up!

“Abba, Father”

“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” —Romans 8:15 NKJV

Bible scholars tell us that the word “Abba” is akin to the English words “Daddy” or “Papa,” Paul is emphasizing the fact that we are God’s children who are allowed to call him by those familiar family names.
    When children are afraid, they run to Daddy or Mommy. When they feel their parent’s loving arms around them, they are no longer afraid. Today’s Scripture reminds us that because of our Savior, we are now a part of God’s family. We can run to our “Daddy” and his arms will be open to us.
    You may say, “But I can’t see him! How can I run to him?” Paul answers that question by saying that the Holy Spirit lives in those of us who repent and believe in God’s promises. Jesus said, “And I will pray the Father, and he will send you another Helper, that he may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth…” (John 14:16). When we stay close to our Father through prayer, Bible study and fellowship with other believers, the Holy Spirit will banish fear from simple living.
    Norman Vincent Peale wrote, “The secret of life isn’t what happens to you, but what you do with what happens to you.” Are you afraid? Run to your Father in prayer. He is greater than any problem you may face.