Guard your mind

I know it has been many a moon since my last post.  I blame myself.  Mostly for not being sure what to post, a phobia from actually hitting my 1Kth post, life getting too busy, whatever.  One thing i did learn early on in the Army was that, "the maximum effective range of an excuse is zero meters".  So, i shall not try and excuse my absence, rather, i will endeavor to find things to post about... and actually force myself to put some fingers to keyboard more frequently.

A couple of weeks back, by way of random exploration, i found a new book titled, "Warrior Wisdom:  Ageless Wisdom for the Modern Warrior".  While the author is apparently not a Christian (i do not know him personally, and i am not seeing anything come through in what i have read that would tell me otherwise), and i have thus far NOT found any biblical references or quotes via the Facebook page, there is some biblical wisdom to be found.  Remember, i am a Christian first and foremost - and thus i view and analyze via this 'filter' if you will.  That is not to say that i do not think, "outside of the box" from time to time, but when i come to share something here, it will always be from this view point - and as a "samurai" in service to my Lord Jesus Christ.

Anyway - before i would recommend such a book for general "consumption" here, i would want to read it through.  But, some tidbits, i would like to share here.  Two for today.  One is a picture the Facebook page shared, and the other is a symbol, which to many, is a symbol of Eastern Mysticism.

I was inspired to share this picture because it immediately reminded me of the Casting Crowns song, Slow Fade (click the link to see the video on YouTube), which Tulip shared with me... a year or so ago.

Now, this is a quote from Lao Tzu, but there is Biblical truth in it, even if the author had no idea of who God is, and that is one of the most amazing things about God to me.  Everything cries out His glory, even those who may, or may not, oppose Him.

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." ~ Philippians 4:4-9, ESV (emphasis mine)

We as followers of Christ, whether we be 'artisans', merchants, or farmers, we are to bring every thought under control.

"We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,..." ~ 2 Corinthians 10:5, ESV (emphasis mine)

I say this because it is obvious that God sees the heart, and not just the outward actions.

"And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.” And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”" ~ Mark 7:14-23, ESV (emphasis mine)

BUT, even in every effort we exert, we should endeavor to bring our thoughts into captivity. It is important however, to remember that without the work of the Holy Spirit, our efforts would be in vain.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." ~ Ephesians 2:8-9, ESV

-=-=-=O=-=-=-

The second item i would like to talk about what is commonly referred to as the YinYang symbol. 

Back before i had realized that God was revealing Himself to me, i had joined the Maryland Army National Guard, the historical 29th Infantry Division.  (I will not divert into the history of this unit, but i encourage anyone so inclined, to click on the link above.)  I will, however, discuss the unit's iconic symbol.  When the division was first organized, just prior the United States' full commitment into World War I, it was formed from the National Guard organizations of Maryland and Virginia.  The memories of the American Civil War were still firsthand of many at the time.  The Maryland and Virginia units symbolized the re-establishment of the Union from both sides of the conflict (despite Maryland being firmly South of the Mason-Dixon line, but i digress...), AND a representation of the only American Military Unit, the 1st Maryland. to have met it self on the field of battle, on opposing sides (again, a tale for another time), thus the colors of the Blue and the Grey (with the field of blue to always be closest to the bearer's heart). While the Yin Yang symbol originally represented the 'eternal struggle' between good and evil. the unit patch is a symbol of America's own struggles, but also, within the Christian, it is a symbol (to me) of the struggle we continue to wage between good and evil in our flesh, for we are not completely reborn until we are raised again with our new bodies and our eternal fellowship with Christ.  The complete symbol incorporates two smaller circles within.

These circles are always (or are supposed to be) of the opposite field of color.  This represents the "evil within the good, and the good within the evil".  Important note here - this dichotomy ONLY occurs within man, and NOT within God, for He is completely Holy and good.

The "evil within the good" represents (to me) the stain of the sin of man.  Within the complete holiness of God, once man has stepped within even the "smallest" of sins, he is forever tainted.

"Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." ~ 1 Corinthians 5:6-8, ESV

The "good within the evil" represents (again, to me), that no matter my circumstances, no matter how bad things are, He is at work in me.  He is transforming me into the image of His Son, my Savior, Jesus Christ.

"Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified." ~ Romans 8:26-30, ESV

For me, this symbol, is a symbol of hope, and not one of eastern mysticism. I think what i am trying to say is, God is everywhere, and at work in everything... even in the things we think of as evil.  And while evil does exist in the world, and for whatever reason, He is allowing it, it ALL to work together for the good.  If you ever doubt, or say, "How could God allow this?!?", i would highly encourage you to read The Book of Job, and take comfort in it.

"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." ~ 1 Corinthians 10:13, ESV

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Music Monday - 20100222 - God is God, and i am not

The past month has pretty much been a blur.  It's been hard for me to get my mind wrapped around anyone subject, etc. (shocker, i know), but the past two weekends our Pastor has been preaching on (essentially) the Awesomeness of God.  It's good to hear Christ centered sermons again, instead of man (or me) centered ones.  At the end of our worship (singing portion) time the worship team sang "God is God" by Steven Curtis Chapman, what a great song.

God is God
by Steven Curtis Chapman
on Declaration (2001)

And the pain falls like a curtain
On the things I once called certain
And I have to say the words I fear the most
I just don’t know

And the questions without answers
Come and paralyze the dancer
So I stand here on the stage afraid to move
Afraid to fall, oh, but fall I must
On this truth that my life has been formed from the dust

God is God and I am not
I can only see a part of the picture He’s painting
God is God and I am man
So I’ll never understand it all
For only God is God

And the sky begins to thunder
And I’m filled with awe and wonder
‘Til the only burning question that remains
Is who am I

Can I form a single mountain
Take the stars in hand and count them
Can I even take a breath without God giving it to me
He is first and last before all that has been
Beyond all that will pass

Oh, how great are the riches of His wisdom and knowledge
How unsearchable for to Him and through
Him and from Him are all things

So let us worship before the throne
Of the One who is worthy of worship alone

Ultimately my relationship with God is not based on what i can achieve, but what He has already achieved.  Like another song i really like, "Not because of who I am, But because of what You've done, Not because of what I've done, But because of who You are". (Casting Crowns, Who am I)

Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:

“Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?
Dress for action [1] like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.

“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me, if you have understanding.
Who determined its measurements—surely you know!
Or who stretched the line upon it?
On what were its bases sunk,
or who laid its cornerstone,
when the morning stars sang together
and all the sons of God shouted for joy?  --- (Job 38:1-7, ESV)

Then Job answered the Lord and said:

“Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you?
I lay my hand on my mouth.
I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
twice, but I will proceed no further.”  --- (Job 40:3-5, ESV)

Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:

“Dress for action [1] like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.
Will you even put me in the wrong?
Will you condemn me that you may be in the right?
Have you an arm like God,
and can you thunder with a voice like his?

“Adorn yourself with majesty and dignity;
clothe yourself with glory and splendor.
Pour out the overflowings of your anger,
and look on everyone who is proud and abase him.
Look on everyone who is proud and bring him low
and tread down the wicked where they stand.
Hide them all in the dust together;
bind their faces in the world below. [2]
Then will I also acknowledge to you
that your own right hand can save you.  --- (Job 40:6-14, ESV)

Then Job answered the Lord and said:

“I know that you can do all things,
and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’
Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.
‘Hear, and I will speak;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.’
I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,
but now my eye sees you;
therefore I despise myself,
and repent [1] in dust and ashes.”  --- (Job 42:1-6, ESV)

This is not A La Carte people

There are things in the Bible that we are not going to like, maybe not agree with, but they are there. I once heard second hand of an acquaintance saying that he believes God lied. Back in Genesis, when God told Adam and Eve that if they ate the forbidden fruit they would die he lied because they did eat the fruit, and they didn't die. I nearly choked when i heard this. I wanted to ask this young man where exactly Adam and Eve were presently. By now i am sure everyone has heard of what happened at the Miss U.S.A. contest. I did not see it live, and i really don't have a desire to look it up on YouTube, but i have read a few articles on it. While i think Carrie Prejean could have been more poised in her answer, i feel she did an OK job answering what she believed. Since then there has been a little tit for tat going on back and forth as to what is Biblicaly correct and this, to me, is fairly clear. Sexual immorality includes male-on-male or female-on-female "relations". (1 Corinthians 6:9 is one) The questions was if she (Ms. Prejean) felt that the other 46 states (that do not currently allow gay marriages) should change. She did that. The reaction by the judge has been extremely harsh and "intolerant" to say the least. Look, we live in a country that espouses the separation of church and state, and while that has come to mean no 'religious' influence upon the government, it was originally written so that the Government should have no influence on religion. I am sure that many other states will eventually legalize such unions. I do not have to agree with it, but that does not mean i have to endorse it either. If the state wants to legalize same sex marriage, that does not mean the church has to agree with - nor should they be required to perform such ceremonies. This post today is not supposed to be a reflection on government, or gay rights, or gay marriage. What i really want it to be is a reflection on how different our society and Fundies, such as myself, are becoming. We (Chrisitans, and not just fundamentalists) are to be in the world, but not of the world. It is becoming clear to me that although i have a right to worship as i please, i really do not have the right to voice my opinion. Sure, in this context what is the worst i might expect? An angry commentor (unlikely since so few actually read this blog) exercising their right to disagree? It has gotten to the point where i feel that my Federal government no longer represents me. And i am ok with that because i am but 1 in over 300 million. Such a body of government cannot possibly represent each and every individual, but more and more i am seeing where vocal few are dictating policy. Both our past President, and our current President are inacting policies that they feel are in the best interest of the country - even if that means doing things that are not necessarily popular. That is what being in charge means - making the hard decisions. Man, my ADD must really be in high gear because as i read over this blog... it is all over the place. The end example i really wanted was to give the picture of Job (i know, i know, but stick with me for just a few moments more). Job wanted to protest to God about how he felt things should be. In the end God answered Job: “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Dress for action [1] like a man;

I will question you, and you make it known to me.

“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

“Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, and said, ‘Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed’?

“Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place, that it might take hold of the skirts of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it? It is changed like clay under the seal, and its features stand out like a garment. From the wicked their light is withheld, and their uplifted arm is broken."

(Job 38-1:15, ESV)

God continues on, but the gist is that man is not the end all judge of right and wrong. As Christians we must read the Bible. We must be about our Father's business. When presented with the opportunity we need to share our understanding, and allow for differences of opinion - especially when it comes to relating with the world. Do not expect the world to accept the things of God with gladness. I pray that God will give me the strength and courage of Ms. Prejean if i am called to make such a public statement.

But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. This will be your opportunity to bear witness. Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers [3] and relatives and friends, and some of you they will put to death. You will be hated by all for my name's sake. But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your lives. (Luke 21:12-19, ESV)

I spaced out yesterday

Totally ;)

Anyway... between trying to adjust to playing a single parent this week, getting back into the routine at work, and trying to crunch out a short story for an upcoming rules article for Necromunda, I completely missed the opportunity to blog yesterday. But that's ok because I have kind of been in a funk lately.

I kind of go through cycles, almost monthly (no smart alack remarks ;-) ). I don't do well with change, and life is full of things that change. My beloved is out of town for a few days at a conference that is addressing special needs within children's ministry this week. I submitted my letter to finally make my retirement from the National Guard official. And the ever changing nature of IT in the work environment. None of these things really help me feel 'safe' or 'peaceful'. Don't get me wrong, I firmly believe in the providential hand of God. I know that He is in perfect control of all. It's just that my mind (aka my flesh) does not respond well to change. Like I have to process it all before I can get back to 'level'. I don't even necessarily need to understand it all. I just have to be able to somehow process it.

Funny story - back when I was commuting almost 90 minutes each way to work I would call my beloved just before I would walk out the door to head home (before we had cell phones) and go over what we were doing that night. By the time I would get home my beloved would make changes and it would throw me through a loop. Unfortunately this has led her to believe that I can't handle change at all (and maybe she's right). I know she's nervous that the kids are going to end up in school without their shoes on, or I will leave the house wide open so strangers can "help themselves". And none of this helps my own "self esteem".

I enjoy writing, and I enjoy my job, but I still feel like a failure at both. At work I struggle to keep up with the constant changes, and not just to the technology. When I went to college I took the placement exams and scored high enough to be invited to join the 'honors society', but I still placed low enough that I had to take English 010 (no, that is not a mis-type). Not only did I have to take the pre-college English course, but I had to take it four times before I passed it! (I currently do not have a degree of any kind.)

So, during these "low cycles" it is hard to keep up. All I can see is all of the tasks around the house not getting done, all of the opportunities missed with the kids, the mistakes I make with my beloved. I ache for heaven, especially during these times. I know that I do a lot of things well. I am able to support my family on my single income (a miracle in today's economic situation), I have been picked above my peers to fill in for the First Sergeant at my unit while he has been away (this has been a reoccurring thing through out my military career), I have been blessed with a mind that can grasp things like IP routing and filtering, I have been blessed with children whom I am often given compliments for, and I have a woman in my life who really does look past my faults and loves me deeply.

But it is hard to look to the horizon, when all you can see are hillsides. I guess that is why I take such deep pleasure in Psalm 23, and the book of Job. My Savior is not hemmed in by my doubts or failures. His staff does comfort me. He does light my paths. He does lead me by still waters and anoints my head with oil. The same God who tells the ocean that it may go only so far, and places the stars at just the right place, is the one who reaches down and speaks to my mind and my heart. He holds me and gives me comfort. Even when I am trying to process change.
Verse for today:
Isaiah 12, ESV
You [1] will say in that day:
“I will give thanks to you, O Lord,
for though you were angry with me,
your anger turned away,
that you might comfort me.

“Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God [2] is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.”

With joy you [3] will draw water from the wells of salvation. And you will say in that day:

“Give thanks to the Lord,
call upon his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples,
proclaim that his name is exalted.

“Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
let this be made known [4] in all the earth.
Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your [5] midst is the Holy One of Israel.”

There are fewer days ahead, than there are behind

That is true for me in at least in the sense that I am counting down the days until my National Guard days are over. When all is said and done I will have served the Army National Guard, for 22 years. I have loved every moment. My early days were as an Infantry man (notice the crossed muskets - not rifles! - to the left). I have a deep sense of pride at having been an Infantryman. Despite what might be generally perceived, it takes a good deal of intelligence to be a 'grunt'. You have to know the effects or your men and equipment, you have to have a general understanding of those whom you are facing, you have to know how to shoot, move, and communicate effectively. And you must constantly be aware of your surroundings. I did more traveling, and the hardest training of my military career as a "leg". I also went and passed Air Assault school. It's a long story, but that year the TOW platoon had the bragging rights over the Scouts (we sent me, and they sent 3 - I was the one who passed). I still remember the recruiter asking me what I wanted to do. He listed off the available jobs, and when he told me about being an anti-tank infantryman - I was hooked.

My next job was that of a Military Policeman. To be honest I was not happy as an MP, I only transferred to that unit because I was trying to go to college and they were the closest unit. Eighteen months later I was so bored I transfered back to an Infantry unit that was over 50 miles away. Unfortunately I had not kept up my overall physical conditioning and I did not do well, so I went back to the MP's. I did make friends in that unit though. They were a good group of men and women. I also had the opportunity to visit the Panama canal with them. Not once, but twice. I also served on my first state mobilizations there and I found a deeper reason to be in the guard other than the military aspect. When I finally attended an NCO school, I met a recruiter who talked me into seeking a 'career' change. The timing was perfect because my beloved and I were getting ready to move. It was then I became a "Red Leg" (Artilleryman).

I have served as as Red Leg for almost nine years - the longest I have served in any MOS (military occupation specialty). I served with this unit when I was deployed (as MPs ironically). I have also served as rear echelon support, and was deployed for Hurricane Katrina and Rita. If it were not for the increasing angst of being away from my family, I would serve with this group of men until I was told that my services were no longer required.

As I was typing this blog entry up I was also thinking about the days that I will be walking the Earth. I am still fairly young, and only God knows the number of my days. My paternal Grandfather outlived two wives of 25 years plus an extra decade (after the second). He was a sharp man. To my shame I missed his funeral. He is buried with honor in Arlington. May the Lord grant me as many days as he saw, and may I have an impact on my beloved, children, and God willing - grand children's lives.
Verse for today:
Psalm 90 : 12-14, ESV
So teach us to number our days
that we may get a heart of wisdom.
Return, O Lord! How long?
Have pity on your servants!
Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

The World is overflowing with complainers

Ok, I realize that this post is really just contributing to the problem, but listening to people complain all the time can get on your nerves! If half of the energy spent on complaining about things was spent on doing something about whatever it is they are complaining about, a lot more would get done, and whole lot less complaining would take place.

There are a few forums that I will visit from time to time. Most of the time there is constructive conversations taking place, or general Q&A. But often there are those who just want to complain. To be honest I will usually just tune people like that out because they usually don't want to fix it, they just want to complain about it.

My beloved and I know a family that is struggling to make ends meet. When ever we see them, no matter what we are talking about, the conversation invariably turns to them having a hard time. The husband works in a job that is partly seasonal/cyclical. That is, there are boon times where overtime is plentiful, and times when the factory just needs to lay about half the work force off for about four weeks until the orders pick up. Now, the company will try and lay off half for two weeks, and then the other half for two weeks so that no one family gets hit harder than another. BUT, this family hardly takes the company up on the overtime (it's totally voluntary), and instead of saving up for the lean month - or possibly looking for a temporary handyman type of job - the husband just sits at home. Now, there are families out there that are trying and still not making it - but when the opportunity is there, but not taken advantage of, I have very little sympathy.

I have also noticed that when people have relational problems they would rather talk to someone other than the one that they are having the issue with. Instead of trying to work/figure out what is wrong between the two things get distorted and exaggerated to the point it becomes gossip.

I am a high school drop out, so I cannot really speak with a lot of authority on book learning (in my opinion), but one thing I did learn in school was that communication takes two, and that if the sender is not communicating with the receiver, communication is not taking place. This is a complicated process - especially between two human beings. Just because a speaker is talking to someone (it doesn't matter if it's one or a hundred), doesn't mean there is communication taking place. For communication to take place the sender (or speaker) has to convey they message in a clear format that is shared with the receiver (aka common language such as English) AND the receiver has to correctly understand that which is being conveyed. If the listener (or receiver) mis-understands the speaker, then communication is NOT taking place.

This spills over into our local churches as well. This is made even more complicated when the senior leadership speaks to the junior leadership, who speaks with the "lay" leadership, who then works with the individual (or family) who sits in the pews each Sunday. And we being fallen and sinful human beings will not always give those who we are speaking with (and this goes two ways) the amount of grace to possibly oversee things. We humans each have our own preferences. We prefer certain types of music, or preaching styles. We prefer certain traditions (or lack there of). We prefer a certain type of clothes, or time limits on the sermons that are given.

I am so sick of hearing people complain that I am getting upset when I hear it now. I now I am sinning because I am not bestowing the other person with grace to either just be a listening post for them, or some other form of help to them. Instead I am getting upset about the inconvenience being forced upon me. And what am I doing here but the very thing that I despise! *sigh*

If anyone is still reading this, I encourage you to take action. What is it that is bothering you? Take the time to not complain about it, but think about it. Bring it to the Lord, not to complain or even to ask Him to take it away from you. But ask for God to show it to you more clearly. Ask God if there is something that you can do about it. Is it a thorn to be 'suffered'? Is it something that is being used as a lesson in your life so that God may conform you more into the image of His Son? Is there something that you can do about it? Or is it something that God might be using to move you on to something else?

One more thing before I move on. Sometimes things are not always what they seem on the outside. Sometimes, just because something is not our preference, does not mean that it is a bad (or wrong) thing. Sometimes, it is just what it is.
Verse for today:
Job 40 : 6-9, ESV
Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:

“Dress for action [1] like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.
Will you even put me in the wrong?
Will you condemn me that you may be in the right?
Have you an arm like God,
and can you thunder with a voice like his?

*** I would encourage an in depth reading and meditation of the entire book of Job - and I include myself in that statement.

Musical Monday

The past week or two my daughter has really been wanting to watch the DVD of her year she practiced ballet. The woman who was running, and teaching, the school made a DVD because it was going to be the last year before her husband took a job in another state (very sad for us), so she wanted to give her students something to remember the school. DD3 has been wanting to get involved in something, almost anything, but she is at an in-between age where she is either not old enough, or the timing of when the classes, etc., are not available. Anyway, when I heard this song on the DVD it spoke to my heart (again), then last night as I was sitting in my car (reading "Living the Cross Centered Life" while waiting for Awana's to end), I heard this song on the radio and it was confirmed. I just had to use it for my "Musical Monday".

Indescribable
by Chris Tomlin

From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea
Creation's revealing Your majesty
From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring
Every creature unique in the song that it sings
All exclaiming

Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God

Who has told every lightning bolt where it should go
Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow
Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light
Yet conceals it to bring us the coolness of night
None can fathom

Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God
You are amazing God

Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
Incomparable, unchangeable
You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same
You are amazing God
You are amazing God

These verses really speak to the vanity of man's attempts to really describe God. Just how small man really is when we dare to look up and compare ourselves to Him. But in spite of all of this He reaches down, He makes Himself known to His creation, and He actually intervenes on our behalf. Words cannot adequately express...
Verse for today:
Job 38 : 3-7, 22-24, ESV
Dress for action [1] like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.

“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me, if you have understanding.
Who determined its measurements—surely you know!
Or who stretched the line upon it?
On what were its bases sunk,
or who laid its cornerstone,
when the morning stars sang together
and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

“Have you entered the storehouses of the snow,
or have you seen the storehouses of the hail,
which I have reserved for the time of trouble,
for the day of battle and war?
What is the way to the place where the light is distributed,
or where the east wind is scattered upon the earth?

Family time at the movies

For some time now my beloved and I have been seeing posters, and trailers for "The Golden Compass". We both like that general type of film, and the advertisers are doing a fairly decent job of promoting it. However, I have been reading things on the internet of late bringing forth somethings that concern me greatly. The movie is based off of a trilogy written by author Phillip Pullman. It is written that Mr. Pullman is an athiest who really does not like C.S. Lewis, or his books, or pretty much to do anything with religion in general. It is my understanding (from what I have read on-line) that the book that this movie is based off of has some serious anti-God threads, and in the end the children "kill God". (Read a snoops article here) Apparently the movie has really supressed these themes in order to make it more friendly for us "church goers". (On a side note: it's intresting to hear that the 'other side of the coin' faces such supression.) Originally we were planning on going to see it as a date night movie, but I doubt I will even do that now - not even NetFlix it.


We should not be surprised buy such things. The 'world' hates Christ (John 7:7), and as a result it is only natural for it to hate those of us who follows Christ (John 15:9). The enemy of our souls is a master at his craft (Genesis, Job, 2 Corinthians), and as a result he has managed to turn some to hate, and I do mean hate, those who seek after Christ. And sometimes the best way to attack something, is by deception and disguise.


Now, I have watched The Lord of the Rings and Narnia with my two sons, and there are definetly things that I need to talk over some things with them in those movies as well. But, isn't that the role of a parent? We can never completely protect them from the world (when I use this term it is in reference to the part of the world in opposition to God). Our actual role is to teach and to train (Proverbs 22). I guess what I am trying to say is this, whatever you do with your children, wherever you go, whatever you see, talk to them about it - and ultimately pray for them. God can, and does, use all things to teach and to train them. Our ultimate peace and joy will be at our destination, and not during the journey. But that doesn't mean that we can't stop and appreciate the view from time to time. Look for those little nuggets. :)






Verse for today:
Deuteronomy 11:18-21, ESV
“You shall therefore lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, that your days and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land that the Lord swore to your fathers to give them, as long as the heavens are above the earth.

Jesus bring the rain

Not long ago I heard a new song. At least it was new to me... right now I am not sure how old it was. But the Lord has really been using it in my life. It's titled "Bring the Rain", and it's by Mercy Me. The chorus goes like this:

Bring me joy, bring me peace Bring the chance to be free Bring me anything that brings You glory And I know there'll be days When this life brings me pain But if that's what it takes to praise You Jesus, bring the rain

And that has really been a desire of mine, but there are times when I struggle with this. Do I really want to go through hardships to being Him glory? What if God wanted me to lose my job? What about a serious illness? The book of Job has long been a favorite of mine. It is my favorite book in the Bible, and yet... to be honest... I don't want to have to go through that. I struggle in my flesh to really let myself go... to die to myself... daily. This Saturday I was called into work and ended up pulling an all nighter. There were times I was physically ill by what was going on. In the end it was resolved, and withing the customer's maintenance window. I did remember to give thanks in answer to my prayers that I was lifting up. As I slipped inbetween the sheets at o'dark thirty, just as the sun was beginning to crest the horizon, this song came to my mind once again. I remember chuckling to myself and smiling. Verse for today: Job 42:2-6, ESV “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. ‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’ Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. ‘Hear, and I will speak; I will question you, and you make it known to me.' I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I despise myself, and repent [1] in dust and ashes.”

Ok, I'm finally going to say something

I am sure that anyone who might happen along this little blog in cyber-space knows about the whole Micheal Vick situation. Somethings that have come out and I've been itching to say something, anything, but for the most part I've bitten my tongue. Before I say anything I want to be up front and say that I have never been very favorable in my opinion of Micheal Vick. The man is a gifted athlete, there is no denying that. Although I have never met the man in person, and I must admit that my bias has to at least be in part due to media coverage (since that has been my only exposure to him), I have just never developed a good opinion. I feel that he is (or was) a proud, boastful man. A point has been made that these crimes have been against dogs. That it's not like he hit his wife or anything. And I agree. The public out cry has been extremely disproportionate. What if he was raising roosters? Sure some groups would be up in arms, and he still might be facing charges, but I don't think the public opinion would be as emotional. One thing I think this whole thing has really done is show that profesional atheletes really are treated differently than us commoners. I'm not saying that Mr. Vick is receiving any favorable treatment, or that the government is not coming down hard enough on him. In this case it really seems like things are being handled in an even hand. What I am referring to are things like when an athelete does hit his wife. Or an athelete is caught possesing drugs or is drunk. Most of the time these crimes are brushed under the rug in the court of public opinion - wether or not the crimes are handled evenly or not. Why? Because we've become dull to these kinds of offenses. The judicial system does not work the same way in Arizona as it does in Virginia. Where this case really sticks out is that it is just a rare one... at least one that is not reported in the media all that often. What brought the spotlight so bright was the fact that Mr. Vick was involved. No one except the defendents in these cases are really going to know the extent of the involvement. I never said in my mind that he was absolutely guilty, but what I saw on the news did not look good. I probably think a little more severely at the man now that he has back tracked and pled guilty - and maybe that is a way to save some skin because he feels that he has already lost despite his innocence, maybe it's a way to prevent the full affect of his crimes from falling on him - I don't know. What I do know is that it should not matter if this was a crime against dogs, or a man hitting his wife. The penalty should at least be proportionate. Mr. Vick - I respect you as a man, and a gifted athlete. God knows you owned the Panthers for a time. They couldn't win against you and the Falcons. I do not know what the judge, or the NFL has in store for you. But I would like you to know that I am praying for you - not as an enemy, but as a fellow man. May you find your way through this storm to peaceful harbors, and may you rest in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. I do not know you, or know much about the hardships you faced. But I do pray for you to be restored in time to a place where young men and women can look up to you once more. Verse for today: Job 33:23-30, ESV If there be for him an angel, a mediator, one of the thousand, to declare to man what is right for him, and he is merciful to him, and says, ‘Deliver him from going down into the pit; I have found a ransom; let his flesh become fresh with youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigor’; then man [3] prays to God, and he accepts him; he sees his face with a shout of joy, and he restores to man his righteousness. He sings before men and says: ‘I sinned and perverted what was right, and it was not repaid to me. He has redeemed my soul from going down into the pit, and my life shall look upon the light.’ “Behold, God does all these things, twice, three times, with a man, to bring back his soul from the pit, that he may be lighted with the light of life.

Pounding stone with bare hands

Have you ever tried to tear down a stone wall with you bare hands? Either figuratively, or literally. Hands get raw, bloodied even. Muscles grow tired and ache, and - if you are not careful - bones can get broken. There are things that are going on in my life that I am just tired of beating myself up on the stonewall in front of me. I've decided to just stop fighting it and allow myself to rest. I am praying that God would work either a change in the situation, a change in me, or to show me that I need to just move in a new direction. Verse for today: Job 9:27-32, ESV If I say, ‘I will forget my complaint,I will put off my sad face, and be of good cheer, I become afraid of all my suffering, for I know you will not hold me innocent. I shall be condemned; why then do I labor in vain? If I wash myself with snow and cleanse my hands with lye, yet you will plunge me into a pit, and my own clothes will abhor me. For he is not a man, as I am, that I might answer him, that we should come to trial together.

Every wish you didn't know?

I am not sure how this is going to come across... Ever wish that you didn't know just how many times you screw things up? I mean as we walk with the Lord we become more and more aware of our sin - just how much His grace has overcome. Ane yet "...while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Rom 5:8, esv). I know that the Lord allows me to see these things, not in order to condemn me, but to allow me to see my transgressions in order to help me change more and more into the image of His Son. But there are times when it feels like I can't take the load any more. That I already have my hands full with what He has shown me yesterday, last week, last month, even last year. I see my sins against my Heavenly Father, I see my faults in how I relate to my wife and children. I see my deficiencies in my work, how I conduct, myself in public. I have thoughts that I know I need to not think. It is like the enemy of my soul is jumping up and down on my shoulders beating my head like a drum. (I do not actually hear or feel this - it is a metaphore) But two things come to mind to give me hope. The first one is the story of Job and the second is when Jesus tells Peter about his upcoming betrayal. (Job, Luke 22:31-32) In both instances the enemy has to ask for permission to tempt and/or torment - and in both cases the Lord limits the extent that the enemy may go. And in both cases the Lord brings them back to a place of righteousness and usefulness (for lack of a better word right now). In the end the relationship of these two men is unbroken and even stronger. And that is my source of my faith and hope and ultimatly my joy. Verse for today: Luke 22:31-32, ESV “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, [4] that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”

Learning and application in all things

In the contruction of houses, choice of woods is made. Straight un-knotted timber of good appearance is used for the revealed pillars, straight timber with small defects is used for the innter pillars. Timber of the finest appearance, even if a little weak, is used for the thresholds, lintels, doors, and sliding doors, and so on. Good strong timber, though it be gnarled and knotted, can always be used discreetly in construction. Timber which is weak or knotted throughout should be used as scaffolding, and later for firewood. The foreman carpenter allots his men work according to their ability. Floor layers, makers of sliding doors, thresholds and lintels, ceilings and so on. Those of poor ability lay the floor joist, and those of lesser ability carve wedges and do such miscellaneous work. If the foreman knows and deploys his men well the finished work will be good. The foreman should take into account the abilities and limitations of his men, circulating among them and asking nothing unreasonable. He should know their morale and spirit, and encourage them when necessary. This is the same as the principle of strategy. ---quoted from The Book of Five Rings

I love to study strategy and military history. I remember when I was still in grade school just beginning to learn about the battle of Gettysburg and wondering why the Confederates just didn't move around to the right. I like to read books on ancient battles (mostly about the American Civil War) as well as play table top war games. And I really enjoyed my time as a 'straight leg' infantryman. As I was writting this I was beginning to divert into my thoughts on war, etc. but that was not my original intent on today's entry. What I wanted to talk about is how we can learn from anything. Often battlefield tours (well, at least ones the military sponsors :) ) speak to what was done right, what was done wrong. That sort of thing. In The Book of Five Rings Miyamoto Musashi explains how the warrior can learn from the other professions (the example above demonstrates a correlation between a carpenter foreman and a leader of men in battle). Yesterday I received the book, Guide to the Battle of Antietam from Amazon.com. While reading the introduction it dawned on me. It is not just the soldier that can learn from the study of such things, but the "civilian" can learn from such things too. As a matter of fact it would benefit us all to study things outside of our sphere of interest. Not to try and master another trade or hobby, but to draw parallels and thereby learn how to apply lessons learned to our own daily lives. Verse for today: Job 33:29-33, ESV “Behold, God does all these things, twice, three times, with a man, to bring back his soul from the pit, that he may be lighted with the light of life. Pay attention, O Job, listen to me; be silent, and I will speak. If you have any words, answer me; speak, for I desire to justify you. If not, listen to me; be silent, and I will teach you wisdom.”

Winter - it does come to an end

Around wher I live you just can't make people happy. It rains too much, it's too hot, it's too cold, it doesn't rain enough. In late January there was 60-70 degree weather. It was beautiful. We had a little rain, no snow or ice. And people were complaining that there was no snow. We have had three straight weeks of sub-freezing weather and some snow. Now everyone is complaining that it's too cold. A few years ago I remember a Spring that it rained 4 out of 7 days a week for several weeks. Too much rain. Then in the summer no rain for 3 or 4 weeks... it's too dry. Come on people! It all has consequences! The warm weather we had with the rain... the water just runs off. Sorry this is such a rant. It's the weather. Just wait around long enough and it will change. Stop complaining about what you have no control over and make the best of the situation. When you are snowed/rained in... take some time and play a game with the family. When it is nice out get out and be a part of the world. Verse for today: Job 38:22-38, ESV Have you entered the storehouses of the snow, or have you seen the storehouses of the hail, which I have reserved for the time of trouble, for the day of battle and war? What is the way to the place where the light is distributed, or where the east wind is scattered upon the earth? “Who has cleft a channel for the torrents of rain and a way for the thunderbolt, to bring rain on a land where no man is, on the desert in which there is no man, to satisfy the waste and desolate land, and to make the ground sprout with grass? “Has the rain a father, or who has begotten the drops of dew? From whose womb did the ice come forth, and who has given birth to the frost of heaven? The waters become hard like stone, and the face of the deep is frozen. “Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades or loose the cords of Orion? Can you lead forth the Mazzaroth [2] in their season, or can you guide the Bear with its children? Do you know the ordinances of the heavens? Can you establish their rule on the earth? “Can you lift up your voice to the clouds, that a flood of waters may cover you? Can you send forth lightnings, that they may go and say to you, ‘Here we are’? Who has put wisdom in the inward parts [3] or given understanding to the mind? [4] Who can number the clouds by wisdom? Or who can tilt the waterskins of the heavens, when the dust runs into a mass and the clods stick fast together?

Polite Courtesy

Wow. After going back and reading my post from yesterday... I am not sure I said what I meant to say. What I was trying to say is that my walk with the Lord is my honor. Although I am the best judge of it (because I see my true motives better then others - hopefully) I should not be unapproachable. I need to allow God to move through the Holy Spirit and other people around me to show me my blind spots. My honor is not found in myself and my deeds, but in my wallk with the Lord. Ok, now on to todays topic. :)

Rei - Polite Coutesty: Samurai have no reason to be cruel. They do not need to prove their strength. A samurai is courteous even to his enemies. Without this outward show of respect, we are nothing more than animals. A samurai is not only respected for his strength in battle, but also in his dealing with other men. The true inner strength of a samurai becomes apparent during difficult times.

I know I have been guilty of not always showing respect to others. My own pride is my biggest stumbling block. Think about it. The battle is already won. Our Lord has won it, and not just in my personal life but in this world. We may have to endure until the end (either our own or His return). What would it serve to be rude or cruel to another? Am I not my Lord's embassidor? When I bare His name as Christian I am His personal representative. Therefor I should be compossed. "Though he slay me, I will hope in him" (Job 13a, ESV) Is there any circumstance that I find myself in that is either not directly performed by Him, or allowed by Him? Do not all things work for my good? (Romans 8:28) If I display cruelty, or anger, or I am rude isn't that railing against what my Lord is doing/allowing in my life for His glory and my on-going sanctification? Verse for today: Job 38:1-7, ESV Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said: “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Dress for action [1] like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to me. “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? For me the Lord's rebuke to Job speaks to my own pride. The entire book of Job is my favorite book in the entire Bible. -s4G