Tag: Happiness

adaptive learning, unexpected gifts, and saying yes to God’s adventure

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

Life with God is anything but static. It’s a constant process of learning, adapting, and growing—and most of the time, it’s not on our terms.

Think about the disciples. Jesus didn’t hand them a syllabus or a 5-step plan to “get it right.” He called them to follow Him, and they learned on the go. Peter didn’t figure out how to walk on water in theory; he had to step out of the boat, sink, and let Jesus pull him back up.

I’ve had plenty of “sink and learn” moments in my faith journey. I remember when I bought a guitar and joined the worship band. I didn’t really know how to play. I also recall the first time I was asked to preach to the whole congregation. It wasn’t easy, but looking back, I see how God was shaping me in ways I couldn’t have planned.

When Jesus says, “Seek first the kingdom,” He’s inviting us to live in this posture of adaptive learning. It’s about being open to what He’s teaching us in every season—the good, the bad, and the just plain confusing. Every challenge, every change of plans, is a chance to grow closer to Him.

Then there’s those moments that feel like happy accidents. You run into an old friend just when you need encouragement. Or you stumble upon a Bible verse that feels tailor-made for your situation. It’s called serendipity—but really, it’s God.

I find that these moments usually come when you’ve exhausted yourself trying to find the answer. You lose something important and search all over for it only to fail. You finally sit down on the couch defeated only to feel the object of you desire under the cushion you just sat on.

When you’re focused on seeking God’s kingdom, you will start to notice these moments more often. What feels like chance is actually God’s intricate weaving of our lives. Ruth experienced this kind of serendipity when she “just happened” to glean in Boaz’s field—a decision that changed her life and put her in the lineage of Jesus.

God has a way of surprising us with His goodness, even in the mundane. But here’s the catch: we have to stay open to it. If we’re too busy clinging to our own plans, we might miss His divine detours.

Following Jesus isn’t a tame, predictable journey. It’s an adventure. And if I’m honest, that’s both thrilling and terrifying.

Abraham left everything familiar to follow God’s promise. Peter dropped his fishing nets and walked into the unknown. Paul’s missionary journeys were full of danger, surprises, and miracles. God’s call is rarely comfortable, but it’s always worth it.

For me, stepping into the adventure meant saying yes to things that scared me—like joining that band when I felt completely unqualified, or leaving a secure job to pursue a calling I didn’t fully understand yet. Every step felt risky, but God met me there, and He always provided.

The thing about adventure is that it shifts your focus. When you’re seeking first God’s kingdom, you’re no longer chasing comfort or control. You’re chasing Him. And that’s where the real freedom is.

So, what does it really mean to “seek first His kingdom” in your day-to-day life? It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers. It’s about waking up every day and saying, “God, what do You have for me today?” It’s about trusting Him enough to let go of your plans and embrace His.

When we live this way, we find that the kingdom-first life is full of surprises. It’s a life where every challenge is an opportunity to grow, every coincidence is a gift, and every step of faith is an adventure.

That verse in Matthew? It’s not a promise that everything will go exactly how we want. It’s a promise that when we make God our priority, He takes care of the rest. And honestly, His version of “the rest” is so much better than anything we could dream up on our own.

So here’s to learning, to the serendipity of God’s grace, and to the adventure of following Him. Seek the kingdom first, and watch how He transforms your life in ways you never saw coming.

Thank You for reminding us that when we seek You first, everything else falls into place. Forgive us for the times we’ve chased after our own plans instead of trusting in Yours. Help us to live with open hearts and hands, ready to learn, to notice Your gentle guidance, and to follow wherever You lead.

Lord, teach us to embrace the lessons You place in our path, even when they’re hard or unexpected. Open our eyes to the moments of serendipity that remind us of Your goodness and love. Give us the courage to step into the adventures You have planned for us, even when the road feels uncertain.

We surrender our plans, our worries, and our fears to You, trusting in Your promise that all things work together for good when we put You at the center of our lives. May we live each day with faith, wonder, and boldness, knowing that Your plans are always greater than our own.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

cinnamon and socks for Christmas in far away places

Let me share with you a personal story from many years ago, one that reminds me how even the smallest gestures can bring great joy, especially at Christmas.

In the mid-1980s, I was serving in the U.S. Army and stationed in West Germany. That year marked my first Christmas away from home, and I was deeply homesick. It was Christmas Eve, and instead of celebrating with my family, I was sitting in my small room at our barracks near Ulrichstein. The silence was heavy, and my heart felt weighed down by the distance from those I loved.

Suddenly, there came a knock at my door. When I opened it, there stood our site commander—dressed as Santa Claus! He had taken it upon himself to deliver mail from the kasern to everyone at our small station. Just seeing him in that red suit, spreading cheer to all of us far from home, was enough to brighten my spirits. But then, as he handed me a package, I felt a rush of excitement and gratitude.

The package was small—it had to be, given the expense of sending mail from California to West Germany—but it was from home. I carefully opened it to find socks, books, some cards from friends and family, and something that made my heart leap with joy: a plastic tube filled with cinnamon bears, my favorite candy. My mother had included them, knowing exactly what would bring a smile to my face.

At that moment, the socks and the cinnamon bears became more than just items in a box. They were a tangible reminder of love, connection, and the joy of being remembered. Those cinnamon bears and the simple act of kindness from our commander filled my heart with a song that night. Even now, all these years later, cinnamon bears and socks remain the best gifts anyone could give me—they never fail to bring a smile to my face.

The Joy That Transforms

This simple memory reminds me of the joy that Christmas brings—not because of the size or value of the gifts we receive, but because of the love and thoughtfulness behind them. It is the same with the gift of Christ. God sent His Son into the world as a child, small and humble in His arrival, yet He brought with Him the greatest joy humanity could ever know. The angels proclaimed it: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10).

Just as that small package filled my heart with joy far from home, the gift of Christ brings joy to a weary and distant world. His coming reminds us that we are not forgotten. In the humblest of forms, God sent us the greatest expression of His love. And that joy, like those cinnamon bears, is meant to be shared with others, brightening hearts and lifting spirits in the darkest of times.

This Christmas, let us not overlook the small acts of love that can bring great joy. Whether it’s a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or simply sharing the good news of Christ, let us be messengers of joy to those who need it most.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of joy that came to us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate His birth this Christmas, help us to remember those who are lonely, hurting, or far from the warmth of family and friends. Open our eyes to see those who need a reminder of Your love and grace.

Lord, I ask for opportunities to be a blessing to someone this season. Whether through a kind word, a thoughtful gift, or a simple act of service, use me to share the joy of Christ with those who are weary or burdened. Help me to be sensitive to the needs around me and to respond with compassion and generosity.

Just as You brought joy to my heart through the love of others, may I be a vessel of Your love to someone who needs encouragement. Fill my heart with the same joy the angels proclaimed on that first Christmas night, and let it overflow to brighten the lives of others.

In Jesus’ name, the greatest gift of all, I pray. Amen.

Choosing Worthwhile Over Worthless: A Writer’s Evolution

So for the past few days I’ve been re-reading my old posts. It’s been interesting and revealing to see where I was in 2016 when I started and how this project has evolved over the years. One thing that sticks out is how raw the early posts were. If nothing else I have come a long way as a writer. So for fun I’ve re-written the very first (okay technically the second) post using the experience I’ve gained to hopefully make it better. I think it still comes across as honest, vulnerable, and authentic but communicates my idea more effectively. Enjoy the post and if you want to help out go read the original and let me know what you think.

Inside each of us, there’s a fight raging. For me, it’s between two pit bulls—Worthless and Worthwhile. This blog is my way of choosing which one I’ll feed. For a long time, I let Worthless have the upper hand. He’s sneaky, feeding on even the best moments, like a weed that steals nourishment from healthy growth.

Worthless and Worthwhile have been with me forever, but only recently did I decide to name them. Worthless tells me I have nothing valuable to say. He whispers that any accomplishment is just luck, not something I earned. But Worthwhile… he reminds me of the times I helped someone, of the moments I did good. He shows me that I’m not just here by accident.

Have you ever felt like Worthless gets more than his share of food? Like he’s always one step ahead, twisting the things you’re proud of into things you doubt? You’re not alone. Together, we can learn to feed Worthwhile.

Through this blog, I’m exploring how to overcome feelings of worthlessness and actively nurture a sense of purpose. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, I invite you to join me on this journey. I’ll be honest about when Worthless gets his portion, and I’ll celebrate when Worthwhile grows stronger. This time, things are going to be different.

Father God,

Thank you for guiding me for all these years. Help me to continue to communicate effectively with all those you lead to these pages. Let these writings always glorify you and serve your kingdom.

Amen

are you harming yourself

The Bible speaks a profound truth: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21). Our words hold immense weight, shaping not only our interactions with others, but also our inner world. Often, the most insidious attacks come from within, as negative self-talk chips away at our confidence and faith.

But fear not, for we are not alone in this battle! The Holy Spirit is our ever-present guide, offering the strength and wisdom to transform our inner monologue. This week, let us embark on a spiritual journey of taming the tongue, harnessing its power to reflect God’s love and build ourselves up in His grace.

Renewing Our Minds Through Scripture

Our self-talk is a reflection of our dominant thoughts. To transform Sin, iniquity, and negativity, we must replace it with the life-giving words of scripture. Memorizing Bible verses isn’t just about mental exercise; it’s about embedding God’s truth deep within our hearts. As we meditate on His Word, the Holy Spirit washes away doubt and replaces it with the unshakeable foundation of scripture.

Instead of “I’m a failure,” we can hold onto the truth of Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

When faced with self-doubt, we can turn to Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

These verses become our battle cries, our shields against negativity. With each repetition, the Holy Spirit strengthens our resolve, reminding us of our worth in God’s eyes.

Transforming Our Language: Prayers and Affirmations

Prayer is a powerful conversation with God, a space to lay bare our struggles and plead for His guidance. As we confess our sins, the Holy Spirit works to convict and transform our hearts.

Instead of dwelling on shortcomings and backsliding, we can offer prayers of gratitude and affirmation. “Thank you, God, for your unconditional love. I choose to believe that I am capable and worthy, for you have created me in your image (Genesis 1:27).”

These prayers become daily affirmations, spoken declarations of faith that empower us to replace self-doubt with God’s truth.

The Holy Spirit: Our Source of Strength

Taming the tongue is a lifelong journey, and there will be moments of weakness. But remember, we are not alone. The Holy Spirit resides within us, a constant source of strength and guidance. When iniquity creeps in, call upon the Holy Spirit for help. Ask Him to convict you of harmful thoughts and replace them with His truth.

With each conscious effort, with each prayer and affirmation, the Holy Spirit works within you. He guides you towards self-compassion, replacing negativity with the unwavering truth of God.

The Fruit of Transformation

As you embark on this spiritual journey, you’ll begin to experience the fruits of a transformed tongue. Your self-talk will become more encouraging, your interactions with others more uplifting. You’ll find yourself radiating God’s love and grace, a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit working within you.

Remember, you are a beloved child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). By wielding the power of scripture, prayer, and the Holy Spirit, you can transform your inner dialogue, replacing self-sabotage with a life-giving symphony of faith and love.

Heavenly Father,

As we reflect on the power of our words, we confess the negativity that has seeped into our self-talk. Forgive us for the times we have spoken doubt and discouragement over ourselves, forgetting the truth of Your love and purpose for our lives.

We open our hearts to Your transforming power. Fill our minds with Your Word, that we may meditate on scripture and be renewed by Your truth. Grant us the strength to call upon the Holy Spirit in moments of weakness, and guide us towards replacing negativity with affirmations rooted in Your grace.

Help us to see ourselves as You see us, worthy children created in Your image. May the words we speak reflect Your love, both towards ourselves and others.

Empower us to be instruments of encouragement, spreading seeds of hope and faith wherever we go. We surrender our tongues to Your will, and pray for the fruit of the Spirit to blossom in our lives.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

for Diana, cultivating sacred ground


“While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22

In the verdant tapestry of our existence, behold the wondrous artistry of gardening, a symphony orchestrated by the diligent hands of humanity and the guiding whispers of nature’s wisdom. With toil and tenderness, we meld the alchemy of labor, sunlight’s caress, the quenching embrace of water, and the patient passage of time.

See how from this earthly crucible emerges not merely sustenance, but a soulful rejuvenation. It is a communion with the sacred rhythm of seasons, a dance of perpetual renewal. In the quiet cadence of winter’s decline, we find the raw materials of creation, ready to be shaped by our nurture into the burgeoning vitality of spring.

As the days lengthen and the earth awakens, we witness the crescendo of life unfurling in a kaleidoscope of hues. Through the orderly exuberance of summer’s growth and the bountiful harvest of autumn’s embrace, we glean the fruits of our labor, a testament to the divine providence woven into the fabric of existence.

Yet, in this cycle of birth, growth, and fruition, we are not mere observers, but stewards of a timeless covenant. For as we partake of the harvest, we are bound not only to the past, where the seeds of tradition were sown, but also to the future, where our legacy takes root.

In the sanctum of the garden, we find communion with the ineffable, a sacred dialogue between the tangible and the transcendent. For in the act of nurturing life, we touch the very essence of creation, and in so doing, we glimpse the hand of the divine, guiding us ever onward in the eternal dance of existence.

The Gardener’s Prayer

Divine Gardener,

In the quiet dawn of each new day, as the sun’s golden rays kiss the earth awake, I stand humbled before the grandeur of your creation. Grant me, O Keeper of the Seasons, the wisdom to tend to the sacred ground entrusted to my care.

As I till the soil and scatter the seeds, may my hands be guided by reverence, knowing that in every furrow lies the potential for life to bloom. Help me, O Nurturer of Life, to nurture not only the green tendrils that unfurl before me but also the seeds of hope and compassion within my soul.

In the gentle patter of rain and the whispering breeze, may I hear your voice, O Architect of Nature, speaking truths older than time itself. Teach me to listen to the rhythms of the earth, to understand the language of the wind and the song of the birds, for in their harmonies lies the secrets of creation.

Grant me, O Master Gardener, the patience to embrace the ebb and flow of the seasons, to see in the cycle of growth and decay the eternal dance of life. May I find solace in the quiet beauty of winter’s rest and rejoice in the exuberance of spring’s awakening, knowing that each phase of the journey holds its own sacred purpose.

As I labor in the garden, may my heart be open to the miracles unfolding before me, to the intricate symphony of life playing out in every leaf and petal. Help me, O Tender of Souls, to see in the fragile blossoms and resilient stems a reflection of your boundless grace.

And when the harvest comes, and the fruits of my labor lie heavy in my hands, may I offer thanks for the abundance bestowed upon me. Remind me, O Provider of All, that every bounty is a gift from your hand, a reminder of your steadfast love and generosity.

In this garden, O Divine Gardener, may I find not only sustenance for the body but also nourishment for the spirit. May it be a sanctuary of peace and a testament to the beauty of your creation. Amen.

want a friend? be friendly

The Bible has a lot to say about friendship. It tells us how to be a good friend;

1 Thessalonians 5:11

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Why having the right friends is important:

1 Corinthians 15:33

33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

It tells us about the many benefits of friendship:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.

Friendship is a vital part of human existence. It is a bond that connects us to others, enriches our lives, and helps us navigate through the ups and downs of life. The importance of friendship is often overlooked, but it is a fundamental part of our well-being and happiness.

One of the greatest benefits of friendship is the sense of belonging and connection it brings. Having a friend means that we have someone who understands us, accepts us for who we are, and is there for us in both good times and bad. Friendships provide a sense of security and comfort, knowing that we have someone to turn to in times of need.

Friendship also helps us to grow and learn. Through our interactions with friends, we learn new perspectives, develop empathy, and expand our understanding of the world around us. A good friend will challenge us to be our best selves and push us to reach our goals. They will also be there to celebrate our successes and support us when we fall short.

Another important aspect of friendship is the sense of fun and enjoyment it brings. Friendships are built on shared experiences and memories, and these memories can be some of the most cherished moments of our lives. Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip, a day of laughter playing games, friends create memories that last a lifetime.

Friendship is also a powerful tool for self-discovery. Through our interactions with friends, we learn more about ourselves and what we value. We can explore our interests, passions and goals with friends, and they can often provide valuable insights and advice. Friendships also give us the opportunity to try new things and step out of our comfort zones.

However, friendships are not always easy. Conflicts and disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, and it is important to learn how to navigate these challenges. A good friend will be able to communicate openly and honestly, and will be willing to work through any issues that may arise.

The beauty of friendship is that it can come in many forms. It can be a bond between two people, a group of friends, or even a community. The key is to find people who share your values, interests, and goals. It is also important to remember that friendships can develop at any stage of life, and it’s never too late to make new friends.

In conclusion, friendship is an essential part of life. It brings a sense of belonging, connection, growth, and joy. Friendships help us navigate the complexities of life and provide us with valuable support and guidance. It is important to cherish and nurture our friendships, and to be open to making new friends. Remember, a true friend is a treasure and a gift, and it is a privilege to have them in our lives.

Lord I thank you for the many friends that you have given me during my life. Each of them was a unique blessing to me. Please bless them today as they blessed me. Continue to provide me with the friends that I need. Friends that will encourage me, help me, and add something vital to my experience on this earth.

Help me to be a good friend as well. Let me be an encouragement to some. Help me to bear the burdens of others. Make me into the good friend that someone needs today. Amen

a flaw by any other name

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10

As I study the Bible I find it is filled with flawed, broken people. There are liars and thieves, cowards and cheats. It has those that are angry, some that are bigots. Really the Bible covers the whole range of character flaws one can find throughout humanity. Yet God has chosen people like that to use for His purposes over and over.

Moses was an angry man. He proved during his life. God used him to deliver His people from Egyptian slavery and give them the Law. David was a murderer and adulterer that God used many times during his life. He wrote many of the Psalms. Matthew was a thief that wrote one of the four Gospels. Peter was impulsive and coarse, but he preached the first message of salvation and saw thousands receive Christ, be saved and be baptized.

Maybe we are too quick to decide that someone is disqualified for ministry because of some perceived flaw. Maybe we ought to take a lesson from scripture and realize that God sees things differently than we do.

Flaws, or what we perceive as negative traits or characteristics, can often be seen as strengths when viewed from another perspective. For example, being overly critical of oneself may be viewed as a flaw, but it can also be a strength in terms of setting high standards and striving for excellence. Similarly, being too sensitive may be seen as a weakness, but it can also be a strength in terms of being compassionate and empathetic towards others.

One way to reframe flaws as strengths is to think about the positive intentions behind them. For example, someone who is overly critical may simply be trying to improve themselves or others, while someone who is sensitive may be trying to be understanding and supportive. By recognizing the positive intentions behind our flaws, we can begin to see them as strengths rather than weaknesses.

Another way to reframe flaws as strengths is to think about the unique perspectives and skills they bring. For example, someone who is shy may be seen as weak, but they may also have a great ability to listen and observe, which can be valuable in certain situations. Similarly, someone who is impulsive may be seen as reckless, but they may also be able to make quick decisions and take risks, which can be beneficial in certain circumstances.

When we recognize and embrace our flaws we are much more apt to turn to God for help in those areas of our lives. When David’s sin was revealed it was then that he turned to God for forgiveness and deliverance. Paul’s overzealous nature was put to good use once he stopped pursuing believers and began to preach the gospel instead.

It’s also important to remember that flaws are not always negative. They can be the things that make us unique and different from others. Embracing our flaws can help us to be more authentic and true to ourselves, which can lead to greater self-acceptance and usefulness to the Kingdom of God.

Furthermore, sometimes flaws are simply a matter of perspective. For example, someone who is described as “lazy” may simply have a different approach to time management, or they may have a different set of priorities. On the other hand, someone who is described as “overly ambitious” may simply be highly motivated and focused on their goals.

So, flaws can be seen as strengths when viewed from a different perspective. By recognizing the positive intentions behind them, thinking about the unique perspectives and skills they bring and embracing them as a part of our unique selves, we can begin to see them as opportunities and strengths rather than weaknesses. Additionally, it’s important to remember that flaws are often a matter of perspective and that what one person sees as a flaw, God may be able to use as a strength.

Lord I pray that you will reveal to me my flaws and weaknesses. Where they are hindering me help me to overcome them. Use me as I am to further your will in my life and the lives of those around me. Where I am weak make me strong. Humble me in what strength I have so that I may rely on You and give you the glory and honor for any success I find.

volunteers make the church work

At the beginning of the year I put out the call for volunteers at the church where I pastor. I made a list of needed help and called the church to pray for the right people to come to us and fill the roles that had been identified. I don’t know if anyone is still praying over our list but we did see some results and I’d like to publically thank those that stepped up to help out.

Brian thank you so much for taking on the task of maintaining our grounds. It is a very important task and I know that it takes up a lot of time. How the property looks is the very first impression that people have of our church and we want that impression to be a good one. Without your efforts that wouldn’t be possible. Paul and Junia I know that you have also pitched in and your help is very much appreciated. You two were also instrumental in the ongoing remodel of the new classroom. It was your efforts that really got that project moving again after it had gotten stalled.

Good first impressions continue because Sandy came forward and volunteered to take on the task of keeping the sanctuary, bathrooms, and other spaces clean and tidy. Your personal touches in those areas have really made a huge difference in the way members and visitors alike see our facility. I don’t know if anyone has thanked you personally but several people have asked me who has been cleaning because the place looks great. It feels like somebody actually loves it and wants it to look it’s very best. Your servant’s heart really shines through the work that you do.  I pray that God bless you abundantly.

Stan and Kathy have continued to keep the kitchen and coffee room clean and tidy. I always know that you’ve been there even if I didn’t see you because of the smell of Pine-Sol in the air after you leave. You two have been performing this task for several years and it’s about time you got a public thank you for it.

Papa G, Stan, and Dan have done a lot of work in our new classroom and I am really happy to let you all know that we will be opening up one side of it this Sunday for use. These men have worked very hard to present to you all a building that you can be proud of. They’ve done demolition, put up Sheetrock, textured and painted. They’ve dug trenches, run wires, installed a bunch of stuff. Been up and down ladders countless times and made numerous trips to a variety of home improvement stores. Their work has been done with excellence and love. There is still a lot more to be done but I know that these men will be there to do the job and do it right. Thank you thank you thank you.

In one sense a church is just a bunch of people that get together once in a while and do church. If that’s all you get from it God bless you and expand your thoughts. Because really a church ought to be like a family with all that implies. A family does things together with a common goal and so should a church. I am certain that if you are attending a church somewhere that there are plenty of opportunities for you to serve. It is my prayer that you find that spot and fill it because you are necessary and important no matter what you think. God will use you if you make yourself available for use.

I know that I have not mentioned every person that volunteers in our church. Fear not I see all and so does God. There are many more blogs to write.