People vs plans.

I'm a planner. I like to organize what will happen when. I'm not much for being taken by surprise (although some surprises are really nice!). 

God is continually teaching me that His plan is much better than mine. He has to continually teach me because I often forget lessons learned.

This Thanksgiving/Christmas season, it's easy to become focused on what has to be done (cooking, decorating, etc) that we forget the people.

God reminded me again, yesterday, that people are more important than a timetable I created. Talking with people builds relationships and that leads to opportunities to share God's love and encourage others.

I'm learning to focus more on people and less on if the Turkey is perfect, or if the table is set with the best dishes, etc. Sometimes easy is better for all involved and then the attention can be given to those in attendance.

Think about it for a moment. What do you remember from past Holidays? I remember the silly things that happened, what we laughed about, or who was there. I can't tell you what dishes we ate off of, or how the table was set. 
Memories that are of people are the most precious. Memories created with smiles, laughter, and love last longer than the Thanksgiving turkey!

People vs plans. 
I am praying that I remember that, but if I forget, God will gently remind me again.
May your Thanksgiving be filled with opportunities to create memories with family and friends. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

God's agenda

Watching the sun rise and talking with God about HIS agenda for today. The fact that God can create a beautiful sunrise that is different from the day before, yet just as spectacular, is a great reminder that God has a specific plan for today. His agenda is one that will accomplish HIS will, and bring honor and glory to Him. 

As I go about my day, I am praying that I'll follow God's agenda today, and leave my "to do list" and expectations at home.

Agenda

Heard a few great messages this morning. One got me thinking. 

When Jesus Christ was here on earth, He was often challenged about what He was doing or not doing. The people had preconceived ideas and agendas as to how God would create His kingdom. When Jesus didn't fit their agenda, instead of changing and reevaluating their thoughts and actions, they wanted Jesus to change. 

How many times do I miss what God wants to accomplish in my life and through me... because I have created MY agenda based on my preconceived ideas as to what I think God wants? 

If God starts working in ways that I don't understand or are contrary to what I THINK should be happening, instead of challenging God, I need to change my agenda and ideas to match God's.

A good source for solid Bible teaching: http://www.calvarygreenville.org

Motivation is Meritorious

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 15. Here is what I learned.

They do not charge interest on money they lend and do not take ·money [a bribe] to hurt innocent people. 

Whoever does all these things will never be ·destroyed [moved]. Psalm 15:5 (EXB)

The one who does not collect interest on a loan or take a bribe against an innocent person. Whoever does these things will never be shaken. Psalm 15:5 (GW)

Motivation. I find that word interesting. Why does a person do what they do? What is their motivation? Is there a hidden agenda? What is the incentive? 

Motivation can be a good thing... it can create a desire to go above and beyond the ordinary to help another. Motivation can also encourage us to do better than we thought we could do. 

Yet, the wrong motivation can create a discontentments and frustration if we expect something in return. 

Making sure my motivation is meritorious (noble, honorable) is major in maintaining a meaningful relationship with God. God knows why I do what what I do. He knows my heart. 

How do I keep my motivation in check? By making sure that I’m doing what I’m doing to honor God, and not please a person or make myself look good. I’ve written before about “making my Boss, look good.” And “my Boss” is God. I’m to do ALL things to give Him glory and honor. 

Well, I’ll tell you why. It is because you must do everything for the glory of God, even your eating and drinking. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (TLB)

To create a positive day, I need to make sure my motivation is meritorious and giving glory to God. 

My Agenda or God's Agenda?

Monday. Was just planning my agenda for today as I try to get things accomplished before surgery on Thurs, Dec 20. I had to stop in the midst of "MY PLANNING" to realize that I need to make sure "MY AGENDA" is what God wants me to accomplish today.

I want to spend my day "God-looking" not "Rhonda-doing". For if my focus is on me and what I want to get done, I'll miss the wonderful things God wants me to accomplish and the blessings He has waiting for me. 

Time to pause and talk my day over with God to make sure He's included in my plans and I'm listening to His directions as I go throughout my day.

When I include God in my planning that makes a positive day!

God-Looking!

Had to run some errands the other day, one being getting my hair cut. I stopped into the place and asked if my stylist was working today... not for over an hour. OK. Figured I'd go finish my errands and come back.

On the way out of the salon, I stopped to look at some pics of shorter hair. I mentioned to a lady waiting, that "I'm going shorter... just now sure how short." She asked, "why?" I replied, that with upcoming back surgery, shorter hair is easier to care for.

She then asked if I was in an accident. I briefly explained and then her expression changed... and she said "Wow, you must be in pain.... but you are smiling." I replied, "That's the joy of the Lord. God loves me and cares for me in amazing ways." After we talked for a bit longer, she thanked me for sharing about God's goodness. We parted with "Merry Christmas!" 

And I thought I was "just running errands" today... but God had something more specific in mind!

"If you want to know your calling, don’t go “calling-looking.” Go God-looking. God knows where He wants you, what He is calling you to do, when He wants you to do it, and how He wants it done. Therefore, if you want to find your calling, look for God. When you find God, His calling will find you." Tony Evans

It's fun going "God-looking" and sharing His awesome love with others. And when I'm "God-looking" that makes the day a positive one.