GOD OF HOPE

Daily Stop & Thinks

Stop & Think: January 9, 2023

Integrity

True greatness is not measured by the headlines a person commands or the wealth he or she accumulates. (Billy Graham, late evangelist)

Graham continues, “The . . . undergirding moral and spiritual values and commitments [are] the true measure of lasting greatness” (paraphrased). We tend to idolize athletes and artists whose names are in the headlines. They certainly get our attention! We may never reach stardom for our talent and skill but to be known for integrity and righteous character is far better.

May integrity and uprightness protect me because my hope, Lord, is in you (Psalm 25:21). Righteousness guards the person of integrity (Proverbs 13:6).

Stop & Think: January 8, 2023

Suffering or Peace?

Suffering comes to everyone. (Anthony DeStefano, author)

That’s not a very encouraging thought, is it? But DeStefano continues: “No matter how smart you are, no matter how rich you are, there’s just no way to prevent ‘external’ events from interfering with your plans. That’s why you can’t ever allow your peace of mind to depend on external events.” Such peace comes from a settled inner contentment.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7)

Stop & Think: January 7, 2023

Idols

We Become What We Worship (Book title)

Greg Beale writes: “What people revere, they resemble, either for ruin or restoration.” Most of us would probably resist the thought that we are idolaters. We don’t bow down to stone or wooden statues or make animal sacrifices. Yet, when we consider how much time and effort we spend on possessions, sports, or entertainment, maybe we should give it another thought.

Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God’s love for them (Jonah 2:8).

Stop & Think: January 6, 2023

When Is Enough Enough?

When we have been blessed with more than we need, it’s not our need God is concerned about; it’s the need of someone around us. (Former pastor)

Modern advertising is geared to make the consumer feel that he really doesn’t have enough. He needs the latest smart phone because of its greater power and features. It may be difficult to remain satisfied with what you have, but if God grants you more than enough, thank Him, and find ways to share your excess with those who are less fortunate.

Just as you excel in everything . . . see that you also excel in this grace of giving (2 Corinthians 8:7)

Stop & Think: January 5, 2023

Limits

Walls keep everybody out. Boundaries teach people where the door is (Mark Conner, motivational speaker)

Walls are important defenses that prevent unwanted invasions of your property. Boundaries are important, too, because they help people recognize their limits. Both keep us from being hurt. Walls may have a locked gate, but boundaries willmost likely have a door where friends can come and go freely.

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life (Proverbs 4:23).

Stop & Think: January 4, 2023

Money

If a person gets his attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out almost every other area in his life. (Billy Graham, late evangelist)

Problems about money are among the key reasons for divorce. Disagreements about how to save, invest, or spend money and the failure to budget carefully are issues that can separate otherwise loving people. The Bible suggests the basic problem: “For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). Love people and use money, not the other way around.

Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have (Hebrews 13:5).

Stop & Think: January 3, 2023

What Now?

Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go. They merely determine where you start. (Nido Quebein, motivational speaker)

Sometimes we find ourselves stuck in a situation that seems to have no solution. We look at our circumstances and wonder how we got there. Where did we go wrong? What could we have done differently? Quebein helps us take a different perspective on our dilemma. We can’t take a mulligan and start over, but we can begin to make lemonade out of the lemons.

God is our refuge and strength, A very ready help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). On the day of my trouble I will call upon You, For You will answer me (Psalm 86:7).

Stop & Think: January 2, 2023

One Day at a Time

You know how I always dread the whole year? Well, this time I’m only going to dread one day at a time. (Charlie Brown, cartoon character)

It’s often true that from the mouths of children (or kids in the funnies) can come great words of wisdom. Thinking about the entire year on the 2nd of January can be daunting. There are so many unknowns and possibilities in our plans. This year, set long-term goals and short-term plans. Then live one day at a time.

So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today (Matthew 6:34).

Stop & Think: January 1, 2023

Looking Ahead

Look at life through the windshield, not through the rear-view mirror. (Byrd Baggett, Author)

Happy New Year! As we begin a new year, are you hoping that it will be better than 2022? One of our habits is to look back too often, making comparisons with the events—highs and lows—of last year. Baggett’s metaphor is simple but, no doubt, it is really good advice. This year make it your goal to plan carefully and think positively, looking ahead.

Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you (Proverbs 4:25).

Stop & Think: December 31, 2022

New Year’s Eve

Celebrate endings–for they precede new beginnings. (Jonathan Huie, author)

There are times when we can hardly wait for an ending—like a long semester in a difficult class, but there are other experiences when we think the ending comes too soon. We are enjoying the experience, and we hate to see it end. Whatever the conclusion, happy or sad, we can view it as the beginning of something new and determine to make it a positive experience in 2023.

And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness . . . And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing (2 Timothy 4:8).

Stop & Think: December 30, 2022

End of the Year Thoughts

The only time you should ever look back is to see how far you’ve come. (Bangtan Boys, Butterfly)

Sometimes we look back for the wrong reasons. We wish we had done something different, or that something hadn’t happened. Pessimists will look back over 2022 and recall the failures and disappointments. Others will remember the joys, blessings, and achievements of the year, be pleased with where they are now, and happily anticipate the New Year.

Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you (Proverbs 4:25).

Stop & Think: December 29, 2022

Just Do It!

Most of the accomplishments I’ve achieved in life I began to attempt before I was really ready. (Author unknown)

As we review 2022, we may take pride in what we’ve achieved, but we are looking ahead to next year and resolving to accomplish more. Perhaps it will begin with the determination not to procrastinate because we think we’re not ready for the job. Often, we learn much more when we tackle something that looks impossible.

Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant (Ecclesiastes 11:4). Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days (Ephesians 5:16).