What do you expect to gain from reading this message? What do you expect to accomplish today? What do you expect to get done in the next hour? How responsible do you expect your children to be? How courteous do you expect the ticket agent will be to you?
Your expectations largely define your outcomes. You rarely ever do much better than you expect to do, and you rarely ever do much worse. Most often, you get just about exactly what you expect.
Even when circumstances change, you adjust your actions so that your expectations continue to be met. Whatever you expect of yourself will happen, because you'll do anything necessary to make it happen.
Your mind is a powerful goal-seeking device. The more consistently you keep your mind on your positive expectations, the faster they will become a reality.
In your expectations there is great power. You can expect whatever you choose to expect. So expect the best. And that's what you'll get.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Holding on while things seems to be falling apart
I’ve been blogging about my recovery from my aneurysm and stroke. Most of it’s been a motivating and inspiring journey. I survived three surgeries, and woke up from a three and a half week coma. Many people come out to support me, and prayed for my speedy recovery. My family showered me with their love and support. The executive search firm I worked for has been most gracious and supportive. I will never forget the role they played in getting me to the hospital, and making sure I had the support of my friends and co workers until my family could get there to be with me. And, now I’m beginning to make plans to move on, and prepare for the rest of my life.
Medically, I feel fine. But, I’m overwhelmed by what to do next. I’ve gained a lot, in surviving the ordeal. I have my life to live, and therefore nothing is more valuable than that. Also, I believe as long as I am walking, talking, and thinking --I have some influence over the way my life turns out… However, I’m afraid I don’t have all the answers to fix things as I move forward. I’m not prepared to give up because I am a fighter, but it’s quite a fight that I’m in for.
I wasn’t aware of the fact that I had an aneurysm that could potentially rupture, or what the results of that condition could be. Therefore, I don’t know if the mess I’ve made of my life is a result of the attack on my brain form the ballooning of the artery prior to the rupture or not (or how long this condition was happening to me). It would explain how I allowed for some of the poor choices, I’ve made leading up to the hospital stay – and how I let things get so out of order in the first place. Its hard to know...
Now, that I’ve had the surgery, gone through the five months of therapy and seem to have fully recovered, my life is in total disarray and I’m wondering how it got this way, in the first place? I missed the deadline at work, to submit my application for medical insurance, and found out after the fact that I was not insured -- after being admitted to the hospital. (It took some time to determine that I didn’t have coverage so by the grace of God, I received the best possible care from Emory Hospital in the interim.) I've been able to purchase private insurance, to help pay for some of my continuing care, but its costly and doesn't cover everything.
God has been working in my favor all this time because I’m definitely being carried, still. The hope and optimism that I have is evident of that. Yet, that human component is full of fear and uncertainty about my future. I’m going to New York to stay with a friend, while I attempt to pick up the pieces of my life and I’ve secured a part time job at a real estate company -- showing apartments, and doing administrative work in the office while I network with old contacts about finding more permanent work. (I have lost my job at the executive search firm because of the circumstances, coupled by the economy and job market.) Therefore, I have to secure another job with medical benefits that will help me continue to pay for future doctor's visits.
I’ve applied for social security disability insurance, back in January. I’m still waiting for their decision, and I have to hold on until then. After, they make their decision, I’ll either be approved or I’ll have to appeal before a judge. Either way, I’m confident about the outcome. This is important because, I’ll have a better handle on my finances, and what kind of position I should be applying for going forward. I will be able to work, and still collect SSDI, but there will be stipulations (interms of how many hours I can work). Although, the unemployment rate is high everywhere, I think New York will afford me more opportunities.
So, off I go… I don’t know what’s in store for me there. But, I have my faith, hope and optimism, plus lots of contacts, along with my incredible, compelling survival story for a book. Please continue to pray for me. With God on my side, I'll be able to accomplish the impossible.
Medically, I feel fine. But, I’m overwhelmed by what to do next. I’ve gained a lot, in surviving the ordeal. I have my life to live, and therefore nothing is more valuable than that. Also, I believe as long as I am walking, talking, and thinking --I have some influence over the way my life turns out… However, I’m afraid I don’t have all the answers to fix things as I move forward. I’m not prepared to give up because I am a fighter, but it’s quite a fight that I’m in for.
I wasn’t aware of the fact that I had an aneurysm that could potentially rupture, or what the results of that condition could be. Therefore, I don’t know if the mess I’ve made of my life is a result of the attack on my brain form the ballooning of the artery prior to the rupture or not (or how long this condition was happening to me). It would explain how I allowed for some of the poor choices, I’ve made leading up to the hospital stay – and how I let things get so out of order in the first place. Its hard to know...
Now, that I’ve had the surgery, gone through the five months of therapy and seem to have fully recovered, my life is in total disarray and I’m wondering how it got this way, in the first place? I missed the deadline at work, to submit my application for medical insurance, and found out after the fact that I was not insured -- after being admitted to the hospital. (It took some time to determine that I didn’t have coverage so by the grace of God, I received the best possible care from Emory Hospital in the interim.) I've been able to purchase private insurance, to help pay for some of my continuing care, but its costly and doesn't cover everything.
God has been working in my favor all this time because I’m definitely being carried, still. The hope and optimism that I have is evident of that. Yet, that human component is full of fear and uncertainty about my future. I’m going to New York to stay with a friend, while I attempt to pick up the pieces of my life and I’ve secured a part time job at a real estate company -- showing apartments, and doing administrative work in the office while I network with old contacts about finding more permanent work. (I have lost my job at the executive search firm because of the circumstances, coupled by the economy and job market.) Therefore, I have to secure another job with medical benefits that will help me continue to pay for future doctor's visits.
I’ve applied for social security disability insurance, back in January. I’m still waiting for their decision, and I have to hold on until then. After, they make their decision, I’ll either be approved or I’ll have to appeal before a judge. Either way, I’m confident about the outcome. This is important because, I’ll have a better handle on my finances, and what kind of position I should be applying for going forward. I will be able to work, and still collect SSDI, but there will be stipulations (interms of how many hours I can work). Although, the unemployment rate is high everywhere, I think New York will afford me more opportunities.
So, off I go… I don’t know what’s in store for me there. But, I have my faith, hope and optimism, plus lots of contacts, along with my incredible, compelling survival story for a book. Please continue to pray for me. With God on my side, I'll be able to accomplish the impossible.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
The Pathways of Faith
Isaiah 55:8-9
Looking at difficulties from a human perspective can make us panic. It may be ill health, a financial crisis, or a broken relationship that causes our hearts to tremble. But God calls us to view life with eyes of faith.
To live in this way means believing that through Christ, God will meet all of our needs--including love, security, and acceptance (Phil. 4:19). Divine love for us was demonstrated at the cross; there, Jesus died for our sins so we might be forgiven and reconciled to the Father. His affection for us is so deep that we can never reach the end of it (Jer. 31:3; Eph. 3:18).
Then, because of our position in God's family, we are eternally secure: all who believe in the Savior are adopted as children of the heavenly Father, with full rights and privileges of heirs (Rom. 8:17). And our adoption is permanent, since it is based on Jesus' atoning sacrifice (Heb. 7:27).
What's more, the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit is evidence that the Father has accepted us. His Spirit acts as a seal and guarantee of our position in Christ (Eph 1:13). Even though earthly relationships may crumble, our union with the Lord is forever. He is able to keep every one of His promises--and He will never let you down.
When we are convinced that God will provide for us, our approach to life changes. Then, we live not by sight (which tells us to worry) but rather by faith in the One who saved us (2 Cor. 5:7). The pathway of trust in the Lord is available to all who have received Christ as Savior. Are you walking on it today?
Looking at difficulties from a human perspective can make us panic. It may be ill health, a financial crisis, or a broken relationship that causes our hearts to tremble. But God calls us to view life with eyes of faith.
To live in this way means believing that through Christ, God will meet all of our needs--including love, security, and acceptance (Phil. 4:19). Divine love for us was demonstrated at the cross; there, Jesus died for our sins so we might be forgiven and reconciled to the Father. His affection for us is so deep that we can never reach the end of it (Jer. 31:3; Eph. 3:18).
Then, because of our position in God's family, we are eternally secure: all who believe in the Savior are adopted as children of the heavenly Father, with full rights and privileges of heirs (Rom. 8:17). And our adoption is permanent, since it is based on Jesus' atoning sacrifice (Heb. 7:27).
What's more, the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit is evidence that the Father has accepted us. His Spirit acts as a seal and guarantee of our position in Christ (Eph 1:13). Even though earthly relationships may crumble, our union with the Lord is forever. He is able to keep every one of His promises--and He will never let you down.
When we are convinced that God will provide for us, our approach to life changes. Then, we live not by sight (which tells us to worry) but rather by faith in the One who saved us (2 Cor. 5:7). The pathway of trust in the Lord is available to all who have received Christ as Savior. Are you walking on it today?
Monday, June 8, 2009
Overcoming Anxiety
Isaiah 41:10-14
Fear is a powerful emotion. It shows up without warning, tends to dominate our thoughts, and does not depart quickly. But as Christians, we have an even more powerful weapon to stop anxiety from overcoming us--the Word of God.
When anxiety strikes, key truths can help us stand firm. First, remember that God is sovereign over all circumstances and people (1 Chron. 29:11). When He decides to act, no leader, army, or nation can stand against Him. We may not understand why certain things happen, but we can know for sure that our Lord is still in control.
Next, keep in mind the promise that He causes all things to work for the good of those who love Him (Rom. 8:28). Just as the Father orchestrated the events of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection to accomplish our salvation, He also works circumstances for our good and His glory. The disciples didn't comprehend what Jesus was telling them about the future; nor could they initially see how His dying was beneficial. But in the end, they understood that God had carried out His plan of redemption through the crucifixion and resurrection.
We may be in the midst of hard times and wondering where the good is. Do not lose hope. God is sovereign and true to every one of His promises (2 Cor. 1:20).
Verses that proclaim God's sovereignty can help us overcome fear (Ps. 22:27-28). Studying the lives of saints like Abraham, Joseph, and the apostle Paul will remind us that God is mighty and He can use difficulties to bring about gain. As we believe His Word, our anxiety will be replaced by His divine peace (Gal. 5:22).
Fear is a powerful emotion. It shows up without warning, tends to dominate our thoughts, and does not depart quickly. But as Christians, we have an even more powerful weapon to stop anxiety from overcoming us--the Word of God.
When anxiety strikes, key truths can help us stand firm. First, remember that God is sovereign over all circumstances and people (1 Chron. 29:11). When He decides to act, no leader, army, or nation can stand against Him. We may not understand why certain things happen, but we can know for sure that our Lord is still in control.
Next, keep in mind the promise that He causes all things to work for the good of those who love Him (Rom. 8:28). Just as the Father orchestrated the events of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection to accomplish our salvation, He also works circumstances for our good and His glory. The disciples didn't comprehend what Jesus was telling them about the future; nor could they initially see how His dying was beneficial. But in the end, they understood that God had carried out His plan of redemption through the crucifixion and resurrection.
We may be in the midst of hard times and wondering where the good is. Do not lose hope. God is sovereign and true to every one of His promises (2 Cor. 1:20).
Verses that proclaim God's sovereignty can help us overcome fear (Ps. 22:27-28). Studying the lives of saints like Abraham, Joseph, and the apostle Paul will remind us that God is mighty and He can use difficulties to bring about gain. As we believe His Word, our anxiety will be replaced by His divine peace (Gal. 5:22).
My miracle continues to unfold
I have a story to tell, of prayer and healing from my aneurysm and stroke, to surviving three surgeries, and then waking up from a coma of three and a half weeks. This is a survival story of family and friendship, the power of the Lord and strong faith, integrity and determination.
I’m fighting to get my feet back on the ground, to fulfill my purpose, but not without obstacles to overcome. I have been given a mission to show to all who are witnessing this, His word is true and “all things are possible through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (King James Version) It’s now 4:34 a.m. and I’m being called to write this. I have been praying for an answer. The answer is already here.
I need to get from point A to point B. How do I get there? Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. I’m still waiting for an answer from social security letting me know if I’ll be awarded money or not, and if I’ll need to appeal. The denial rate is enormous, and therefore I more than likely will have to appeal. In the meantime, I don’t know that I’ll be able to keep collecting insurance from the Long Term Disability policy, because I’m healing so fast and so well.
I have lost my job through this experience. (Finding another job, is not going to be easy with the job market being the way it is, the unemployment rate being so high, and the fact that I had an aneurysm and a stroke means my earning potential has now been affected in the traditional sense.)
My company does not have the budget to keep my job for me until I recover (which was the original plan). Our initial game plan was going to be take the time I need to heal, and by the time the market is strong again, I’ll be well enough to return to work. As it turns out, it’s great that I’m getting better, but the market is not keeping up with my recovery. The money has run out. So, what do I do? My situation looks desperate, but I’m holding on to my faith, and therefore I will make it.
I want to write my story and get it published. But, I’ll need to hire a ghost writer, to get it ready to present to a publisher. I can do this but I need your support. Please be a part of my journey to accomplish this. This is an amazing opportunity to see my miracle continue to unfold.
Mark 4:35-41 (New International Version)
Jesus Calms the Storm
35That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?"
39He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
40He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
41They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"
I’m fighting to get my feet back on the ground, to fulfill my purpose, but not without obstacles to overcome. I have been given a mission to show to all who are witnessing this, His word is true and “all things are possible through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (King James Version) It’s now 4:34 a.m. and I’m being called to write this. I have been praying for an answer. The answer is already here.
I need to get from point A to point B. How do I get there? Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. I’m still waiting for an answer from social security letting me know if I’ll be awarded money or not, and if I’ll need to appeal. The denial rate is enormous, and therefore I more than likely will have to appeal. In the meantime, I don’t know that I’ll be able to keep collecting insurance from the Long Term Disability policy, because I’m healing so fast and so well.
I have lost my job through this experience. (Finding another job, is not going to be easy with the job market being the way it is, the unemployment rate being so high, and the fact that I had an aneurysm and a stroke means my earning potential has now been affected in the traditional sense.)
My company does not have the budget to keep my job for me until I recover (which was the original plan). Our initial game plan was going to be take the time I need to heal, and by the time the market is strong again, I’ll be well enough to return to work. As it turns out, it’s great that I’m getting better, but the market is not keeping up with my recovery. The money has run out. So, what do I do? My situation looks desperate, but I’m holding on to my faith, and therefore I will make it.
I want to write my story and get it published. But, I’ll need to hire a ghost writer, to get it ready to present to a publisher. I can do this but I need your support. Please be a part of my journey to accomplish this. This is an amazing opportunity to see my miracle continue to unfold.
Mark 4:35-41 (New International Version)
Jesus Calms the Storm
35That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?"
39He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
40He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
41They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"
Friday, June 5, 2009
Success and Money
Luke 12:13-21
The belief that wealth equals success is a common misconception. True success means becoming who God wants you to be and doing the work He has prepared for you to accomplish. Jesus said the man in Luke 12 was a fool because he spent his life pursuing wealth but was not rich toward the Lord.
An idolatrous attitude about money is revealed by an insatiable desire for more.
Materialism affects rich and poor alike. So whenever financial concerns have top priority in our thoughts and begin to dictate goals and desires, we can know we've succumbed to the foolishness of greed. Worrying about finances is actually a warning sign of misplaced priorities and displays a lack of trust in God.
Money is a vital part of our lives, but it should never come to have a higher place than the Lord intends. Everything belongs to God. We are merely stewards of all that He entrusts to us, and one day we'll give an account to Him of how we have used what He gave us to oversee. Our goal is not to become wealthy but to be found faithful.
In His great wisdom, the Lord has prescribed a remedy for our tendency to overvalue money. Giving it away breaks the grip of greed, teaches us to trust and obey God, and is the avenue through which treasure can be stored in heaven.
If you hunger more for worldly riches than for the treasures of knowing God, then you're climbing the wrong ladder of success. Genuine eternal blessing is measured in relationship with Jesus, not monetary accumulation. Make Christ your top priority and chief joy, and you will experience true prosperity.
The belief that wealth equals success is a common misconception. True success means becoming who God wants you to be and doing the work He has prepared for you to accomplish. Jesus said the man in Luke 12 was a fool because he spent his life pursuing wealth but was not rich toward the Lord.
An idolatrous attitude about money is revealed by an insatiable desire for more.
Materialism affects rich and poor alike. So whenever financial concerns have top priority in our thoughts and begin to dictate goals and desires, we can know we've succumbed to the foolishness of greed. Worrying about finances is actually a warning sign of misplaced priorities and displays a lack of trust in God.
Money is a vital part of our lives, but it should never come to have a higher place than the Lord intends. Everything belongs to God. We are merely stewards of all that He entrusts to us, and one day we'll give an account to Him of how we have used what He gave us to oversee. Our goal is not to become wealthy but to be found faithful.
In His great wisdom, the Lord has prescribed a remedy for our tendency to overvalue money. Giving it away breaks the grip of greed, teaches us to trust and obey God, and is the avenue through which treasure can be stored in heaven.
If you hunger more for worldly riches than for the treasures of knowing God, then you're climbing the wrong ladder of success. Genuine eternal blessing is measured in relationship with Jesus, not monetary accumulation. Make Christ your top priority and chief joy, and you will experience true prosperity.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Be Determined
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
“[We pray] that you may be invigorated and strengthened with all power according to the might of His glory, [to exercise] every kind of endurance and patience (perseverance and forbearance) with joy,"(Colossians 1:11, AMP).
Do you know what causes God to act on your behalf? Do you know what gets His attention? God is not moved by our needs. He’s not moved by whining or complaining. He’s not moved by a “poor me” mentality.
No, God is moved by our faith in Him. We have to be determined to stand on God’s Word no matter what is going on around us. Remember, God promises in His Word that He will fight our battles, but understand that it’s not going to happen automatically. We have to do our part. We have to dig our heels in with an attitude of faith and exercise endurance, patience, and perseverance. We have to be determined to stand strong in faith and face those challenges that come against us.
Just like the scripture says, I pray that today you are strengthened with His power to exercise endurance, perseverance, and patience so that you can stand strong and be determined to take hold of every promise He has in store for you!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for giving me a measure of faith that grows as I receive Your Word. Today I declare that I am determined to put You first and stand on Your promises so that I can live the life of victory You have prepared for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen
“[We pray] that you may be invigorated and strengthened with all power according to the might of His glory, [to exercise] every kind of endurance and patience (perseverance and forbearance) with joy,"(Colossians 1:11, AMP).
Do you know what causes God to act on your behalf? Do you know what gets His attention? God is not moved by our needs. He’s not moved by whining or complaining. He’s not moved by a “poor me” mentality.
No, God is moved by our faith in Him. We have to be determined to stand on God’s Word no matter what is going on around us. Remember, God promises in His Word that He will fight our battles, but understand that it’s not going to happen automatically. We have to do our part. We have to dig our heels in with an attitude of faith and exercise endurance, patience, and perseverance. We have to be determined to stand strong in faith and face those challenges that come against us.
Just like the scripture says, I pray that today you are strengthened with His power to exercise endurance, perseverance, and patience so that you can stand strong and be determined to take hold of every promise He has in store for you!
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for giving me a measure of faith that grows as I receive Your Word. Today I declare that I am determined to put You first and stand on Your promises so that I can live the life of victory You have prepared for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen
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