Chapter 6: Christopher Columbus
The Fourth Decision: I Have a Decided Heart
1. Through Columbus, what does Andrews say about the world’s perception of madness and its definition of reality?
The
2. When does persistence toward a goal become insanity and when is it an admirable trait for success?
The
3. In what ways are Columbus’s passion and decided heart essential to his leadership?
Persistence in the urgency is important.
Columbus had to step outside of his country to get help to fuel his vision. Likewise, I often have to step outside of what is comfortable to me to beginning fueling my passions.
Having a decided heart is committing yourself to your vision and moving forward without wavering.
"We're in too deep to turn back". Moving forward. We do this in our marriage, why not with our passions?
Be committed to your self and your vision. AdvoCare is just the vehicle to help you get there.
Do I have a decided heart? Am I locked, loaded and committed? If so, my words will match what people say. Here's my vision, this is where I'm going. Do you want to go NOW or do you want to stay on the sidelines?
Friday, November 05, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Chapter 5: Joshua Chamberlain
Chapter 5: Joshua Chamberlain
The Third Decision: I Am a Person of Action
1. In what ways is Joshua Chamberlain’s tobacco pouch symbolic? What does the pouch look like? Why is the physical description repeated throughout the book?
The symbol of the crossed swords stands for a fighting man. It is a tangible reminder of being a person of action, always moving, inspiring others. When the pouch was new, "it was sewn from a stout cloth, but the rough treatment it had received had worn the pouch to a moleskin softness" (pg 63). This is a great parallel to making these decision a part of your daily routine. In the beginning you will have a harder time, the road may seem more rough. But eventually, once the decisions become second nature, you become more flexible, softer and more forgiving. It is also interested that he keeps the other notes within this pouch. This could imply that without action, the other decisions won't take place as readily?
2. The book opens with a quotation by Joshua Chamberlain, an obscure figure in American history. How does this quote set the stage for the book?
"In great deed, something abides. On great fields, something stays. Forms change and pass, bodies disappear but spirits linger to consecrate ground for the vision place of the soul. And reverent men and women from afar and generations that know us not and that we know not of, shall come here to ponder and to dream and the power of the vision shall pass into their souls." --Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, 1828-1914
This supports the fact that we can learn from history. We can learn from the triumphs and mistakes of those who have paved the path before us in whatever direction we choose to go
3. Why do you think Andrews chose to begin with a quote by Chamberlain instead of one by the other historical characters in the book?
Chamberlain was probably the one person who faced the most unbelievable outcome for what he was facing. They were out of ammunition and were seriously outnumbered, but yet they still pressed forward and came out on top. Even though they knew the outcome could have been death, they also realized that if they didn't try, then death would come regardless.
Between a rock & a hard place, the saying goes. What is your first response when you find yourself there? Are you a 'white flag waver'?
I tend to want to shut down, crawl into a hole and wait a few hours, or days to come to the realization that the situation won't change until I change it or myself. In Chamberlain's case, he couldn't wait or the trouble he was facing would come and find him and end it all.
Do you often move out of the way for the person on the run or get caught in the wake? Are you ever that person on the run?
I'm fairly laid back in my running. I don't think that I want to step on anyone's toes, so I would tend not to be on the run, without considering those around me. I would typically jump on the bandwagon of those who I know are doing a good job and are positive and building me up. But when someone pushes their expectations on me and doesn't allow room for my growth, then I tend to feel defeated and will clam up.
Imagine yourself in Chamberlain's shoes - an educated man, a teacher, with no military experience to fall back on. What caused him to keep going, despite the odds?
He new that to just stop going would end in disaster, so he decided the best he could do would be better than not doing anything at all.
Could it be that while you're waiting for the future to happen, God is waiting for you to step out in faith?
Quite possibly. This is one of those issues that I try to seek what God wants from me and when I don't get a clear answer, then I sometimes sit and wait. But when I decide to move, God shows me through affirming the path I am taking by allowing it to happen, or he redirects me through circumstances.
What significant fears have you already overcome in your life?
Fears of what others think. I would like to overcome the fear of failure and the fear of not being able to please others.
Parallel to the story of the Good Samaritan: Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The first question the priest and the Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But...the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not sto to help this man, what will happen to him?'" All three men saw the man in need and they were all aware of his need. It was the Samaritan who saw the wounded man and had sincere compassion for him.
As with AdvoCare, we can see the needs of those around us as it relates to general health, energy, weight, and financial issues. And we have something that can help them. Do I have compassion for others enough to offer a word of advice. I don't need to wait for someone else, or call 911, or phone a pastor to get involved. I can just GET INVOLVED (be a person of action).
The Samaritan moved with compassion toward action. He got in the ditch with the man. He got close and bandaged the man's wounds. He probably came out of the ditch looking dirty and bloody, too.
Margaret Thatcher once said, "No one would have remembered the Good Samaritan if he'd only had good intentions. He had money (or a means of helping) as well." Many times it may take money to help your neighbor (or product, or business system). The Good Samaritan had the ability to help and so do you.
Awareness, Access, Ability.
Everybody is given a train with 24 cars on it. It's up to you to fill it with coal, gold, or nothing.
When we get a B+ and we should have received an A+, what was holding us back? What potential do we have that due to our lack of action we are not hitting the bullseye?
What massive action can you take this week towards massive action? This will rub off into other areas of my life.
The Third Decision: I Am a Person of Action
1. In what ways is Joshua Chamberlain’s tobacco pouch symbolic? What does the pouch look like? Why is the physical description repeated throughout the book?
The symbol of the crossed swords stands for a fighting man. It is a tangible reminder of being a person of action, always moving, inspiring others. When the pouch was new, "it was sewn from a stout cloth, but the rough treatment it had received had worn the pouch to a moleskin softness" (pg 63). This is a great parallel to making these decision a part of your daily routine. In the beginning you will have a harder time, the road may seem more rough. But eventually, once the decisions become second nature, you become more flexible, softer and more forgiving. It is also interested that he keeps the other notes within this pouch. This could imply that without action, the other decisions won't take place as readily?
2. The book opens with a quotation by Joshua Chamberlain, an obscure figure in American history. How does this quote set the stage for the book?
"In great deed, something abides. On great fields, something stays. Forms change and pass, bodies disappear but spirits linger to consecrate ground for the vision place of the soul. And reverent men and women from afar and generations that know us not and that we know not of, shall come here to ponder and to dream and the power of the vision shall pass into their souls." --Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, 1828-1914
This supports the fact that we can learn from history. We can learn from the triumphs and mistakes of those who have paved the path before us in whatever direction we choose to go
3. Why do you think Andrews chose to begin with a quote by Chamberlain instead of one by the other historical characters in the book?
Chamberlain was probably the one person who faced the most unbelievable outcome for what he was facing. They were out of ammunition and were seriously outnumbered, but yet they still pressed forward and came out on top. Even though they knew the outcome could have been death, they also realized that if they didn't try, then death would come regardless.
Between a rock & a hard place, the saying goes. What is your first response when you find yourself there? Are you a 'white flag waver'?
I tend to want to shut down, crawl into a hole and wait a few hours, or days to come to the realization that the situation won't change until I change it or myself. In Chamberlain's case, he couldn't wait or the trouble he was facing would come and find him and end it all.
Do you often move out of the way for the person on the run or get caught in the wake? Are you ever that person on the run?
I'm fairly laid back in my running. I don't think that I want to step on anyone's toes, so I would tend not to be on the run, without considering those around me. I would typically jump on the bandwagon of those who I know are doing a good job and are positive and building me up. But when someone pushes their expectations on me and doesn't allow room for my growth, then I tend to feel defeated and will clam up.
Imagine yourself in Chamberlain's shoes - an educated man, a teacher, with no military experience to fall back on. What caused him to keep going, despite the odds?
He new that to just stop going would end in disaster, so he decided the best he could do would be better than not doing anything at all.
Could it be that while you're waiting for the future to happen, God is waiting for you to step out in faith?
Quite possibly. This is one of those issues that I try to seek what God wants from me and when I don't get a clear answer, then I sometimes sit and wait. But when I decide to move, God shows me through affirming the path I am taking by allowing it to happen, or he redirects me through circumstances.
What significant fears have you already overcome in your life?
Fears of what others think. I would like to overcome the fear of failure and the fear of not being able to please others.
Parallel to the story of the Good Samaritan: Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The first question the priest and the Levite asked was: 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But...the good Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not sto to help this man, what will happen to him?'" All three men saw the man in need and they were all aware of his need. It was the Samaritan who saw the wounded man and had sincere compassion for him.
As with AdvoCare, we can see the needs of those around us as it relates to general health, energy, weight, and financial issues. And we have something that can help them. Do I have compassion for others enough to offer a word of advice. I don't need to wait for someone else, or call 911, or phone a pastor to get involved. I can just GET INVOLVED (be a person of action).
The Samaritan moved with compassion toward action. He got in the ditch with the man. He got close and bandaged the man's wounds. He probably came out of the ditch looking dirty and bloody, too.
Margaret Thatcher once said, "No one would have remembered the Good Samaritan if he'd only had good intentions. He had money (or a means of helping) as well." Many times it may take money to help your neighbor (or product, or business system). The Good Samaritan had the ability to help and so do you.
Awareness, Access, Ability.
Everybody is given a train with 24 cars on it. It's up to you to fill it with coal, gold, or nothing.
When we get a B+ and we should have received an A+, what was holding us back? What potential do we have that due to our lack of action we are not hitting the bullseye?
What massive action can you take this week towards massive action? This will rub off into other areas of my life.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Chapter 4: King Solomon
Chapter 4: King Solomon
The Second Decision: I Will Seek Wisdom
1. King Solomon says, “We, as humans, are always in a process of change. Therefore, we might as well guide the direction in which we change.” How will the decision to “seek wisdom” help you guide the direction in which you change?
Ultimately, seeking wisdom is turning to God's Word and not relying on my own sinful self. God's Word is a light to my path. If I spend time studying it, I will be well equipped to handle situations that I would not be able to handle on my own.
2. Why does Andrews consider the people with whom we associate to be a critical component to seeking wisdom?
When we choose people to hang around, we must consider how they make decisions. If they are self-absorbed, then it goes against what I know is right for me. When I hand around people who in turn, help direct me according to God's Word, then I know they are worth being around. This is where accountability is at it's best. Relying on other brothers and sisters in Christ, true wisdom can be learned.
3. What point is King Solomon making when he directs David to understand that “serving is a way we can place value on one another”? He says, “A wise man is a server.” Why?
By choosing to serve one another, we begin to take the focus off of us and turn that focus towards others. We recognize others strengths and weaknesses that can help us know how to offer back our strengths to help them, and receive strength from other in areas that we are weak. Being other-focused helps remove you from the center of attention and builds stronger character.
Serving can be compared to the story of the talents from Matthew 25:14-30: The comparison of the master (God/Jesus) to the servants (you and me). We are the servants and God loans His resources to us. Everything belongs to God. Our very lives are on loan from God. Our days are in His hands. God has given us our bodies, mind, personality, and soul. All our possessions, abilities, and days are on loan from Him. God owns this world and everything and everyone in it. But, what we do with it is our responsibility. We are entrusted with a lot, but not necessarily entitled to it. It is our job to use whatever God has given us, even if it is just a small amount, and to grow what God has given us.
God expects us to work and to serve. He doesn't want us to bury what he has given us. Whether it is a little or a lot, God is equally happy with those who invest in His kingdom. And if you are faithful with what God has given you, He will trust you with even more.
What type of people are you looking to for leadership?
People with integrity, someone with a bit stronger values that I hold, so I can be sharpened. Someone who has big dreams for their family, who are driving in the same direction of us.
God moves mountains to create the opportunity of His choosing. It is up to you to be ready to move yourself.
The Second Decision: I Will Seek Wisdom
1. King Solomon says, “We, as humans, are always in a process of change. Therefore, we might as well guide the direction in which we change.” How will the decision to “seek wisdom” help you guide the direction in which you change?
Ultimately, seeking wisdom is turning to God's Word and not relying on my own sinful self. God's Word is a light to my path. If I spend time studying it, I will be well equipped to handle situations that I would not be able to handle on my own.
2. Why does Andrews consider the people with whom we associate to be a critical component to seeking wisdom?
When we choose people to hang around, we must consider how they make decisions. If they are self-absorbed, then it goes against what I know is right for me. When I hand around people who in turn, help direct me according to God's Word, then I know they are worth being around. This is where accountability is at it's best. Relying on other brothers and sisters in Christ, true wisdom can be learned.
3. What point is King Solomon making when he directs David to understand that “serving is a way we can place value on one another”? He says, “A wise man is a server.” Why?
By choosing to serve one another, we begin to take the focus off of us and turn that focus towards others. We recognize others strengths and weaknesses that can help us know how to offer back our strengths to help them, and receive strength from other in areas that we are weak. Being other-focused helps remove you from the center of attention and builds stronger character.
Serving can be compared to the story of the talents from Matthew 25:14-30: The comparison of the master (God/Jesus) to the servants (you and me). We are the servants and God loans His resources to us. Everything belongs to God. Our very lives are on loan from God. Our days are in His hands. God has given us our bodies, mind, personality, and soul. All our possessions, abilities, and days are on loan from Him. God owns this world and everything and everyone in it. But, what we do with it is our responsibility. We are entrusted with a lot, but not necessarily entitled to it. It is our job to use whatever God has given us, even if it is just a small amount, and to grow what God has given us.
God expects us to work and to serve. He doesn't want us to bury what he has given us. Whether it is a little or a lot, God is equally happy with those who invest in His kingdom. And if you are faithful with what God has given you, He will trust you with even more.
What type of people are you looking to for leadership?
People with integrity, someone with a bit stronger values that I hold, so I can be sharpened. Someone who has big dreams for their family, who are driving in the same direction of us.
God moves mountains to create the opportunity of His choosing. It is up to you to be ready to move yourself.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Chapter 3: Harry S. Truman
Chapter 3: Harry S. Truman
The First Decision: The Buck Stops Here
1. President Harry Truman tells David, “You have chosen the pathway to your present destination. The responsibility for your situation is yours.” Do you believe that an individual’s present state is solely determined by personal choice and responsibility? Why or why not?
Personal choice is definitely key in what happens to an individual. We deal with this issue with our kids: when they are upset at someone or something, we encourage them to flip the switch. It is their choice whether or not they remain upset, or if they put that in the past, forgive others, and move on. If we hold on to the frustrations in life, then we will be frustrated. But, if we learn from them and find ways to grow out of the fire, then we can emerge a stronger individual because of our choices.
2. Truman says, “Our thinking creates a pathway to success or failure.” Can you remember a particular instance when your thinking created success? Can you remember a particular instance when your thinking led to failure? Have you seen evidence of this truism in the lives of others?
Again, I have seen this lived out in our children. I know that if I am thinking negatively, my reactions to what others say will tend to be negative, whether or not that is voiced. Internally, I need to make an intentional change.
3. Why does Andrews consider challenges a gift?
Challenges are a gift that help direct us in choices that we make. God allows us to go through certain challenges in order for us to learn from others, but also to help others who may be experiencing the same issues or can apply the principles learned to their situation. Fundamentals--as mentioned by the Diamonds.
I will not let my history control my destiny.
The First Decision: The Buck Stops Here
1. President Harry Truman tells David, “You have chosen the pathway to your present destination. The responsibility for your situation is yours.” Do you believe that an individual’s present state is solely determined by personal choice and responsibility? Why or why not?
Personal choice is definitely key in what happens to an individual. We deal with this issue with our kids: when they are upset at someone or something, we encourage them to flip the switch. It is their choice whether or not they remain upset, or if they put that in the past, forgive others, and move on. If we hold on to the frustrations in life, then we will be frustrated. But, if we learn from them and find ways to grow out of the fire, then we can emerge a stronger individual because of our choices.
2. Truman says, “Our thinking creates a pathway to success or failure.” Can you remember a particular instance when your thinking created success? Can you remember a particular instance when your thinking led to failure? Have you seen evidence of this truism in the lives of others?
Again, I have seen this lived out in our children. I know that if I am thinking negatively, my reactions to what others say will tend to be negative, whether or not that is voiced. Internally, I need to make an intentional change.
3. Why does Andrews consider challenges a gift?
Challenges are a gift that help direct us in choices that we make. God allows us to go through certain challenges in order for us to learn from others, but also to help others who may be experiencing the same issues or can apply the principles learned to their situation. Fundamentals--as mentioned by the Diamonds.
I will not let my history control my destiny.
The Traveler's Gift
GENERAL QUESTIONS
1. How does the book exemplify the differences between people who encounter despair? Is your experience different or similar?
Failure or despair did not stop the leaders from pushing forward. I have a tendency to hold on to despair. It would be best to look at despair from a new angle and learn from the experience to grow stronger as a leader.
2. Why is it important that David visited the historical figures during crucial moments in history?
Each experience pointed toward making his situation less final. Other people have who have experienced moments of despair chose to not give up. You can grow from the experience of others as well as your own. More importantly those who have gone before us, perhaps traveling the same path as I am now on.
3. Andrews incorporates facts and details about American history into the book. How does historical knowledge lead to success in the future?
Again, it's a learning curve. If we see how other people handled situations that are similar to our own situations, and apply this to our outcome, we can grow stronger.
4. How does Andrews explore the importance of associations with other people? How are relationships integrally connected to wisdom? How do the relationships between David and the seven historical figures support this point?
Relationships with other people, just as in the study of this book, we can sharpen one another. Through the eyes of others, our perspective can be different and applicable."As iron sharpens iron, so one man can sharpen another." Proverbs 27:17. The relationships between David and the historical figures were sharing/sharpening David and yet the figures seemed to understand what David's situation was in order for them to share with what David needed to hear.
5. What is the significance of the title? What importance does time travel have in the story? How does time travel change David’s life?
It's a gift of knowledge and experience--free for the taking, free to use, to grow, to share. Example of Naaman: Elisha said to go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed. Naaman was upset because he thought he was more important and should have the best treatment. His attendants replied, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, 'Wash and be cleansed'!" Naaman then wanted to pay for the gift of clean health which was free from God. Please accept now a gift from your servant. The prophet answered, "As surely as the LORD lives, whom I serve, I will not accept a thing." 2 Kings 5:9ff
Why me?...Why not me? You are not the victim, you were made for greatness. Challenges are a gift.
It is important for successful people to have more than a limited view of history
How are you like David? What serpents are squeezing you?
There are times when I think giving up would be the easier road. When work feels too challenging, when I have made mistakes and instead of confessing or confronting, it feels easier to melt into the woodwork. I know that this isn't the right answer, and it can only compound the issue. It's important to connect to people and share your story of success. Sharing a level of sympathy. I know how you feel... this is how I felt... and this is what I've found.
What brings panic to your soul? How do you work through such realizations?
The times that move me out of my comfort zone and I am faced with something that is unfamiliar to me. My current work environment has had the tendency to set up this panic feeling.
What have you promised to the people who love you? How well are you keeping those promises made to the people you love?
I have promised to take care of my children. I have promised to always love my wife. There have been times and will be times when I don't feel like keeping these promised due to circumstances...choices we make...choices the kids make...like when they get hurt for goofing around after being told not to goof around. That's a simple example of when it is hard to "take care of my children". Being human, I resort to wanting them to feel the pain as a form of retaliation. Compassion and love often go out the window for a moment.
Think about what David said. Are you working so hard to live up to a certain standard to the detriment of what is really important in life? How is the pressure to keep up taking its toll on you? C'mon, be honest. What are you missing?
It is easy to be focused on the wrong thing. I am a list maker, so often the list becomes more important than the issues at hand. Our church is currently going through a study right now looking at our lives compared to the majority of the rest of the world and how rich we really are. The Bible calls us to take care of the poor, the orphans and widows. How am I doing? What do I really need. It's not the money, it's not the security, but rather who I become along this journey. I need to become more dependent on God instead of people. I need to become more compassionate and less judgmental to those around me. In reality, it shouldn't matter to me what people have faced in their life, but rather, how I can help them in their journey to become all that God wants of them.
Truth be known, God is interested in what you never dare to say. Sure, God knows what you keep to yourself, but he'd really like to hear you say it. Just once. Go ahead. Show him your hand, and speak your peace.
Lots of questions here...Why did you allow me to go through that pain? Why would you choose to have (fill-in-the-blank) die/deal with cancer? What are you trying to teach me through these things?
Have you ever wished you were someone, anyone else but you? What made you feel that way?
Yes. I think it all boils down to assumptions. They look better than me. They must be happier because they have more money/friends/etc. than me.
When you feel the lowest, who can you count on to tell you the truth?
Spouse, parents, good friends.
Instead of asking "Why, me?'" try asking, "What is the value I'm supposed to take away from this situation?" Now try answering that one.
If God believes in you, and there is much evidence to support that God does, then one can hardly argue that you are ordinary. After all, there is nothing ordinary about anything in creation, most of all you. As sure as you are you, in God's eyes (by his grace) you are great. List three blessings or gifts God has bestowed on you.
Creativity, patience (even though after having kids and my job, this has been tested), and family.
When you hear the word "choice" what do you think of?
Vanilla or chocolate. Good or bad. One or the other. I think of two (or more) things. The choice is what you think you will enjoy more. What you think will add the most value to your life. Can the choice also be made to add the most value to others lives?
Historically, have you made wise choices? What was your wisest choice?
I have tried to make the wisest choices, although there have been times my choices have been purely out of selfish ambition. My wisest choice was to choose to follow Christ. All else falls in line behind this decision. How I choose to live, who I choose to spend time with, etc.
Think about the biggest decision you have made to date. The absolute, no-going-back decision, Who or what influenced that decision?
Family and friends. My Grandma Phillips and my parents. Also my friends at the time (Anne being one) as well as youth coaches.
How has that one decision changed the trajectory of your life?
As previously mentioned, all other decisions fall in line with the first decision of choosing to be a Christian. And it's not a cult or prison. It is freeing me up to not worry about much of life.
The downside of 'choice' is the possibility of making the wrong one. What destructive thoughts do you need to overcome concerning a bad choice?
The thought that I have messed up my life. The bad choice often holds negative comments as a consequence, "You're not good enough," "You'll never be forgiven for that, " " You are scarred for life." Yes, true, but how can I grow from this experience?
The downside of luck is that if it exists at all, it runs out way too fast. Who is the luckiest person you know? Why is he/she 'lucky'? What choices might be hiding behind that 'luck'?
"To know where you're going," someone wise once said, "you've got to know where you've been." She didn't say "... and you'd better stay there." What part of your past do you need to put behind you for good, in order to take hold of the future?
Am I really seeking to work towards positive change? Am I seeking out those who are also working towards positive change?
The hardest part of moving forward is not wanting to give up what you are accustomed to; an old friend, a certain routine. God cares too much for you to not to grow and move.
The responsible decision 'The Buck Stops Here' - write this decision in your own words.
Enough is enough. Learn from the past, and grow toward the future.
1. How does the book exemplify the differences between people who encounter despair? Is your experience different or similar?
Failure or despair did not stop the leaders from pushing forward. I have a tendency to hold on to despair. It would be best to look at despair from a new angle and learn from the experience to grow stronger as a leader.
2. Why is it important that David visited the historical figures during crucial moments in history?
Each experience pointed toward making his situation less final. Other people have who have experienced moments of despair chose to not give up. You can grow from the experience of others as well as your own. More importantly those who have gone before us, perhaps traveling the same path as I am now on.
3. Andrews incorporates facts and details about American history into the book. How does historical knowledge lead to success in the future?
Again, it's a learning curve. If we see how other people handled situations that are similar to our own situations, and apply this to our outcome, we can grow stronger.
4. How does Andrews explore the importance of associations with other people? How are relationships integrally connected to wisdom? How do the relationships between David and the seven historical figures support this point?
Relationships with other people, just as in the study of this book, we can sharpen one another. Through the eyes of others, our perspective can be different and applicable."As iron sharpens iron, so one man can sharpen another." Proverbs 27:17. The relationships between David and the historical figures were sharing/sharpening David and yet the figures seemed to understand what David's situation was in order for them to share with what David needed to hear.
5. What is the significance of the title? What importance does time travel have in the story? How does time travel change David’s life?
It's a gift of knowledge and experience--free for the taking, free to use, to grow, to share. Example of Naaman: Elisha said to go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed. Naaman was upset because he thought he was more important and should have the best treatment. His attendants replied, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, 'Wash and be cleansed'!" Naaman then wanted to pay for the gift of clean health which was free from God. Please accept now a gift from your servant. The prophet answered, "As surely as the LORD lives, whom I serve, I will not accept a thing." 2 Kings 5:9ff
Why me?...Why not me? You are not the victim, you were made for greatness. Challenges are a gift.
It is important for successful people to have more than a limited view of history
How are you like David? What serpents are squeezing you?
There are times when I think giving up would be the easier road. When work feels too challenging, when I have made mistakes and instead of confessing or confronting, it feels easier to melt into the woodwork. I know that this isn't the right answer, and it can only compound the issue. It's important to connect to people and share your story of success. Sharing a level of sympathy. I know how you feel... this is how I felt... and this is what I've found.
What brings panic to your soul? How do you work through such realizations?
The times that move me out of my comfort zone and I am faced with something that is unfamiliar to me. My current work environment has had the tendency to set up this panic feeling.
What have you promised to the people who love you? How well are you keeping those promises made to the people you love?
I have promised to take care of my children. I have promised to always love my wife. There have been times and will be times when I don't feel like keeping these promised due to circumstances...choices we make...choices the kids make...like when they get hurt for goofing around after being told not to goof around. That's a simple example of when it is hard to "take care of my children". Being human, I resort to wanting them to feel the pain as a form of retaliation. Compassion and love often go out the window for a moment.
Think about what David said. Are you working so hard to live up to a certain standard to the detriment of what is really important in life? How is the pressure to keep up taking its toll on you? C'mon, be honest. What are you missing?
It is easy to be focused on the wrong thing. I am a list maker, so often the list becomes more important than the issues at hand. Our church is currently going through a study right now looking at our lives compared to the majority of the rest of the world and how rich we really are. The Bible calls us to take care of the poor, the orphans and widows. How am I doing? What do I really need. It's not the money, it's not the security, but rather who I become along this journey. I need to become more dependent on God instead of people. I need to become more compassionate and less judgmental to those around me. In reality, it shouldn't matter to me what people have faced in their life, but rather, how I can help them in their journey to become all that God wants of them.
Truth be known, God is interested in what you never dare to say. Sure, God knows what you keep to yourself, but he'd really like to hear you say it. Just once. Go ahead. Show him your hand, and speak your peace.
Lots of questions here...Why did you allow me to go through that pain? Why would you choose to have (fill-in-the-blank) die/deal with cancer? What are you trying to teach me through these things?
Have you ever wished you were someone, anyone else but you? What made you feel that way?
Yes. I think it all boils down to assumptions. They look better than me. They must be happier because they have more money/friends/etc. than me.
When you feel the lowest, who can you count on to tell you the truth?
Spouse, parents, good friends.
Instead of asking "Why, me?'" try asking, "What is the value I'm supposed to take away from this situation?" Now try answering that one.
If God believes in you, and there is much evidence to support that God does, then one can hardly argue that you are ordinary. After all, there is nothing ordinary about anything in creation, most of all you. As sure as you are you, in God's eyes (by his grace) you are great. List three blessings or gifts God has bestowed on you.
Creativity, patience (even though after having kids and my job, this has been tested), and family.
When you hear the word "choice" what do you think of?
Vanilla or chocolate. Good or bad. One or the other. I think of two (or more) things. The choice is what you think you will enjoy more. What you think will add the most value to your life. Can the choice also be made to add the most value to others lives?
Historically, have you made wise choices? What was your wisest choice?
I have tried to make the wisest choices, although there have been times my choices have been purely out of selfish ambition. My wisest choice was to choose to follow Christ. All else falls in line behind this decision. How I choose to live, who I choose to spend time with, etc.
Think about the biggest decision you have made to date. The absolute, no-going-back decision, Who or what influenced that decision?
Family and friends. My Grandma Phillips and my parents. Also my friends at the time (Anne being one) as well as youth coaches.
How has that one decision changed the trajectory of your life?
As previously mentioned, all other decisions fall in line with the first decision of choosing to be a Christian. And it's not a cult or prison. It is freeing me up to not worry about much of life.
The downside of 'choice' is the possibility of making the wrong one. What destructive thoughts do you need to overcome concerning a bad choice?
The thought that I have messed up my life. The bad choice often holds negative comments as a consequence, "You're not good enough," "You'll never be forgiven for that, " " You are scarred for life." Yes, true, but how can I grow from this experience?
The downside of luck is that if it exists at all, it runs out way too fast. Who is the luckiest person you know? Why is he/she 'lucky'? What choices might be hiding behind that 'luck'?
"To know where you're going," someone wise once said, "you've got to know where you've been." She didn't say "... and you'd better stay there." What part of your past do you need to put behind you for good, in order to take hold of the future?
Am I really seeking to work towards positive change? Am I seeking out those who are also working towards positive change?
The hardest part of moving forward is not wanting to give up what you are accustomed to; an old friend, a certain routine. God cares too much for you to not to grow and move.
The responsible decision 'The Buck Stops Here' - write this decision in your own words.
Enough is enough. Learn from the past, and grow toward the future.
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