I got home from work and the smell of chili in the air was fantastic! My wife had taken the time to make a large pot of chili on the stove. I sat my computer down and grabbed a spoon so I could taste and see the chili as it continued to simmer.

I’m still reading in the first chapters of Psalms. I can’t seem to move beyond the depth of prayer that David experienced. I linger over Chapter 5 where David says to God,

“Every morning you’ll hear me at it again. Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on your altar and watch for the fire to descend.” (5:2-3, The Message).

Skip down to verses 7-8, “And here I am, your invited guest – it’s incredible! I enter your house, here I am, prostrate in your inner sanctum, waiting for directions to get me through enemy lines.”

There is a depth of living in God’s presence that I want to experience. it seems like I don’t spend the time necessary to move beyond the surface of this life. I note in these words of David that God could count on him, “EVERY MORNING I lay out the pieces of my life…”

David had a time and he was consistent in going before the Lord. He was also patient as I read in verse 8, “Waiting for directions to get me safely through enemy lines.”

My prayer life so often is me running out the door, sipping my coffee, while racing to work. At least I have the every morning piece of this together. It’s strange that I expect to know how God wants me to navigate my life on this hap-hazard prayer time racing to work.

It’s time I throw away my microwaved prayers and learn to simmer in the Lord’s presence so that the fragrance can fill up the room… fill up my life so that others can say, “Hey, there is something about that guy.” That something being the love of Jesus.

We sat down for leftover chili the next evening and each bowl had been individually microwaved for the sake of time. As we sat down to eat we discovered not all the bowls had been heated thoroughly. The chili was only hot on the surface.

It’s time to move beyond the surface and dig deep into the presence of God every morning and to wait for his direction.

I am feeling desperate… I really want to get God’s attention. I want to know that He hears me when I pray. I want to understand Him more and to go deeper in His love and grace.

As I read Psalms in The Message, I see David’s unique way of communicating to God through praise and prayer. This morning I’m reading one of his prayers found in Psalm 17. He begins with, “Listen while I build my case, GOD, the most honest prayer you’ll ever hear.”

David does not lack confidence as he approaches his Heavenly Father. He was sure of himself and he was sure of the One he sought. He spoke directly to God, “Go ahead, examine me from the inside out, surprise me in the middle of the night – You’ll find I’m just what I say I am. My words don’t run loose.” (17:3).

In verse three, he is honest before God. There is not manipulation in his words to try and get his way. He lays his life out before God and asks for an examination. Much like how we do when we go to a doctor for a full physical on our physical health. We want the truth from the doctor and we hide nothing from them.

I have a strong desire to be used in God’s plan on this earth. I want to be available to be used by Him however He desires. Sometimes I seem to get lost in this pursuit. During the last several years I have been in pursuit of this but the circumstances of my life have thrown me a nasty curve ball I wasn’t looking for. I struck out. I was even hit by a pitch. Now I’m on deck warming up and I am starting to fear getting into the batters box.

“I’m staying on your trail; I’m putting one foot in front of the other. I’m not giving up.” (17:5).

David prays in verses 6-7, “I call to you, GOD, because I’m sure of an answer. So – answer! bend your ear! listen sharp! Paint grace-graffiti on the fences; take in your frightened children who are running from the neighborhood bullies straight to you.”

David sought God desperately to get away from the clutches of his enemies. He prayed what he wanted to see happen to those who came up against him. (17:10-14). He didn’t hold back and presented his circumstance to the Father.

Finally in 17:15, “And me? I plan on looking you full in the face. When I get up, I’ll see your full stature and live heaven on earth.” David knew victory would be his. He knew who he was and he knew his GOD… he trusted with all his heart. David didn’t give up or give in. He stayed hot on the trail seeking GOD.

Let’s do the same!!

This Christmas season I’ve decided to explore the book of Psalms. As I read, I hope to grasp a better understanding of God, His love, and that I will draw closer to Him.

Psalm 3 comes from a time when David was running for his life from his son Absolom.

Fear and anxiety are paralyzing emotions. They can grip your heart and and leave you naked, vulnerable, and utterly exposed.

I ran track and cross-country when I was younger. I recall being at a meet in Cedartown, GA. It was a very warm spring Saturday. I was running the two mile race. It was the only event I would be running that day. I recall being in the pack on one of the first few laps.

Racing through my mind was I’m not going to make it to the end of this race. I had sat out in the sun ALL day! I had let the elements of the day drain me so that at race time I didn’t have anything to give. on about the third lap I knew iwas not going to finish well. As I made my entry into the first turn I recall thinking I can fake an injury and get out of this race… Which means I will not have to face the humiliation of defeat… (I didn’t like to lose).

I stuck it out and finished the race. I didn’t do so good at the finish.

The moment I felt like there was no hope and that I should give up – something turned on inside of me. It’s strange and maybe you can relate to this voice that says, “Keep fighting and don’t give up!”

Instead of dwelling on the “thing” that the enemy uses to bring you down – dwell on the Son of God. Allow the thoughts to take you into His presence and tell Jesus what is on your heart. As you do, you will come to know God in much the same way as David. You will also be able to say,

“But you, GOD, shield me on all sides,
You ground my feet, you lift my head up high; With all my might I shout up to GOD, His answers thunder from the holy mountain.” (Psalm 3:3-4, The Message).

“Real help comes from GOD.
Your blessing clothes your people!” (Psalm 3:8, The Message).

What does living “the blessed life” look like?  Is it more money in the bank than what you know what to do with?  Is it driving the finest car?  Is it living in a big house?  Is it a large retirement account?  Is it having a job?  Is it living without all of these things?  Are these things the markings of the blessed life?

Proverbs 30:5-6  reveals to us the beauty of living a balanced life:

And then he prayed, “God, I’m asking for two things
   before I die; don’t refuse me—
Banish lies from my lips
   and liars from my presence.
Give me enough food to live on,
   neither too much nor too little.
If I’m too full, I might get independent,
   saying, ‘God? Who needs him?’
If I’m poor, I might steal
   and dishonor the name of my God.” (The Message).

Proverbs 29:18 gives us a glimpse of what living the blessed life is all about.

  If people can’t see what God is doing,
   they stumble all over themselves;
But when they attend to what he reveals,
   they are most blessed. (The Message).

Living life within the realm of what God reveals is living the blessed life.  To seek the things of this world is to loose the focus of God.  There’s nothing wrong with having things.  But if we heed the words found in Proverbs 30 we will desire balance.  Jesus tells his disciples that he and the Father are one.  The words he speaks are the words of the Father.  He speaks to his disciples and says, “The person who trusts me will not only do what I’m doing but even greater things…”  See John 14:1-14.

Living the blessed life is not about possessions at all.  The blessed life is living as Jesus did.  Jesus came and he served.  He met the needs of people in sickness of health and heart.  He was an example to his disciples on how to serve.  See John 13:1-17.  In verse 17, Jesus says, “If you understand what I’m telling you, act like it – and live a blessed life.”

The blessed life is not about what is gained but rather what is given…  Given in service to others.  If we take the example of the life of Jesus – we will do well to follow and act as he did and live a blessed life!

I began writing here in February 2008.  I had one goal in mind when I began writing: To work on the FOCUS for my life.  And to share with those who may decide to read - hope and inspiration for their lives.

For those of you who have had great vision all of your lives and who are now in their 40’s – probably have experienced some of the changes with your physical vision much like I have.  I picked up my good friend Joel at the airport in December 2008.  I told him (with much pride I must say)  that my vision is not like it once was.  Driving at night is not near as easy as it was back when we were a bit younger.

I have glasses that I wear now to help me when I read.  They need to be a little stronger than what they are now.  But they do help me out when I read a book and the computer screen.

Just like I have needed to put on a pair of glasses to help me with my focus for reading… throughout my life I have always needed to do something to help keep the meaning for my life in focus.

Writing on this blog has helped me tremendously.  I now walk through each day with more focus.  Since February 2008 FOCUS has now transformed into the following four elements:

1. To focus on seeking Jesus.
2. To focus my life to find him.
3. To focus my life on living in him.
4. To find focus on how Jesus wants me to serve him with others.

Seek. Find. Live. Others will follow. has become my new way of communicating focus. 

My prayer to the LORD has become Psalm 86:11-13,

Train me, God, to walk straight;
      then I’ll follow your true path.
   Put me together, one heart and mind;
      then, undivided, I’ll worship in joyful fear.
   From the bottom of my heart I thank you, dear Lord;
      I’ve never kept secret what you’re up to.
   You’ve always been great toward me—what love!
      You snatched me from the brink of disaster!  (The Message)

For those of you who have been following me for the past year – thanks for sticking around on the journey.  I’m excited for those who have begun to follow in the past few months as well.  I know God has a purpose and a plan for each of us.  Knowing this is very exciting.  I can’t seem to capture the words to express my excitement.  I look forward to seeing what God has in store over the next year.

Seek. Find. Live. Others will follow.

I can’t go forward with the day without saying, JESUS!  Go ahead take your moment and shout out his name.

Wow, praise God!  What a moment.  I’m sure Lori at the other end of the house is wondering, “What in the world is he shouting for!”    You are probably thinking this guy is off his rocker.

Alright, now that you have shouted your praises to Jesus I want you to tell him something.  You need to get quiet.  Turn off the TV, the music, etc.  Get quiet.  Once you speak to him you need to be able to hear what he has to say.  Are you quiet?

Tell Jesus, “I love you.”  Listen to hear what he has to say to you.

What did he say to you?

Pray with me,

Train me, God, to walk straight;
      then I’ll follow your true path.
   Put me together, one heart and mind;
      then, undivided, I’ll worship in joyful fear.
   From the bottom of my heart I thank you, dear Lord;
      I’ve never kept secret what you’re up to.
   You’ve always been great toward me—what love! (Psalm 86:11-13, The Message).

Have you already been fishing all night without a catch?  Are you tired from your work?  Are you tired of fighting the wind and the waves of being out in the ocean?  Do you feel like giving up? 

The Lord says to launch out into the deep waters for a catch… not tomorrow but right now – don’t hesitate!  Put out into the deep waters for a great catch!  If you are anything like Peter you’re going to whine about what the Lord says.  But you’ll end up wishing you had kept your mouth shut.  For the rest of the story read Luke 5:1-11.

I was at my men’s group yesterday morning.  One of the guys there had a serious need that needed to be met – yesterday – by the close of business!  One of the guys spoke up with a bit of encouragement.  I was reminded of his words when I read Luke 5 and Psalm 27 today. 

If God doesn’t build the house, the builders only build shacks.
   If God doesn’t guard the city,
      the night watchman might as well nap.
   It’s useless to rise early and go to bed late,
      and work your worried fingers to the bone.
   Don’t you know he enjoys
      giving rest to those he loves? (Psalm 127:1-2, The Message).

If all we do in our lifetime is based on our own strength it will not last.  In fact, if we hear the words of Solomon in Psalm 127 – our trust needs to be only in God… if God doesn’t build the house our labor will not stand up on its own.  Our total and complete trust must be on the Lord.

What is it that you are trying to accomplish on your own… without God’s hand?  Is it your marriage? Is it your job or business?  Maybe it’s your ministry?  If your tired of the fight and struggle  – don’t give up!  The Lord says, “Launch out into the deep water for a great catch!”

As for my friend, we prayed.  I found out late last night the need was met!

It’s interesting how each person that follows Jesus is so different. The gifts given, the personalities, and purposes for each person are all different. God is very personal with each person. Even the circumstances in life are different for each person. For some, it may seem like everything in life always goes their way. Another look at the human race it may seem like there are others that always struggle and have difficulties… never getting a break.

Why is it that some seemingly have no problems and all they touch turns to gold or at best stays steady moving forward? Why is it that others seem to never get a break?

It’s the same thing when I look at churches. Most churches get to a certain place with the number of people attending. And they just maintain that number… sometimes they will hit a growth spurt and leadership is gelling and moving forward then BAM roadblock… people leave and move on and continue on elsewhere or they get frustrated with the whole church thing and just drop out. Then there are those churches that start up and never look back… they grow and grow. The staff grows, changes, and grows some more.

Do you ever find yourself frustrated? Like there is something else that you should be doing… or that you just aren’t fitting in with what you are doing or where you are serving? Do you think that maybe you are doing something that God really didn’t intend for you to do… thus bringing on the frustration and roadblocks?

In Psalms 73we read about the frustrations of Asaph.  I’ve read it several times in the past couple of days. Do you relate to the thoughts of Asaph? What about in verses 11-14?

  What’s going on here? Is God out to lunch?
      Nobody’s tending the store.
   The wicked get by with everything;
      they have it made, piling up riches.
   I’ve been stupid to play by the rules;
      what has it gotten me?
   A long run of bad luck, that’s what—
      a slap in the face every time I walk out the door. (The Message).

Look and see just how Asaph ends this Psalm in verses 25-28.

You’re all I want in heaven!
      You’re all I want on earth!
   When my skin sags and my bones get brittle,
      God is rock-firm and faithful.
   Look! Those who left you are falling apart!
      Deserters, they’ll never be heard from again.
   But I’m in the very presence of God—
      oh, how refreshing it is!
   I’ve made Lord God my home.
      God, I’m telling the world what you do! (The Message).

I don’t know why (but for some) things just seem so easy – and for others it’s incredibly difficult. Wherever you find yourself I encourage you to keep your eyes on Jesus. Stay focused.  Give all of your attention and worship to Jesus.

If it’s difficulties you are faced with remember the words of Jesus to John the Baptist’s disciples just before John was beheaded, “You’ll be blessed if this does not cause you to fall away.”  God can and will get you through anything… it just may be in a different way than what you are expecting.

I came across this passage this last year.  Lori  saw that I underlined it in my Bible while she was reading tonight and brought it back to my attention.

“If you’ll hold on to me for dear life,” says God,
      ”I’ll get you out of any trouble.
   I’ll give you the best of care
      if you’ll only get to know and trust me.
   Call me and I’ll answer, be at your side in bad times;
      I’ll rescue you, then throw you a party.
   I’ll give you a long life,
      give you a long drink of salvation!”  (Psalm 91:14-16, The Message).

I know several people who are really hurting right now for various reasons.  My prayer tonight for each is that they will hold onto God for dear life – get to know Him and trust Him.  We each have a God shaped void in our lives that can only be filled by God.  We have to call upon Him and quit trying to fill it with other things.

I recall sitting in my bedroom on Walnut Dr.  It was summer.  I think I was 19 years old.

I knew what God was wanting to do with me at the time.  I knew what He was calling me to do.  I knew what He was preparing.  But I had this fear of stepping out and doing what He wanted me to do. 

Fear.  It’s an ugly four letter word.  One that I don’t like to face. 

So what happened on that day in my bedroom?  I had been praying about this thing on my mind.  I knew what God was telling me.  Yet I wanted him to write it out on the wall for me… send me a letter in the mail… speak to me audibly.  I just wanted authoritative proof that what was on my mind was really Him and not something I was making up in my mind. 

So what happened while in my bedroom?  Well, after I prayed I recall having this thought come to my mind. “Read Psalm 32:8-11.”  OK – cool – I will read it.  I did.  Before I read it I had no idea what it was going to say.  I wasn’t even sure if there were 11 verses in this Psalm.  I grabbed my NIV and started reading:

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
       I will counsel you and watch over you.

Do not be like the horse or the mule,
       which have no understanding
       but must be controlled by bit and bridle
       or they will not come to you.

 Many are the woes of the wicked,
       but the LORD’s unfailing love
       surrounds the man who trusts in him.

 Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;
       sing, all you who are upright in heart.

Well, He didn’t have to head me over the head!  But I’m glad He did! After-all I asked for it!

Tonight I am reading in Psalm 32.  While reading this passage I am reminded of that particular evening.  Now I’m 43.  Guess what!  I still struggle with that fear. 

My friend James told me yesterday, “Don’t be afraid”  – among other things.  Sometimes I think if God would put that bit in my mouth and lead me on I will not need to fear… yet he says, “Don’t be like the horse of the mule…”  I guess I’m a jack ass !  Just kidding… I’m a child of God that wants to be safe.  I need to live with “Reckless Abandon”.

Why all of the fear?