FEAR - What are you afraid of?

The Worst Liars In The World Are Your Own Fears

Flashback: It was 1978, I had just dropped off my date and made my way to my apartment, alone. It was dark, late and incredibly scary. We had just watched the first of what would be many of the Michael Myers' "Halloween" movies. I was scared. Although it was just a movie -- and at 18, I knew better I was still scared. When I walked into my apartment, I turned on the light, sat on the couch and listened. I heard things I had never heard before: noises -- creepy noises; and I was convinced I would not live through the night. Paralyzed with fear, I ended up sleeping on the couch. FEAR: False Emotions Appearing Real

It is funny now (some of you are even grinning), but perhaps you are fearful of things in your own life that are just as real as Michael Myers was to me that night. Maybe they even have you paralyzed, sleeping on the couch afraid to act. FEAR: False Emotions Appearing Real

Look At What Fear Does

• Fear Makes You Stop Growing In Potential - Fear keeps your talents locked up, holds you back and causes you to miss opportunities. Are you afraid to try something new just because you are afraid? One of the greatest discoveries you can make is to find that you can do what you are afraid you cannot do.
• Fear Makes You Stop Reaching Out In Your Relationships - Fear prevents you from being honest with people. You fear rejection, so you wear a mask, pretend to be what you are not, and then deny what you really feel. Fear also keeps you from making commitments. You may be afraid of being hurt again. Fear prevents true intimacy because fearful people have a hard time giving and receiving love. Your fears affect everyone you relate to.
• Fear Makes You Stop Enjoying Life - You cannot be happy and fearful at the same time. An old man was asked what had robbed him of joy in his life. His answer was, "Things that never happened." How often are you worn out by your worries?
• Fear Makes You Stop Striving For Success In Life - How many decisions have you made based on fear? How many times have you sold yourself short because of fear? False Emotions Appearing Real.

What Should You Do With Your Fears?

• Pray - "Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything." Philippians 4:6a CEV
• Turn It over To God - "God cares for you, so turn all of your worries over to Him." 1 Peter 5:7 CEV
• Trust Him - "When I am afraid, I keep trusting you. I praise your promises! I trust you and am not afraid. No one can harm me." Psalm 56:3-4 CEV

Leaving A Legacy

July is a special month in the Redd household. I celebrated my 46th birthday this last week and my oldest son Joseph will celebrate his twelfth birthday at the end of the month. Nathan, my youngest, will be turning nine at the beginning of September. Both Sharon and I have our hands full!

During this last week, I was thinking what kind of a heritage I was leaving our boys.

The heritage I want to leave my boys is:

• A Heritage of a Loving Family - I want my sons to know that I love and am committed to them. Not only them, but a gift that I can give my boys is to model for them a man that loves and honors his wife. A husband should love his wife as much as he loves himself. Ephesians 5:8
• A Heritage of a Life that Mattered - It would be great for my boys to be able to watch me and see that I lived a life that mattered. A life that made a difference. A life that had purpose. Know where you are headed and you will stay on solid ground. Proverbs 4:26
• A Heritage of Integrity - Honesty is something that is becoming more difficult to be able to find today. It really is all around us, but it is something that we have to look for to find it - its not pointed out to us very readily. I hope that my sons will be able to see the same man at Church as he does at home - a man who lives what he says. Never tell lies or be deceitful in what you say. Proverbs 4:24
• A heritage of a Helper - I want both boys to know that people matter. They matter to God and they matter to me. If I had everything, all that money could buy, but did not love people, I would be nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:1-4 para
• A Heritage of a Man Who Loved God - This really encapsulates all of the others, for if I do not love Him the way I should, all these other things will be out of balance. This is what God wants, See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God. Micah 6:8

Why is it so important that I think about these things now? Each day I am building their heritage. My boys watch me now, sometimes when I do not even know it.

What does this have to do with you? Simply this: What heritage are you leaving your family? What heritage are you leaving your co-workers? What heritage are you leaving those who know you? Remember, you are building your legacy, your heritage today. You are paving the road that those around you, family, friends and co-workers will follow. That is the role of a leader. Leadership is a privilege with great responsibility.


Build a great legacy - a day at a time - a decision at a time - a word at a time.

Integrity

In the book, Developing the Leader Within You, John Maxwell wrote, “When people have integrity, their words and their deeds match up. They are whom they are no matter where they are or who they are with. People with integrity are not divided (that is duplicity) or merely pretending (that is hypocrisy). People with integrity have nothing to hide and nothing to fear. Their lives are open books.”

Integrity is indispensable for a person who wishes to lead others. Whether you lead as a father, mother, teacher, or C.E.O. – integrity is a staple that must be developed, cultivated, protected, and cherished in order to effectively lead.

Five ways to demonstrate integrity

• I Will Live What I Teach – Deciding what to be is more important than deciding what to do. “Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.” Proverbs 4:13
• I Will Do What I Say – A person of integrity will do what they promised they would do. They will keep their word. “Simply let you ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No’.” Matthew 5:37
• I Will Be Honest With Others – When a leader loses credibility, he forfeits a trust that may never be regained. In any endeavor, trust and honesty allow individuals to cooperate so that they can all prosper. “I always speak the truth and refuse to tell a lie.” Proverbs 8:7
• I Will Put What is Best for Others Ahead of What is Best For Me – A person of integrity will remember they are there to serve others rather than to be served. “Be humble and consider others more important than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3b
• I Will Be Transparent and Vulnerable – A person can be closed and uncaring, but the people with the most genuine integrity will be those whose arms and hearts are open to those they lead. “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36

Be A Person of Integrity

I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there are those who suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare;
I would be friend of all – the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
Howard A. Walter

Which Spud Are You?

This Life Lesson is sure to have a lot of “groans” in it.. Just be patient: these things too shall pass. There are distinct personalities in every church, business, organization, and family. Some are good while others are not. Today, we are going to look at the Tater Family. First, we identify The Rotten Taters, and next, The Good Taters. See if you can identify these “taters” where you are. Even better, which tater are you?

THE ROTTEN TATER FAMILY

• DICK TATER - He is the self-appointed leader. He has taken it upon himself to keep everyone else in their place by telling them what to do and when to do it. He feels it is his responsibility to keep everyone else straight.
• SPECK TATER - When asked to participate in teamwork or projects, Speck says no. He says he just spectates. He comes, he watches, he goes home. He sees the needs but he figures it's someone else’s job.
• AGI TATER - She keeps things stirred up by spreading some tale or story around about someone else. She is always ready with telephone in hand, ready to share the latest juicy story or tidbit about someone else. Agi- Tater really is a small-minded person with little or no self-worth. She feels that the only way she can look good is to make everyone else look bad.
• HEZZI TATER – He is one that is never willing to make a decision. He is paralyzed by the fear of failure and is terrified by life’s “what ifs.” He is usually the last to join in and the first to bail out at any sign of trouble.
• REGURGA TATER - He always brings things up from the past that did not agree with him. He is always looking back at how wonderful things were yesterday and how terrible things are today. Regurga-Tater is living in the past and missing the future; and while his head is turned towards yesterday, he is missing the opportunities for today.
• COMMON TATER - All he ever does is talk about what needs to be done. He talks about what was done wrong and how he could have done it better; however, that is all he does: talk. An old Indian proverb would have described this tater as, “All thunder, no rain.”

THE GOOD TATER FAMILY

• SWEET TATER - This person is an active team player. They have a sweet spirit and always finds the good in things . . . even when they have to look hard for it. “Finally, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly and proper. Always focus on what is worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8
• EMMY TATER – This is one who found a successful person of integrity and modeled themselves after that person. There is a great deal of emphasis on mentoring – it is great when you have someone to follow. By the way, be careful, there are people imitating you! “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1
• FACILI TATER - This person is interested in helping others succeed. They want to see people grow and develop. They take great joy in helping people accomplish things and being successful. They enjoy helping people grow. “Encourage anyone who feels left out, help all who are weak, and be patient with everyone. Be good to each other and to everyone else.” 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15
• RO TATER – This is a person who will rotate from one job to the next. They are willing to serve in whatever capacity asked. Wherever this person is and whatever one asks this person to do, you can rest assured that they will do it to the best of their ability and with a smile on their face. "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31

Live in harmony by showing love for each other. Be united in what you think, as if you were only one person. Do not be jealous, but be humble and consider others more important than yourselves. Care about them as much as you care about yourself! Philippians 2:2-4

Which Spud Are You?

Are You An Optimist?

It is the classic illustration between the optimist and the pessimist. The optimist sees the glass as half-full, and the pessimist sees the glass as half-empty. Effective people are inevitably optimistic people. Do not confuse optimism with pie-in-the-sky, pollyanna thinking – though effective leaders are often dreamers – they are also realist. Effective people will cultivate and maintain a positive mental attitude.

Four Keys To Biblical Optimism

• Focus on God instead of Self – There is no problem to great for God to handle. Focusing on God and knowing that He is aware and in control of the situation is a key to a positive outlook, even in times of trouble. When we continually focus on our circumstances or ourselves, we are in for an attitudinal tailspin.
• Look to the Future and Learn from the Past – Refuse to dwell on past failures – learn the lessons and forget the details. Instead, focus on the present and anticipate the future.
• Always Focus on a Goal – Goals keep us oriented toward achievement and moving forward. They help us know what we need to accomplish and when it needs to be accomplished.
• View Problems as Opportunities for Improvement – Problems, setbacks, and disappointments are inevitable – they are part of life. Nevertheless, remember this: negative, defeatist attitudes produce negative, defeatist actions. Positive attitudes produce positive actions.

“Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14 NIV)

A bounty of $5,000 offered for each wolf captured and brought back alive turned Sam and Jed into fortune hunters. Day and night the scoured they mountains and forests, looking for their prey. Exhausted one night, they fell asleep dreaming of their potential fortune. Suddenly, Sam awoke to see that about 50 wolves with flaming eyes and bared teeth surrounded them. Nudging his friend, he exclaimed, “Jed, wake up. We’re Rich!”

Now That’s Optimism!!!

What Every Child Wants To Know

With tomorrow being Father's Day, I believe that it is important for each father to read these thoughts. It goes without saying that there probably will be no other man more important in your child's life than their father. Every child wants to know the answer to these questions from their father.

It does not take a rocket scientist to look across our landscape and see many emotionally unhealthy people today. Whether it is the endless parade of angry, bitter people highlighted on the latest afternoon talk show, the increasing rate of aberrant sexual behavior, or the systematic disintegration of the family, it is obvious that we are a nation with many unhealthy, insecure people. Can this be changed? Absolutely. However, it will not be through government programs, through scholastic education, or even economic revitalization. It will come one individual at a time. Each person must discover the answer to these four questions. These are simple questions, but will influence every relationship a person has.

Four Questions Every Person On Earth Wants Answered

• DO I MATTER? - Derivatives of this question are asked cosmically with questions like, “Am I an accident?” “Was I Created?” What does the World have to say about the origin of man? That we came from a pool of cosmic sludge, that we jumped out, jumped back in, jumped back out, grew legs, became a monkey and that we were on our way to becoming a man. We have been told we were some cosmic accident. There is no design or purpose for us here. What does God's Word Say? That man is an intentional creation of God. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

• AM I LOVED? - One of the greatest desire mankind want to know is a simple question of, “Am I loved?” This question can be asked in ways such as, “Am I of Value?” or “Am I Appreciated?” The Bible tells us that God loves and values each of us. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

• WHY AM I HERE? - “What is my Purpose in Life?” “Can I Make A Difference?” Have you discover why God made you the way He did? He designed you with a specific purpose in mind. Have you determined God’s Purpose for your life? "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

• IS THERE HOPE FOR ME? - Once a person has determined that they matter to their Creator, that they are loved by that Creator, and that their Creator has a wonderful plan for their life, they want to know if they can change to fit that Plan. What was cannot be changed . . . What will be is determined by the choices we make today. There is hope! Never forget that there is hope! Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17

Parents, do your children know that they matter, are loved, and have purpose? Employers, do your employees know they matter, are of value, and have purpose to you and your company? When a person cannot answer these questions . . . they will not be able to maintain a balanced, healthy life.

What Is A Bulldog's Nose Slanted Backwards?

Years ago I read a book by John Mason called The Enemy Called Average. In his book, he had a chapter entitled “The Nose of the Bulldog is Slanted Backward so He can Continue to Breathe Without Letting Go!”

What makes the difference between a winner and loser? Often times one thing: Persistence! Persistent people begin their success where most others quit. One person with commitment, persistence and endurance will accomplish more than a thousand people with interest alone.

The Bible says “Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won’t let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1 (CEV)

What Are Three Keys To Success?

• Persistence: The more diligently we work, the harder it is to quit. Persistence is habit; so is quitting.
• Performance: Never worry about how much money, ability or equipment you are starting with. Just begin with a million dollar's worth of determination. Consider the postage stamp. Its usefulness consists in the ability to stick to something until it gets there.
• Patience: In the Far East, the people plant a tree called the Chinese Bamboo. During the first four years they water and fertilize the plant seemingly with no results. Then the fifth year they again apply water and fertilizer - and in five weeks' time the tree grows ninety feet in height! The obvious question is did the Chinese Bamboo Tree grow ninety feet in five weeks or did it grow ninety feet in five years? The answer is: it grew ninety feet in five years. Because if at any time during those five years the people had stopped watering and fertilizing the tree it would have died.

There are many times that our dreams and plans do not appear to be succeeding. We are tempted to give up and quit trying. Instead, we need to continue to water and fertilize those dreams and plans, nurturing the seeds of the dream and vision God has placed within us.

Because we know that if we do not quit, if we display perseverance and endurance, we will also reap a harvest. Galatians 6:7

Remember: It is not what you have, it is what you do with what you have that makes all the difference! Don't Give Up!!!

Is Common Courtesy Gone For Good?

Politeness is the cornerstone on any civilized society. In essence, it is respect for other people's feelings. This respect is reflected in both thought and action . . . in considering other people's points of view and behaving in sensitive ways. Unfortunately, in many areas of life, politeness seems to be outdated. Please understand, I am no "Miss Manners"(or "Mr. Manners" for that matter), but simple manners are essential in effective relationships. Regardless of the relationship, simple manners communicate that other people are important and that they matter.

Three Simple Manners

Say Please - How many times were we reprimanded as children for grabbing something without asking, "Please, may I have this?" A person who consistently does not say please indicates that he or she feels entitled to have something without asking. Saying please communicates value to the person both asking and being asked.

Say Thank You - The Bible tells a story of how Jesus healed ten lepers of their disease. They immediately began to celebrate, and in their excitement, nine of them did not think to return to thank Jesus. Were they grateful? Absolutely. Then why didn't they express their gratitude? Perhaps they were too busy or just did not think of it; or they thought Jesus would know they were thankful. In any case, only one took the time to return and say a simple, "Thank You." When was the last time you expressed gratitude to the waiter at the restaurant, an attendant at the car wash, your associates at work, or even those at home? It is amazing -- the power of "Thank You."

Respect Others - We live in an incredibly diverse society. Different backgrounds, different religions, and different values are all pervasive in America. There is a difference between disagreeing and disrespecting. Always treat people with respect - - even when you disagree with them - - perhaps especially if you disagree with them. There is never a good reason to show disrespect for another person.

"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you." Matthew 7:12

Here is a wonderful relationship principle: Treat others the way you want to be treated. We all want to be treated as someone special, someone loved, someone respected, or someone valued. How can you do this? Simple: Treat them the same way you want to be treated! Treat others with simple, common courtesy! It shows that you value others!

Taking A Risk

Over the past few days I have been rereading a book I picked up about 6 years ago. The book is Failing Forward – Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success by John Maxwell. Maxwell is a prolific writer whose books are filled with salient observations.

This week for the Life Lesson, I thought I would share with you the outline from Chapter 11 entitled, “Take A Risk-There is No Other Way to Fail Forward.”

To achieve any worthy goal, you must take risks. Decide whether or not the goal is worth the risks involved. If it is, stop worrying. The reality is that everything in life is risky. If you want to avoid all risk, then don’t do any of the following:

• Don’t ride in an automobile—they cause 20 percent of all fatal accidents.
• Don’t travel by air, rail, or water—16 percent of all accidents result from these activities.
• Don’t walk in the street—15 percent of all accidents occur there.
• Don’t stay at home—17 percent of all accidents happen there.”

In life, there are no safe places or risk free activities. Everything in life brings risk. It’s true that you risk failure if you try something bold because you might miss it. But you also risk failure if you stand still and don’t try anything new. The less you venture out, the greater your risk of failure. Ironically the more you risk failure--and actually fail—the greater your chances of success.

When it come to taking risks, I believe there are two kinds of people: those who don’t dare try new things, and those who don’t dare miss them.

Don’t Dare Try It People

1. They resist opportunities.

2. They rationalize their responsibilities

3. They rehearse impossibilities

4. They rain on enthusiasm

5. They review their inadequacies

6. They recoil at the failure of others

7. They reject the personal cost involved lifestyle

8. They replace goals with pleasure

9. They rejoice that they have not failed

10. They rest before they finish

11. They resist leadership

12. They remain unchanged

13. They replay the problems

14. They rethink their commitment

15. They reverse their decision
Motto: I would rather try nothing great and succeed than try something great and risk failure.

Don’t Dare Miss It People

1. They find opportunities.

2. They finish their responsibilities

3. They feed on impossibilities

4. The fan the flame of enthusiasm

5. They face their inadequacies

6. They figure out why others failed

7. They finance the cost into their lifestyle

8. The find pleasure in the goal

9. They fear futility, not failure

10. They finish before they rest

11. They follow leaders

12. They force change

13. They fish for solutions

14. They fulfill their commitments

15. They finalize their decision

Motto: I would rather try something great and fail than try nothing great and succeed.

When it come to taking risks, I believe there are two kinds of people: those who don’t dare try new things, and those who don’t dare miss them.

Traps That Make People Back Away From Risk

If risk has such great potential reward, then why don’t people embrace it as a friend? I believe they don’t because they tend to fall into one or more of the following six traps:

1. The Embarrassment Trap - Deep down, nobody wants to look bad. And if you take a risk and fall flat on your face, you might embarrass yourself. So what? Get over it. The only way to become better is to take steps forward—even shaky ones that cause you to fall down. Little progress is better than no progress at all. Success comes in taking many small steps. If you stumble in a small step, it rarely matters. Don’t gift wrap the garbage. Let little failures go.

2. The Rationalization Trap - People who are caught in the rationalization trap second-guess everything they do, and as they prepare to take action, they say to themselves. “Maybe it’s really not that important.” But the truth is, if you wait long enough, nothing is important. Or as Ed’s Fifth rule of Procrastination states, “Spend sufficient time confirming the need, and the need will disappears.”

3. The Unrealistic Expectation Trap - For some reason, many people think everything in life should be easy, and when they find out that achievement takes effort, they give up. But success takes hard work. Consider this Latin proverb: “If there is no wind, row.” As you prepare to take a risk, don’t expect to get a favorable wind.

4. The Fairness Trap - Life isn’t fair. Many people never learn that fact. Instead of acknowledging it and moving on, they expend their energy trying to find fairness. They say to themselves, “I shouldn’t have to be the one to do this.” Dick Butler expands on this idea: “Life isn’t fair. It isn’t going to be fair. Stop sniveling and shining and go out and make it happen for you.”

5. The Timing Trap - Some people tend to think that there’s a perfect time to do everything—and this isn’t it. So they wait. If you wait for perfect timing, you’ll wait forever. And the more you wait, the more tired you’ll get.

6. The Inspiration Trap - Someone once, said, “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” Many people want to wait for inspiration before they are willing to step out and take a risk. When it comes to moving forward, Bill Glass gives this advice: “When you get an insight or inspiration, do something about I in twenty-four hour—or the odds are against your ever acting on it.”

Let me highly recommend Maxwell’s Book, “Failing Forward.” If you aren’t in a position to be able to get one – see me – I will loan you mine … but it is highlighted heavily!

Three Philosophies of Life

There is a marvelous story found in Luke 10:30-37. It is the story of a man who was beaten, robbed, and left for dead on the side of the road. Several people passed by, some looked, some showed concern, but only one stopped. This story demonstrates three attitudes in every day life. You will see them in offices, in churches, just about everywhere in life.

Three Types of People

What Is Yours Is Mine – This was the attitude of the Robbers. People who want whatever they see and will do whatever is necessary to get it demonstrate this attitude. These people are selfish and think that everyone around them owes them something, just because they are there. “Selfish people cause trouble, but you will live a full life if you trust the Lord.” Proverbs 28:24 “Greed has two twins, each named, ‘Give me!’” Proverbs 30:15a

What Is Mine is Mine and What is Yours is Yours - This was the attitude of the Priest and Levite who did not stop and help the man who had been beaten and robbed. “You do your job, I’ll do my job – just leave me alone” demonstrates it. These people exude arrogance – “I am too good to help you, and I will never need your help.” Remember, what goes around comes around. “Do not get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you do not give up.” Galatians 6:7 “If you do not do what you know is right, you have sinned.” James 4:17

What Is Mine Is Yours – This is the attitude demonstrated by the Samaritan when he stopped and helped the man who had been beaten, robbed, and left for dead. This is a true picture of a person who is willing to help others around him . . .even when it is not convenient. This is a true picture of a leader. “Care about each other as much as you care about yourselves.” Philippians 2:4a

Which of these Philosophies Represents You?

I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; And because I cannot do everythingI will not refuse to do the something that I can do. Edward Everett Hale

When You Have Been Betrayed

(Matthew 26:14-16 NIV) "Then one of the Twelve--the one called Judas Iscariot--went to the chief priests {15} and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" So they counted out for him thirty silver coins. {16} From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over."

(Matthew 26:47-50 NIV) "While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. {48} Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him." {49} Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed him. {50} Jesus replied, "Friend, do what you came for." Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him."

Betrayal is a weapon found only in the hands of the ones you love. Your enemy has no such tool, for only a friend can betray. Betrayal is a violation of trust, an inside job. It would be easier if it was a stranger, a random attack or that you were a victim of circumstance. But betrayal isn't like that. When you are betrayed, you are the victim of a friend.

It is more than rejection. Rejection opens a wound, betrayal pours the salt.
It's more than loneliness. Loneliness leaves you in the cold, betrayal closes the door.
It is more than mockery. Mockery plunged the knife, betrayal twists it.
It is more than as insult. An insult attacks your pride, betrayal breaks your heart.

When betrayal comes, what do you do? Get out? Get angry? Get even? You have to deal with it somehow. How did Jesus treat being betrayed.

I. JESUS CALLED JUDAS FRIEND

(Matthew 26:50 NIV) "Jesus replied, "Friend, do what you came for." Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him."

Of all the names I would have chosen for Judas it would have not been friend. What Judas did was grossly unfair. There is no indication that Jesus ever mistreated Judas. There is no clue that Judas was ever left out or neglected. When, during the Last Supper, Jesus told the disciple that His betrayer sat at the table, they didn't turn to one another and whisper, "It's Judas. Jesus told us he would do that!"

It is even more unfair when you consider that they betrayal was Judas's idea. The religious leaders didn't seek him, Judas sought them. Judas went to them and asked how much he could get for Jesus. Somehow the betrayal might have been more palatable or understandable if Judas had been propositioned by the leader, but he wasn't. He propositioned them.

Then he betrayed Him by calling Him Teacher - a title of respect. Then the kiss - an exchange between friends - a expression of affection. Nothing that Judas said or did warranted such a response from Jesus.

II. JESUS KNEW THAT JUDAS HAD BEEN SEDUCED BY A POWERFUL FOE

Jesus was aware of Satan's whispers in Judas's ear. He was aware how powerful and cunning they could be. After all, Jesus had heard them for Himself. This was no demon or even demons that was after Judas, this was Satan himself.

Jesus knew how hard it was for Judas to do what was right. He didn't justify what Judas did. He didn't minimize the deed. Not did He release Judas from his choice. But He did look eye to eye with His betrayer and try to understand. As long as you hate your betrayer, a jail door is closed and a prisoner is taken. But when you try to understand and release your foe from your hatred, then the prisoner is released and that prisoner is you.

Perhaps you don't like that idea. Perhaps the thought of forgiveness is unrealistic to you. Perhaps the idea of trying to understand your Judases is simply to gracious.

What do you suggest? Does harboring anger solve the problem? Will getting even remove the hurt? Does hatred do any good? The hurt should not be minimized, nor should one justify the actions of a betrayer, but we must understand that justice won't come this side of eternity and demanding that your betrayer gets his or hers share of pain. will in the process, be most painful to you. Life is not fair. God never said that it would be.

(John 16:33 NIV) ""I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.""

Troubles are part of the package. As long as you are here on earth there are going to be betrayals, disappointments, death, sickness and sin. That is all part of the troubles and tribulation that come with living here on planet earth. Don't look for fairness here - look instead where Jesus looked.

III. JESUS LOOKED TO THE FUTURE

(Matthew 26:64 NIV) ""Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.""

While going through hell on earth, Jesus kept His Eyes of heaven.
While surrounded by enemies, He kept His Mind of His Father.
While abandoned on earth, He kept His Heart on Home.

Jesus took a long look into the homeland. Long enough to see His friends.

(Matthew 26:53 NIV) "Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?"

And seeing them up there gave Him strength here on earth.

So what should we do when we are Betrayed?

I. JESUS CALLED JUDAS FRIEND - Offer them Compassion.
II. JESUS KNEW THAT JUDAS HAD BEEN SEDUCED BY A POWERFUL FOE - Offer them Understanding.
III. JESUS LOOKED TO THE FUTURE - Keep your Eyes Focused on Jesus Christ.

(Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV) "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. {2} Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

I can't do this - it's impossible!

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Burnout!

How many times have you felt fatigued, bored, depressed, cynical, irritable, impatient, and maybe even a tad bit paranoid? Yet, there is no particular crisis or problem you can see to explain your “funk.” These negative feelings may be due to some level of burnout.

Burnout is not just a 20^th century problem. Elijah, an Old Testament Prophet, faced burnout. He had just won a mighty victory, experienced an emotional high and then crashed - - and crashed hard. Look how burnout effected him and what he did about it. Perhaps we all can learn from his experience.

What Happens When We Burnout?

• Burnout Causes Us To Doubt Our Abilities. It also causes us to throw major pity parties. “I have had enough! Just let me die! I am no better than my ancestors.” 1 Kings 19:4
• Burnout Causes Us To Evade Our Responsibilities. Burnout victims often leave tasks undone, leaving others in a lurch. “Elijah, why are you here?” 1 Kings 19:9
• Burnout Causes Us to Blame Others for Our Situation. It is not me, it is every one else! I do not have a problem . . . everyone else does. Oh really? “I have done my best to obey you, but every one else broke their promise to you.” 1 Kings 19:10
• Burnout Causes Us To Blur the Facts. Life often appears far, far worse than it really is. “I am the only one left.” 1 Kings 19:20

So What Do You Do When You Are Burning Out?

• Make Sure You Get Enough Rest and Food. You will never be a consistent performer until you are consistent in these areas. “He lay down under a tree and fell asleep . . . Get up and eat.” 1 Kings 19:5-6
• Spend Time with God - Take Your Cares, Frustrations and Feelings to God - Be Honest With God. God is big enough to listen. Talk to Him – He is available 24 hours a day! “Lord, I have done my best to obey you.” 1 Kings 19:10
• Realize God is Still in Control. Unfortunately, we often think that it is our job to control everything. “I want you to see Me when I pass by.” 1 Kings 19:11
• Realize It Is Probably Not As Bad As You First Feared. A fresh perspective can do wonders. “You are not alone, 7,000 have also obeyed.” 1 Kings 19:18 para

Now, have you prepared for the day?

What is the Difference Between Failure and a Setback?

Failure Or Setback?

Have you ever failed or made a mistake? Have you ever not hit the goal you were shooting for? Good, then this is for you. The fact that you have failed is proof that you are not finished. Failures and mistakes can be a bridge, not a barricade to success. Failure may look like a fact, but it is just an opinion. Successful people believe that mistakes are just feedback. It is not how far you fall, but how high you bounce that makes all the difference.

Four Steps To Rebound From A Setback

Remember That No One Is Immune To Setbacks - Everyone makes mistakes. Even the greatest athletes do not make the plays every time. Lance Berkman does not hit home runs every time. David Carr does not throw touchdown passes every time. Even Michael Jordan did not make every shot. The only perfect person who never failed was Jesus Christ - and face it, you are not Him! "Anyone who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance." Proverbs. 28:13 (LB)

Discover What Went Wrong - Failure is a great teacher, but it is not our undertaker. Failure is a delay, not a defeat. A successful person is big enough to admit his mistakes, smart enough to profit from them and strong enough to correct them. Ask yourself some questions: What went wrong? Did I not plan well? Did I miss something or have the wrong goal? What could I have done different? Find out what when wrong - then fix it!

Learn the Lesson and Forget the Details - When you learn what was wrong, make it right. Shore up your weak spots. Vernon Sander says, "Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, then the lesson afterwards." Experience is what you get when you are looking for something else. The experience of failure will always make you bitter or better. The choice is yours. The good news is that God has no plans that end in failure for His Children. "I will bless you with a future filled with hope - a future of success, not of suffering." Jeremiah 29:11 (CEV)

Do Not Give Up! - Do not sit out just because you have failed. Do no quit. You will probably learn more from your failures than you ever will by your success. Success consists of getting up just one time more than you fell down. "You don't drown by falling in the water; you drown by staying there." So get up and go on!

"Forget what is behind, and struggle for what is ahead. Run toward the goal so that one can win the prize! Philippians 3:13-14 (para)

What is the difference between Failure and A Setback? Just One Thing: QUITTING! So, Do Not Give up!

Is Your Life Consistant?

Are You Tossed To and Fro or Experiencing an Even Flow?

On of the biggest challenges in life today is to keep things on an even keel. Life is filled with up and downs, serenity and turmoil, drudgery and ecstasy, pleasure and pain -- sometimes all in the same day. Not only is this true of life, it is true in marriage, business and almost all other relationships. How do you stay levelheaded when all those around you are losing theirs?

Four Keys To a Stable, Consistent Life

• Watch Whom You Listen To - "God blesses those people who refuse evil advice ….” - There are times in our lives that we seek advice from other people. There are many sources of advice that are out there. Volumes of books are written about almost every subject from business leadership to familial relations. The question to evaluate all counsel is: Does it square with God's Word? That is the ultimate question.

• Watch Who You Follow & Spend Time With - "God blesses those people who... won't follow sinners and won't join in sneering at God. " - You can tell a lot by a person when you find out who his heros are. Who is your hero? Who is your mentor? Who is it you look to and say, "I wanna be like him!" We can look to Jesus Christ and say, I want to live like Him. Be careful whom you emulate. John 13:15 (NIV) "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." Be careful who you spend time with. You cannot run with the dogs and not get fleas. You cannot roll in the mud with the swine and expect to remain clean. You cannot soar with the eagles when you have been playing with the turkeys! (Proverbs 14:7 CEV) "Stay away from fools, or you won't learn a thing."

• Choose To Follow God's Laws - "God blesses those people who ... the Law of the Lord makes them happy…." What rules do you play by, the worlds rules or God's rules? Your answer will effect the way you raise your children, run your business or treat your spouse. (Psalm 37:3 para) "Trust in the Lord and do what is right; if you do this God will bless your life."

• Concentrate On Pleasing Him - "God blesses those people who… think about it day and night." - Who are you ultimately trying to please? Are you living for the here and now or storing up treasure in heaven? Are your values temporal or eternal?

"God blesses those people who refuse evil advice and won't follow sinners or join in sneering at God. Instead, the Law of the Lord makes them happy and they think about it day and night." Psalm 1:1-2

The Power of Words

One of the easiest ways to determine what a person is like is to listen to his words. Words betray a person. The Bible says that kind people speak kind words and that evil-hearted people have words filled with harm.

People who have learned this find that words spoken either can destroy people or be used to build people up. Words are incredibly powerful. They can build up a relationship, a company, even a church or the can destroy them just a quickly. Words are incredibly powerful.

What Are Some Ways Words Can Destroy?

• Through Lies - Are the words you speak true and honest? Or are you deceptive in your words and business practices? "The Lord hates every liar, but He is a friend of all who can be trusted." Proverbs 12:22
• Through Words of Anger - You have heard it before, but counting to ten before opening your mouth has helped many relationships. "A kind answer soothes angry feelings, but harsh words stir them up." Proverbs 15:1
• Through Gossip - Would you say that about them if there were standing next to you? Would you want someone to say that about you? "Gossip is no good! It causes hard feelings and comes between friends." Proverbs 16:28

What Are Some Ways Words Can Build?

• Through Words of Encouragement - Speak words that encourage others. Any fool can tear something down, but it takes a wise man to build up something or someone. "Kind words are like honey - they cheer you up and make you feel strong." Proverbs 16:24
• Through Words of Good Report - No matter how hard you have to look, find something good and talk about it! "If you can't say anything good, then don't say anything at all!" "Focus your attention on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8
• Through Words of Cheerfulness - Speak kind words that bring joy and healing to people. "Sharp words cut like a sword, but words of wisdom heal." Proverbs 12:18

Consider this short poem entitled “Power of Words:”
A careless word may kindle strife
A cruel word may wreak a life
A bitter word may hate instill
A brutal word may smite and kill

A gracious word may smooth the way
A joyous word may light the day
A timely word may lessen stress
A loving word may heal and bless

Is This Right or Is This Wrong?

Right or Wrong? That is the Question!

How many times, usually while watching the evening news, have you asked yourself the question, “How could they not know what they were doing was wrong?” It is amazing how seemingly wise and sane people can be blinded or demonstrate such a disregard for doing what is right.

How do you determine what is right and wrong? Years ago, Harry Emmerson Fosdick, professor at Union Theological Seminary, developed a formula that helped him determine right from wrong. It is incredibly practical as we struggle with that same challenge today.

Six Ways To Tell Right From Wrong

• The Common Sense Test - Are you simply being foolish? How would you judge someone else if they did the same thing? “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:2 NIV
• The Sportsmanship Test - Are you playing fair? How would you feel if someone else did the same thing to you? If it is not right for everyone, it is probably not right for anyone. “Treat others the way you would want them to treat you.” Matthew 7:12 CEV
• The Best Self-Test - Are you trying to be the best that you can be? Will it help you become a better person? “Work hard at whatever you do.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 CEV
• The Publicity Test - If everyone knew what you were doing, would you still do it? It is surprising how the light of public knowledge changes our perspective and our behavior. “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 NIV
• The Most Admired Person Test – Would the person you most admired do this? If you told that person about it, would you feel proud or ashamed? “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2:21 NIV
• The Foresight Test – What can possibly go wrong? Could you live with the consequences? “Do not brag about tomorrow! Each day brings its own surprises.” Proverbs 27:1 CEV

Right is right, even if everyone is against it; and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it. William Penn