THE SECOND HALF
(Heb. 11:24-26).
In the first half, we strive for success. But too often our success is measured against the accomplishments of others. We end up feeling like the man who said, "I got to the top of the ladder of success, only to find that it was leaning against the wrong wall." The moment of truth comes when we look back and see how totally self-seeking we've been.

In the first half, we seek for success, but in the second half, we seek for significance! That's a big difference! Moses gave up the comforts of a palace to lead God's people. Why? Because a palace may make you successful, but only the will of God can make you significant.

When John the Baptist was in prison, he sent out his disciples to 'check out' Jesus of Nazareth and bring him back a report. What he wanted to know was, "Are you the one, or should we expect someone else?" Jesus told them to go back and tell John that the lonely, the hurting, the sick, and the unloved were being ministered to wherever He went (Matt. 11:3-5). Jesus lived his life completely for others. He found and fulfilled His purpose - what else matters? If you're in 'the second half', ask God to help you find the place of significance, and then spend the rest of your life there.
[by Bob Gass]

IF YOUR VISION IS OF GOD
(Acts 26:19).
If your vision is of God, there are 3 things you need to know.

First, how to hold it! Every vision is connected to a time frame. Listen...(Hab. 2:3). Some of us can conceive a vision, but we can't carry it to ful1-term because we're not willing to put up with the stretching and the discomfort required. Sometimes we rush ahead of God and our vision is stillborn, or too weak to survive. Jesus said...(John 3:6). If your vision is 'of God', it'll be sustained by Him; if it's 'of the flesh' - you're on your own!

Second, you need to know how to hide it! Don't share your vision with those who can't appreciate it. Joseph did, and he landed in a pit. Not everybody will celebrate your arrival - especially if your light shines brighter than theirs. Ask God for discernment; Judas may look good to you at the moment, but inevitably he'll betray you.

Third, you need to know how to water it! Listen to these scriptures...(I Sam. 30:6; Jude 20). You've got to learn how to water your own vision. The prophet said...(Hab. 2:2). Write down your vision on a business-card-size card. Carry it with you! Pray over it! And beginning today - start acting like a person you expect to be when it becomes reality! Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

WHEN YOU FEEL ALL ALONE
(Psa. 30:5).
It's hard when you work all day, come home tired, and sleep with your arms wrapped around a pillow wishing you had someone to hold. No amount of makeup can hide that kind of loneliness. It's the pain of having so much to say, but nobody to say it to. But God knows your plight - and He cares! That's why He found Eve for Adam, Boaz for Ruth, and Rebekah for Isaac. That's why His Word deals so honestly with real issues, like sexual frustration, loneliness, and feelings of failure.

Voids and thirsts come to us all. How we fill them is what determines our ability to survive and find happiness. If you're struggling on your own to face the challenges, then you need to know - you're not alone! "The God of all comfort" is with you. No one understands like Jesus. His family rejected Him, His disciples forsook Him, and the world finally crucified Him. His Word says He can be...(Heb. 4:15). He knows when you feel like nothing you do is ever enough; He knows that besides being a parent, you're still a person. He knows, He understands, and He invites you to come to Him today. This season you're in won't last forever. A new one is coming, with new relationships, new experiences, and new joy. Until then, remember...(Psa. 30:5). That's His Word to you today.
[by Bob Gass]

WALKING THE WALK
(Phili. 4:9).
People hate to be told what to do. The only translation of the Bible most of them will read is what you translate into your daily living. I saw two cartoons the other day. The punch line of one read, "No matter what we teach our children, they insist on behaving just like their parents!" The other one pictured a child holding the remnants of a smashed tricycle, saying "Dad, what are some of those words you say when you hit a bad shot at golf?" You may smile, but our children learn to behave as they do by watching us. What a sobering thought!

You may teach what you know, but you can only reproduce what you are. Teaching what's right is wonderful; doing it is even more wonderful! For us, that's a harder way to teach, but for them, it's a much easier way to learn. The most valuable gift you can give anybody is a consistent example, and a faith in God that you live by at all times. Listen to what Paul said about some of his converts...(II Cor. 3:2). That's the testimony God wants you to have today.
[by Bob Gass]

BE A PARENT - NOT A FRIEND
(Eph. 6:1-3).
Our children are in trouble today because they've gained us as friends, but lost us as parents. Mum is 'Flo,' and Dad's just 'Harry,' and the tumbling of titles has brought a terrible loss of authority - and we're paying a high price for it! When you compromise your respect, you lose your leverage, and you also risk losing God's blessing in your home.

We can't all be young forever. Somebody has to be the parent so that the other one can be the child. There's a time for fun, and there's a time for mentoring; this is your time to contribute to your children. Give them a parent who is whole, and they will give you back a son or a daughter made in your own likeness.

Listen to these words: "I will have many friends; so will my children. But we will have only one chance to have this precious gift of parent and child. So I resist the temptation to be common and modern; to try foolishly to fit into a generation for which God did not design me. I will stand outside the ring like a good coach, and urge them on to victory. If I am not there to see them win, then I will be somewhere peering off a balcony in heaven, giving them a standing ovation, because I know my place. I am not just their friend; I am their father." What about you?
[by Bob Gass]

ASK - SEEK - KNOCK!
(Matt. 7:8).
So many times we lose, when we could have won, because we were afraid to keep asking, to keep seeking, and to keep knocking. We just stood back and let somebody else take the risk - and get the reward. What is God asking you to do anyway? That's the standard by which you'll finally be judged!

Some time ago I read these powerful words: "To laugh is to risk appearing a fool. To weep is to risk appearing sentimental. To reach out to another is to risk involvement. To expose your feelings is to risk rejection. To place your dreams before the crowd is to risk ridicule. To love is to risk not being loved in return. To go forward in the face of overwhelming odds is to risk failure. But risks must be taken because the greatest risk of all is to risk nothing. The person who risks nothing does nothing, has nothing, and is nothing. He may avoid suffering and sorrow, but he cannot learn, he cannot feel, he cannot change, he cannot grow, and he cannot love. Chained by his certitudes, he is a slave. Only the person who risks is truly free."

Ask God for the clarity to hear His voice, the wisdom to understand what He is saying to you today, and the courage to rise up and do it!
[by Bob Gass]

DON'T PUT A LID ON YOUR POTENTIAL
(Prov. 23:7).
Until Roger Bannister showed up, the world believed that nobody could break the four-minute mile. People thought, "If it hasn't been done, it's because it can't be." Wrong! Bannister not only did it, he started 'a new trend.' Did you know that the 1936 Olympic World Records have now become the qualifying standards for today's athletes? Why? Because now we know we can do better. Paul said...(Phili. 4:13).

Have you ever seen trained fleas in a jar? Notice, they don't need a lid to keep them in. The reason is, when the flea trainer first places them in the jar, he puts the lid on, and the fleas jump up and down frantically hitting their heads against it. Finally, after a lot of headaches, they quit jumping so high and enjoy their new found comfort. Now the lid can be removed and the fleas are still held captive, not by a real lid, but by a mind-set that says, "So high and no higher." What a picture! Jesus said He came to "set at liberty them that are bruised" (Luke 4:18). Bruised by what? By past mistakes, by wrong teaching, by physical, emotional, or mental handicaps. I don't care how bad your past may have been; your future is worth believing in and fighting for. Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

GIVE IT ALL YOU'VE GOT
(I Cor. 15:58).
Next time you pass a McDonald's Restaurant, consider carefully their 'statement of purpose.' It simply says, "Press on! Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent won't; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius won't; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone will prevail." Now, there's a statement of purpose to live by!

Today I read again about the heroes in Heb. 11. They did things like...shut the mouths of lions, administer justice, fulfil promises, and even raise the dead. Then I found these words...(Heb. 11:34). Note: they started out weak, and became strong. How? Through battle! Our problem is, we don't want to fight; but without conflict, there's no conquest.

An Anglican bishop recently asked, "Why is it that everywhere the Apostle Paul went, they had a revolution, but everywhere I go, they have a cup of tea?" Paul didn't blend in, he stood out! On his first missionary journey; they stoned him and left him for dead. On his second one, they threw him in prison. And how did he handle that? He prayed and praised God till every door in his prison opened! Child of God, the word for you today is, "Give it all you've got, and keep pressing on!"
[by Bob Gass]

YOU'LL LAUGH AGAIN - THAT'S A PROMISE!
(Job 8:21).
Sometimes the healing comes first and the answers come later! But when you think of it, wouldn't you rather walk with God in the dark than go alone in the light? I doubt if Job ever fully understood all that he went through, but there came a time when he could say...(Job 8:21). That's His promise to you too!

E. Stanley Jones said, "Anything less than God will let you down." You see, for every possible predicament you face, God has sufficient grace to carry you through. For every need you have, He has a supernatural supply. For every problem, He has a definite answer; for every hurt, He has a cure. Jeremiah said...(Jer. 32:17). God's just waiting for an opportunity to show you what He can do.

David said...(Psa. 25:7). Aren't you glad God's faithfulness is based on His character, not yours? The other day I read, "If you want to be distressed, look within. If you want to be defeated, look back. If you want to be distracted, look around. But if you want to be delivered - look up!" Come on, child of God, just turn it all over to Him today!
[by Bob Gass]

IT'S JUST 'A GROWING EXPERIENCE'
(Eph. 4:15).
Check your heart before you confront someone. Is your goal really to help them - or humiliate them? Jesus was in the business of lifting and restoring people, and we should all be in the same business! Would you approach things differently if you were not so personally involved? Are you doing this to make you look better? Cutting someone down to lift yourself up is the lowest form of ego gratification. Don't do it! It's a real sign of insecurity. You have to be little - to belittle!

Remember Nehemiah's answer to those who were trying to discourage him and stop his work? Listen...(Neh. 6:3). Make that your answer to your critics, too!

Before you examine anybody else, examine yourself! Do you have the same problem, or another one that's just as bad? Have you succeeded where you're accusing them of failing? In other words, have you earned the right to speak? Listen again to these words...(Eph. 4:15). Today, the situation you're facing is a wonderful opportunity to measure your own spiritual growth, so make it 'a growing experience.'
[by Bob Gass]

IF YOU NEED HELP
(Psa. 25:1).
If you need help today, turn to Psa. 25 and notice what David did. First, he knew where to go when trouble came. Listen...(Psa. 25:1). My daughter Kathy called today and asked me to pray for her friend's mother, who'd been diagnosed with breast cancer. How quickly our lives can change. I reminded her again of one of the Bible names God is known by - Jehovah Rapha - 'The Lord who heals.' How wonderful! His Word says, He "healeth all thy diseases" (Psa. 103:3). You can go to Him today for help, and you'll get it.

Next, David knew who to trust! (Psa. 25:2). A man without God has to 'play God' in his own life. That may be fine in the good times, but what about...malignant cells...faulty heartbeats...and calls at 4:00 in the morning that bring bad news? Who will you turn to then?

Finally, David says...(Psa. 25:4-5). There it is: Make me! Teach me! Lead me! Richard Foster says, "To pray is to change. It's the central avenue God uses to transform us. If we are not willing to change, we will soon abandon prayer." If you've been neglecting your prayer life lately, get back into God's presence right away. For there you'll find all the help you need.
[by Bob Gass]

THE DIFFERENCE IS 'ATTITUDE'
(Num. 13:30-31).
Adversity is prosperity - to the man with a great attitude! Consider the kite; it rises against the wind, not with it. The harder the wind blows, the more it rises. Child of God, your attitude will either lift you above your circumstances or bury you beneath them.

When the 12 spies returned from Canaan, all they could talk about were the giants. Listen...(Num. 13:33). There it is again - 'the grasshopper complex,' and a lot of us have it. But Caleb said...(Num. 13:30). The Israelites saw Goliath as 'too big to kill!' David, on the other hand, saw him as 'too big to miss!' Same giant - different attitudes. Which one is yours today?

I heard about a small-business man whose store was threatened by a national chain. When he refused to sell, they said, "We'll build on either side of you and put you out of business." Soon he found himself hemmed in and a big sign announcing, 'Grand Opening!' Not to be outdone, the little man with a big vision put up a banner over his door reading - Main Entrance! Don't you love it? Achievers are not avoiders. Not only do they find solutions to the problems of life, but they discover a tremendous power within themselves. John tells us what it is...(I John 4:4). Through that power, you are "well able" to handle anything!
[by Bob Gass]

HAPPINESS IS AN 'INSIDE JOB'
(Rom. 12:2).
William James said, "The greatest discovery of our generation is that we can alter our lives by altering our attitudes." Think about that! It's your thought life, not your circumstances, that determines your happiness.

We keep thinking we'll be happy if only a certain thing happens. For example, some mothers say, "When Johnny gets out of elementary school, I'll be happy." And they are - for a while. Next, "When Johnny graduates from high school I'll be happy." And they are, at least for the summer. Next, Johnny's graduation brings the same promise; so does his marriage; so does the birth of her first grandchild. But the problem is, she hasn't learned, how to be happy between 'happenings!' If your happiness is always controlled by something outside yourself, you'll always be a hostage to other people, places, and things. That's not God's plan for you!

David said...(Psa. 34:1). David chose the right attitude, and you have to choose it too; you also have to maintain it. That's the hard part. It's like the old farmer said: "The hardest thing about milking cows is - they never stay milked!" It's the same with attitudes; they don't stay changed. You've got to work on them every day. It's called 'renewing your mind.' The only way to do it is to stay in the Word of God. Have you been doing that lately?
[by Bob Gass]

PICK YOUR FRIENDS CAREFULLY!
(Prov. 13:20).
Not one of us can succeed unless somebody else wants us to - and is willing to help us. There are two keys that greatly determine your future: what you perceive yourself to be, and who you associate with. We pick up so many of our ways from others, and changing from negative to positive can mean changing some of those friendships. That's not easy. So often we blame the circumstances, when in reality it's the crowd we're running with!

Paul said...(Phili. 2:20). What a testimony!

Sir Edmund Hillary and his native guide, Tenzing, were the first men to climb Mount Everest. When they were coming back down from the peak, Hillary suddenly lost his footing. At the risk of his own life, Tenzing held the line tight and kept them both from falling off the mountain. Later, when he was asked about it, he simply said, "Mountain climbers always help each other!" So should God's family! Ultimately, your company will shape your conduct, and your conduct will shape your character, and your character will shape your destiny - so choose your friends carefully!
[by Bob Gass]

PUT GOD TO THE TEST!
(Mal. 3:10).
God is a meticulous planner! He scheduled a banquet 2,000 years in advance (Rev. 19:9). He told Noah to make the ark exactly 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high (Gen. 6:15). He even gave Moses the exact colours to be used in the tabernacle (Exo. 26). Look at how He orders the seasons and positions the stars! Can you imagine such a God with no plan for your finances - the product of your life? Surely not! He says clearly, "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse." The original word for whole is unbroken; before taxes or anything else. Why? Because God wants to be first in your life in everything, including your finances.

Furthermore, God says, "You have robbed Me in tithes and offerings." The word offering comes from the word offer. When you sell a house, you decide whether or not you'll accept 'the offer' the buyer is making. God is saying to you today, "Until you pay Me what's mine, why should I accept anything else you offer?" Tithing is not about money - it's about obedience. If you tithe, you can expect God to open heaven and pour out His blessing on you, because He's promised to do just that! (Mal. 3:8). The choice is yours - living under an open heaven or a closed one. Why don't you put God to the test and see?
[by Bob Gass]

BE PART OF THE 12 PERCENT
(Isa. 41:10).
Sometimes the first step out of discouragement is finding somebody who can lift you! Don't be like the man who was about to jump off a bridge when a policeman moved close to him and said, "Surely nothing could be that bad. Tell me about it." When the depressed man got through talking to him - they both jumped! You may smile, but the company you keep will either lift you up or drag you down. Paul said...(II Cor. 7:6). You need a 'Titus' in your life, and you need to be one to others. The Bible says...(Gal. 6:2).

And make sure you choose the right perspective. Over half of all salesmen fail because they don't go back a second or a third time. Forty-eight percent of them make one call, and stop. Twenty-five percent make two calls, and stop. Fifteen percent make three calls, and stop. But twelve percent go back, and go back, and go back, - and they make eighty percent of all the sales!

Child of God, that's the group you belong in! Don't just sit there; get up, try again, and God will work with you (Phili. 1:6). Take action. E. Stanley Jones said, "When life kicks you, let it kick you forward!" Refuse to accept defeat! Today, ask God for the courage to get up and try again. He'll give it to you!
[by Bob Gass]

HANDLING REJECTION
(Heb. 12:3).
Do you remember the song, "Don't step on my blue suede shoes?" Well, you won't get very far before somebody will do just that. Even though Jesus was perfect, He was criticized continually. They called Him a glutton and a drunkard (Matt. 11:19). They even accused him of having a demon (John 8:48). Yet He never once allowed bitterness or discouragement to defeat Him.

To Him, every obstacle was an opportunity to demonstrate His grace. He was brokenhearted, yet through it He understood and comforted others. Disease? That was just an opportunity to heal. Hatred? An opportunity to love. Temptation? An opportunity to overcome. Sin? An opportunity to forgive. Jesus went through life turning trials into triumphs - and He was our example.

The Bible says, "Consider him..." (Heb. 12:3). You need to go back today and re-read His teachings. Listen...(Matt. 5:43-48). That's how He lived, and that's how He wants you to live, too.
[by Bob Gass]

WISE MEN STILL DO
(Matt. 2:11).
The wise men travelled 2,000 miles to worship Him. Some of us won't even drive across town to do that. Notice what they brought:

(1)	Gold - Money! Consider these three pictures:
	(a)	A man looks at his dream home; he's told it'll cost $200,000, and take 30 years at $1,757 a month. He smiles and says, "Where do I sign?"
	(b)	He sees his dream car; he's told it'll cost $40,000, and take 4 years at $913 a month. He smiles and says, "Where do I sign?"
	(c)	He's in church and the pastor says, "It's time for the offering. Please give sacrificially." He frowns and says, "All they ever talk about in this church is money" What's wrong with this picture? The answer is: until you've made your success a part of your worship, you haven't honoured God or given him his rightful place in your life.
(2)	Incense - the kind that ascended from the altar in temple worship. But why worship a baby? Because they recognised Him. Listen...(Isa. 9:6). He had to be God in order to save you. He had to be man in order to die for you. That's what Christmas was all about.
(3)	Myrrh - used to embalm the dead. But why? Because every other baby was born to live; this one was born to die - that you might live. Paul said...(I Tim. 1:15). Two thousand years ago God hung His gift on a tree, and He put your name on it.

Aren't you glad?
[by Bob Gass]

YOUR NEW BODY
(I Cor. 15:35).
There's a bulletin board in Mayo Clinic which reads, "Cancer is limited; it cannot cripple love. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot eat away peace. It cannot destroy confidence. It cannot kill friendship. It cannot shut out memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot invade the soul. It cannot reduce eternal life. It cannot quench the spirit, and it cannot lessen the power of the resurrection."

The Bible gives us three answers to the question "...what kind of bodies will they have?" (I Cor. 15:35). First, it speaks of anatomy...(I Cor. 15:39). Just as fish are designed to handle the pressures of the deep, and birds are designed to fly, your new resurrection body will have 'no limitations.' (Imagine travelling at the speed of thought!) Next it speaks of astronomy. (I Cor. 15:41-42). There will be degrees of honour and differences of reward when we all get home. Your service now is what determines your status then (Rom. 2:6). Finally, it speaks of agriculture...(I Cor. 15:43). The Saxon word for cemetery means "God's acre." How wonderful! Christians don't get buried; they get planted. Think of it; planted in corruption, but raised in the likeness of Christ. John said...(I John 3:2). Go ahead, live today and every day in the light of that moment.
[by Bob Gass]

FISHING FOR SOULS
(Matt. 4:19).
If you want to catch fish, you've got to go where they are, for they're not going to come and jump into your boat. One pastor I know sent his church downtown to the bars and the nightclubs and told them to say, "We've come to apologise. Two thousand years ago, Jesus told us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel (Matt. 28:19), but instead we've been waiting for you to come to us." Someone said to me, "The problem is, the government has taken prayer out of schools." I replied, "That's no problem. They haven't taken you out, and if you're there, prayer is there, hope is there, and God is there!" Wherever you, turn on the light!

Any smart fisherman will tell you if your bait isn't working - change it! For God's sake, and the world's sake, be honest enough to say "what we're doing is not working. "When I pastured, I learned how to build my Sunday School from a Baptist, how to win souls from a Presbyterian and how to develop home groups from a Pentecostal. If you don't know, ask somebody who does. Don't just sit there and say, "We're the chosen few." Jesus said...(Luke 14:23). It's time you went fishing!

And remember, the net will drag in everything, so be patient. You can't clean a fish until you first catch it. Some people will require 'intensive care' - give it to them. The fact is, you may be the only Christian they'll ever meet, so don't let them down.
[by Bob Gass]

BONDSERVANTS AND GALLEY SLAVES
(Rom. 1:1).
Paul knew what he was called to be. Do you? When he called himself a 'bondservant,' he was referring to one who served his master faithfully for six years. In the seventh year, the law said, he had to be set free. But if, when he was released, he turned back and said, "Master, I'm not serving you because I have to; I'm serving you because I want to," then the master took him before a judge, and pierced his ear, signifying that he belonged to him forever (Exo. 21:6). Sometimes we just need to look up and say, "Lord, I'm not serving You because I have to; I'm serving You because I love You. Pierce my ear. Mark me as Yours. Bond me together with You so I can never belong to another." When your ministry loses its passion, it becomes an empty profession. The very word ministry is a verb, not a noun - it's what you do, not what you claim to be.

The word servant also referred to a third-level galley slave chained to the oar of a Roman ship. Day and night he rowed to the beat of another, and whether he was in battle or in merchant service, he expected to die chained to that oar. What a picture! Listen...(Rom. 12:1). Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

THE LAW OF PROGRESSION
(Mark 4:28).
If you're having a problem with impatience, listen...(Mark 4:26-29).

Before you receive what God's promised you, you'll often go through certain stages - this is called 'The Law of Progression.' First, there's the 'I don't know' season. Your seed is in the ground, and you're 'in the dark.' How and when your harvest will come is entirely up to God. All you know is that it will! Next comes 'the blade' season. It's only a tiny blade blowing in the breeze, but it's enough to encourage you and let you know the answer is on the way. Next comes 'the ear' season. Now it's starting to look like what you prayed for. So you begin to water it with prayer, fertilise it with the Word, and protect it from those who would try to uproot it. Finally you enter 'the full corn' season. That's when you hear the words, "...put in the sickle, because the harvest is come." Note, you've got to recognise it, reach for it, and receive it! Whatever season you're in today, stand fast and keep trusting, for your harvest and your answer are on the way!
[by Bob Gass]

DIVINE INTENSITY
(Luke 10:27).
When Israel was threatened by Syria, Joash, the king of Israel, went to Elisha for help. Elisha told Joash to take some arrows, open the eastern window, aim, and shoot. Then he told him to pick up the remaining arrows and begin striking them on the floor. But he only did it three times and stopped. Elisha was angry with him and said...(II Kings 13:19). It's a sad story of partial victory; of what 'might have been' if only Joash had put more into it. It's not just the opportunity - it's the spirit that meets the opportunity that determines the outcome.

God will give you chances to win, but it's your commitment that determines the size of your victory, and ultimately the effectiveness of your life. Stop blaming others. God has put arrows into your hand - use them! The enemy is no problem to God. Have you any idea how often God has defeated him? No, the problem ties in you. You've got to activate your faith, focus your vision, release your compassion, and - do something! If the fire in your heart has become a smoldering ash, get into God's presence quickly and stay there until He rekindles in you a divine intensity and a new love for Him. That's the word for you today.
[by Bob Gass]

HOW TO HANDLE 'THE PITS'
(Dan. 6:27).
Sarah Utterbach says, "There have been times when I wanted God to rescue me from certain pits, but He didn't. Why? Because He wanted me to learn that His grace was sufficient in the pit; and that He could give me peace in the presence of my enemies." The question is never, "What will God do when all around me spells destruction?" The question is, "What will I do?" I may not be able to conquer the lions, but I don't have to - that's God's job! Listen...(Dan. 6:22). I may not be able to stop legislation from being enacted against me, but like Daniel I can call on my God. Listen again...(Dan. 6:10). Stop exhausting yourself fighting the enemy and the conditions around you - they are too many. Just lean on God and be innocent of the charges made by those who are jealous or afraid because of your position with God and men.

Note: God didn't rescue Daniel from the pit; He just delivered him from the power of the enemy in it. The lions were still there when Daniel left, waiting for the next victim; but they had no power over him - and they have no power over you either! Daniel went on to prosper in the kingdom, and that's exactly what God plans for you, too - so rejoice! That's the word for you today.
[by Bob Gass]

NEVER OUT OF HIS SIGHT!
(Deut. 11:12).
As you look ahead to another year, God's Word gives you a glimpse into some of the wonderful things He has in store for you. Listen...(Deut. 11:10-12).

You're about to enter a year where God promises you everything you need to succeed! No matter what you left behind in the old year, this new one offers you a fresh start. God says He will not remember your sins and shortcomings (Isa. 43:25), so close the door and move forward.

Note: the land ahead is not flat and monotonous. It's a land of hills and valleys; and you need both! This year you'll have to climb some mountains, and you'll need endurance to make it to the top. But when you do, the view will be breathtaking and the rewards will be greater than you ever dreamed.

You'll also go through some valleys and deal with pain and loss, but there you'll drink from God's sweetest streams. There you'll understand the words "He restoreth my Soul."

But, most importantly, we're told that, "His eyes are always upon it." No matter what lies ahead this year, He'll be with you every day. Now, there's truly a reason to celebrate!
[by Bob Gass]

YOUR HEAVENLY HOME
(Phili. 1:23).
Can you imagine boarding a plane for your dream vacation and the pilot says, "Welcome aboard. After take off, we'll be serving you a wonderful meal, and we'll do all we can to make your flight enjoyable. However, I need to tell you - we have no destination. That's right; we're just going to keep flying until we run out of fuel and drop into the ocean." No matter how wonderful the journal is, what's the point, if there's no destination? The Bible says...(I Cor. 15:19). Thank God there's more! It's called heaven, and it's 'better by far' than anything you've ever known in this life.

If you're wondering what we'll do there, the Bible says we'll serve the Lord forever (Rev. 22:3). You won't be issued a harp, a halo, a long woolly suit and be assigned to a cloud to sit and strum for all eternity. No, you'll serve the Lord in a thousand different capacities. Think of it; no mid-life crisis, no downsizing, and no burnout. On earth we fail, we get tired, we get frustrated, and our motives are often mixed. But not there! Can you imagine serving the one you love perfectly, doing the thing you enjoy pre-eminently, and doing it in a body that's forever energized? That's heaven! But the ultimate bliss will be seeing Jesus face to face. Listen...(Psa. 17:15). It's going to be wonderful; are you going?
[by Bob Gass]

GROWING PAINS
(James 1:3-4).
Don't give up! You're closer than you think to becoming the person God wants you to be. You will make it through this, and come out stronger. By God's grace you can do the thing you've always been afraid you couldn't do. The prison bars you're beating against are only in your mind; you put them up, but God will give you the strength and the wisdom to take them down. He wants to set you free from the fearful attitudes that have held you back so long, and release you to live in your full potential.

You see, the right attitudes can overcome every barrier. For example, "Love never fails..." (I Cor. 13:8). Why? Because it's not the slave of your emotions, or the victim of your circumstances - it's the servant of your will! That's right; love is a decision. Jesus said...(John 15:12). Now, if He commands it - then He'll enable you to do it!

Beginning is always the hardest part. After the first step, it gets easier. But look out! Your old attitudes will try to negotiate a new deal and come back in strength. Resist them! Paul Harvey says, "You can always tell when you're on the road to success - it's uphill all the way." So be patient. It will take you time to get there, but anything that's worthwhile - is worth working for. Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

RECEIVING FROM GOD
(Mark 11:23).
If you want to receive anything from the Lord, do these three things. First, make up your mind! Reach for what God has promised you. Become tenacious. God always responds to a faith that perseveres and a mind that's made up (Gen. 32:26). As long as you're comfortable without it - you won't pursue it. In my life, it's usually been pain that has led to progress. How about you?

Next, visualise your victory. Before the building is started, the architect already has a picture of it. By faith Abraham 'saw' his children; he counted them every time he looked up at the stars (Gen. 15:5). Use your memory to replay past victories, and use your imagination to pre-play future ones. That's what David did before he slew Goliath. Look your giant squarely in the face today and declare, "You're coming down in the name of the Lord."

Third, speak to your situation. Jesus said...(Mark 11:23). Note Jesus used the word 'believe' once, but He referred to what we say - three times. Could that be because we already know so much about believing, but we need to hear a lot more about how to 'speak' to the situation? Don't talk about your mountain - talk to it! Line up what you say with God's Word. Make His opinion yours, and His Word yours, and the mountain will become your servant. It must, for Jesus has said so.
[by Bob Gass]

DO YOU HAVE A DREAM?
(Phili. 3:13).
Before you can set out on your life's journey, you need a road map. That's called your dream. For Moses, it was leading God's children to the Promised Land. For Florence Nightingale, it was bringing heating and hope to dying soldiers in Crimea. For Thomas Edison, it was illuminating the world. Anyone who's ever made a difference started with a dream, and eventually it became their life's obsession. Mine is to put God's Word into the hands of every person I can, during my lifetime!

You say, "How can I know my dream is of God?" Because it will always bless and benefit others. If your dream is to live in a castle and accumulate a fortune for yourself - don't count on God to go into business with you. And, furthermore, your dream is only worth what you're willing to pay for it. Inspiration without perspiration is only a daydream.

Forty percent of the people you meet have great ideas, but all they do is talk about them. Another forty percent work hard, and they'd be willing to give their all to a great dream, but they don't have one. The remaining 20 percent have a dream and the faith to make it come true. If you are part of that remarkable 20 percent, there are no guarantees that you'll succeed - but you've got a good chance - better than 80 percent of your friends. Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

THE KEY IS PERSEVERANCE
(Psa. 57:7).
James says...(James 1:12). A great illustration of this is the life of Abraham Lincoln. It reads like the biography of a failure. He had less than one year of formal schooling and failed miserably in business in 1831. He was defeated for the Legislature the following year. He failed again in business a year later. His fiancee died in 1835. He was defeated for Speaker of the House in 1838. He married into what historians call 'a living misery' in 1842. Only one of his four sons lived past the age of 18. He was defeated again for Congress in 1843, was elected to Congress in 1846, was defeated for Congress in 1848, was defeated for the Senate in 1855, was defeated for Vice President in 1856, was defeated for the Senate in 1858, and became one of America's greatest presidents in 1860. The road to victory is often through multiple defeats.

Without pain and problems, what real joy is there in progress? If it costs nothing, it means nothing. Learning to overcome adversity and failure is an inevitable part of achieving success. The key is - perseverance. That's why David cried...(Psa. 57:7). Ask God today to give you a mind that's made up and a heart that's fixed - He'll do it!
[by Bob Gass]

GOD WILL RESTORE YOU
(Isa. 57:18).
Recently one of our readers wrote and asked, "If I'm suffering because of my own mistakes, do I still have the right to expect God to bless and use me?" I replied, "Yes! God's grace is not based on your character; it's based on His." After David sinned and repented, two things happened. First, God restored him, and second, he had to deal with His consequences.

God will forgive you, for the Bible says He's always "ready to pardon" (Neh. 9:17). But sometimes the journey back can take longer and require real patience and commitment. Don't be discouraged. Once you've been restored, you'll be wiser and more compassionate, and those are the qualities God can use. Today's generation responds well to the honesty of those who've been through the fire and come back to say...(Dan. 3:17). It was after Jonah hit bottom that he was chastened, cleansed, and called again - this time, he succeeded!

I'm not a great golfer, but I can tell you this: The most important shot in the game is the next one. The sooner you can forget your last 'slice' and get your mind on the next green, the sooner you'll turn your defeat into victory. Child of God, your heavenly Father is not finished blessing you. He wants to restore you and then restart you. Please give Him a chance!
[by Bob Gass]

ALL THE WAY!
(II Cor. 3:18).
We all enjoy the blessings of change; what we hate is the process. First we form our habits; then our habits form us. Before we know it, we see the world only from our perspective. When that happens, we begin to stagnate. Sound familiar? Without change, there's no growth. But if you have the right attitude, every change, whether positive or negative, will be a growing experience. It's up to you!

Consider this: Trees need more than one season to produce fruit. Rainy seasons are growing seasons, too, and they always come before harvest. You don't have to like the rain; you just have to understand its purpose.

Now the Bible says we're all being changed into His likeness (II Cor. 3:18). But to be like Jesus, you have to follow wherever He leads. That means following Him through the wilderness of temptation, the pain of rejection, the forfeiting of your reputation, the complete surrender of your will to God, and finally to the place of crucifixion. There's no other way! To walk with Him means you'll be in a different place tomorrow than you are today. The question is: Are you willing to follow Him all the way? Take a moment and consider your answer, for it will determine your destiny.
[by Bob Gass]

KEEP PRESSING ON!
(Psa. 107:9).
Successful people are usually just hungrier and thirstier. What we desired, they pursued. Napoleon was born in poverty. In school his friends made fun of him, but he devoted himself to his books, excelled in his studies, and eventually became the brightest student in the school. Before he was through, he conquered the world!

If a seedling tree has to fight its way up through stones and hard soil to get to sunlight and air, and then wrestle with the storm and the frost to survive, you can be sure of one thing - its root system will be strong, and its timber will be valuable. It's impossible to succeed without going through adversity. If you're successful and haven't experienced it, you can be sure that someone else has experienced it for you. If you're experiencing it without succeeding, there's a good chance somebody else will succeed one day because of you. Either way, there's no success without endurance.

The true test of your character is seeing what it takes to stop you! Dr. G. Campbell Morgan tells of a man whose shop had been burned in the great Chicago fire. He arrived at the ruins the next morning carrying a table. He set it up in the ruins, and put a big sign above it that read, "Everything lost except wife, children and hope - business will resume as usual tomorrow morning!" Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

GOING BEYOND THE BARRIERS
(Jer. 1:7-8).
At a coastal aquarium in Florida, a big barracuda tried to attack a mackerel, but it was stopped by a glass barrier that separated them. After bumping his nose into it repeatedly, he finally quit trying. Later, when the barrier was removed, the barracuda would swim to the point where the barrier had been - but no farther. To him, that barrier was still there. Are you like that? Do you have imaginary barriers in your mind that say "so far and no farther?"

When God called Jeremiah, he told the Lord that he was too young, he wasn't qualified, and he couldn't do the job. Immediately God said, "Don't say that..." (Jer. 1:7). There are certain things you've got to stop saying if you're ever going to break through your mental barriers and self-imposed limitations. What God said to Jeremiah, He's also saying to you...(Jer. 1:7).

God wants to change your conditioned response patterns and false belief systems. Instead of seeing what you expect, He wants you to see what's possible. Instead of thinking the worst, He wants you to look for the best, for that's what He has in mind for you today.
[by Bob Gass]

THROUGH THE WILDERNESS
(II Kings 3:8).
The only way into the Promised Land - is through the wilderness. T.D. Jakes calls it 'God's killing field.' He says, "That's where the things that cause us to stumble in our walk with God are permitted to die; where God weeds out those who want only a momentary, superficial relationship with Him, from those who want their lives to really count. It's where you learn to stand and to cast all your cares on Him (I Pet. 5:7). It's where God says, 'I finally have you where I want you."'

Sometimes He'll lead you there abruptly, especially if He's been trying to get your attention or talk to you about the call He's placed on your life, but you haven't had time to listen. Suddenly you find yourself in the wilderness, and you realise that God is the only One who can get you through this.

Here He permits you to be stripped of pride, so that you can be clothed with humility; stripped of self-sufficiency, so that you can be brought to the place of total dependence on Him. If you're there today, don't think that God's punishing you, or that He's forsaken you. No, He's simply allowing some things in you to die, so that other things can be born and grow into life and fruitfulness. You'll get through this, and by God's grace you'll reach your destiny. The truth is - there is no other way to the Promised Land.
[by Bob Gass]

TELL SOMEBODY TODAY
(Luke 5:31).
One day the Pharisees asked Jesus...(Luke 5:30). What contempt, and from those who should have had compassion. The answer was - because He loved them! Look how He dealt with the woman at the well (John 4). First, He broke the rules. Jews didn't mix with Gentiles, and they certainly didn't associate with 'her kind.' (She'd been divorced five times.) But Jesus did. He walked 36 miles to meet her. He had to go into her world to bring her back into His. He mixed with her, not to take advantage of her, or even to become like her, but to reach her. That's why they called Him a friend of sinners (Matt. 11:19). Can they call you that?

Next, He broke the ice. Notice: He started talking about what she was interested in - water. Start where people are, and for goodness' sake, use words they understand. Get over your fear of rejection. You may be offended if they say no, but think of what they'll lose if they never have a chance to say yes.

Finally, He broke the news! He offered her 'living water' (John 4:10). How can you say you love someone, and not tell them about the greatest thing you've ever found? Everybody you meet is either hung up on the past, anxious over the future, or in need of a real friend. Once you find which door they're behind, walk through it. They're thirsty for what you've found, so give it to them today.
[by Bob Gass]

A WORD FOR SINGLE PARENTS
(Gen. 21:18).
Look at Hagar and her baby, and you'll see how God ministers to single parents. Although Abraham was the father, he sent Hagar away without any child support. She's so typical of those who walk through the wilderness of past mistakes, public embarrassment, and the fear of starting over. We read...(Gen. 21:15). Look, she's doing to the child what was done to her - throwing him away! Are you doing that? Screaming at your children because somebody screamed at you? It's so hard to give what we didn't receive ourselves. Hurting parent, don't throw your child away! Don't give them to gangs, or drugs, or television. I know you're tired and lonely, but if you'll let Him, Jesus will strengthen and comfort you - so that you can 'be there' for your child.

When Hagar prayed, God said to her...(Gen. 21:18). Did you hear that? God's got great plans for your child, so lift him up; encourage him. The potter never presses down on the clay; he always raises it up. Then God said to her, "Hold him!" Without hugs and holding, our children will be dwarfed in their spiritual and mental well being. Today, allow the God who made Hagar's child 'great' to do the same for yours, too - invite Him into your life now!
[by Bob Gass]

BREATHE ON ME, BREATH OF GOD
(Eze. 37:9-10).
Look at Adam; he was perfectly formed, but he had no life. He 'had it all together,' but he wasn't going anywhere until the Spirit of God breathed into him. When that happened, he woke up and took control of his life, started walking with God, and became productive.

Whatever it was that God breathed into him that day - you need it, too!

Look at Ezekiel's valley of dry bones (Eze. 37). They were dead, dry, and disconnected. But when God breathed into them, they suddenly became a force to be reckoned with. Notice where the Spirit of God came from - "the four winds" (Eze. 37:9). There's no place on earth that God cannot find you and fill you - if you're available. The question is, are you?

When the Spirit of God came that day, broken things were mended, and dead things were brought back to life. And He can do the same for you, too! Notice also, there was "a great shaking" (Eze. 37:7). Before God uses you, He'll 'shake up' your comfort zones, your proven methods, and your cherished traditions. Your present condition is no problem to Him, for He already sees your future. Just get into His presence today and cry, "Breathe on me, breath of God." When He does it, you'll never be the same again.
[by Bob Gass]

POSITIONING FOR BLESSING
(Gen. 2:5).
T.D. Jakes says, "When the right person gets into the right place - the blessings always come. Up to this time, God had caused the dew to water the earth each morning, but there had been no downpour from the heavens. Why? Because there was '...not a man to till the ground.' Child of God, there are some things God has planned to do, and longs to do, but He can't - until you get into the place where you can receive them. The blessing is there - in God's safekeeping, The need is here - persistent in its pain. But the blessing won't be applied to the need until you get into the right place!"

God works according to fixed laws: to reap a harvest, you've got to sow seed (II Cor. 9:6). Think of what that means to your finances! To receive gracious treatment from others, you must first give it (Eph. 6:8).

At this moment, you may be experiencing a mist, but you long for more, and you know there's more. Instead of blaming the past, or your family, or your job, or something else, start asking yourself, "Is God waiting for me to get into the right place, so that He can pour out His blessings?" When you're there, He'll open the heavens and cause it to rain on you. You'll experience such an outpouring that you won't have room enough to contain it (Mal. 3:10). That's the word for you today.
[by Bob Gass]

'NO-LIMIT' PEOPLE
(Mark 9:23).
No-limit people refuse to accept the accepted, just because it's accepted. Their response to limiting conditions is "why not?" instead of "OK." Sure they have human frailties, but the difference is, they're determined to walk by faith to the very edge of their potential. When they get there, they know that God will either put solid rock under them - or He'll teach them to fly! They've tapped into the unlimited power of God.

Listen...(Heb. 11:33-34). You say, "How did they do it?" The answer is, they grew into it and they did it 'by faith.' Real faith that says, "I am what God's Word says I am, and I can do what God's Word says I can do."

George Sweeting tells of a Scottish foreman who worked hard and demanded the same from his men. One day, one of them said to him, "Jock don't you know that Rome wasn't built in a day?" He replied, "Aye - but I wasn't the foreman on that job!" Today, ask God to help you overcome your fear, and then step out in faith - and follow Him - for your future depends on it.
[by Bob Gass]

KEEP YOUR INNER VISION CLEAR
(Acts 24:16).
In My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers wrote, "Conscience is that ability within me that attaches itself to the highest standard I know, and then continually reminds me of what that standard demands. If I am in the habit of always holding it in front of me, conscience will always indicate what I should do. The question is, will I obey? God always instructs us down to the last detail. He does not speak with a voice like thunder - His voice is so gentle that it's easy for us to ignore.

"The only thing that keeps our conscience sensitive to Him is the habit of being open to God on the inside. When you begin to debate, stop immediately. Don't ask, 'Why can't I do this?' You're on the wrong track! There is no debating possible, once your conscience speaks.

Whatever it is, drop it, and see that you keep your inner vision clear."

Paul said...(Acts 24:16). You may say, "Why make such a big deal about your conscience?" Listen...(I John 3:21-22). Can you think of a more important reason?
[by Bob Gass]

THE DANGER OF IMPATIENCE
(Mark 4:5-6).
Ask God to keep you in His perfect timing - not one step ahead, and not one step behind. If you're asking, "When is my due season?" (Gal. 6:9), it's when God knows you're ready, when everybody else involved is ready, and when it fits into His overall plan. You see, God has a personal plan for you, but He also has an eternal purpose, and your personal plan must fit into His eternal purpose.

The trouble is, we don't hang around long enough to see the finish of great things, because great things take time; if it is thrown together quickly, it's not likely to last. Sometimes we see 'shooting stars' - people who come out of nowhere and immediately they're well known. But usually they don't last. They fail financially, or morally, because character is built during the hard times of waiting. Without that, you'll have no root system, and you'll wither because you can't handle the pressure.

When you learn to respect and appreciate the times of waiting, then God will go to work in earnest in your life. Even though you cannot see what's happening, the thing that will bring you the most fulfillment is happening right now - behind the scenes. David said...(Psa. 31:14-15). Think about it, for that's the word for you today.
[by Bob Gass]

GET IN OR GET OUT!
(Psa. 69:9).
Walter Haley, one of the world's greatest insurance salesmen, had a rocky start. Doors closed, quotas weren't met, discouragement set in, and he wondered, "Am I going to make it?" One day he told his boss, "I'm quitting!" The boss said, "You can't." Walter said, "Oh, yes, I can." Again the boss said, "You can't." Finally, Walter got hot under the collar and said, "Well, I am quitting." At that moment, the boss said something that changed the rest of Walter Haley's life. He said, "Son, you can't get out of the insurance business, because you never really got in to it."

Whatever you're doing today, if you can't get into it - get out of it! Find something you can give your best to. The key to willpower is want power. You have to want it enough to get up earlier, stay up later, and do whatever it takes. Failures want what successes have, but they don't want to pay what successes paid to get it.

When Albert Schweitzer was 30, he decided to study medicine and go to Africa as a missionary. Everybody thought he'd lost his mind. He was already a renowned musician, philosopher, and theologian. Why would he enter medical school as a beginner, then bury himself in a jungle? Because Schweitzer had heard from God! Listen to his reply: "I can do it - and I must do it!" Today, look deep within yourself and ask, "What is it that I can do, and that I must do?" When you find the answer - you'll find your destiny.
[by Bob Gass]

GOD'S FAVOUR
(Psa. 41:11).
The last thing the enemy wants you to know is that the favour of God is upon you. Think about that! He'll convince you that it's hard work or 'right connections' - anything but God! He knows that if he can keep you from seeing God's favour in your past, you won't look for it in your future and you'll miss out.

After 400 years of slavery, the favour of God caused the children of Israel to leave Egypt with the wealth of their oppressors (Exo. 12:36). Listen again...(Esth. 2:15). One day, a condemned slave; next day, queen of all the land. That's God's favour!

Next time somebody says to you "I've got more troubles than Job," tell them to read the story again. Job finished up with twice as much as he had before. He said...(Job 10:12). Get ready! God's going to visit you with His favour.

Joseph's brothers resented the favour God had given him. How ironic; others see it, but we don't see it ourselves! Ask God to open your eyes; refuse to walk in ignorance; begin to raise Him for the favour that He's shown to you, for there's more of it coming your way.
[by Bob Gass]

YOUR FUTURE DEPENDS ON IT
(Luke 6:38).
Dr. Mike Murdock says, "Your financial future is determined by three things: what you spend, what you save, and what you sow." The Bible teaches that consecutive sowing guarantees consecutive reaping (II Cor. 9:6-11). Your future starts with whatever you have in your hand right now. Nothing is too little to multiply. Every one of us has received something from God that's capable of reproducing. The secret is - putting it into God's hands.

God says He wants you to succeed (Josh. 1:8). Believe Him! He wants you to have enough to fulfil His will for your life. Listen...(Isa. 48:17). Jesus taught fishermen how to fish more profitably (Luke 5:1-11). He taught His disciples where to find the money to pay their taxes (Matt. 17:27). He also taught them that giving - not withholding - is the way to multiply what's been given to you (Luke 6:38). Sometimes your seed is your only way out of trouble, but you have to sow it!

Here are the facts: Jesus showed people where money could be found. When they failed, He motivated them to get up and try again using new methods. He focused them on God as their source. He encouraged them to expect a harvest from everything they sowed.

Child of God, if you haven't been sowing as you should, ask the Lord to show you what to do, and then start doing it today.
[by Bob Gass]

THE HEART-OPENER
(Acts 16:14).
We permit pain to hide behind money because we believe that success cures everything. We minister to the homeless, but not to the wealthy; yet you don't have to be poor to be broken. There are a lot of people sitting in hot tubs contemplating suicide. They're stressed and empty, hurting and vulnerable. It cost them so much to get what they have that they've nothing left to maintain it! T.D. Jakes says, "Pain doesn't just push a broom; it drives a Porsche. Remember that, the next time you're tempted to worship success, accomplishment, wealth, or influence."

If you'd looked at Lydia's wealth and not recognised her inward poverty, she'd have died without meeting Jesus. That's why Paul says...(Acts 26:22). Reaching a successful person can actually be easier, because to be successful, they must stay open to new ideas and not be afraid of change. Think about that the next time you meet one.

When God opened Lydia's heart, He filled an emptiness that success and status couldn't fill. He showed her that she had been prospered for a purpose - to bless others. He also showed her that her family had a spiritual need that she could never meet, for when you have everything but Jesus, you've missed the most important thing of all. Today, the God who opened Lydia's heart wants to open yours, too. Will you let Him?
[by Bob Gass]

AFTER YOUR BATHSHEBAGATE
(Prov. 1:1).
Dr. Gerald Mann writes, "Moralisers are faithful to remind us that King David's life was all downhill after Bathshebagate. They list the litany of his woes: The baby of the illicit union died. He never recovered his moral stature with the people. His sons fought over succession, and one of them was beheaded for trying to dethrone him. Finally, God deprived him of his grandest dream - of building the Temple - too much blood on his hands! But take another look at the story.

The opening words of the book of Proverbs forever silences such sanctimony, for we read...(Prov. 1:1). Solomon, the fountain of God's wisdom, sprang from two people who had adulterated their person and privilege. For all of David's heroic feats: giant-killing, kingdom-consolidating, hymn-writing, his single greatest achievement was the son of his old age. Solomon is a monument of contradiction to all the naysaying moralists of the ages.

Where else did Solomon get his insight, far-sight, and foresight, but at the knees of two broken souls who had been mended by the fires of forgiveness and the grace of a second chance? Oh, but you can begin again after your Bathshebagate!
[by Bob Gass]

ROOTS AND WINGS
(Prov. 22:6).
Hodding Carter wrote, "There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children. One is roots; the other is wings." A child who knows he's loved unconditionally is a child with roots; he'll stand in the storms of life. On the other hand, give him self-worth and teach him to dream, and you'll give him wings. If you give your child the will to win, he's already halfway to success. But if you let him grow up without it, he's already halfway to failure.

Parent, you must have faith in your children before they can have faith in themselves. Every child has within him a seed of greatness. When you let them know that you believe in them, you're watering that seed and giving it a chance to grow. Have you ever noticed how people rise or fall to the level of your expectation? If you constantly criticise your children, they'll grow up to be negative and fearful. But if you believe in them and expect them to do well, they'll go the extra mile trying to do their best. It's your faith that creates the atmosphere in which they learn to fly!

Give them money, and they'll spend it. Give them resources, and they'll soon squander them. But give them your faith, trust, and confidence, and they'll excel. Today, ask God to help you give your children roots and wings.
[by Bob Gass]

STARTING AGAIN
(Psa. 147:3).
Are you trying to recover from a broken relationship? If so, don't rush into another one. Take your time; unhealthy people make unhealthy choices. Some wounds take longer to heal than others, but the Bible says...(Psa. 147:3). Give Him a chance. Begin by taking time to search His Word and find out how He feels about you. That's the true basis of all self-worth. If a perfect God can love and accept you with full knowledge of all your imperfections, then the message to you is 'lighten up on yourself!' You can love and be loved again, but only with the same wholeness that you love yourself with (Matt. 22:39). Next time make sure your choices are healthy ones: not predicated on need or the fear of being alone.

And be careful; when you don't value yourself, you tend to attract people who support that devalued image, including those who seek to control you or belittle you. You deserve better, so hold out for it. Remember, you train others to treat you by how you treat yourself. As you become healthier, you'll see how unhealthy some of your choices have been. If others walk away, say, "So be it." You've got to give up less if you want God to give you more. He's got wonderful relationships for you, but He's waiting until your values, your perceptions, and your self-worth line up with His. So take it step by step, one day at a time. And don't forget to rejoice, for your best days are still ahead of you.
[by Bob Gass]

THE POWER OF HABIT
(Luke 4:16).
Consider these words carefully: "I am your constant companion. I am your greatest helper or your heaviest burden. I will push you onwards, or drag you down to failure. I am completely at your command. Half the things you do, you might as well turn over to me, and I'll do them quickly and correctly. I'm easily managed, but you must be firm with me. Show me exactly how you want something done, and, after a few lessons, I'll do it automatically. I'm the servant of all great men, and, alas, of all failures as well. Those who are great, I have made great. Those who are failures, I have made failures. I work with the precision of a scientist and the passion of a patriot. You may run me for profit, or run me for ruin; it makes no difference to me. Take me, train me, be firm with me, and I will put the world at your feet. But be easy with me, and I'll destroy you. Who am I? I am habit!"

If you want to change your life, start by changing your habits. That may mean changing what you eat, how early you go to bed and get up, what you read or watch on TV, and even what you say. Samson could be seduced, but Joseph couldn't. Why? Because their values and their habits were different. Jesus was not led by his 'feelings;' He was directed by His Father's voice and by His daily habits. If you want to be like Him, take a fresh look at the habits that govern your life and do something about them!
[by Bob Gass]

THE POWER OF A GOAL
(Phili. 3:14).
Fifty percent of the people you know don't know where they're going. Another 40 percent will go in any direction they're led. The remaining 10 percent know where they'd like to go, but fewer than half of them will ever pay the price to get there.

One day Oliver Wendell Holmes lost his train ticket. As he searched for it, obviously irritated, the conductor told him, "It's OK, Your Honour; just mail it in. We all know you and trust you." Holmes replied, "Sir, I'm not worried about finding my ticket. I just want to know where I'm going!"

You may smile, but goals are what make it possible for you to know where you're going. Jesus could endure the shame of the cross, because He saw the resurrection and a church that would change the world. Moses could give up the comforts of a palace, because he saw the Promised Land. J.C. Penney said, "Give me a stock clerk with a goal, and I'll give you a man who'll make history. On the other hand, give me a man without a goal, and I'll give you a stock clerk." You see, while you work on your goals, your goals are working on you, and what you get by reaching them is not nearly as important as what you become on the way!

What are your goals today? Are they clear enough to write down? Short enough to fit into a paragraph? Strong enough to help you persevere? Valuable enough to make you pay the price? If they are, you'll see them fulfilled!
[by Bob Gass]

DOING WHAT'S RIGHT
(II Cor. 8:21).
Do people have to wonder about your motives? I once saw a cartoon where some hogs were feeding, and the farmer was filling their trough to the brim. Behind them a big sign read: "Premium Bacon Company." In the cartoon, one hog says to the others, "Have you ever wondered why the farmer is being so good to us?"

Paul defines integrity in these words...(Rom. 12:10). Integrity always seeks the good of others, and believes that if something is not good for both sides, it's not good for either. Do you live like that? Listen to Solomon...(Prov. 22:16).

If you want to check the quality of your integrity, answer these questions: How transparent am I with others? How well do I treat people from whom I can gain nothing? Do I play different roles depending on who I'm with? Do I put others ahead of my own personal agenda? Do I love people and use things, or love things and use people? Do I make difficult decisions, even when it costs me personally? When I have something to say about a person, do I talk to them, or do I talk about them? Am I accountable to anybody other than myself for what I say and do? These are some of the most important questions you'll ever answer, so take some time and consider them prayerfully today. You may succeed momentarily because of what you know or do, but you'll only succeed permanently because of what you are.
[by Bob Gass]

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN
(I Cor. 3:9-11).
A child without values is at the mercy of everybody else's. That's why Paul says...(I Cor. 3:9-11). When their adult role models let them down, point your children to Jesus. Tell them how He handled life, and what He had to say about the problems they'll face. He said...(John 18:37). Teach them that they, too, were born for a special purpose and if they'll just walk with the Lord, He'll reveal it to them. That's success; anything less is failure, regardless of how rich or famous it makes them.

Peer pressure couldn't exist for a minute if our children were taught to hold their own values and respect their own opinions. Having others exercise too much influence over them is downright dangerous! Don't just teach - solicit their opinions and respect them. Your house is where they get to practice expressing how they feel. If you've laid the foundations right, you've nothing to fear; just guide them in forming the right opinions. If you don't, they'll never learn to think for themselves, or face life with confidence. Listen again...(Deut. 6:6-7). There you have it; the job's yours. Now, get on with it, and God will help you!
[by Bob Gass]

BLESS YOUR CHILDREN - 'BE THERE'!
(Gen. 48:9).
I think I missed my father long before he ever passed away, because in my memories he was hardly ever there. Making a living in Belfast in the 50s, where the average worker earned about $30 a week, wasn't easy. I understand that now, but at the time, I needed some things that only he could give me. I thought then that he didn't want to be bothered. Now that I've had children of my own, I know better. He gave me what he had - which was more than anybody ever gave him.

Looking back, I'm convinced that one of the greatest things we can give to our children is - attention. It's like salt; it brings out the flavour of the man in the boy, and the woman in the girl. You see, our children really don't care much about budgets, deadlines, and inventories - they just want us!

Periodically, we all need somebody to rattle our chains and keep us from evaporating into our jobs. If you happen to be married to 'a ghost parent', tell them they're being missed at the table, and at the recital, and at the argument over the car keys. Tell them that the memories that last a lifetime are being formed now. Jacob wanted to bless his children, and we should all want to do that, too. One of the greatest ways to do it is to be there for them. If that means rearranging some things, do it - you'll never regret it!
[by Bob Gass]

YOU CAN MAKE A COMEBACK
(Prov. 24:16).
Bob Hoover is one of America's greatest test pilots. He's wrestled out-of-control jets back to the ground, fought fires in mid-air, and crashed many times. In one crash he broke his back and almost died. But as soon as he recovered, he climbed back into the cockpit of another Super Sabre and soared into the heavens. When he was asked why, he responded in his Tennessee drawl, "You gotta get back into the cockpit of the bird that bit ya."

Bob Hoover knows that any fear you won't confront will ultimately control you, and what you fail to conquer will rule your life. Whether you crash in a plane, go bankrupt, find your marriage or your career falling apart, you have to make the same choice - allow the circumstances to paralyse you, or "get back into the cockpit of the bird that bit ya" and start over again!

Winners are just losers who got tired of losing; they decided to get up one time more than they were knocked down. The Bible is full of their stories. The prodigal came back from a hog pen (Luke 15). Joseph came back from prison (Gen. 41). Peter came back from a shameful denial (Mark 16:7). And by God's grace you can come back, too. Listen...(Psa. 37:23-24). Take His hand right now and let Him give you a new start.
[by Bob Gass]

A SEED OF KINDNESS
(Eph. 6:8).
One winter night, an old couple dashed into the lobby of a small Philadelphia hotel, hoping for a room. But the clerk said, "All the rooms are full." As they started to leave he said, "Would you be willing to sleep in my room? It's not a suite, but I think you'll be comfortable."

At first they were reluctant, but he insisted, "Don't worry, I can sleep in the office." So they accepted. The next morning when it was time to check out, the old gentleman said to the clerk "Thank you. You should be the manager of the best hotel in the country. Maybe some day I'll build one for you." The clerk was amused, smiled, and thanked him.

Two years later the clerk received a round-trip ticket to New York City, and a letter thanking him again for his kindness. The old couple were inviting him to come and visit them. Although he'd forgotten the incident, he decided to accept their offer.

When he arrived in New York City, they took him to the corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue. "That," said the elderly gentleman, pointing to a magnificent skyscraper, "is the hotel I have just built for you to manage." The clerk said, "You must be joking." "I can assure you I'm not," he said.

The old gentleman's name was William Waldorf Astor. The hotel was the original Waldorf-Astoria. The young clerk was George C. Bolt - its first manager. Don't forget to sow another seed of kindness today, for you can never tell what your harvest will be.
[by Bob Gass]

'THEY'
(Rom. 14:12).
Have you noticed how often 'they' decide what's important for us and what's not? For example: They say the chairman of the board is important, but the cleaning lady's not. What utter rubbish!

If you buy into that nonsense you'll become... inferior... insecure... resentful... and competitive. You'll also strive to become what 'they' approve of - and miss your true calling.

Or worse, you'll actually do what God has called you to do, but never get any joy or fulfillment from it because 'they' have planted so much self-doubt in your mind. Refuse to live that way another day!

It takes courage to be led by God's Spirit. It's not easy to break the mould in your family, or step outside the boundaries others have set for you. When you do, you'll face disapproval and rejection. Jesus did! When they said...(Matt. 13:55), they were really saying, "He should stay in His place!" Look out, they'll say that about you too!

Listen...(Rom. 14:12). In the end, you'll answer to God alone. In that day you'll discover that not only is it wrong to be judgmental; it's equally wrong to permit the opinions of others to control you and cause you to disobey - or miss - your destiny! Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

FEATHERS! FEATHERS! FEATHERS!
(Psa. 91:4).
My mother had an old friend back in Belfast named Beatrice. They had weekly prayer and Bible studies together in our home. This was during the worst days of the sectarian violence when many people couldn't get to church because there was no public transportation.

One of their favourite passages to study was Psa. 91:4).

One night when Beatrice was walking home from their Bible study she was attacked by a gang who tried to snatch her purse. As she struggled to keep them from getting it, she suddenly remembered Psa. 91 - but she couldn't remember the exact words. So she just stood on the pavement and shrieked, "Feathers! Feathers! Feathers!"

It worked! The gang thought she was mad, took to their heels and fled - without harming her or getting a penny of her money.

You may smile, but David said...(Psa. 119:11). Even if you can't recall the exact words, just keep the concept in your heart, and you'll be guided and guarded wherever you go. Remember the old hymn:

"Under His wings I'm safely abiding; though the night deepens and tempests are wild. Still I can trust Him, I know He will guide me; He has redeemed me, and I am His child."
[by Bob Gass]

"JUST SHAKE IT OFF AND STEP ON IT"
(Psa. 44:5).
Did you hear about the farmer whose mule fell into an abandoned well? Since there was no way to get him out, the farmer decided, sadly, that he'd have to bury him there. But the old mule had a different idea. Initially, when the shovels of dirt started landing on his back he became hysterical. But then this thought struck him: "Just shake it off and step on it." So he did; hour after hour as the dirt fell on him, he kept encouraging himself with the words, "Just shake it off and step on it! Just shake it off and step on it!"

No matter how painful the blows or how desperate the situation, he just kept on shaking it off and stepping on it, until finally, battered and exhausted, he stepped triumphantly over the wall and out of the well.

Life can either bless you or bury you; the difference is - having the right attitude toward it! Paul had it; listen...(Rom. 8:37). David had it too. Listen...(Psa. 44:5).

When they throw dirt on you - and they will - just shake it off and step on it! Use it as fertiliser and grow stronger! Listen...(II Sam. 10:12). Did you get that? If you do your part, God will do His. As long as you stay on the battlefield, He can give you victory. But if you quit, what more can He do for you? So stay in there!
[by Bob Gass]

HAVE YOUR "IT IS WRITTEN" READY!
(Matt. 4:7).
At some point you've got to 'own' God's Word as your word! If you keep paying lip service to certain ideas on Sunday, and contradicting them the rest of the week, you'll eventually give up. Why? Because you're fragmented. You're violating your own values! If you do that long enough, you'll get to where you won't be able to respect yourself or stand you own company!

When the devil attacked what he thought was a 'weak spot' in Jesus, the Master answered him three times with "It is written" (Matt. 4:1-11). What was the outcome? Listen...(Matt. 4:11). Try it! Have your "It is written" on the tip of your tongue when you find yourself under pressure.

For example, when someone provokes you, instead of saying things that aren't fit to print, say, [I will] be quick...(James 1:19-20).

Or when somebody hurts you, instead of taking the low road and retaliating, say, [I will] be kind...(Eph. 4:32).

The two-fold secret of victory today is:
(a) get into the Word and get the Word into you
(b) Learn to initiate your response to every situation out of your spirit - not out of your head! OK?
[by Bob Gass]

CHARLIE'S CHALLENGER
(I Pet. 5:8).
My sister Ruth has a cat named Charlie who loves to defend his turf. And he does pretty well at it, except for another cat named George. Early in the game George learned that all he had to do was show up in the yard, let out a bloodcurdling wail - and Charlie breaks the four-minute mile.

That's how your enemy works. Suddenly you find yourself in a state of near panic, because you're confronted by the voice of some old enemy. Now you're afraid of the next phone call, or what might come in the mail, or what's around the next corner. Like Elijah when he heard the voice of Jezebel, you run for the nearest cave and forget every victory God's ever given you.

But you don't have to run anymore. God's put an arsenal at your disposal. Listen...(Eph. 6:13-17). Did you get that? Faith is your shield, the Word is your sword, and the enemy has no defence against either.

I'm told that when a lion gets too old to hunt, it roars. While the young lions hide in the bushes on one side, the old lion roars from the other, and their terrified victim in the middle runs from the roar - right into the trap.

Today run to the roar! Stand up to the enemy and you'll discover he has no power over you, for Jesus said...(Luke 10:19).
[by Bob Gass]

DO YOU KNOW WHAT SEASON YOU'RE IN?
(Psa. 1:3).
You can only be fruitful in your 'season.' That's where blessing and success occur. You can't just do it whenever you want to; no, you have to do it in your 'appointed time.' When the right season comes, it's almost effortless for a tree to produce what's stored within.

There's fruit stored within you, but you can only produce it successfully if you understand the season you're in. Do you? There are different rules for each:

Spring is for training and discipline. That's when you begin to see God's purpose for your life, and submit to it. Summer is when you mature what spring has begun. Whatever you nurtured then, whether good or bad, will grow and multiply now. Autumn is when you no longer have the passion of youth, but the stately calm of the seasoned veteran. If you're wise you're working smarter, not harder. It's time for transition and preparation for the upcoming winter. Winter is when you assess your accomplishments, enjoy your assets, pass on your counsel, and take your bows. You have fought the good fight, kept the faith, and finished the course.

If you do it right, each season can be the best time of your life! Solomon says...(Eccl. 3:1). Find out which one you're in and enjoy it to the fullest!
[by Bob Gass]

LIVING BIBLES
(II Cor. 3:2).
Bill has wild hair, a T-shirt, torn jeans, and no shoes; it's his complete wardrobe for four years of college. Across the street from his campus is a very conservative church, and Bill decides to visit it.

In he walks, without shoes, wearing his usual get-up, complete with wild hair. The church is packed and he can't find a seat, so he walks down the aisle and sits on the carpet in front of the pulpit - something you just don't do in this church.

Within seconds everybody is uptight and the minister stops preaching. Suddenly an 80-year-old deacon with a courtly manner, a cane, and silver-grey hair, begins to walk slowly toward the newcomer. It takes a long time to reach him, and most of the congregation are sure they know what he's going to do when he gets there - and they don't blame him.

But what happens next stuns all of them and changes their church forever. To their amazement, when the old man reaches Bill, he drops his cane to the floor and with great difficulty lowers himself and sits down beside him - so that Bill won't be alone!

When the pastor regains control, he tells the hushed congregation, What I am about to preach, you will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget!"

Be careful how you live today - you may be the only sermon someone will ever hear!
[by Bob Gass]

YOU ARE SOMEBODY
(Gen. 1:31).
Before you were born - God saw you. He knew the specific purpose you were designed to fulfil, so He provided the gifts you'd need and the environment required to put it all together. Then He looked at you and said, "Very good."

It's important that you can say that too, because others will only treat you according to how you treat yourself if you don't like the way people respond to you, stop and ask yourself, "What's the message I'm sending out?" For people to treat you well, you've got to send out a message that says, "I'm somebody, because God made me somebody!"

We're talking about an inner strength that makes you attractive when you walk into a room, and causes others to say, "Who's that?" And they won't be asking because your appearance is stunning. No, they'll be asking because your character is magnetic and your presence has impact. This is not pride - it's just healthy self-esteem based on God's opinion of you. When you have it, it affects the way you...talk to others...sit in a classroom...apply for a job...perform the ministry God gave you...and even the way you pray. That's right; if you think you have no value, you'll pray with less confidence and conclude that the promises of God are for everybody but you! (I John 3:21).

Line up your opinion with God's! Appreciate who He made you to be. Develop what He gave you. Stop wishing you were somebody else. If two of us are identical, one of us is unnecessary. You are a unique blend of gifts and character. You have a special destiny on this earth. You are somebody - remember that today!
[by Bob Gass]

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF FEAR
(Psa. 27:1).
Look out; failure in your past can lead to fear in your future! Too many of us get stuck in the cycle of fear. Because we're afraid to deal with the problem...we don't gain experience...so we can't handle it the next time...therefore we remain stuck in the cycle. The longer we stay there, the harder it is to break out.

You say, "How do I break out of the cycle of fear?" The answer is, "Feel the fear and do it anyway!" You say, "Where do I find the strength?" David tells you...(Psa. 27:1). Are you convinced - really convinced - that God is on your side today?

Or are you waiting for motivation? If you are, forget it! Listen to these revealing words from a medical journal: "Motivation isn't going to strike you like lightning. It's not something that others can bestow or force on you. The whole idea of motivation is a trap. Forget motivation - just do it! Exercise, lose weight, test your blood sugar - or whatever. After you start doing it, the motivation will come."

Harvard psychologist Jerome Brutner says, "You are more likely to act yourself into feeling, than feel yourself into acting." So act!

Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must out-run the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It doesn't matter whether you're a lion or a gazelle; when the sun comes up - you'd better be running. Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

UNSHACKLED
(Gal. 5:13).
Life is too short to be an inmate in the prison of previous mistakes. Have you heard of that prison? Its jailers are called guilt and regret. If you let them, they'll hold you captive, torturing you with images of what you could have been, or should have been - if only you'd done this or that.

Don't be judge and jury at your own trial! Refuse to accept a life-sentence of misery and regret! There's only one judge, and He is forgiving. Listen...(Isa. 55:7). We used to sing, "His love hath no limit, His grace has no measure; His power no boundary known unto men. For out of His infinite riches in Jesus, He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again."

Decide today to live by the three R's - Repent; Rectify the situation if you can, and take Responsibility for your life. Once you've done that, close the book, enjoy the benefits of His forgiveness, and move beyond the guilt.

Know when things are dead. No amount of work will resuscitate a corpse. Sign the death certificate, bury the past, and move on.

That doesn't mean you're quitting - no, it just means you're conserving your strength for things that count; things you can do something about. Today God wants to set you free from the past - please let Him!
[by Bob Gass]

SMALL BEGINNINGS
(Zech. 4:10).
God's already determined what He wants to build in your life, and He's laying your foundations accordingly. Don't expect it to be easy; breaking up stubborn sod and removing old root systems never is. Furthermore, when it's laid, your foundation will neither be visible or attractive because it's not meant to be featured, it's meant to be built upon.

Many of God's masterpieces were developed in rough places. Look at Moses in the wilderness; no fancy finishing school for this boy. And Joseph? Stripped, beaten, and tossed into a pit - by his own family. Imagine the voices in his head: "What are you doing here, Joseph? I thought the dream said you were supposed to be in charge." You've got to learn how to overcome the voices in your head!

I remember my own early struggles. I felt like I was stuck in an elevator - afraid I'd spend the rest of my life between floors going nowhere. Yet it was concern over my future, plus a real fear of failure, that kept me on my knees. That's where I developed a prayer life. That's where I learned to depend on God (Prov. 3:5).

My first 30 years (including my mistakes) were spent laying the foundation for what I've been doing for the past seven years - writing this devotional. Did I have any idea then that I'd be doing this now? No, but God did! And it's the same with you! Listen...(Isa. 46:11). Be encouraged! God has great things in store for you!
[by Bob Gass]

FOLLOW YOUR DREAM.
(Gen. 42:9).
Your dream will keep you going when nothing else will! Joseph's dream sustained him in spite of...betrayal by his family...repeated attempts at seduction by Potiphar's wife...and false imprisonment. It carried him all the way to his destiny as ruler of Egypt. We're talking here about a God-given dream that leads to God-honouring results.

Listen...(Eph. 1:11). Do you hear that? God has a dream for you to fulfil; if you seek Him, He'll reveal it to you. When He does however, remember these three things:
(1) Dreams are specific - not general; personal - not public. God won't give somebody else your dream; He'll give it to you. And furthermore, if you share it with the wrong people, you'll get hurt, because they won't be able to handle it. Listen...(I Cor. 2:14).
(2) Dreams are usually outside the realm of the expected. Your dream will cause rational people to look at you in disbelief and say, "You've got to be kidding!" Before God does the miraculous, He may ask you to do the ridiculous. Are you ready for that?

Dreams are what separate leaders from followers. Those who dream are a minority; those who live by sight will always outnumber those who choose to live by faith. So remember today, follow your God-given dream!
[by Bob Gass]

RATIONAL THINKING, OR BIBLICAL THINKING?
(Isa. 55:8).
Just because you've always believed something, doesn't make it true! When God tells you to take off the old and put on the new (Col. 3:9-10), He's talking about exposing old ways of thinking. Why? Because sincerity won't protect you from the consequences of poor judgement!

Don't just be a rational thinker, become a Biblical thinker. Here are a few examples of rational thinking:
(1) "God's not doing anything about it, so I must." What's behind that? Fear and pride!! Paul says...(Eph. 1:11). God knows what He's doing; He's too good to do anything bad, and too wise to do anything foolish, so trust Him - and don't get ahead of Him!
(2) "The hurt will never go away until they apologise to me!" What if they never do? Forgiving is the key to inner healing and that key is in your hand, not theirs! (Mark 11:25). You can't take hold of your future until you let go of your past! Forgive them - let it go and move on!

"It runs in my family, so there's nothing I can do about it." Wrong! (II Cor. 5:17). The past ends with you, and the future begins with you. If God could give the children of Israel 400 years of 'back pay' that Pharaoh had stolen from them, then He can restore everything the enemy has taken from you, and your family before you. Today pray, "Lord line my thoughts up with Yours."
[by Bob Gass]

TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS
(Prov. 13:20).
If you're going to get the most out of your life, you've got to learn to recognise toxic relationships - and know how to walk away from them. Be more discerning about the company you keep! Sever any tie that strangles or limits you!

A toxic relationship is like a leg with gangrene; if you don't amputate it, the infection can cost you your life. Unless you have the wisdom and the courage to cut off what won't heal -you'll eventually end up losing a lot more.

Have you heard the story about the scorpion who asked the frog to carry him across the river because he couldn't swim?

The frog said, "If I carry you on my back you'll sting me." The scorpion replied, "If I did that, we'd both drown." The frog thought about it, found it convincing and told him to hop on. But when they were halfway across the river the scorpion stung him anyway. As they were both drowning the frog said in disbelief, "You promised you wouldn't; why did you sting me?" The scorpion replied, "I can't help it; it's my nature to sting!"

Today ask God to help you discern the 'toxic relationships' in your life and to give you the strength to disconnect from them. Your future depends on it!
[by Bob Gass]

THERE'S A REASON FOR THE STRUGGLE
(James 1:4).
One day a man found the cocoon of an emperor moth and took it home so that he could observe it coming out. Gradually a small opening appeared, and he watched as the moth struggled to force its body through. This went on for hours. Then suddenly it stopped making any progress; it seemed to have got as far as it could go.

Thinking he would help, the man took scissors and made the opening wider, and the moth emerged easily. But when it did, he noticed that it had a swollen body, shrivelled wings, and couldn't fly.

In that moment he suddenly understood that it was the struggle that caused the moth's body to grow and its wings to develop. Freedom and flight could come - only after struggle! That's how it works!

Are you struggling today? Are you wondering, "Why am I going through this?" Listen...(James 1:4).

God is more interested in your character than He is in your comfort. Overcoming obstacles is what will develop in you the faith you need to fulfil your God-given purpose. The truth is, it can't happen any other way!
[by Bob Gass]

GENTLENESS
(Gen. 33:14).
Francis Ridley Havergal writes concerning this story, "What a beautiful picture of Jacob's thoughtfulness for the cattle and the children! He would not allow them to be overdriven - even for one day. He would not lead on according to what a strong man like Esau would do, and expected them to do, but only according to what they were able to endure.

"He knew how far they could go in a day, and he made that his only consideration in arranging the marches. He had gone the same wilderness journey years before and knew all its roughness and heat and length from personal experience. And so he said...(Gen. 33:14). What a wonderful attitude. How Christlike!"

You can always choose to be gentle, no matter how busy or pressured you are! It's a choice!

In the midst of all your goal-setting and achieving, you'd do well to remember two things:
(1) Gentleness is a fruit of the Spirit. Without it you may be successful, but you'll never be truly spiritual.
(2) Gentleness is a Christlike quality that might just impress some people more than all your accomplishments put together!

Galileo said, "The sun with all those planets revolving around it and dependent on it, can still ripen a bunch of grapes, as if it had nothing else in the universe to do." Think about it!
[by Bob Gass]

LOOK WHO'S FOLLOWING YOU!
(II Tim. 1:5).
A mother writes: "It was a busy day in our house; but with six children, and one on the way, every day was a bit hectic. This particular day, however, I could get nothing done - because of Glen, our three-year-old. He was on my heels wherever I went. Every time I turned around, I'd trip over him. Several times I said, 'Wouldn't you like to go outside and play on the swing set?' But he just smiled and said, 'That's all right Mommy, I'd rather be herewith you.'"

"After stepping on his toes for the fifth time, I lost my patience and asked him why he was acting this way. That's when he looked up at me with those big, blue eyes and said, 'Well, Mummy, last week in Sunday School the teacher told me that we walk in Jesus' footsteps. But I can't see Him - so I'm just walking in yours.'

"I gathered him up into my arms as tears spilled over into a prayer of thanksgiving for a lesson I'll never forget; a lesson about - influence - taught to me by a three-year-old boy. Now listen to these words:

How careful then I ought to be; a little one now follows me.
I do not dare to go astray, for fear he'll go the self-same way.
I cannot once escape his eyes; for what he sees me do he tries.
He thinks that I am good and fine, believes in every word of mine.
I must remember as I go, through summer's sun or winter's snow;
I'm building for the years to be - the little one who follows me."
[by Bob Gass]

MAKE EVERY MOMENT COUNT!
(Eph. 1:11).
President Kennedy's epitaph reads: "John Fitzgerald Kennedy. 1917-1963." The first date records his entry, the second his exit. All that he accomplished is represented by the hyphen in the middle; just a gap between two appointments. In that regard, welfare recipients and White House occupants are equal.

So maximise your time! Esteem it as precious, for life is fragile and fleeting. When Jesus said...(Luke 12:15), He was simply saying that life is built on...purpose found...challenges met...opportunities seized...and the will of God accomplished. What else is there?

Don't reach the top of the ladder only to wish you had spent more time pursuing things that really matter. All the money markets in the world won't keep you warm in the winter of your life. In the end, all that matters is how you filled in the blank between eternity past and eternity future.

The most difficult questions in school were not the true-or-false questions. No, it was the fill-in-the-blank ones that stumped me every time. You say, "What's your point?" Simply this: if you don't know the right answer - you can't fill in the blank correctly, and if you can't do that, you die having missed the mark. Don't let that happen to you! (Eph. 1:11). Submit your life to Him today!
[by Bob Gass]

READY TO PARDON
(Neh. 9:17).
God is ready when you are! All you have to do is come to Him and ask for mercy. It doesn't matter how badly you've failed, He's just waiting to forgive you and to wipe the slate clean.

He won't put you on probation to see how well you perform. He won't ask you to do penance to prove yourself worthy of His love. No! There's nothing you can do to impress Him, or to earn His acceptance. Nothing! Just come as you are.

There's only one 'unpardonable sin.' That means whatever you may have done - is pardonable. Listen again...(Neh. 9:17).

Some years ago, a big American insurance company used the slogan "covered from the moment you call!" It meant that, whether you experienced sickness, accident, or death, all you had to do was pick up the phone and call, and they had you covered. And it's the same with God! The Bible says...(Acts 2:21). It's just that simple.

Jesus told of two men who went to church to pray. The first tried to impress God with his good works. The second simply bowed his head and said...(Luke 18:13). Just seven words, but they changed his life forever. Pray them today, and they'll

change yours too. Don't carry your guilt a step further. Come to God today - He's waiting to pardon and cleanse you.
[by Bob Gass]

DON'T LET LIFE STEAL YOUR SONG!
(Psa. 34:1).
Chuck Swindoll tells the great story of a parakeet named Chippie. The bird's problems began one day when the lady who owned him decided to clean the dirt and feathers out of

the bottom of his cage, using a vacuum cleaner. Suddenly the phone rang, she turned to pick it up, and, you guessed it, there was an awful sucking sound and - whoosh - Chippie was gone.

In a panic she turned off the vacuum cleaner, unzipped the bag, and there was Chippie stunned, but still breathing. Seeing he was covered in thick black dust, she rushed him to the bathtub where she turned on the cold water full blast, and held him under it. At that point she realised that she'd done even more damage, so she quickly cranked up the blow dryer and gave him a blast. Swindoll finished the story by saying, "Chippie doesn't sing much any more!"

Don't let life steal your song! There are people who have had it better than you and done worse; there are people who have had it worse than you and done better. The secret of enduring victory is found in the words of David, "His praise will always be on my lips."

Praise is not a 'church thing' - it's a lifestyle! It'll change your...approach to problems...your attitude toward people...and the atmosphere around you. David said...(Psa. 119:164). Go ahead, schedule it into your day and watch what happens!
[by Bob Gass]

IN GOD'S WAITING ROOM
(Psa. 31:15).
When you start to understand God's timing, you'll be better able to cooperate with His plan for your life. When you don't know, learn to wait with confidence on the One who does! If you're going to walk with Him, and enjoy it, start 'letting God be God.'

The problem most of us have is we attempt to take the lead role in our relationship with Him. And it doesn't work. He has that role, and He won't give it to us. He gives the instructions and we follow - even though we don't always like or understand the way He takes us.

Timing is an important issue here. Why does God sometimes take so long to do things? Because trust requires unanswered questions. Think about that! When you don't know, you have to trust the One who does, and that keeps you growing in faith.

God has a plan and a time, and while He's getting us ready, He keeps us - in His waiting room! Is that where you are today? If it is, remember, it's only as you reach new levels of maturity that He releases new levels of blessing into your life.

If you're in the habit of taking care of yourself - retire from self-care! God wants to take care of you! Let Him; He's faithful and you can depend on Him!

Today pray and say, "Lord, I know You love me and that Your plan and Your timing are perfect. So I rejoice and trust in You! Amen."
[by Bob Gass]

GOD, WHERE ARE YOU?
(Job 23:3).
When boils, bankruptcy, and bereavement hit Job's life, he went looking for God. Listen, "Oh that I knew where I might find Him!" Job knew that only in the presence of God will you find the answers you're looking for!

If you've been searching for God, be encouraged; your very search is an act of worship. That's right! When you seek Him it says you value Him; it also says you recognise that He can do for you what nobody else can.

Maybe you're asking today, "Where's the God who breathed into Ezekiel's valley of dry bones and caused them to live again? (see Eze. 37). Where's the potter who takes broken vessels and puts them back together again?" (see Isa. 64:8). The truth is, He's within touching distance...hearing distance...responding distance.

The issue is not that He's not present - it's that so often we don't see Him or sense His presence. His own disciples failed to recognise Him that stormy night on Galilee when He came to them walking on the water. That's the challenge, isn't it? We think "Is this really God, or is it just my imagination?" We're afraid we'll be disappointed - or embarrassed - if we trust Him. Jesus calmed their fears saying...(Mark 6:50). And today He's saying the same thing to you too!

Child of God, your deliverance will come when your mind can accept His timing...His ways...His purpose...and His promise which says...(Heb. 13:5). What more do you need?
[by Bob Gass]

MORE IS NOT NECESSARILY BETTER
(Luke 12:15).
Get rid of the idea that 'more is always better!' America has less than six percent of the world's population, but over 50 percent of the world's wealth. Now if more is better, we ought to be the happiest humans on the planet. But are we? You know better!

The desire to have more can become insatiable. As long as you believe 'more is better,' you'll never be satisfied, because you'll never live long enough to have it all. Think - when you get something or achieve something, do you take the time to enjoy it, or do you just move on to the next thing without stopping?

Immediately after the Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize in New York City, a reporter asked him, "What's next?" Can you believe it?

So what's the answer to covetousness? Two things:
(1) Develop a sense of gratitude for what you already have. We used to sing, "Count your blessings, name them two-by two, count your blessings, name them four by four, count your blessings, name them by the score, and it will surprise you there are millions more."
(2) When the 'more is better' feeling hits you, remind yourself that it doesn't work because the same mindset that wants more now, will want even more later.

Saint Augustine said it all when he said, "Our hearts will never rest, until they rest in Thee." There's your answer!
[by Bob Gass]

YOUR CROWN IS WAITING
(II Tim. 4:8).
Keep striving to fulfil the purpose for which God has called you! Never lose sight of your final destination! Don't forget that there are eternal rewards; they're referred to as 'crowns,' set aside for us! Here are five that you can win:

1. The imperishable crown - for those who daily bring their carnal nature under the Spirit's control (I Cor. 9:25).
2. The crown of exaltation - for those who win souls to Christ, and help to build them up in Him (I Thes. 2:19).
3. The crown of righteousness - for those who order their steps and walk in the light of Christ's return (II Tim. 4:8).
4. The crown of life - for those who overcome temptation because they've made Jesus Lord over every area of their lives (James 1:12).
5. The crown of glory - for those who've given their all to lead and feed and protect God's flock (I Pet. 5:1-4).

What a scene - all of God's servants before His throne. Are they strutting around heaven displaying their crowns? Are they competing for honour and recognition? No! They're bowing down in worship, casting their crowns at His feet, and giving honour to the only One deserving of it - Jesus! Live your life each day in the light of that moment!
[by Bob Gass]

THERE'S NOTHING TO FEAR!
(Isa. 41:10).
Are you feeling anxious and afraid today? Do things feel like they're out of control?
They may seem that way to you, but the truth is - God has everything under control !Listen...(Psa. 121:5-8; Matt. 6:31-34).
And if you need even more assurance, listen...(Isa. 43:1-3).
That's you He's speaking to! Believe Him! Trust Him! Lean on Him! He will not fail you!
[by Bob Gass]

WHEN DOORS ARE CLOSED
(Rev. 3:8).
The contract on your dream home just fell through. The promotion you were so sure of fizzled out at the last moment. The one person you 'knew' would fulfil all your dreams suddenly walked away. Slam! Slam! Slam! Doors you thought God had opened have suddenly become curtains of steel. And now you're asking, "Where's God in all of this? What's He doing? Why has He placed me in this dead-end street?"

Despite your disappointment remember this - God is still directing your steps! (Psa. 37:23). The path you are on will bring Him the ultimate glory and you the ultimate benefit. Sarah Utterbach says, "My steps - and my stops - are ordered by the Lord." Think about that.

But you say, "The house was just perfect...I really needed the money from that promotion...and there's nobody else I want." From your limited perspective, that may seem true. But understand, God alone can see into the future!

When your hopes seem to be crushed and the doors have slammed in your face, rely on His wisdom and unfailing love. He alone knows your end from your beginning (Isa. 46:10). Trust Him to work this out for you!

Give it a little more time, and your pain will turn to praise as you realise that He simply closed a lesser door in order to open a greater one!
[by Bob Gass]

SUCCESS HAPPENS A DAY AT A TIME
(Matt. 5:48).
Every day you live, you're in the process of - becoming. What you become depends on what you give yourself to. If you want to succeed, take a moment and consider these seven steps carefully:

(1) Make a commitment to grow daily and it won't be long before you begin to see real change. Robert Browning said, "Why stay on earth, except to grow?"
(2) Value the process more than the events. Certain events may be helpful in making your decision, but it's the process that matures you into what God wants you to be.
(3) Don't wait for inspiration. Sometimes you can run on excitement; but most times only discipline will carry you through.
(4) If you pay now, you'll enjoy greater rewards later; and those rewards always taste sweeter.
(5) Dream big. When you think of limitations you create them, but when you pursue your dreams you'll always go beyond them. Why? Because the God-given potential within you is limitless.
(6) Learn to master your time or you'll never succeed. Henry Kaiser said, "A minute spent in planning will save you two in execution." You can't get back lost time, so make the most of every moment.

Life is filled with critical moments when you'll trade one thing for another. Always trade up, not down! Your recognition and your rewards may come slowly at first, but don't lose heart - you'll succeed in the end - God has promised it!
[by Bob Gass]

GUARD YOUR THOUGHTS
(II Cor. 10:5).
We act out what we take in. We become what we think! Solomon said...(Prov. 23:7). The secret of living a life of excellence is to think thoughts of excellence (Phili. 1:10). That means constantly reprogramming your mind with the kind of information that will set you free - free to be all God wants you to be, free to soar!

Since your mind holds the secrets of soaring, it's the enemy's number one target. He knows that if he can control your thinking, he can control you; so watch your thoughts!

Remember, your mind was once enemy-held territory; it was his 'base of operation' until the light broke through. At that time the veil was lifted, and you were no longer blinded. At that point the enemy was de-throned and relieved of his command. But he doesn't give up easily. Oh no, he'll fight to the end to regain control of your thinking.

But God wants you to be free of his control. Totally free! He wants you to "take every thought captive." He plans to transform old thought-patterns that defeat you into new ones that build you up. In other words, He's reprogramming your mind, and the instrument He uses to do it is His Word.

Have you found it a struggle to read it, speak it, and live it? That's because the enemy's number one goal is to separate you from it. Never forget that! Listen...(Jer. 15:16). Start reading your Bible!
[by Bob Gass]

YOU'RE COMING OUT - BUT NOT EMPTY-HANDED!
(Exo. 3:21).
God said He'd give His people two things: favour with their enemies, and great blessing. And He did; when He brought them out of Egypt they had both! Child of God, your present trouble is only a classroom - a controlled environment - for God to work on your behalf. Look what He used to set His people free...flies...hailstones...and frogs! What a committee. There's nothing God can't do! He can be your doctor, your counsellor, your broker, your lawyer, and anything else you need!

Note: The frogs that invaded the homes of the Egyptians couldn't cross the property line of God's people. Why? Because the favour of God will protect you (Psa. 102:13)!

Think of the things that have come right up to you - but didn't touch you. That's because God's Word says...(Psa. 91:10). Your close call was just a 'set up' for Him to work on your behalf. That's why David said...(Psa. 107:2).

The same Pharaoh who said "no" to Moses for years, suddenly said "yes." How come? Timing! When the time is right, God will always move on your behalf!

So today start expecting favour from unexpected places; favour that moves mountains. Favour that opens doors. Favour that gives you access to things you otherwise wouldn't have. Listen again to this promise, "When ye go, ye shall not go empty." Now claim it by faith!
[by Bob Gass]

BE YOURSELF!
(II Cor. 10:12).
When you understand that God loves you unconditionally, two things will happen: First, you'll learn to accept yourself as you are, and second, you'll learn to accept others as they are too. Stop and ask yourself today, "How do I really feel about myself?" Before you answer, read the following ten things ... slowly and carefully: better yet, put them somewhere where you can read them daily.

(1) Never think or speak negatively about yourself, for that puts you in disagreement with God.
(2) Meditate on your strengths; learn to encourage yourself, for most of the time nobody else will.
(3) Never compare yourself with anyone else. You are unique, one-of-a-kind, an original. Don't settle for being a copy.
(4) Focus on your potential, not your limitations. Remember the "greater One" lives in you! (see I John 4:4)
(5) Find something you like to do, and are 'gifted' to do well, and do it over and over.
(6) Have the courage to be different; be a God-pleaser, not a people-pleaser.
(7) Learn to handle criticism; let it develop you instead of discouraging you.
(8) Determine your own worth - before others do it for you.
(9) Keep your flaws in perspective; you're still a work in progress.
(10) Focus daily on the one and only source of your confidence - God!

Work on your relationship with Him.
This year begin to think and speak good things about yourself, knowing that God loves you despite your weaknesses.
[by Bob Gass]

GET UP AND START AGAIN!
(Prov. 24:16).
Lloyd Ogilvie tells of an acquaintance who was a trapeze artist. Here's how he describes learning his trade: "It takes repeated falls to convince you that the net will hold you; but once you know that, you forget about failing and concentrate on learning. When that happens...you fall less...you risk more...and you learn more." What insight!

Don't be afraid of 'blowing it.' You can't succeed without going through failures. And even if you could, you'd have nothing to share with others that they could relate to.

In 1978, Bernie Marcus, the son of a poor Russian cabinetmaker in Newark got fired from his job at Handy Dan, a do-it-yourself hardware retailer. But instead of giving up, he teamed up with a friend and they started their own hardware business. Their first store was in Atlanta; it was called The Home Depot. Today he has about 1,000 stores, 175,000 employees, and $30 billion a year in sales. Now I doubt that Bernie Marcus enjoyed getting fired, but look what he'd have missed if he hadn't.

The Bible is filled with 'come-back' stories like...Jonah...Peter...David...Ruth...Mary Magdalene...and others. And they're there for a reason: to let you know that you can come back too!

In Hannah's great prayer she said...(I Sam. 2:4). Come on, try one more time! By God's grace, the next time can be the last time - the time when you break through!
[by Bob Gass]

THIS YEAR IS YOUR YEAR!
(James 5:11).
In 1954 the Milwaukee Braves and the Cincinnati Reds played each other on the opening day of major league baseball. Each team had a rookie making his first appearance. The rookie for the Reds hit four doubles and helped them to win. The rookie for the Braves didn't hit a single ball!

The Reds player was Jim Greengrass, a name few people have ever heard of. The other guy, the one who didn't get a single hit, might be more familiar to you. His name is Hank Aaron, and he went on to become the best home-run hitter in the history of the game.

Now if Aaron had been easily discouraged, he'd have given up after his first game. But he didn't; he learned from it, practiced harder, and decided to do better next time. That's what it takes to be a winner!

In The Psychology of Achievement, Brian Tracey tells of four people who made their fortunes by the age of 35. He writes, "They each tried an average of - 17 different things - before they found the one that took them to the top."

Imagine that! They tried and failed and changed - 16 times - before they found what worked for them. They used their failure as fertiliser and grew wiser through it. That's the key!

Listen...(James 1:12). So don't even think of quitting, for today is your day!
[by Bob Gass]

TRIM THE EXCESS
(Heb. 12:1).
Stop regularly and ask yourself "How will this course of action affect my life and my future?" Those who don't ask that question pay a high price. Their inability to trim the excess and get rid of the things that hinder cause them to wreck companies...destroy ministries...devastate children...collapse physically, morally, and spiritually...and keeps them from reaching their life's goals.

They pack in too much mess and empty out too few mistakes, and as a result, they're unable to complete their journey because their bags are too heavy.

In his book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey says, "It's incredibly easy to work harder at climbing the ladder of success, only to discover that it's leaning against the wrong wall. When we do that, we achieve victories that are empty and successes that come at the expense of things that are far more valuable. If the ladder is not leaning against the right wall - then every step we take just gets us to the wrong place faster. We may be very busy and very efficient, but we will only be truly effective when we begin with the end in mind!"

This year keep your eyes on your God-oven goal! Trim the excess and get rid of anything that keeps you from reaching it. Henry Ward Beecher said, "True strength and happiness consists in finding the way in which God is going - and going that way too." Think about it today!
[by Bob Gass]

WHEN IT'S HARD TO FORGIVE
(Mark 11:25).
Are you struggling to get over something? Are you having a hard time forgiving? If so, here's a prayer for you today.

"Lord, there's nothing harder than trying to forgive when you've been terribly wounded. And it's worse when the offenders show no remorse, and even seem to gloat over the pain they've brought into your life. That's where I am today, and I don't want to forgive.

"I know enough to understand that I must forgive - no matter what. You have given me no option; but I'm struggling with it.
"Help me to realise that unforgiveness can kill; it can destroy my friendships, my joy, my peace, my potential, and even my life.

"Today I choose to forgive those who have broken my heart and wounded me. For Your sake, I forgive. Thank You, Lord, for the strength to walk in love and forgiveness, especially when the memories return and the 'committee' in my head begins to speak. Thank You for the grace to forgive moment by moment, as You have forgiven me. Amen."
[by Bob Gass]

GET OUT OF THERE!
(Prov. 3:6).
Insanity is "doing the same thing over and over again, and hoping for different results." How many times are you going to keep going down the wrong road? Listen to this essay by Portia Nelson called, 'Autobiography in Five Short Chapters' - it's a real eye-opener.

Chapter One. I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I fall in. I am lost. I am helpless. It isn't my fault. It takes forever to get out.
Chapter Two. I walk down the street; there is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I pretend I don't see it. I fall in again. I can't believe I'm in the same place, but it isn't my fault. It still takes a long time to get out.
Chapter Three. I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it is there. I still fall in. It's a habit. But now my eyes are open. I know where I am. It is my fault. I get out immediately.
Chapter Four. I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk I walk around it.
Chapter Five. I walk down a different street.

Now listen to the words of Solomon...(Prov. 3:5-7). The word for you today is - get out of there before you get hurt!
[by Bob Gass]

IN BETWEEN
(Mark 4:35).
To get from where you are to where you are going, you have to be willing to be in between. It's hard to let go of what's familiar and stand with your hands empty while you wait for God to fill them; especially in these three areas:

1. Feelings. When you've been hurt, you can actually become comfortable with feelings of anger and resentment. And when you finally face them and decide to let them go, you can feel empty for a time; this is normal. You're in between pain and the peace that comes from forgiving and accepting. Hang in there; it will pass!
2. Relationships. When you let someone go, (even a bad relationship), it can be frightening, because now you're dealing with a sense of loss. Please don't rush into another relationship, half-dressed and ill-prepared. Wait. Talk to God. You need this time to become whole so you can make healthier choices.
3. Jobs, homes, or goals. You've let go of the old; but you're not sure yet whether you're ready to handle the new.

Listen...(Psa. 30:5). Joy is on the way! But until it gets here, you've got to hold steady and trust God to know what He's doing.

When Jesus said to His disciples, "Let us go over to the other side," the lessons they learned and the miracles they experienced in between changed them forever. And they'll change you too!
[by Bob Gass]

REMEMBER TO SCRAPE THE BOWL!
(Eccl. 5:20).
Listen...(Eccl. 5:18-20). Stop wishing your life away! Stop thinking "If only I had...a bigger house...a more understanding partner...a better-paying job...a beautiful body...a higher IQ...the ac