Here we are at January 2, 2011. All of the Christmas Decorations have been taken down and safely packed away for 11 months. Special treasures and presents are placed for use in our everyday lives.
But what about the special emotions and feelings most feel during the Christmas season? A time when most show love, compassion, generosity, and good manners towards family, friends and strangers. It was Elvis who sang...
Oh why can't every day be like Christmas
Why can't that feeling go on endlessly
For if everyday could be just like Christmas
What a wonderful world this would be...
But it is the King of Kings, Jesus, who said in Mark 12:30-32 (NIV)...
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.
So before you get caught up in the everyday rat-race, remember what Jesus taught. Love your neighbor as yourself—all the time, not just a Christmas.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Chinks in the Armor
As I was trying to fall asleep in my recliner last night, I began to rewind life's happenings. It was sad that the situations that I was recalling were negative. I was developing a case of the "mollygrubs" as Pastor Jack Grimm used to say. From illnesses to arguments to disappointments, each memory reflected a chink that I had received in my spiritual armor. Truly all the work of the evil one.
BUT, I then had the assurance that all the armor chinks were symbols of the spiritual battles I have been in and SURVIVED. God has and will continue to protect me as long as I have His armor on.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Now, after closer inspection of each armor chink, I can thank God that I am here. No worse off, more experienced and battle-ready. Do you feel like the "mollygrubs" got you today? Look at each situation in your life. Examine the chinks or scars in your armor. Thank God that you made it through.
BUT, I then had the assurance that all the armor chinks were symbols of the spiritual battles I have been in and SURVIVED. God has and will continue to protect me as long as I have His armor on.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Now, after closer inspection of each armor chink, I can thank God that I am here. No worse off, more experienced and battle-ready. Do you feel like the "mollygrubs" got you today? Look at each situation in your life. Examine the chinks or scars in your armor. Thank God that you made it through.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Don't Be A Crab
Praise God! The sand, surf, wildlife and seafood equaled an awesome, relaxing vacation for the Goodrow household. Visiting the Baltimore Aquarium’s unique and unusual (God has quite the sense of humor) marine animals and walking along the beach with the surf lapping at my feet made me feel so close to our Creator. Seeing and feeling His power truly overwhelmed me, but I was not frightened because He was and is in control.
As I was walking the beach one hot afternoon looking for shells, I came across many shellfish that had been entrees for the local seabirds. However, mixed up amongst a mass of seaweed was a whole crab, no larger that the palm of my hand. Thinking this would be a cool creature for the kids to explore I untangled and picked it up. However, I noticed that the crab wasn’t dead, just a little dried out and confused. So after a quick look-see by the family, I returned the crab to the ocean hoping that it would find its way back to safety.
Talk about a spiritual lesson. As I was untangling the crab from confines of the seaweed, I discovered that it wouldn’t let go of the seaweed. The crab was more content to have its claws and legs grasping onto the very trap that brought certain death. God took over from there. How often have I (we) clung onto something that I (we) know was not right for me (us), eventually bringing destruction. We know that God wants to reach down, pick us up, and return us to the safety He provides; but why is it so hard to let go? The unknown. The unknown of what God has planned for us can be scarier than the situation we have trapped ourselves in. But, as I learned from the past few months, I do know that God is in control of ALL circumstances in our lives, both good and bad. They all lead to the perfection of His will, even though we may not understand how.
Once I let the crab go in the ocean, I had to trust that it would go towards safety and prevent it from becoming entangled again in surroundings that would destroy it. So ask yourself, is there things I am entangled in that is leading me away from the protection and safety of God? How do I become untangled from the mess? Pray. Ask God for the wisdom and strength to “walk” away. Talk to your pastor (I hear he is a good guy.) or someone else you feel close to. As always, I am willing talk and share with anyone.
Remember, discover God’s love then live to give it away.
Garo Goodrow
As I was walking the beach one hot afternoon looking for shells, I came across many shellfish that had been entrees for the local seabirds. However, mixed up amongst a mass of seaweed was a whole crab, no larger that the palm of my hand. Thinking this would be a cool creature for the kids to explore I untangled and picked it up. However, I noticed that the crab wasn’t dead, just a little dried out and confused. So after a quick look-see by the family, I returned the crab to the ocean hoping that it would find its way back to safety.
Talk about a spiritual lesson. As I was untangling the crab from confines of the seaweed, I discovered that it wouldn’t let go of the seaweed. The crab was more content to have its claws and legs grasping onto the very trap that brought certain death. God took over from there. How often have I (we) clung onto something that I (we) know was not right for me (us), eventually bringing destruction. We know that God wants to reach down, pick us up, and return us to the safety He provides; but why is it so hard to let go? The unknown. The unknown of what God has planned for us can be scarier than the situation we have trapped ourselves in. But, as I learned from the past few months, I do know that God is in control of ALL circumstances in our lives, both good and bad. They all lead to the perfection of His will, even though we may not understand how.
Once I let the crab go in the ocean, I had to trust that it would go towards safety and prevent it from becoming entangled again in surroundings that would destroy it. So ask yourself, is there things I am entangled in that is leading me away from the protection and safety of God? How do I become untangled from the mess? Pray. Ask God for the wisdom and strength to “walk” away. Talk to your pastor (I hear he is a good guy.) or someone else you feel close to. As always, I am willing talk and share with anyone.
Remember, discover God’s love then live to give it away.
Garo Goodrow
Sunday, June 14, 2009
The Ocean
It has been a while since I have posted on my blog, but I promise to do better. Since leaving for vacation on Friday, we have visited the Baltimore Aquarium and arrived at Chincoteague Island. With all the unique ocean creatures we seen at the aquarium and then seeing the awesome presence and power of the ocean, I can only say...Our God is AWESOME!
I am thankful that my wife was able to enjoy the ocean water, as it even made her feet feel the best they have in months! The kids just loved the incoming waves and getting soaked. The wild ponies are gorgeous!
Thank you God for this opportunity.
Garo
I am thankful that my wife was able to enjoy the ocean water, as it even made her feet feel the best they have in months! The kids just loved the incoming waves and getting soaked. The wild ponies are gorgeous!
Thank you God for this opportunity.
Garo
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Tough Choices Leads to Obedience
Tonight I had to make a tough choice regarding my service to our church. Over the past several months, my sleeping habits have become horrible. I could sleep for 10 hours and wake up more tired as I was when I went to bed.
I couldn't understand why I am feeling this way. I was confused to what I should do different. Plus, I can not find the energy or desire to complete the tasks in front of me. I feel guilty. I don't want to let anyone down.
THAT'S IT! The light bulb has come on. God has laid the answer on my heart. It is time for me to focus on what He has laid before me to do. Sure, it may not be what I thought, but I need to step up and do what His will is. Obey. Simplify. God wants me to simplify.
James 1:22-24 says "But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like."
I have discovered that God has given me talents to use for Him, and I have not been applying them in the proper way I should. I have spread myself to thin, not pouring myself into what I am good at. I had traded my passion to fill gaps I seen in other areas.
Think of it this way. You are the toppings for toast. You are what makes the dry toast tasty. You are butter, peanut butter, or jam. However, if you choose to skimp on the bread, only applying a thin layer topping, the toast is not that great. Mediocre at best. Now if you are like me, you like to smother peanut butter and jam on the toast, so every bite is full zest.
God does not want us to be mediocre in our ministries. He wants us to share His word, love and passion with others. We are to seek out those around us and pour ourselves into their lives. Develop a relationship with them to share His word. And yes, He has already shown me two things to focus on and complete. And yes, one of them is a personal goal that I have wanted to do my whole career.
Now I must OBEY. I must focus and prayer for guidance, wisdom, and the ability to stay the course.
Please keep me in your prayers and let me know if I can pray for you.
Discovering God's Love, Living to Give it Away.
Garo
I couldn't understand why I am feeling this way. I was confused to what I should do different. Plus, I can not find the energy or desire to complete the tasks in front of me. I feel guilty. I don't want to let anyone down.
THAT'S IT! The light bulb has come on. God has laid the answer on my heart. It is time for me to focus on what He has laid before me to do. Sure, it may not be what I thought, but I need to step up and do what His will is. Obey. Simplify. God wants me to simplify.
James 1:22-24 says "But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like."
I have discovered that God has given me talents to use for Him, and I have not been applying them in the proper way I should. I have spread myself to thin, not pouring myself into what I am good at. I had traded my passion to fill gaps I seen in other areas.
Think of it this way. You are the toppings for toast. You are what makes the dry toast tasty. You are butter, peanut butter, or jam. However, if you choose to skimp on the bread, only applying a thin layer topping, the toast is not that great. Mediocre at best. Now if you are like me, you like to smother peanut butter and jam on the toast, so every bite is full zest.
God does not want us to be mediocre in our ministries. He wants us to share His word, love and passion with others. We are to seek out those around us and pour ourselves into their lives. Develop a relationship with them to share His word. And yes, He has already shown me two things to focus on and complete. And yes, one of them is a personal goal that I have wanted to do my whole career.
Now I must OBEY. I must focus and prayer for guidance, wisdom, and the ability to stay the course.
Please keep me in your prayers and let me know if I can pray for you.
Discovering God's Love, Living to Give it Away.
Garo
Monday, January 19, 2009
God...an Intelligent Designer
As my wife and I were driving home last Thursday, we noticed deer out in the fields behind the Rockview Prison. It was cold then and the temperatures were to drop below 0 during the night. As we continued home, it occurred to me just how AWESOME my God is.
Although it was going to be cold, those deer were already well cared for. God had designed them to survive out in the wintery blast that was coming. All they had to do was listen and do what their God instincts told them.
Matthew 6:30-31 "And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
And what about me? Here I am complaining about the cold, but I wasn't designed to sleep in the forest or be out in the frigid temperatures. However, I was designed to survive the cold, tough days of life. Those days where nothing seems to go right, my way, or no one sees things the way I do. Unexpected twist in daily life can really make your day miserable. Then I think, God, this is your day and I am here for your service. How do I go about making this all about you? And if I listen, He is there to tell me what to do and when to do it.
Matthew 6:32-34 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
May God bless your day and give you the strength to turn over your worries and problems to Him.
Although it was going to be cold, those deer were already well cared for. God had designed them to survive out in the wintery blast that was coming. All they had to do was listen and do what their God instincts told them.
Matthew 6:30-31 "And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
And what about me? Here I am complaining about the cold, but I wasn't designed to sleep in the forest or be out in the frigid temperatures. However, I was designed to survive the cold, tough days of life. Those days where nothing seems to go right, my way, or no one sees things the way I do. Unexpected twist in daily life can really make your day miserable. Then I think, God, this is your day and I am here for your service. How do I go about making this all about you? And if I listen, He is there to tell me what to do and when to do it.
Matthew 6:32-34 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
May God bless your day and give you the strength to turn over your worries and problems to Him.
Monday, December 22, 2008
God, version 1.0...no updates needed.
In my job, I deal with a lot of design software. One program that I was encouraged to download and try out was Google Sketch-Up (3-D). The software company allows anyone to download this trial version software and try it out for FREE. Not a bad bargain. First you can try it, see if you like it or have any idea how to operate it. Then you either make the COMMITMENT to purchase, continue to use it in its limited version, or let the software become void after a period of time.
As I continued to use my software in its limited version, I looked up some shortcuts and ideas that I could use to make the work go easier. Wow! There were some awesome things you could do ---with the FULL version.
Many times we give God the same TRIAL VERSION treatment. “God, I will do this thing if you will do this for me.” “I’m just not sure God, show me 3 signs and make it snow in June.” “I really want to God, but I just don’t have those resources.” Or sometimes, we just don’t want to make the FULL commitment to His will, afraid that it may not be worth the expense of our time and resources.
In John 12:44, “Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me!” I love the fact that Jesus shouted, giving what He was saying such that emphasis. Sometimes I need that too.
As the new year begins, ask God what He wants you to do this year. Pray that you will be able to make the FULL commitment to His will, then watch God use you to your FULL potential. After all, downloading the full version of God is FREE with lots of benefits and rewards.
Let’s make 2009 a God year!!
Discover God’s Love and Live to Give It Away.
Garo Goodrow
As I continued to use my software in its limited version, I looked up some shortcuts and ideas that I could use to make the work go easier. Wow! There were some awesome things you could do ---with the FULL version.
Many times we give God the same TRIAL VERSION treatment. “God, I will do this thing if you will do this for me.” “I’m just not sure God, show me 3 signs and make it snow in June.” “I really want to God, but I just don’t have those resources.” Or sometimes, we just don’t want to make the FULL commitment to His will, afraid that it may not be worth the expense of our time and resources.
In John 12:44, “Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me!” I love the fact that Jesus shouted, giving what He was saying such that emphasis. Sometimes I need that too.
As the new year begins, ask God what He wants you to do this year. Pray that you will be able to make the FULL commitment to His will, then watch God use you to your FULL potential. After all, downloading the full version of God is FREE with lots of benefits and rewards.
Let’s make 2009 a God year!!
Discover God’s Love and Live to Give It Away.
Garo Goodrow
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