Thursday, February 23, 2006

Where are you going?

This morning as I was praying, I told God that I felt like I was swimming in the Ocean. I am swimming strong, really making time, but I am not sure if I'm swimming to Africa, the United States, or even Europe. I don't really have any trouble swimming, but I just need some new direction.

Have you ever felt that way? If you have you are not alone, but God's Word gives some instruction in this area. In Proverbs 29:18, we are told that "without vision, the people run wild." You know, you do not have to be a Christian or a rocket scientist to know that this is true. Just spend some time with a group of people. If you do not give them direction, there is a good chance that they will get nowhere. It is also true of our personal lives, if you set out with no plans for a day, there's a good chance you will get nothing done.

I think God desires that we live lives with His vision in mind. God's vision might not always be exactly what we expect. As a matter of fact, Paul was surprised to learn that God's vision for ministry would send him into Macedonia. But God's placement of Paul led to Paul's great ministry. Seek God's vision in your life, and then stick to it. You can be certain that if God is for you no man (or woman) can effectively stand against you.

Thursday, February 09, 2006

Protect Yourself

I have been doing a lot with the dangers of the internet lately. I have not mentioned the dangers of pornography on the internet, but I wanted to say a quick word of caution regarding this very issue. It has been said by at least one prominent pastor that pornography will reek havoc on our society and in our churches to a greater degree than we have seen in drugs or alcohol. Realizing that we are all sinners, we are all susceptible to the temptations of this lifestyle on the internet. Accountability is essential in this important area, and I want to encourage everyone to look into an accountability system that guards your use of the internet. There are many software manufacturers who have produced products to give accountability in internet use.

One website to visit concerning this important issue is www.xxxchurch.com. I do not agree with everything that is published on this site (I think the guys go a bit over the top sometimes), but it is a great resource for anyone struggling with pornography addictions and for anyone who hopes to never have this battle. They also offer a free accountability software download. The best offense is a good defense and that is especially true with pornography. The better you protect yourself from porn, the better chance you have at becoming or remaining victorious in the battle.