Monday, December 31, 2012

2012 Highlights

A brief, partial rundown of highlights of 2012 (no specific order):


 

  • Receiving my best grades—with fifteen credit hours—in any semester of my school career, including kindergarten.
  • Two full semesters of studying at Dallas Theological Seminary
  • The resulting gained wisdom, knowledge and understanding regarding God and His Word
  • Studying under some of the world's best evangelical theological professors
  • Having a course with Dr. Stan Toussaint in his last semester of teaching at DTS after beginning in 1960
  • Twenty-seven credit hours closer to earning my Masters of Art: Christian Leadership
  • Opportunity to facilitate seminars across America—meeting many wonderful people
  • The health and wealth—every definable way—of friends and family
  • Celebrating Christmas with family in Nebraska, and visiting a few long-time friends
  • Another year without personal sickness
  • The wonderful new Dallas friends
  • Attending the 2012 Cotton Bowl with long-time friends
  • Eclipsing 109,000, 110,000 and 111,000 miles on my lifetime running odometer
  • Everything that I am now forgetting, yet recall would generate immense gratitude
  • Greater cognizance and appreciation of God's grace, mercy, love and sovereignty


 

2013 begins another lap around the calendar, enabling adjustments from 2012. I challenge you to adjust daily, even hourly and by the minute when possible.

  • Pray always, this includes conversationally as if visiting with your dad, mom, or mentor in all you do
  • Read the Bible even more in 2013, seeking a deeper relationship with Christ, and greater love of God and fellow man. Enhanced relationships results in enhanced witnessing in all we do.
  • Be positive and honest—Satan is the father of lies, while God is the Spirit of Truth (John 8:44, 16:13)
  • Always Trust God! Remember that, Trust God always!


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick E. Meyer

The Leader Servant

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Blessing vs. Curse

Food for Thought:


 

Often times the acquisition and application of Godly wisdom demarcates blessings and curses.


 

In other words, how we use or learn from something determines whether we receive a blessing or a curse from the interaction. This truth applies to the tangible and intangible.


 

For example, driving a NASCAR race car appears to result in a great deal of fun—a blessing. However, without first learning how to drive a car followed by driving sixty miles-per hour, followed by one-hundred and on up to near 200 mph, one would severely wreck with probable severe injuries—a curse.


 

Frequently we hear of professional athletes and others quickly acquiring millions of dollars yet they money becomes a curse because they failed to first acquire Godly wisdom. This truth permeates even some—certainly not all—who maintain their perceived success, as they use their success—a blessing—as leverage to engage in a plethora immoral behavior—a curse. To clarify, the root cause of failure and immorality stems from one's heart—lacking Godly wisdom.


 

Blessings rarely equates to easy or comfort, rather an internal peace and hope despite outward circumstances. Blessings benefit to receive long-term. The Bible instructs us to Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all else will be added unto you (Mt. 6:33). Obedience to this passage results in achieving the necessary wisdom before the blessing, receiving the driving instructions before driving the racecar.


 

Receive blessings in everything, including business and personal relationship. Seek and request God's wisdom in everything—always!


 

Too much of anything becomes too much when we love and trust man and creation instead of God (Matthew 22:37; Proverbs 3:5; Psalm 118:8; Romans 1:20-32). Conversely, any amount fully submitted to God—thus correlating with His word—remains below excessive.


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickemeyer.com

Friday, December 14, 2012

Book Review: His Own Image

In His Own Image: We Are Wonderfully MadeBy Art Mathias M.D.

Book Review
Foreword
The light initiating germination of my pondering the power of the mind combined with the Holy Spirit flashed on my six-year-old imagination while irrigating on the farm with my dad. Dad and my neighbor Richard straddled the property line demarcating their cornfields outside of Gaylord, Kansas in July. They discussed crops, weather, and irrigation water supply. Wearing green Sears Toughskin jeans, a tank top with blue horizontal stripes, a baseball cap pulled down over my eyes, and cowboy boots, I threw clods and chased frogs.
Suddenly their conversation captured my attention—ultimately changing my life. Richard began sharing his experiences as a United States Marine serving in World War Two. He described a battle with the Japanese that left him as the only survivor among his group of U.S. troops—I do not recall the number of men in the group. Japanese soldiers walked amongst the U.S. Marine causalities verifying their death by penetrating their heart with bayonets.
One Japanese soldier approached Richard, kicking him in the ribs and poking him with a bayonet. Richard played dead! He avoided moving, breathing or screaming—he played dead. Just as the Japanese man prepared to pierce Richard's heart, the enemy commander called for his soldier to leave Richard and move forward.
This story, along with several others Richard told that day, permeated my mind, permanently prompting my curiosity. What forces enabled Richard to remain motionless, breathless, and speechless under these circumstances? What caused the Japanese commander to halt his soldier immediately before the bayonet pierced Richard's heart? What prevented the Japanese soldier from quickly completing the motion of piercing before proceeding with his company? Do these forces and causes affect the lives—functionality, performance, and health—of typical, non-combat, individuals?
Introduction
A plethora of scholars amidst the inclusive array of athletes, biologists, business men and women, metaphysics, motivational speakers and authors, neuroscientists, physicians, theologians, as well as other perpetually inquisitive people ponder and study the mind—spirit—body relationship. Does interdependence exist among the body-mind-spirit? If so, how do the interdependencies reveal themselves, and do they yield synergy or antagonism? Who or what controls inputs and resulting yields?
Should we believe the Holy Spirit guided prophets and apostles who discussed spiritual influence and our resulting words on our mind and body (James 3:5-6)? Does Christ's torturing, death and resurrection affect our health (Is. 53:4-5; Mt. 27:26; Mk. 16:17-18; Jn. 10:10; 1 Peter 2:24)? Does the mind truly enable physical manifestation of any and everything one believes? Does the Christian view accept views of Faith and Autosuggestion as discussed by Napoleon Hill? Hippocrates (500 BC) accepted the correlation of behavior, attitudes, thoughts, emotions and disease. Galen (AD 131-201) concurred while adding passions.


Dr. Art Mathias, Wellsprings Ministries of Alaska, thoroughly investigates the inquisitions
body-soul-spirit interdependencies through scripture and human physiology, supplying detailed insights. Dr. Mathias examines vocabulary definitions, thus correlating scriptural words with one's health.
For example, scripture uses 'Salvation, soteria and the verb form sozo, are used over one-hundred-fifty times to mean "to save, cure, heal, preserve, keep safe and sound, rescue from danger, or destruction, deliver, to save from peril, injury or suffering, to make whole from physical death by healing, and from spiritual death by forgiving sin and its effects (Mt. 21-22; Mk. 6:56; Acts 4:9; James 5:15-16).' Rapha means 'to cure, heal, repair, mend and restore health' (Gen. 20:17)"



Doctor originates from Rophe, "the one who heals (Ex. 15:26) diseases and sins (Ps. 103:1-3; and broken hearts" (Lk. 4:18-20; Ps. 147:3). While healing of the body, and promoting a sound mind and character comes from Marpe (Prov. 4:22; 16:24). Hugiaina signifies a properly functioning body, and the English word, health.
In His Own Image: We Are Wonderfully Made
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) studies the interactions between "behaviorsstress, thoughts, attitudes, and emotionsbrain (central nervous system), the endocrine systemhormones—and the immune system." Adrienne Buffaloe, MD states, "Rarely does a physician investigate the spiritual and emotional contributions to an illness, so two-thirds of the cause of the illness remains unexplored." PNI asks how and why anxiety modifies the endocrine and immune systems, delving into the bi-directional relations. Mathias suggests our response to stressors or experiences determines our body's physiological response. Negative emotions do suppress the immune system while positive emotions of laughter, peace and healthy family relationships enhance the immune system.
Fear serves as a powerful emotion that conditions our responses resulting in an alarm reaction, thus conditioning our immune system. "2 Timothy 1:7 calls this type of fear, an evil spirit." The book insightfully illustrates the effect of the alarm reaction as well as triggering events such as "unforgiveness, anger, guilt, regret and loneliness" to name a few. The evidence of their negative effects on our health amplifies the physical significance of forgiveness and trusting God (Prov. 3:3-5).
I agree with Mathias' assertions that God designed plasticity in our immune system, allowing it to be "educated, trained and specialized." We develop our specific immunity, as opposed to receiving an innate immunity. Growing-up and working on the farm amidst old dust, livestock and playing in the soil with microbes and pathogens along with much joy, laughter and healthy family relationships eventually enhanced my immune system.


Having accumulated a meager ten days of sickness since 1990, I believe these intentional interrelations exist. During this ongoing twenty-two year stretch beginning in 1990, the flu or other incapacitating illness struck for a few days each in December 1990, December 1998—I felt as if I were floating above the bed where I lie—February 2003, and February 11-13, 2007. Each of these occurrences resulted from my ignoring the warning signs of exhaustion.
Effectively, I muted the voice of the Holy Spirit. Yet, I experienced immense stress throughout these periods, ranging from working full-time while running fifty to 135 weekly miles between 1990 and the end of 1996. I avoided injuries between May 1994 through November 1996 while running 70–135 miles per week at an average door-step—to—door-step pace of 5:55 per mile. I constantly prayed, studied scripture, listened to motivational tapes, and read motivational scriptural based books with my favorite, What You Say Is What You Get. Which present similar concepts to the book in this review, In His Own Image, while lacking the scientific dialogue. Allergies to parathion caused my resignation as a Consulting Agronomist in 1994. Twice I moved to new communities.


Between September 2005 and August 2008, I endured a shocking personal event, along with the death of a grandmother, aunt, uncle, nephew and Dad. I then reentered the agricultural sector as an agronomy salesman. On August 14, 2009, my boss asked for my resignation because I am too honest. Previously, others in the company warned against choosing truth and biblical principles over profit. "Rick, if you continue choosing to follow principles of the Bible on the job, you will fail in this profession." Two of these gentlemen served on local church councils.


Despite these stressors, I remain healthy. Consequently, I believe this book's thesis of our thoughts, attitudes and responses may affect our health. While certainly falling short of adequacy, I read the Bible regularly. This includes cover-to-cover about twenty-five times between May 2006 and August 2008, in addition to devotional readings. Yes, I have studied the content of this book where the rubber meets the road over decades and from numerous perspectives.
When on the verge of physical and emotional collapse, only scripturally true inspiration activates the proper neurotransmitters and neuropeptides to keep my mind and body healthy. Yes, I agree with Mathias' assertion regarding the effect of communication between the nervous system and neuroendocrine system, or between the brain and endocrine systems on the immune system. Why do some of us respond in a manner yielding good health, while others fail to respond similarly? I continue standing by my earlier argument of God's sovereignty aimed to glorify Him.
Yet, how much choice do we have? We could probably read and write volumes of books on this question alone. God intertwines people and opportunity in our lives, quite possibly to spark neuropeptides resulting in a hormone or endorphin to encourage us to say, Yes leading to another open door, leading to another neuron interaction.


Biochemical transmissions and interactions including the exchange and passage of hormones fire hundreds, sometimes thousands, of times per second. No wonder we get tired. Endocrine glands produce hormones, effecting growth, development and metabolism. Hormones, or "Messenger Molecules," originate specifically from our hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenals, gonads, thyroid, parathyroid and pancreas.


The body mirrors the mind. Each neuropeptide in the mind exists on the surface of the human monocyte. Human monocytes have receptors for opiates, and other peptides such as PCP—angel dust. Monocytes represent one type of white blood cell. Immune cells create, store, and secrete peptides themselves, especially endorphins, making the same cells that we conceive of as controlling mood in the brain. Therefore, immune cells control tissue integrity of the body, and manufacture information chemicals that regulate mood or emotion, resulting in the bidirectional communication between brain and body. Dr. Mathias explains the physiological effects of sin, especially on the immune and nervous system. The sin of negativity carries profound impact on attainment and recovery of injuries and illness.


Conversely, cheerfulness enhances the immune system (Prov. 15:30, 17:22). The Bible defines joy a component in the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22), and explains our remaining joyful in our every circumstance pleases God (James 1:2-4; 1 Thess. 5:16-18). Additionally, cheerful words also enhance our immune system formed in our bone marrow (Prov. 16:24). Therefore, one may correctly conclude that joy prevents unnecessary illness.
Joy produces good neuropeptides, these occupy opiate receptors which prevents the attachment of cancer cell neuropeptide receptors. I prefer filling my opiate receptors with neuropeptides of joy, than those of angel dust. This displays the body's need for joy, yet depraved humanity seeks destructive neuropeptides generated in and from sin. The Bible uses Job's multitude of physical tortures (Job 2-38) and Lazarus' illness and death (John 11:4) to illustrate that God may allow the failing of our physical health to glorify Him, and heal the souls of unbelievers.
Consequently, prudence mandates we cautiously address the Prosperity of Health Gospel, lest we practice the judgment errs of Job's friends. Regardless of the volume of thoughts we originate or our allocation of positive or negative emotions, our physical bodies will die because of the Fall of Man in the Garden (Gen. 3:1-19; Rom. 3:23).
Brain and Nervous System
Dr. Mathias provides a brief overview of the brain along with the major functions of each component. Evidently, I experienced miss-firings in my brain while typing these last two sentences as evidenced by numerous errors. The brain's "lower structures" involves "circuits of the brainstem deep within the skull that mediate the basic elements of energy flow, such as states of arousal and alertness and the physiological state of the body (temperature, respiration, heart rate)."
While the thalamus resides on the brain stem's upper side, overseeing as gateway for inbound sensory information along with extensive connections to other portions of the brain, this includes the neocortex. The neocortex mediations encompass perception, thinking and reasoning. The limbic system's central location, whose components include orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate, and amygdala, optimally coordinates the higher and lower structure activity.
The latter regions facilitate "emotion, motivation, and goal-directed behavior," while also integrating processes such as the appraisal of meaning, processing of social experience and regulating emotion.
When we consciously access our memory, we rely heavily on the limbic system's hippocampus, which is part of the medial temporal lobe. This aids understanding why our temple region hurts when striving to remember….oh yeah, the bread at the store….remember the orange juice too.


Neural pathways serve as the highways by which information travels from the brain to the various destinations of organs, and muscles. One hundred billion neurons make up the nervous system. An average of ten thousand connections, directly link each neuron to other neurons. Scientists estimate one million billion connections. The body contains two "million miles bioelectrical cables," with some signals exceeding 100 meters per second while controlling things such as the eyes, toes and fingers. In laymen's terms, "They're boogying!!!"
Every thought and deed ultimately originates from a bioelectrical signal, on unfathomable electrical grid. How does one escape awe in the grid, yet exponentially incomprehensible that each of these biochemical-electrical synapses occur thousands of times per second every day of our life. We rarely consider their existence when they misfire or "short." This attribute alone cements the verifications of Romans 1:20. Even though we fail to see the interactions of the body, we observe its continual functioning, only crying to God when a few neurons become misdirected.


The book's discussion on brain formation and function fully correlate with other reputable books. The author discusses how infants are born with excess neurons, and pruned as they develop. We learn that experience, beginning at our conception, affects our future relationships. This may explain why siblings may vary, or why children of the same age whose parents are friends develop relationally similar. This principle also illustrates the effect of choices and consequences affect us from the immediate beginning. Additionally, Mathias discusses the plasticity of our genetics, changing throughout life. In fact, "positive responses to negative experiences can change genetics." Another explanation on the differences of siblings, relatives.
Neurotransmitters
Negative emotions significantly impact over or under secretion of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters—thus negative emotions—control muscles, motivation, appetite, injury recovery, cardiovascular, and the immune system. Science displays how our relationship with God, striving to live in His image, and living joyful, grateful, prayerful lives benefits our health as we avoid, or at least hinder, negative emotions.
Negative emotions lead to stress (i.e. anxiety or depression) which causes the adrenal gland to release cortisol, long-term excess cortisol can destroy the immune system. However, like most molecules, poison exists in the dose. Cortisol's benefits the body by assisting metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids Metabolism. Cortisol reduces muscle uptake of Glucose and Fat Tissue. Exercise mandates the proper muscle uptakes of glucose and lipids, lipid metabolism increases endurance.


Scientists have identified at least thirty molecules as neurotransmitters, divided into categories such as neuropeptides, amino acids—which comprise proteins—monoamines, and acetylcholine. Neurotransmitters control muscles, motivation, appetite, injury, recovery, cardiovascular, and the immune system. This section identifies numerous neurotransmitters, their primary and tertiary functions along with where in the body some are located. Two examples include Serotonin that "influences mood and behavior…and vasoconstrictor (reduces blood vessel size); reduces appetite…and aggression, and is responsible for normal sleep. Histamine: Found in mast cells and basophils;….results in increased blood flow to an injured part of the body,…."24




The book continues discussing the various organs, systems and their interrelations, I will examine a few for the sake of illustration and insight.
Hypothalamus is the supervisory center of Brain.
Hypothalamic hormones are produced by nerve cells–neurons which control:
  • Hunger
  • Thirst
  • Sexual Functions and Behaviors
  • Blood Pressure
  • Heart Rate
  • Body Temperature Maintenance
  • Sleep-Wake Cycle
Factors indirectly influencing hypothalamic functions:




  • Light-Dark Cycle
  • Temperature
  • Communication from People
  • Our own Thoughts and Emotions
  • Sights
  • Sounds
  • Smells
  • Touch

We represent an amazing creation, in the image of the Creator. Each of the factors on the bottom, affect those on the top. Considering the Moon stage serves as an indicator of the physical environment as affect by the earth's spatial positioning, we should easily acknowledge why strange things sometimes occur during full moons. Additionally, this strongly displays the effects of one's physical and emotional environmental. Our thoughts and environment certainly influence our health, behavior and productivity. This reminds of our dependency on the Holy Spirit.


The Major Hypothalamic (releasing and inhibiting) hormones and what they regulate and/or control include, CRH (Corticotrophin) – carbohydrate, protein, fat metabolism, GnRH (Gonadotropin) – sexual and reproductive functions, TRH (Thyrotropin) – metabolic processes of all cells, contributes to hormonal regulation of lactation; GRF (Growth Hormone Factor) – promoting growth of our bodies, Somatostatin – Bone and Muscle Growth, Dopamine – Neurotransmitter (primarily) - sends messages of pleasure, alertness and motor control.


The Pineal Gland, located in the same area of brain as hypothalamus, produces Melatonin. When a neural pathway from hypothalamus to Pineal Gland is stimulated by the sympathetic nervous system. Depression lowers melatonin, which regulates daily body rhythms, inhibits some cancers by stimulating production of interleukin 2 and natural killer cells in the immune system. This acts as a powerful antioxidant that contains complete map of the visual field of the eyes.29



There is tremendous evidence of negative emotions (depression and anxiety) enhance production of proinflammatory cytokines. These cytokines create inflammation throughout the body – resulting in cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers (multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia), Alzheimer's and periodontal disease. Once again the physical manifestations of joy versus depression display the health benefits of scriptural truths of joy.


We previously discussed the detrimental effects of fear on our immune system and our resulting health. Mathias discusses the continual spiritual warfare (2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2:2), along with sin and the effects of sin. He also correctly acknowledges the presence of the Holy Spirit in believers. He concludes with approximately one hundred pages studying the specific diseases and the root spiritual cause and best practice for a chance of curing.


For example, Bone Cancer—"Osteosarcoma—the most common type of bone cancer in children. Very weak immune systems are the major factor in this disease." He lists the spiritual and emotional strongholds as "Inherited broken heart, bitterness, abandonment, and fear. Parents, repent and renounce these strongholds, including unbelief, and break agreement with them in your generations (both sides of the family)."


While much of what Mathias states holds truth, his presumption of sinful parents absent adequate questioning, lacks prudence. However, Mathias walks in the presumptuous company of the disciples (Jn. 9:2), as well as myself, and others, occasionally. Moreover, using non-factual terms such as "broken heart" allows for error of understanding. How does one adequately define a broken heart? If we assume bitterness, abandonment or fear, then only use those terms.
Summary
Our thoughts and emotions affect our health, including our past fears and joys. What alters thoughts and emotions? Spiritual forces easily influence our thoughts, neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. Choosing to rebuke Satan and all his demonic forces provides significant advantages as well as asking Jesus Christ through the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit to bless us with His presence and resulting fruit of the Spirit, along with protecting our body, mind and soul from the evil forces. I concur with Mathias' assessment that faithful prudence responds with power, love and sound mind and that fear is a sin (2 Tim. 1:7). Walking by the Spirit, and the resulting fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22) leads to enhanced opportunity for good physical health.


We can only speculate on Richard's survival, his ability to play dead, while the Japanese kicked him in the ribs and poked him with a bayonet. This speculation very likely could have resulted because God possessed additional plans for Richard. Because of these plans, perhaps altered by prayers from Richard's home at that moment or cumulative, it appears God enabled Richard to have peace and joy in Him. This allowed Richard's breathing and heart rate to reach undeterminable levels.


Why have I been blessed with good health virtually all of my life despite various stress triggering events? As Mathias declares in In His Own Image, an optimistic attitude, a forgiving heart, cheerfulness and joy certainly help.


    In His Own Image by Art Mathias sufficiently investigates and identifies the body-psyche-soul interrelationship. He discusses the Bible's teachings of spiritual warfare, exceeding our conscience cognizance. This book serves well in evaluating the spiritual and emotional factors affecting physical health. However, as illustrated in the story and book of Job, God's sovereignty rules above physical laws. Consequently, prudence demands caution before using the context to condemn an ill person. Conversely, the wise will carefully assess their physical ailments in light of the emotional and spiritual affects.


    Ultimately, this book emphasizes living in grace, love and forgiveness, walking in the Spirit, receiving the fruit of the Spirit. In so doing, we place our self in the best possible position to win with good health. Of course, I once heard a speaker quip, "I exercise every day so that I will die healthier." The body eventually dies; we seek to live as best possible while serving Christ on earth.
Bibliography

 
Andreasen, Nancy C. M.D., Ph.D. The Creating Brain: The Neuroscience of Genius. New York / Washington, D.C.: Dana Press, 2005.
Blakeslee, Sandra, and Matthew Blakeslee. The Body Has a Mind of Its Own. New York, NY: Random House, Inc., 2007.
Boa, Kenneth, Sid Buzzell, Gene A. Getz, and Bill Perkins. Promise Keepers Men's Bible Study (NIV). Grand Rapids, Michigan: The Zondervan Corporation, 1997.
Bristol, Clyde M. The Magic of Believing. New York, NY: Pocket Books, 1948.
Burns, Lanier Dr. "Class Notes." Dallas Theological Seminary, ST103B Angelology, Anthropology, Harmatology. Burns, Lanier Dr., December 2012.
Getz, Gene A. Life Essentials Study Bible. Vol. 1. Nashville, Tennessee: Holman Bible Publishers, 2011.
Gosset, Don. What You Say is What You Get. Old Tappen, New Jersey: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1976.
Hill, Napoleon. Think and Grow Rich. New York: Ballantine Books, 1960.
Martin, Francis P. Hung by the Tongue. Lafayette, LA: F.P.M. Publications, 1979.
Mathias, Art Ph.D. In His Own Image: We are Wonderfully Made. Anchorage, Alaska: Wellspring Publishing, 2003.
Meyer, Rick E. "Cheerful Heart." Running on Faith. January 9, 2009. http://rickemeyer.blogspot.com/2009/01/cheerful-heart.html (accessed December 06, 2012).
—. "Light and Germination." Running on Faith. May 30, 2011. http://rickemeyer.blogspot.com/2011/05/light-germination.html (accessed 12 05, 2012).
Pert, Candice Ph.D. Molecules of Emotion. 1999.
Ryle, Gilbert. The Concept of Mind. London: Hutchinson & Company, Ltd., 1949.
Schroeder, Gerald L. The Hidden Face of God. New York: The Free Press, 2001.

 




Running thru the Bible Subscription


Thursday, December 13, 2012

Morning Ponderings

Success is achieving Christ's Will for your life. Perpetually seeking and attaining the necessary wisdom, knowledge and understanding. ~ Rick E. Meyer

"SuccessèGoal of LifeèPleasing the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:9)" ~ Dr. Toussaint

A proper view of suffering always begins with a proper view of God. (2 Cor. 1:3-4)

"We died to the Ten Commandments. The tenth commandment becomes the Hermeneutic for the first nine commandments. Tenth = Covet = Heart = Sermon on the Mount. (Romans 7 and 2 Corinthians 3)" ~ Dr. Toussaint

Great Evidences of Faith è Prayer. Prayer implies God's sovereignty.

Gift of Giving è Gift of Faith. Exceed the tithe (10%), give like the Macedonians (2 Cor. 8 and 9). Tithing preceded the Law.

Paul provided three encouragements for the Corinthian church to give (2 Cor. 8:7-9):

  1. Give out of Poverty—Like the Macedonians
  2. Macedonia is the Standard, not the tithe (10%)
  3. Give with a Great—Joyful, Cheerful—Heart

Always have two to three people with good reputations handle the church's money. The pastor should keep their hands off the $$$. (2 Cor. 8:16-24)

Examine yourself, instead of others (2 Cor. 13:5). Test yourself with the anticipation of approval.


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ! Rick E. Meyer See, Believe, Achieve Inc. www.rickEmeyer.com


 


 

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Confessing Faith = Living Faith


Actions define Faith (James 2:14-17). Faith believes in the physically unseen. We act according to our beliefs. If I believe I need water, and I believe there a water hydrant sits one-hundred yards west; I will walk one-hundred yards west for a drink. This assumes I possess the ability to walk. If I fail to walk one-hundred yards west, I either doubt my need for water or I doubt the stated location of the water hydrant.


I love proclaiming my dependence on God's strength, wisdom, mercy, grace, love, forgiveness, understanding, joy, peace and the fruit of Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22-25). This includes how He has and does bless my efforts in school, speaking, running, and all I commit to Him. The messages include the Power of Light and Hanging on by a Thread.


When I proclaim my dependence on Him along with His ability to bless efforts, I must completely exert myself—in faith—toward the desired goals. Because, if I use His name as my source of power, then fail to fully exert myself, my witness loses all credibility and power. Outsiders view my declared dependence versus my effort as hypocrisy or they view it as God lacking power. I poorly represent Him! I fail to please Him. The failure results from my lack of effort as opposed to lack of results.


Consequently, as I share my dependence on Him in studying, speaking, running and a number of other activities, I must fully exert myself towards those goals. I must study beyond the point of exhaustion, striving for comprehension to the point of simplicity. I must write, rewrite and rewrite papers to the absolute best of my ability.


Ultimately, I am acting according to my belief that God will bless my efforts according to His will when I seek to please Him in all that I do. Only then do I serve as a good witness. Someone one said, "To know and not to do, is not to know." Do our actions reveal our knowing the Lord Jesus Christ and His grace, mercy, forgiveness, love, death, resurrection and resulting salvation?


Do you and I know God's strength, wisdom, mercy, grace, love, forgiveness, understanding, joy, peace and the fruit of Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22-25). Are you and I glorifying God as our actions represent Him? Will your faith resulting actions and efforts encourage others to also seek God as their source of power, peace, hope, forgiveness, love and salvation?


Today, walk in the direction of your faith. Walk, in belief, toward the one whom gives you water for which you will never thirst again (Jn. 4:14). What would someone whom you never met conclude about your beliefs based on your actions?


See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com








 

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Final Command

Once again, the anniversary of my Dad's physical death arrives on the calendar. This anniversary generates abundant reflections. The most significant reflection focuses on our final coherent conversation, although I had no idea at the time that it would be the final one. Due to hydrocephalus, he was confused. Consequently, coherent dialogue was a rarity.


 

He looked intently in my eyes, giving his final command, "Always trust God. Remember that Son. Trust God, always."

"I will Dad…I will."


 

He commanded, I affirmatively promised to fulfill his command. He did not say, always trust man or always trust government. Rather, always trust God.


 

Do you trust God, always?


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickemeyer.com

Leader Servant


 

Personal Philosophy of Leadership (Excerpt)
Leader Servant1

The Mission

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ! Success is achieving Christ's will, through the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit for one's life, perpetually seeking and attaining the necessary wisdom, knowledge, and understanding (Mt. 6:33, 7:15-23; Jn. 5:30). God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are perfect—complete—consequently God's will for my life, and everyone's life, encompasses each aspect—membership, citizenship, relationship, endeavor—of one's life. God's Will creates and allows actions and consequences symbiotically interacting with everything according to His wisdom. Christ's will includes the will of the Father (Mt. 7:21), possessing God's full depth and breadth in our every thought, action, and interaction. I strive to remain humble before the Lord, trusting He will lift me up (James 4:10).

Leader Servant

The greatest among you shall be your servant (Mt. 23:11). 
   


 
The Leader Servant seeks submissive synchronization with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to help others achieve Christ's will for their lives (Mt. 6:33, 7:15-23, 22:37-39; Jn. 5:30).


My Leadership Philosophy seeks serving Christ by serving others, striving to represent God's image (Gen. 1:27). The Leader Servant responds to loving God with all of one's heart, mind, and soul, while loving others as much as one loves themselves by serving mankind (Mt. 22:37-39). Through this response, the Leader Servant recognizes the Holy Spirit as the one who influences people, while often using man's service as catalysts (Jn. 16:8; Acts 2; Rom. 9). People whom God places on similar courses with the Leader Servant favorably respond because God offers the greatest results, the richest fulfillment possible. People rebuke the Leader Servant if he fails to seek synchronization with Christ, thus he ignores or rebukes Christ or if the organizational members rebuke Christ (Jn. 15:18).


The Leader Servant recognizes the triune God--the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit—as Creation's CEO. The Leader Servant grows through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, hardship, trials, tribulations and victories to the Spiritual Mature. As a Spiritually Mature Christian, the Leader Servant effectively becomes a Vice President of Serving in God's kingdom. His spiritual growth enables quick discernment and responsiveness to Christ's commands, possessing flexibility with a plethora of abilities, humility before the Lord, along with an abundance of trust and obedience. Ultimately, he recognizes the duality of privilege and responsibility of serving others with Christ. Serving includes continual teaching by example, written and verbal communication among the array of technology.

Leading

Jacqueline Harrill writes on Facebook (2 Dec. 2012), Let us believe: We are stewarding our blessings well, so that we may refresh and replenish the world! When God gives us extraordinary favor it is for the sake of those around us. As favor increases, so must our attitude of gratitude, otherwise the sense of entitlement will strip us of our character.


My leadership experience includes leading and winning numerous races over the years along with running with and finishing among the top ½ percent in several international races. Many similarities exist between leading races and leading organizations. People follow those with common purpose, goals, dreams and destinations. The runner leads because his ability, preparation and desire to lead exceed those whom follow. The organizational leader resides in the front, because he (or she) gives the greatest effort in the cause of the event or organization. The greatest effort typically results in the combination of preparation and willingness to exert in the prescribed period—months, years, or decades. Yes, we must steward our blessing of extraordinary favor well, for the benefit of those around us. David's preparation for killing Goliath included obedience to, confidence in, and reliance on God while developing skills in killing lions and bears, and perfecting his sling shot skills while herding sheep.


Preparation and love generated desire assures perpetually striving to serve those whom God places in our path, even if only to open a literal door. Jack Welch once observed, "Every conversation is an interview." Any conversation may affect, directly or indirectly, one's relationship of any nature. The examples of Moses killing the man when he believed he and the victim were alone, and David committing adultery with Bathsheba display that every interaction affects our ability to serve, along with the perception, results and consequences to and from those we serve. The Leader Servant becomes the aroma of Christ to the world (2 Cor. 2:15-16), this aroma attracts people because of the Holy Spirit in the Leader Servant.


Evangelism and ministering begin with serving. Pride, self-centeredness, saturates the market-place. In reversal, serving in the marketplace focuses on elevating the spiritual, emotional, relational, recreational, and financial positioning of those encountered towards the Lord Jesus Christ. Attracting others raises the servant as the leader of those possessing—or desire to possess—the performance, achievements and intangible attributes of the servant. Serving with love, forgiveness, and a burning desire for others' success, results in them inviting the servant to the front as their leader. Discover the heart of men and women by observing the heart of those whom they choose to follow—their leader. Watching the success of those I assist offers amazing joy and fulfillment, equaling or surpassing the joy of personal achievement.


Helping people achieve Christ's will for their life demands watering them with the Word of God, fertilizing with prayer, fellowship and necessary associations. Necessary associations recognize that as iron sharpens iron, so one Leader Servant sharpens another Leader Servant (Prov. 27:17). Considering Christ's command to love others equally as ourselves, I strive to share, teach and grow each success attribute I internalize and apply as Leader Servant with those whom I serve based on their specific needs in the appropriate moment. This assistance includes evaluating and measuring—as best possible—the tangible and intangible attributes of those served. We compare these to the necessary attributes for success in the area where one feels led. The Leader Servant works with the served in developing a plan to move and improve in the called direction. The Leader Servant assists with discernment regarding necessary commitment level, the duration of pursuing, and other options to include or elevate one's success.

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickemeyer.com
  

Dr. Stanley D. Toussaint, Class Lecture Fall 2012, BE106B Acts and Pauline Epistles, DTS
2 (Toussaint n.d.)
3 (Leadership Observations in the Life of David 2012), (Leadership Observations in the Life of Nehemiah 2012), (Leadership and Moses: Exodus 3:1-13 2012)
4 (Meyer, Leadership Observations in the Life of David 2012)
5 (Welch and Byrne 2001)

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Thanksgiving 2012

What are you Thankful for?


 

This list of my thanks lacks order of significance or priority, as most—perhaps all—intertwine directly or indirectly with one another,. I am Thankful for:


 

  • Eternal Salvation through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, forgiving for my sin and any who believe in Him as their Savior
  • Relationship with the Holy Spirit who convicts my heart and conscience and guide my thoughts as He deems appropriate
  • Ability to Love
  • Ability to Forgive
  • Ability to Recognize God's hand, and presence in many circumstances—certainly still room to improve.
  • Gratitude
  • Joy
  • Mercy
  • God's Sovereignty
  • God's Provision
  • God's Protection
  • Prayer
  • Parents
  • Mom marrying Elliott last year—five years after Dad's death
  • Grandparents—even though they are no longer alive
  • Nephews—Cooper went straight to Heaven, he was sent for a short mission
  • Uncles
  • Aunts
  • Cousins
  • Friends
  • Mentors
  • Past Family Thanksgiving Dinners
  • Intense Laughter at Thanksgiving Dinners, and virtually all Family Dinners
  • Improved and inexpensive communication provided by advancing technology
  • Opportunity to study at Dallas Theological Seminary, with the great faculty and fellow students
  • Men's Bible Study group @ PCBC
  • Ability to Run
  • Great Coaches, Teammates, and Training Partners who challenged and continue challenging me over the years
  • Dallas Running Project
  • TTH
  • Clothing
  • Food
  • Bed
  • Shelter
  • Automobile
  • Ability to Read
  • Ability to Speak
  • Ability to Win Speaking Contests
  • Growing-up on Farm
  • Growing-up along a River
  • Hunting
  • Fishing
  • Ability to Taste
  • Ability to Smell—most of the time J
  • Ability to Touch
  • Beta Sigma Psi National Lutheran Fraternity
  • The opportunity to serve numerous organizations
  • Health—Sick < 11 days cumulative in the last twenty-three years.
  • The plans God has for me that are not yet revealed
  • Wisdom from the Holy Spirit
  • Faith

Obviously many specific people and additional items of gratitude fall under each of these categories, and I am most likely inadvertently omitting something and/or someone(s).


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick


 

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

Friday, November 16, 2012

Champions vs. Whiners

Food for Thought:

Champions win, whiners justify.  ~ Rick E. Meyer

Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickemeyer.com


Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Leadership Observations in the Life of Nehemiah

Nehemiah
  1. Nehemiah consulted with his brothers and other men from Judah (1:2)

Leaders consult with peers, which may include family.

2. Nehemiah inquired of the Jews who escaped and survived captivity and Jerusalem (1:2)

Leaders are concerned of others well-being.

Leaders are concerned about foundational and symbolic cities and/or geography.

Leaders are cognizant of other's circumstances—(surviving and escaping).

3. Nehemiah learned of the wall of Jerusalem being broken and its gates burned. He wept, mourned, fasted and prayed for days before God (1:3-5)

Leaders understand the significance of physical structures:

  1. Spiritual – The wall in those days signified the strength of one's god. Thus a destroyed and burnt wall reflected poorly upon God.

  2. Geographical

  3. Societal

  4. Political

  5. Emotional

  6. Relational

Leaders wholly, authentically invest themselves in others' lives—weeping and mourning for days

Leaders submit themselves to God (Nehemiah uses your servant (NASB) eight times in the first chapter in referring to himself, the Jews and Moses)

Leaders pray to God

Leaders fast before God

Leaders seek God in recognizing, acknowledging, and speaking God's awesomeness

  1. Nehemiah reminds God of His covenant and loving kindness for those obedient to Him (1:6)

Leaders understand the consequences of disobedience to God.

Leaders understand the significance of obedience to God.

Leaders seek God's attention when praying

Leaders Know God's Word, and Character--as much as humanly possible--which is a lifelong, perpetual gaining and growing.

  1. Nehemiah confesses sins of sons of Israel and himself (1:6-10)

Leaders confess personal sins

Leaders confess corporal sins

  1. Nehemiah approaches the King, and was afraid (2:2-3)

Leaders appropriately acknowledge their fears

Leaders appropriately avoid confessing their fears, unless and until necessary.

Leaders are honest, even when honesty could result in ridicule or death from the superior (in this specific case, the King).

Leaders are humble and respectful before their superiors.

  1. Nehemiah prays to God while conversing with King Artaxerxes (2:3-5).

Leaders humble themselves before the Lord (James 4:17)

Leaders recognize and acknowledge human inadequacy apart from God.

Leaders rely on God

Leaders inquire of opportunity

Leaders oppose those who oppose God

Leaders are bold

  1. Nehemiah responds to the Kings inquiries with specifics (2:6-8)

Leaders plan diligently

Leaders effectively deliver their proposal to the necessary people.

Knew and provided a definite duration of the journey

Summarization of Leadership Principles

Nehemiah serves in upper management with King Artaxerxes, as his cupbearer. Consequently, a self-centered leader would lack concern for others, especially those who lack adequacy to aid one's secular gain. Conversely, Nehemiah's God-centeredness immediately illuminates as he inquires of his brother and peers regarding the status of the Jews who survived and escaped captivity and about Jerusalem. Nehemiah deeply grieves for days over the destruction of Jerusalem's wall because of its spiritual and societal implications. He recognizes this results from disobedience to God, the vulnerability of the Jews without the wall, and the symbolism of God appearing weak to society. Nehemiah responds with fasting and prayer, along with confession of sins of him and the Jews as a whole. He pleads to God, reminding God of the covenant, including God's promised response of the Jews obedience and disobedience. Nehemiah diligent planning included prayer while speaking to the King, this also provided God's favor before the King. Nehemiah responded to the King's questions with specific plans, including the necessary approval letters of others in authority over his route to Judah. Nehemiah's leadership displays the significance of loving God, including his people (Deut. 6:5; Mt. 22:37-40). His leadership and vision relies on knowing God's word, the necessity of obedience, preparation and prayer.


Admirable skills/principles noted before engaging the King
  1. Nehemiah is concerned about the Jews and Jerusalem
    1. Nehemiah records specifics of month, year, and location of inquiry (1:1)
    2. Nehemiah consults with peers and experts (1:2).
    3. "I asked them concerning the Jews who had escaped and had survived the captivity, and about Jerusalem. (1:2)
  2. Nehemiah responds to destruction and disobedience with grief for days, before God.
    1. Sat down
      1. Lack of physical strength caused from deep mourning
      2. Displays long duration of events
    2. Wept
    3. Mourned
    4. Fasting
    5. Praying
  3. Nehemiah submits to God
    1. "I beseech You, O Lord God of heaven the great and awesome God" (1:5)
    2. Acknowledges God's covenant for those who obey
    3. Seeks God's ear
    4. Confessing personal sin
    5. Confesses organizational sin
    6. Acknowledges consequences of disobedience
    7. Acknowledges God's character in stating God's past use of power and deliverance.

 
Admirable skills/principles noted while engaging the King
 
  1. Despite being afraid (2:2), Nehemiah responds with honesty
  2. Humble and respectful before the King, his earthly superior.
  3. Clearly articulates his concerns to the King
  4. Prays to God during the dialogue
  5. Specifically states his request of and desire to rebuild the Jerusalem wall
  6. Provided the King a definite time of duration for the journey
  7. Specifically requests the necessary letters of governors to allow his passage into Judah
        
Personal Application


Nehemiah's God-centeredness begins in this passage with him caring about the Jews who escaped and survived, as well as Jerusalem. The power of this is amplified when recognizing Nehemiah's lofty position of cupbearer for the King. Self-centeredness responds with, "Why care about others as long as I have it good?" I, like Nehemiah, need to focus on my relationship with God as this internalizes the instinctive concern of God's people and property.

Nehemiah verifies his authentic concern of the Jews, Jerusalem, and the destroyed wall's causative perception of God by responding in weeping, mourning, fasting, and praying for days. False concern(s) endures briefly at best. I strive to follow in Nehemiah's example of response by grieving and praying over the hurts of peers, and the world's perception of God's kingdom.

Additionally, I seek to follow Nehemiah's example of prayer, including confession my sins, and the sins of the organization. Nehemiah provides a terrific example of knowing current application of God's word, character, and past actions, including responses for disobedience and obedience. I also seek to follow Nehemiah's example of offering myself and the organization as servants to God.

 
Nehemiah's faith continues shining when confronted by the King, as he risks his ego and possibly his life in honestly answering the King regarding his sad face. I hope to continue speaking honestly in all circumstances.

 
Honesty has positive and negative consequences. Nehemiah powerfully shows and reminds me that the benefits of serving God with honesty far exceed any perceived false benefits of dishonesty. Nehemiah continues his Godly leadership example of being respectful of the King and silently praying during his dialogue with King Artaxerxes.

I, like Nehemiah, need to remain respectful of superiors and silently pray during conversations, especially with high stakes at risk. Nehemiah reminds me to diligently plan, have precise details ready to the best of my ability when meeting with decision makers. This includes the task's duration and any necessary documents. I will seek to boldly state, when appropriate, my desired tasks, as Nehemiah did when declaring his intention of rebuilding Jerusalem's wall.

Nehemiah encourages me, as a leader, to love God, care about others, grieve for others hurts, pray, confess personal and corporal sins, know God's word and character (as best as humanly possible), boldly and honestly face superiors with respect, continually praying during the dialogue, diligently plan, articulate details of my intentions, seek the appropriate documents, etc and praise God for the favor of his good hand on me.

 
In consideration of economic uncertainty and spiritual depravity, American Christians should follow Nehemiah's example of mourning, weeping, praying, fasting (if you feel so inclined), confessing of personal and national sin, remember God's word, and seek obedience to God. We, like Nehemiah, will diligently develop and implement a Godly vision and plan, serving God despite dangers, risk, inconvenience, and discomfort.

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
 
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com



Running thru the Bible Subscription



Sunday, October 28, 2012

Talent vs. Wisdom

The Bowl Championship Series (BCS) places the Kansas State University football team second in this week's rankings. The top two teams at the end of the season play for the National Championship. Alabama is the current top ranked team.


 

Numerous articles and conversations express amazement at Kansas State's undefeated season to date against tough competition, considering the experts rank their recent recruiting classes low—lacking the talent of the other top programs.


 

This imbalance of talent, with K-State on the bottom end compared to their opponents perplexes media, fans, and probably coaches and players across America—the other coaches and players probably are hesitant for a public confession.


 

A number of factors exist in explaining how a team with little talent defeats and annihilates teams possessing superior talent. A few of these factors include.

  • Better Coaching
  • Inaccurate Recruiting Rankings
  • Better Game Day Focus
  • Greater Physical Preparation
  • Greater Mental Preparation
  • Injuries vs. Staying Healthy
  • Enhanced Team Chemistry
  • Selfishness vs Teamness (it's a word now J)


 

Bill "Congo" Congleton, became a Hall of Fame Coach and Coaching legend at Manhattan High School in Manhattan, Kansas during the 1970s through the early 1990s. He shared wisdom with me while I served as one of his assistant coaches while I attended Kansas State during the late 1980s. Congo proclaimed his teams with average talent with above average intelligence will consistently defeat teams possessing above average talent with average intelligence. Congo's achievements validate his belief.


 

How does one measure intelligence? Grades or test scores fall short in measuring intelligence. Dr. Burns at Dallas Theological Seminary succinctly states, imperfect professors attempt to measure imperfect students with grades. Additionally, does equivalency exist between an "A" at two separate University's organic chemistry class? A future Rhodes Scholar recipient ruined the curve in my organic chemistry class at Kansas State. Does equivalency exist between an "A" with two different professors or graders?


 

I have visited with three different students of a renowned graduated school who turned in their papers and received a high or low score and then were asked to resubmit because the grader lost their scores. The students resubmitted the same paper, printing of a fresh copy. The exact same paper received nearly polar opposite scores with the second grading. In other words, how accurately do grades reflect intelligence?


 

One best define Congo's use of intelligence as Wisdom. Wisdom includes properly acting after collecting, and understanding information. Greater wisdom increases the volume of information and rate of response. Wisdom enables good decisions and constant monitoring with quick, proper adjustments.


 

If one possesses greater physical ability, yet acts with foolishness, or complacency—ignoring wisdom—they will consistently fall to those with less physical ability and greater wisdom. The well-known Bible story of David—a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22)—versus Goliath—the uncircumcised Philistine, illustrates wisdom versus talent (1 Samuel 16:1—17:58).


 

Where does one attain wisdom? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Begin with reverence, prayer and study of God's word.


 

Achieving greatness depends more upon wisdom than talent. Choose wisdom in honing, expanding and applying your talent. With prayer, joy, fellowship, and studying God's word, you too will be among the best in the nation and world in the endeavor God's calls you to engage. The great seldom receive fame, the famous often lack Godly wisdom.


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick


 

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Engineering Pluralism


T
(Second Draft—Stay tuned)

 

Many in today's society believe in and promote the religious pluralism while they snarl at theism—one God represented in trinity of the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Religious pluralists believe all roads, all religions, all worship services lead to salvation. They dispel only one true God. Rather, everyone defines their own god and method of salvation.

"Don't tell me or anyone else that our religion is wrong, that we worship a false god."

The apostle Paul encountered this same argument particularly in Athens during his second missionary journey.

For those promoting religious tolerance allowing each person to define and worship their own god—repudiating the one true God—would you fly in an airplane or stay in a building designed by those practicing Engineering Tolerance or Pluralism?

Imagine engineers denouncing math and physics standards. Two plus two may equal one, three, seventeen, infinity x infinity. Additionally Pi may no longer equate to 3.14 and whatever digits follow, instead perhaps 8,9632.5000, because some self-defined mathematician had a vision one night to redefine pi.

If one believes in false gods, or defining one's own god, surely engineers believing in false values and calculations, or defining their own values and calculations will create wonderful, reliable aircraft and buildings in the name of tolerance.

Prestigious academia who denounce the true God, will surely update their plethora of science departments by removing intolerant standards. Come on academia, set the trend with Engineering Pluralism.

Do I have any volunteers to fly these aircraft or live in these buildings?

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with the one true God, Father the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit!
Rick

Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com


Friday, October 19, 2012

Pride vs. Humility

William Shakespeare once wrote, "Brevity is the soul of wit."


 

"Pride = Self Centeredness

Humble = God Centeredness"

~ Dr. Lanier Burns


 

Friends, I pray you and I choose a humble attitude of centering on God the Father, Son (the Lord Jesus Christ) and the Holy Spirit today and every day.

Be Blessed!


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick


 

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.


www.rickemeyer.com

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Capture Wisdom

I regularly reflect upon Congo's reply.

His message nearly dashed over my head at the time, escaping into the abyss of nothingness.

Wisdom simplifies the complex.

Wisdom, like bolts of lightning dancing across the summer sky, vanishes as quickly as she amazes us--if uncaptured.


How much effort should you exert in your worthwhile pursuits? Should you record garnered wisdom?

"Depends on how good you want to be."
http://www.rickemeyer.com/audio/congoideologies2.mp3

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com


 


 


 

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Stretch


Clusters of blue-grayish clouds dispersed amidst blue windows peering into the stratosphere, blanketed the Texas heavens this October afternoon. The calm, soothing air resided as unnoticed as car horns in a New York based movie.


I hurriedly parked my beige Buick LaSabre at home after a full day of classes at Dallas Theological Seminary, where I am pursuing a Masters of Art in Christian Leadership. My cerebral cortex seemingly pulsated in processing the wisdom of great professors. I raced to my car's trunk—opened with the push of a button—clasped my left hand and fingers around the handle of my briefcase. While propelling myself the door, I simultaneously readjusted the keys in my right hand in preparation of opening my apartment door.


The black wingtips, socks, slacks, and blue polo shirt rapidly became dispersed on and by the bed. Decades of repetition enabled redressing in running clothes, in only a few seconds. Gray shoes with green outlined lettering, along with black running shorts and a white shirt reading "See, Believe, Achieve" on the back transformed this body and mind from student, and professional to "super runner." Well, maybe just a "runner".


The first two miles my body resembled a rear tractor tire—appearing fast, yet moving forward at the speed of cold honey—I then dropped the hammer in an attempt to sprint for one-minute, followed by one-minute of jog rest. Each one-minute of full speed running covered a perpetually increasing distance through each of the first ten repetitions. Increased stride length, measured by the cracks on the sidewalk, produced the greatest contribution as the rate of leg turnover remained nearly constant.


In other words, my achievements significantly increased while my extended energy remained constant, because of increased flexibility. My optimal speed and flexibility persisted for the final ten one-minute runs. Near the end physical fatigue, represented by lactic acid, and mental exhaustion began seeping in as high ground water into a basement. Consequently, my focus and concentration zeroed in on remaining flexible and quick.


Following a cool-down, I ate supper in energetic contentment exceeding my exhaustion, because my flexibility, quickness and persistence allowed me to challenge myself to achievement and growth.

How are you increasing your flexibility for greater achievements at work, at home with your family, and serving your community?

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve greater flexibility in Christ!


Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickemeyer.com


 

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Do You Seek God First, and Love Others?

During each speaking engagement—keynote or seminar—I directly or indirectly uplift, Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you, and loving others as much as we care about yourself (Matthew 6:33, 19:19, 22:37-40; John 15:12).

Gratification bubbles abundantly as a deep spring when attendees latch onto this message throughout the day, recognizing that life's gold mines reside in relationship with God. This includes our desiring his best for others. Godly love drives every success attribute such as our thoughts, words, wisdom, knowledge, understanding, diligence, prudence, preparation, execution, vision and desire.


 

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Proverbs 1:7)

How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than choice silver! (Proverbs 16:16)


Enjoy a blessed day. You are special, intentional, and wonderful! How will you positively impact someone today?


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!


 

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

Rickemeyer.com


 

 

Friday, September 21, 2012

How does one Repent?

Frequently we hear repenting defined as turning from our sins, reversing direction. In other words, if one has challenges with greed, alcohol, lust, or any number other sins, they are instructed by many Christians to repent with the intended meaning of turning from those sins, discontinuing in their practice along with being sorry for one's sins. I too have stated this and similar suggestions over the years.

Unfortunately, as Dr. Stanley Tousaint adamantly expresses, the above method teaches salvation by works. Dr. Tousaint rhetorically asks, "How many sins must you turn from, or be sorry for, to receive salvation?"

If repenting fails to include being sorry for our sins, or turning from our sins, how does one repent? Repent is turning to God. After turning to God—God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit—one then becomes sorry and changes direction. The latter results from repenting—turning to God.

As you read the Bible, substitute turn to God for repent. This exchange allows the continual smooth flow of the passages.


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Turn to Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick

Rick E. Meyer See, Believe, Achieve Inc. www.rickEmeyer.com

Monday, September 10, 2012

Leadership Observations in the Life of David


  1. 1 Samuel 16:23 ̶ 17:45 (Overall through 1 King 2:11)
  1. David played the harp causing the evil spirit to leave Saul, refreshing and making him well (16:23)


 

  1. David woke-up and left the flock early in the morning with a keeper, allowing David to take supplies to his brothers as his dad Jesse commanded (17:17,20).



  1. David inquiries what will be done for the man who kills Goliath who taunts the armies of the living God (17:26).



  1. David offered his willingness to fight the Philistine to Saul (17:32).



  1. David explains his experience, preparation and God Confidence (Several years ago, I created a God Confidence Bible Study) (17:34-37).

  1. David took off uncomfortable and out of place armor (17:39)



  1. David took his stick / sling and chose five stones (17:40)



  1. David told the Philistine, I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted. (17:45)

  1. David repeats these principles through-out his life, with the exception of lust for Bathsheba and arranging for husband's, Uriah, death. (1 Samuel thru 1 Kings 2:11)

  • Leaders repeat successful principles

  1. David inquires of or seeks the Lord at least eight times (1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1; 5:19; 7:18; 21:1; 24:17)

  • Leaders seek the Lord's wisdom and guidance in prayer, rather than relying on self.

Summarization of Leadership Principles


David has just begun his leadership after God selected him as a king for and by God following Saul's disobedience in sparing Agag and the Amalekites' spoils. The Spirit of the Lord resided with day from the day of his selection forward, God calls David a man after his own heart. Consequently, David recognizes and honors God's presence, blessings and power. David receives favor with men, women and in battles. When the people exalted David over Saul, David remained humble. Although, his affection for Bathsheba leading to placing her husband Uriah in battle to be killed results in the only stated occasion of God's displeasure with David. Lacking coincidence, David failed to inquire of the Lord in matters of women—specifically Bathsheba. As a leader, David exalts God's anointing of Saul and all lives in Godly favor. David's leadership reveals and reminds the significance of great leadership resulting from God's choosing and receiving his Spirit, along with our obedience.

 


Admirable skills/principles noted before battling Goliath the Philistine


  1. God sends Samuel to Jesse's house for His selected King
    1. "God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." (17:7)
    2. "Now the Spirit of the Lord departed mightily upon David from that day forward." (17:13)
  2. David serves Saul, including comforting his torments from "an evil spirit from the Lord" that torments him.
    1. Playing the Harp
    2. Attending him
    3. Inviting him to feast with the nations' leaders
  3. David preparing for battle
    1. Delivers food to the front lines in obedience to his dad, Jesse
    2. Angered by Goliath taunting the armies of the living God
    3. Inquires of the award for the one whom kills Goliath, thus defeating the Philistine armies
    4. Angered by Goliath taunting the armies of the living God
    5. Reflects upon experience of shepherding and God leading him to victories over lions and bears
Admirable skills/principles noted while fighting Goliath


  1. Relies on God
  2. Relies on proven methods for David, remaining true to the person God created in him
    1. Selects Stones
    2. Embraces weapon—sling / stick
  3. Boldness in approaching the uncircumcised Philistine
  4. Confesses his approach in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel
  5. Confesses victory because the battle is the Lord's
  6. Moved quickly
  7. Fired—slung rock—confidently
        
Personal Application


David, like all God's selected leaders, received the appointment without applying for the job, or establishing a marketing plan. As Dr. Lanier Burns states, self-marketing is a pagan ritual as it places one's selfish ambition and reliance ahead of God's desires. David's marketing plan consisted of serving God, through whole heartedly serving his dad and family sheep business. David recognized and relied upon God's strength, power, and protection while battling the lions and bears amongst the sheep herd as well as when fighting the uncircumcised Philistine—Goliath. David also devoutly served Saul. David continued his Godly love for Saul after Saul continually tried to kill David, because David honored God's anointing of Saul. David possessed legendary leadership qualities!


First, David confessed and honored God's provision in everything—all of his successes. Amazing leadership qualities! Secularism says, "Look at me." I need to continually strive to recognize and honor God's presence in my life, including the victories. This includes recognizing that when victories lack, God is preparing us for victory as a coach prepares his athletes. This leadership lesson is one I must remember for myself and communicate with those in my organization. Secondly, David avoided the peer pressure of wearing Saul's armor for battle once he realized the armor conflicted with David's comfort, style, and experience. As a leader, I need to remember to remain true to my strengths in Christ, even when normal appears to offer greater security.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Listening: Pharisee or Greatness

If your favorite team's efforts in preparation and competition, matched your exerted efforts in your profession, would your favorite team's success match your desires for them?


 

I pose this question across America, and now the world? I then affirm that exerted effort, at least in this context, differs from time. In other words, how much of one's physical, mental, and spiritual ability does one exert in their current allotment of time?


 

Two people may each run from 6:00 AM until 7:00 AM, or work on professional project from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. However, one may exert greater effort within these time frames than the other.


 

I recently shared this with a fellow student, who immediately began tearing apart every word spoken. He failed to understand that effort and the amount of time differ in this example. He proudly explained that he finds fault in most everything anyone says. Unfortunately, I too have been guilty of this more times than I care to admit.


 

I now call listeners like my friend and me Pharisee and Sadducee listeners. We seek to criticize instead of understand the person's message. We look for the wrong in someone's message instead of what is right.


 

Often times people explain the same concept using differing terminology based on our differing vernacular influenced by those with whom we associate. For example in college, Ben from St. Louis drank soda, Jon from Manhattan drank a "coke," while Jamie drank pop, while all three consumed Dr. Pepper.


 

Instead of criticizing Jon for saying "coke" when drinking Dr. Pepper, wisdom seeks Jon's true drink--the true meaning. Pharisee and Sadducee listening to criticize hinders relationships, while listening for what is right, what the person means enhances relationships.


 

The basis of the openning question recognizes we each differ in our "natural" abilities, yet we control our level of application. Over the long haul, the exertion generally makes all the difference.


 

For example, Dr. Ken McFarland told of meeting William Jennings Bryan when Ken was a nine or ten year old boy in Caney, Kansas--approximately 1918. Mr. Bryan stopped in Caney to campaign for the United States Presidency on a hot day. He arrived on the 10:10 Topeka, Santa Fe, Atchison line.


 

Mr. Bryan saw Ken standing barefoot in overalls, and nothing else. William Jennings Bryan approached young Ken McFarland, asking what he was doing out in the hot sun with no hat. Nine or ten year old Ken McFarland shared that he and his brothers listened to Mr. Bryan's "Cross of Gold" record on their families Victrola record player until they "plum wore it out."


 

"I want to raise my voice to the glory of God and the United States, like you said in your speech," declared Ken.


 

"You can do it. Yes, you can do it. You just get down on your knees every night and thank God that you live in this great land, and ask Him to give you gumption. With all that you can do the rest yourself." "Now I have come over here and told you something, I expect you to remember it," explained the great orator, William Jennings Bryan.


 

The young small town Kansas boy looked up exuding admiration, "Oh, I will."


 

Dr. Ken McFarland shares this story in a speech in 1984, adding "As you can see, I still remember it. I still get down on my knees every night thanking God that I live in this great country and ask Him to give me gumption." Dr. McFarland spent his life raising his voice to the glory of God and the United States of America.


 

William Jennings Bryan listened purposely to Ken, and sought to understand his message. Ken McFarland listened to understand and apply the reply from William Jennings Bryan.


 

Dr. Ken McFarland adds, "I continue thanking God for great men who took a little bit of their time to talk to (and listen) to barefooted boys in overalls. It makes all the difference."


 

What might have been the difference in Dr. Ken McFarland's life, as well as the millions of lives impacted by his messages while speaking for Goodyear, Readers Digest and all the organizations if William Jennings Bryan would have listened as a Pharisee with the intent of finding fault and criticism?


 

Instead he listened with the intent seek the meaning, responding to lift up the small Kansas boy, on a hot summer's day, that stood barefoot in overalls?


 

I continue listening to a tape purchased twenty years ago of Dr. McFarland's 1984 speech in Pittsburg. Yes, exerting effort to listen makes all the difference in world.


 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!


 

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com

(First draft 9 September 2012 7:47 PM CDT)