Does a Christ-like person receive high ratings from the world?
We all receive valuations and ratings; directly or indirectly. How are you evaluated? Evaluations are in various formats, a direct superior, Board of Directors, seminar attendees; or our friends and peers. Would you agree most of us desire ’10s’ or the highest rating possible? I certainly do! At least I thought I did; until deeply pondering evaluations.
Does Christ receive high ratings from everyone? Is crucifixion on a Cross considered a ‘10’? No! Judas, one of twelve on his Board of Directors, betrayed him. Jesus receives his share of “Excellent” markings; however those who give him “Excellent” one day, are critics the next. “Where are you? Why did you allow this to happen…?” Granted most followers eventually recognize our lack of wisdom in questioning Christ. His harsh critics continually look for wrong in all he says and does.
You may cite Apostle Paul’s statement of being all things to all people as meaning we should get along, and receive high ratings from everyone. Yet Paul spent much time in prison; placed there by his critics. A critic beheaded John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ. Hardly scoring a ‘10’! Scripture tells of other followers being tortured, including sawed in two! Ouch!!!
Considering Christ and his Biblical followers received very poor ratings, can we expect anything different walking in Christ’s footsteps? Should we take heart to critics when we fail to walk with Christ? Absolutely! Since the beginning of time, some will criticize Christians simply because they are Christians. In fact, if we are continually receiving “Excellent” from everyone; we are most likely failing to live a Christ-like life.
A life filled with honesty, sincerity, forgiveness, desiring success for others, seeking wisdom, knowledge and understanding; acknowledging scripture as the pure Word of God; will bring critics out of the woodwork. Why? In John 15, Christ tells us that the world hated him before they hated us. The critics are rebuking Christ who lives and reigns in our hearts.
In the seminar room, some say it is better to make up an answer than admitting ignorance. If our goal is only receiving high ratings from attendees; this is a good idea. However, when our goal is hearing, “Well done thy good and faithful servant;” lying in any form is foolish.
Walking with Christ, living Christ-like to the best of our human ability, will result in less favorable, short term ratings from man. Those who also strive to live Christ-like will rate you highly and God will bless your life in all aspects long term! Why must we suffer? Jesus Christ desires our love, including our obedience him and the Father. The Bible states the Lord tests our hearts. Challenges provide the exams!
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick
Rick E. Meyer
P.O. Box 244
Albion, NE 68620-0244
(402) 984-1586 - Cell
See, Believe, Achieve, Inc.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
A few weeks ago I was conducting seminars on Michigan Avenues’ Magnificent Mile in Chicago. Fortunately, my Garmin GPS directed me to the hotel. Without the GPS I would have had difficulty in finding this hotel.
Have you asked for directions, only to have someone reply; “….don’t worry, you can’t miss it.” Whenever hearing this response, I instantly think, “…this will be challenging to find.”
How many times do we drive right by the place? Finding precise locations is difficult while traveling in heavy traffic or other distractions; including the ability to easily turn around. I am thankful for my GPS, wondering how I successfully traveled without one.
Two years ago, I attended a friend’s twenty year class reunion in Omaha. The venue was in a safe area; however the adjacent areas were less than ideal in the safety ratings. We just wanted to find the place, park and get inside; our comfort level decreased traveling through the areas of high crime. Fortunately, we arrived safely.
Other searches for physical landmarks have been challenging at times; because you may be at the location but its appearance from your angle is incongruent with your expectations. Have you, like me, had those instances where you finally gave in and asked for directions only to find out you drove by the destination three times?
Finding physical locales with maps and directions can be challenging at times. Having a guide or GPS, who knows the area, the ‘lay of the land,’ is imperative to efficiently finding a destination. If we have challenges in finding physical locations on earth on our own; how do we expect to find Heaven on our own?
Logistically speaking: How can anyone enter a place they cannot find? Our inability to enter Heaven on our own includes our inability to literally find Heaven.
As a three or four year old boy on the farm, I was lost in our wooded shelterbelt. Finally, my dog Sam “showed me the door.” The door happened to be an old two seat Out House that was used when my dad was growing up. Upon finding the Out House, led to by my dog Sam, I followed the trail to our house. The entire time I was lost, the house was within a hundred yards; yet due to the trees I was unable to find my way home. Thank you Sam for showing me the door!
Who is our “Sam” in finding the door to Heaven? Jesus Christ is The Way, The Life, and The Truth. No one comes to the Father but by Him. Why, because we are unable to literally find Heaven on our own. We must confess we need Jesus to carry us to and in Heaven. We achieve this by confessing and repenting of our sin, selfishness. Pride is the foundation of most, possibly all, sin. We must humble ourselves admitting we need Jesus for forgiveness of our sins, holding our hand, leading us to Heaven.
Perhaps you remain unconvinced of your need for Christ, and his role in your Salvation.
Consider this: At your death; all roads lead to Hell except one. Demons strongly desire to carry your soul to Hell. Only one can prevent these demons from touching and leading your soul; he is Jesus Christ. Jesus stands at the door and knocks. Does your soul acknowledge and cry out to Christ’s redemptive hand? Perhaps you are unconvinced of demons. Do you really believe you can find, much less enter, Heaven on your own?
Imagine that your soul is now left your perished body. Where will your soul go? In the immense Galaxy, are you going to have better luck finding Heaven than you do a physical locale on earth? Will you be able to turn around if you go too far? Will you be immediately outside the gates, yet unaware of your close proximity? Perhaps your soul does find Heaven, are you just going to sneak in? Why should you be allowed to enter on your own merits? Are your human merits really worthy of entering God’s Kingdom?
Open the door of your heart and soul; grasp the hand of our Savior, Jesus Christ for Salvation. Upon confessing and repenting, your sins are eternally forgiven; Jesus will grasp your hand at physical death, leading your soul directly to and through the gates of Heaven into the Father’s eternal presence.
Do you really believe you will find Heaven on your own following physical death? Yeah, I know – “Don’t worry, you can’t miss it.” Who will show you the door?
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
Rick is an Award Winning Speaker.
www.rickemeyer.com
Have you asked for directions, only to have someone reply; “….don’t worry, you can’t miss it.” Whenever hearing this response, I instantly think, “…this will be challenging to find.”
How many times do we drive right by the place? Finding precise locations is difficult while traveling in heavy traffic or other distractions; including the ability to easily turn around. I am thankful for my GPS, wondering how I successfully traveled without one.
Two years ago, I attended a friend’s twenty year class reunion in Omaha. The venue was in a safe area; however the adjacent areas were less than ideal in the safety ratings. We just wanted to find the place, park and get inside; our comfort level decreased traveling through the areas of high crime. Fortunately, we arrived safely.
Other searches for physical landmarks have been challenging at times; because you may be at the location but its appearance from your angle is incongruent with your expectations. Have you, like me, had those instances where you finally gave in and asked for directions only to find out you drove by the destination three times?
Finding physical locales with maps and directions can be challenging at times. Having a guide or GPS, who knows the area, the ‘lay of the land,’ is imperative to efficiently finding a destination. If we have challenges in finding physical locations on earth on our own; how do we expect to find Heaven on our own?
Logistically speaking: How can anyone enter a place they cannot find? Our inability to enter Heaven on our own includes our inability to literally find Heaven.
As a three or four year old boy on the farm, I was lost in our wooded shelterbelt. Finally, my dog Sam “showed me the door.” The door happened to be an old two seat Out House that was used when my dad was growing up. Upon finding the Out House, led to by my dog Sam, I followed the trail to our house. The entire time I was lost, the house was within a hundred yards; yet due to the trees I was unable to find my way home. Thank you Sam for showing me the door!
Who is our “Sam” in finding the door to Heaven? Jesus Christ is The Way, The Life, and The Truth. No one comes to the Father but by Him. Why, because we are unable to literally find Heaven on our own. We must confess we need Jesus to carry us to and in Heaven. We achieve this by confessing and repenting of our sin, selfishness. Pride is the foundation of most, possibly all, sin. We must humble ourselves admitting we need Jesus for forgiveness of our sins, holding our hand, leading us to Heaven.
Perhaps you remain unconvinced of your need for Christ, and his role in your Salvation.
Consider this: At your death; all roads lead to Hell except one. Demons strongly desire to carry your soul to Hell. Only one can prevent these demons from touching and leading your soul; he is Jesus Christ. Jesus stands at the door and knocks. Does your soul acknowledge and cry out to Christ’s redemptive hand? Perhaps you are unconvinced of demons. Do you really believe you can find, much less enter, Heaven on your own?
Imagine that your soul is now left your perished body. Where will your soul go? In the immense Galaxy, are you going to have better luck finding Heaven than you do a physical locale on earth? Will you be able to turn around if you go too far? Will you be immediately outside the gates, yet unaware of your close proximity? Perhaps your soul does find Heaven, are you just going to sneak in? Why should you be allowed to enter on your own merits? Are your human merits really worthy of entering God’s Kingdom?
Open the door of your heart and soul; grasp the hand of our Savior, Jesus Christ for Salvation. Upon confessing and repenting, your sins are eternally forgiven; Jesus will grasp your hand at physical death, leading your soul directly to and through the gates of Heaven into the Father’s eternal presence.
Do you really believe you will find Heaven on your own following physical death? Yeah, I know – “Don’t worry, you can’t miss it.” Who will show you the door?
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
Rick is an Award Winning Speaker.
www.rickemeyer.com
Friday, April 16, 2010
Scipture's Original Context
Frequently theologians say something to the extent of: Scripture is pure only in its original context. They are referring to its original human language, such as Hebrew, or Greek.
I believe NONE of the aforementioned languages are the original language of scripture. Rather the original language, the original context, is the Holy Spirit! Would you agree the Holy Spirit is fully capable of speaking any human language?
I have difficulty believing God was thrown for a loop when scripture was converted to German, then English or any other language. The comprehension of scripture depends not upon knowing languages such as Greek and Hebrew.
The comprehension of scripture is dependent of upon understanding the Holy Spirit. Are you in full communion with the Holy Spirit?
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
I believe NONE of the aforementioned languages are the original language of scripture. Rather the original language, the original context, is the Holy Spirit! Would you agree the Holy Spirit is fully capable of speaking any human language?
I have difficulty believing God was thrown for a loop when scripture was converted to German, then English or any other language. The comprehension of scripture depends not upon knowing languages such as Greek and Hebrew.
The comprehension of scripture is dependent of upon understanding the Holy Spirit. Are you in full communion with the Holy Spirit?
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Open to Hear
Do you desire hearing God , but unsure if HE is speaking? Do you desire greater, stronger faith? I certainly do on numerous occasions.
More than once I wished God would shoot an e-mail my way, drop a short note to me, or give a phone call.
Several years ago I asked him if he would send an e-mail if I were to attend an event conflicting with another item on the calendar. Within an hour, I received a personal e-mail from the host of the event expressing their desire of my attendance. Coincidence???
A couple of weeks ago two conflicting events arose on the calendar. Both opportunities were exciting with tremendous upside potential existing with each. I once again had one of "AH HA" moments: "Why don't I pray?" Eight minutes later the phone rang, somebody else was able to take care of one of the conflicting events for me - I had asked no one.
Coincidence???
Obviously, we do not always receive e-mails or phone calls at all or certainly that quickly. We do not always know if God IS speaking to us.
How do we resond in these situations? Open the Bible! The Bible IS God's purely spoken word. Jesus is "the word made flesh." When we read the Bible, God IS speaking to us, just as he did the prophets in milleniums past. God says, "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Reading scripture, the pure word of God, strengthens and deepens our Faith as we hear the God's Word.
Next time you desire hearing God's voice, Open Scripture - Read the Book. Recognize God's action in your life when you DO receive e-mails and phone calls answering your prayers.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
More than once I wished God would shoot an e-mail my way, drop a short note to me, or give a phone call.
Several years ago I asked him if he would send an e-mail if I were to attend an event conflicting with another item on the calendar. Within an hour, I received a personal e-mail from the host of the event expressing their desire of my attendance. Coincidence???
A couple of weeks ago two conflicting events arose on the calendar. Both opportunities were exciting with tremendous upside potential existing with each. I once again had one of "AH HA" moments: "Why don't I pray?" Eight minutes later the phone rang, somebody else was able to take care of one of the conflicting events for me - I had asked no one.
Coincidence???
Obviously, we do not always receive e-mails or phone calls at all or certainly that quickly. We do not always know if God IS speaking to us.
How do we resond in these situations? Open the Bible! The Bible IS God's purely spoken word. Jesus is "the word made flesh." When we read the Bible, God IS speaking to us, just as he did the prophets in milleniums past. God says, "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Reading scripture, the pure word of God, strengthens and deepens our Faith as we hear the God's Word.
Next time you desire hearing God's voice, Open Scripture - Read the Book. Recognize God's action in your life when you DO receive e-mails and phone calls answering your prayers.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Test Your Heart
A story is told of a young man, approaching the great philosopher Socrates asking to be taught all that Socrates knew. Socrates invited the yearning student to join him on a walk to the lake. Upon arrival, they continued until the water was at least waist high. Socrates dunked the lad under the water, holding him down. Initially the young man went along with Socrates; however as his desire for a breath intensified so did the boy’s fight. Socrates continued holding the young man under water; the student was no longer fighting for a breath; rather his life.
Finally, the fight ended as the lad passed out from oxygen deprivation. The great philosopher drug him from the water, up on the shore and revived him. The yearning student inquired of Socrates, “What were doing? I almost drowned.” The great Socrates then replied when you want to know what I know as badly as you desired to live; you will then know what I know. Socrates tested the man’s heart.
Would you agree our walk with Christ is similar to the young man pursuing the knowledge of Socrates? Most of us desire knowledge without effort. Proverbs states, he who loves discipline loves knowledge. Is our desire to deepen our understanding of scripture, as great as our desire to live? Do we fight to strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ as much as we fight for our lives? Christ desires all of us, he wants us to love him more than anything in existence; this includes our physical life. Does this mean we must physical die at a young age to follow Christ? No!
The Bible states God will test our hearts!
We should be willing to push ourselves beyond previously known limits in seeking and serving Him. In so doing, God will supply all of our needs from sources we were previously unaware. We are called to leave our comfort zone in serving our Lord, Jesus Christ.
In high school cross country, we tapped one another’s sternum saying, “You ‘gotta’ want it more than life itself!” Moments in races, the body appeared on the verge of collapse; but the legs, arms, lungs, and heart kept going. Our hearts were tested. Let us fully exert ourselves in pursuit of Jesus Christ everyday. Let us crave a relationship with Christ as much as our desire for human life. He will keep our body moving forward in serving Him.
See Christ’s Presence, Believe Christ’s Forgiveness, Achieve Christ’s Will for your life! Pass the heart test.
In Christ,
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Finally, the fight ended as the lad passed out from oxygen deprivation. The great philosopher drug him from the water, up on the shore and revived him. The yearning student inquired of Socrates, “What were doing? I almost drowned.” The great Socrates then replied when you want to know what I know as badly as you desired to live; you will then know what I know. Socrates tested the man’s heart.
Would you agree our walk with Christ is similar to the young man pursuing the knowledge of Socrates? Most of us desire knowledge without effort. Proverbs states, he who loves discipline loves knowledge. Is our desire to deepen our understanding of scripture, as great as our desire to live? Do we fight to strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ as much as we fight for our lives? Christ desires all of us, he wants us to love him more than anything in existence; this includes our physical life. Does this mean we must physical die at a young age to follow Christ? No!
The Bible states God will test our hearts!
We should be willing to push ourselves beyond previously known limits in seeking and serving Him. In so doing, God will supply all of our needs from sources we were previously unaware. We are called to leave our comfort zone in serving our Lord, Jesus Christ.
In high school cross country, we tapped one another’s sternum saying, “You ‘gotta’ want it more than life itself!” Moments in races, the body appeared on the verge of collapse; but the legs, arms, lungs, and heart kept going. Our hearts were tested. Let us fully exert ourselves in pursuit of Jesus Christ everyday. Let us crave a relationship with Christ as much as our desire for human life. He will keep our body moving forward in serving Him.
See Christ’s Presence, Believe Christ’s Forgiveness, Achieve Christ’s Will for your life! Pass the heart test.
In Christ,
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Turn on the Light
March 1, 2010
Have you ever searched for a misplaced object in the dark? Recently, wanting to assure the alarm was set; I searched for my cell phone after turning off the hotel room lights. After several minutes of grasping everything within reach except the cell phone, an amazing revelation appeared. Turn on the light! Instantly, I chuckled to myself over the humor of the delayed recognition of the obvious solution. The phone had been there all along, the light simply enable seeing it.
After finding the phone, assuring the alarm was properly set, and turning off the lights; I reflected how frequently many of us fail to “Turn on the Light.” How do we turn on “Life’s Light”? We first acknowledge the “Light of the World,” Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and God the Father: The Triune God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We turn on “Life’s Light” by turning to Holy Scripture and prayer, seeking our Lord’s wisdom and guidance.
Friday February 5, 2010, I received several correspondences informing me of material that needed created by noon. The catch involved the needed work would require about two days to complete. Suddenly a voice spoke several times saying, “Pray.” I instantly responded, “I do not have time to pray!” Yes, I am rather slow at catching on sometimes. Fortunately our Lord loves me enough to be persistent in spite of my stubbornness. Following the fifth or sixth occurrence, an amazing revelation struck between my eyes: “Perhaps I should pray.” I know you catch on much quicker than me.
The twenty hours of work was completed in less than two hours. Would you agree that work takes much longer to complete in the dark? Upon allowing “Life’s Light” to illuminate my work, meeting the day’s lifelines was easy: I could see! The resources for completing this work surrounded me in notebooks, computer files, and frequent ponderings. Christ’s light simply illuminated this information, enabling me to see it in the proper context. God desires to illuminate life’s solutions and work for us every millisecond of every day. If only we read scripture and pray. Yes, we must continue to exert the effort; often times in faith.
I knew the hotel room had lights, but initially failed to turn them on; and knew I should pray but slow to realize prayer would enhance that specific situation. How frequently do we fail to turn on the “Light of World” in our daily lives? Are we stubborn, or too busy? When pressures and responsibilities are bearing down, let us put aside our egos and read scripture and pray. Working in the Light of Christ is much more efficient and productive than working in the darkness of the world.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ.
Rick E. Meyer
President
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Have you ever searched for a misplaced object in the dark? Recently, wanting to assure the alarm was set; I searched for my cell phone after turning off the hotel room lights. After several minutes of grasping everything within reach except the cell phone, an amazing revelation appeared. Turn on the light! Instantly, I chuckled to myself over the humor of the delayed recognition of the obvious solution. The phone had been there all along, the light simply enable seeing it.
After finding the phone, assuring the alarm was properly set, and turning off the lights; I reflected how frequently many of us fail to “Turn on the Light.” How do we turn on “Life’s Light”? We first acknowledge the “Light of the World,” Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and God the Father: The Triune God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We turn on “Life’s Light” by turning to Holy Scripture and prayer, seeking our Lord’s wisdom and guidance.
Friday February 5, 2010, I received several correspondences informing me of material that needed created by noon. The catch involved the needed work would require about two days to complete. Suddenly a voice spoke several times saying, “Pray.” I instantly responded, “I do not have time to pray!” Yes, I am rather slow at catching on sometimes. Fortunately our Lord loves me enough to be persistent in spite of my stubbornness. Following the fifth or sixth occurrence, an amazing revelation struck between my eyes: “Perhaps I should pray.” I know you catch on much quicker than me.
The twenty hours of work was completed in less than two hours. Would you agree that work takes much longer to complete in the dark? Upon allowing “Life’s Light” to illuminate my work, meeting the day’s lifelines was easy: I could see! The resources for completing this work surrounded me in notebooks, computer files, and frequent ponderings. Christ’s light simply illuminated this information, enabling me to see it in the proper context. God desires to illuminate life’s solutions and work for us every millisecond of every day. If only we read scripture and pray. Yes, we must continue to exert the effort; often times in faith.
I knew the hotel room had lights, but initially failed to turn them on; and knew I should pray but slow to realize prayer would enhance that specific situation. How frequently do we fail to turn on the “Light of World” in our daily lives? Are we stubborn, or too busy? When pressures and responsibilities are bearing down, let us put aside our egos and read scripture and pray. Working in the Light of Christ is much more efficient and productive than working in the darkness of the world.
See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ.
Rick E. Meyer
President
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Do your Best
Did you do your best?
My parents asked this of me frequently, whether I performed poorly or competed with the world’s best. They had only one standard: That I do my best with the time, talent, energy, money, people, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding that I possessed at the moment. Stating the obvious, when we do our best, no better effort is possible. If a better performance is possible, common sense illuminates we failed to do our best.
Do you desire to associate with those who do, ‘just enough get by?’ I have been guilty of “just enough to get by 'itis” in the past. Any memorable achievement, whether in business, athletics or academics NEVER resulted while infected with “just enough to get by.” This is the primary reason I performed poorly in the classroom. My lack of enjoyment in studying, prevented me from doing my best; although I frequently attempted to convince myself otherwise.
I recently encountered someone infected with “just enough to get by 'itis,” as I priced a new windshield for my car. Due to a few chips from semi-trucks, now converted into a couple of major cracks, the windshield needs replacing. I spoke with a company representative who informed me that if I found a lower quote to let them know. They in turn would match or better the competitor’s quote if lower. I suggested they provide their best price right away. The glass company arrogantly stated they were conducting their business the same as many others. They continued on with many rambling excuses.
This company representative, and most likely their Vice President of Marketing who instigates this strategy, fails to realize they are pontificating the desire to only do enough to get by, to get the sale. If this is true in their sales, one can safely assume this same attitude exists throughout their organization, including their work quality and customer service. This company’s performance level will be “just enough to get by.” This company failed to understand why I ignored their complacent attitude, disassociating myself from them.
I placed my business with another company who provided their best effort on the first request. I know they will do their best in both quality and customer service. If a mistake is made by this company who does their best, I will quickly forgive them because I know their attitude is correct.
As Christians, God desires for us to do more than just enough to get by in our relationship with Him. Christ desires for us to give our best in our walk with him every second of every day. Just as I despise the company for doing just enough to get by, as were my parents disappointed in me when I failed to do my best; Christ is disappointed in us when we focus on just doing enough to get to heaven. If we continually walk through life with that attitude, we may be surprised to learn Christ has disassociated himself from our complacency.
Are we going to make mistakes? Of course we are! However, Christ quickly forgives us when we continually seek to love him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength; when we love our fellow man as much as we love ourselves.
As humans, perfection is virtually out of the question; however we can seek to do our best all the time.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ.
See Creation, Believe Christ's power and forgiveness, Achieve all that God created you to Achieve.
In Christ,
Rick
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
My parents asked this of me frequently, whether I performed poorly or competed with the world’s best. They had only one standard: That I do my best with the time, talent, energy, money, people, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding that I possessed at the moment. Stating the obvious, when we do our best, no better effort is possible. If a better performance is possible, common sense illuminates we failed to do our best.
Do you desire to associate with those who do, ‘just enough get by?’ I have been guilty of “just enough to get by 'itis” in the past. Any memorable achievement, whether in business, athletics or academics NEVER resulted while infected with “just enough to get by.” This is the primary reason I performed poorly in the classroom. My lack of enjoyment in studying, prevented me from doing my best; although I frequently attempted to convince myself otherwise.
I recently encountered someone infected with “just enough to get by 'itis,” as I priced a new windshield for my car. Due to a few chips from semi-trucks, now converted into a couple of major cracks, the windshield needs replacing. I spoke with a company representative who informed me that if I found a lower quote to let them know. They in turn would match or better the competitor’s quote if lower. I suggested they provide their best price right away. The glass company arrogantly stated they were conducting their business the same as many others. They continued on with many rambling excuses.
This company representative, and most likely their Vice President of Marketing who instigates this strategy, fails to realize they are pontificating the desire to only do enough to get by, to get the sale. If this is true in their sales, one can safely assume this same attitude exists throughout their organization, including their work quality and customer service. This company’s performance level will be “just enough to get by.” This company failed to understand why I ignored their complacent attitude, disassociating myself from them.
I placed my business with another company who provided their best effort on the first request. I know they will do their best in both quality and customer service. If a mistake is made by this company who does their best, I will quickly forgive them because I know their attitude is correct.
As Christians, God desires for us to do more than just enough to get by in our relationship with Him. Christ desires for us to give our best in our walk with him every second of every day. Just as I despise the company for doing just enough to get by, as were my parents disappointed in me when I failed to do my best; Christ is disappointed in us when we focus on just doing enough to get to heaven. If we continually walk through life with that attitude, we may be surprised to learn Christ has disassociated himself from our complacency.
Are we going to make mistakes? Of course we are! However, Christ quickly forgives us when we continually seek to love him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength; when we love our fellow man as much as we love ourselves.
As humans, perfection is virtually out of the question; however we can seek to do our best all the time.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ.
See Creation, Believe Christ's power and forgiveness, Achieve all that God created you to Achieve.
In Christ,
Rick
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
BONNIE AND CLYDE
Do you remember the 1967 movie about these police killing bank robbers, starring Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty? I happen to watch that movie this afternoon. As with most, if not all, “Real Life” movies, the accuracy of the movie to real events is questionable, particularly regarding the details.
Near the end of this movie, Bonnie Parker asks Clyde Barrow if they could miraculously get a new start with a clean slate; what he would do with his life. Clyde’s response appeared to surprise and disappoint Bonnie, he responded that they could move to a new state then only rob banks, continuing the criminal activities, in another state where there were not known; allowing them to return home unknown and unsuspected. Unfortunately, Clyde was not interested in a change of heart.
Shortly after this discussion, at least in the movie, Bonnie and Clyde are killed. Would a different response from Clyde allow them an opportunity to live longer? We will never know, assuming the quote is factual: Only God knows.
Whether the real Bonnie and Clyde had this discussion is unknown by this author and perhaps unknown by all. However, too often some Christians respond similarly when offered a clean slate through the forgiveness of Christ’s death and resurrection. Some may desire to live in the new state where our clean slate is accepted, but traveling out this area to live their same former life of ungodliness.
We act and speak in Christ like manner with a generous heart when in church or around other Christians, however we may return to our former vulgar jokes, drunkenness, laziness, selfish, ungenerous, stretching the truth, exaggerating, lying when away from this environment. We may believe once we return to our new environment no accountability follows.
Just as Bonnie sought a new, clean slate and heart; Clyde was only interested in changing his circumstances as opposed to his heart. When Christ offers us a new slate, one of forgiveness and mercy, he demands a changed heart: One that opposes intentional sinful behavior. The clean slate, whether in law of the land or our walk with Christ; demands a renewed heart.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
Near the end of this movie, Bonnie Parker asks Clyde Barrow if they could miraculously get a new start with a clean slate; what he would do with his life. Clyde’s response appeared to surprise and disappoint Bonnie, he responded that they could move to a new state then only rob banks, continuing the criminal activities, in another state where there were not known; allowing them to return home unknown and unsuspected. Unfortunately, Clyde was not interested in a change of heart.
Shortly after this discussion, at least in the movie, Bonnie and Clyde are killed. Would a different response from Clyde allow them an opportunity to live longer? We will never know, assuming the quote is factual: Only God knows.
Whether the real Bonnie and Clyde had this discussion is unknown by this author and perhaps unknown by all. However, too often some Christians respond similarly when offered a clean slate through the forgiveness of Christ’s death and resurrection. Some may desire to live in the new state where our clean slate is accepted, but traveling out this area to live their same former life of ungodliness.
We act and speak in Christ like manner with a generous heart when in church or around other Christians, however we may return to our former vulgar jokes, drunkenness, laziness, selfish, ungenerous, stretching the truth, exaggerating, lying when away from this environment. We may believe once we return to our new environment no accountability follows.
Just as Bonnie sought a new, clean slate and heart; Clyde was only interested in changing his circumstances as opposed to his heart. When Christ offers us a new slate, one of forgiveness and mercy, he demands a changed heart: One that opposes intentional sinful behavior. The clean slate, whether in law of the land or our walk with Christ; demands a renewed heart.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Friendships and Corner Posts
Friendships are like corner posts: When dug deeply and solidified, they will withstand a great deal of tension.
Corner posts are pulled tightly by wire tightened with wire stretchers, in often two different directions. If dug quickly and shallowly, and the soil is not solidified from the base of the post up; their usefulness is drastically limited.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!
In Christ,
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
Corner posts are pulled tightly by wire tightened with wire stretchers, in often two different directions. If dug quickly and shallowly, and the soil is not solidified from the base of the post up; their usefulness is drastically limited.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!
In Christ,
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Fog
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Monday morning I drove home from Seward, where I stayed with overnight with friends on the return trip home from Kansas City. Dense fog covered the terrain all 90 miles of the journey; the visibility peaked at a half mile and frequently a quarter of a mile. Even though I am reasonably familiar with these roads, seeing the upcoming stop signs and intersections was challenging at best.
Normally when fog is this heavy I drive more reluctantly with concern of missing a stop sign or turn. However, my Garmin GPS fastened on my windshield displayed the mileage; when close the distance in feet to the upcoming intersection. I drove with more confidence as I did not have to worry about missing a stop sign or turn. The GPS displayed where I was at in relation to my chosen journey and destination.
Do you ever feel like you life’s journey is in dense fog? I do! How do we know where to stop, where to turn, when to drive safely at ‘normal’ speeds? If only life came with a GPS. Fortunately, it does in the form of scripture, prayer, worship, devotion and fellowship. When we seek a relationship with Jesus Christ through the aforementioned venues; the Holy Spirit will guide us safely on our chosen journey and destination.
If the GPS was in my car, but unplugged or out of view, no benefit would be gained from its ownership. Our relationship with Christ is equivocal; relying simply on “I am a Christian,” will provide little benefit in life’s dense fog. Our relationship with Jesus and the comforter he sent to us in the Holy Spirit must be plugged in and viewed: an effective relationship is an internalized relationship.
These turbulent times cause a dense fog in our daily lives, plug and view your guidance system of the Holy Spirit.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Make it a Great Day in Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
Monday morning I drove home from Seward, where I stayed with overnight with friends on the return trip home from Kansas City. Dense fog covered the terrain all 90 miles of the journey; the visibility peaked at a half mile and frequently a quarter of a mile. Even though I am reasonably familiar with these roads, seeing the upcoming stop signs and intersections was challenging at best.
Normally when fog is this heavy I drive more reluctantly with concern of missing a stop sign or turn. However, my Garmin GPS fastened on my windshield displayed the mileage; when close the distance in feet to the upcoming intersection. I drove with more confidence as I did not have to worry about missing a stop sign or turn. The GPS displayed where I was at in relation to my chosen journey and destination.
Do you ever feel like you life’s journey is in dense fog? I do! How do we know where to stop, where to turn, when to drive safely at ‘normal’ speeds? If only life came with a GPS. Fortunately, it does in the form of scripture, prayer, worship, devotion and fellowship. When we seek a relationship with Jesus Christ through the aforementioned venues; the Holy Spirit will guide us safely on our chosen journey and destination.
If the GPS was in my car, but unplugged or out of view, no benefit would be gained from its ownership. Our relationship with Christ is equivocal; relying simply on “I am a Christian,” will provide little benefit in life’s dense fog. Our relationship with Jesus and the comforter he sent to us in the Holy Spirit must be plugged in and viewed: an effective relationship is an internalized relationship.
These turbulent times cause a dense fog in our daily lives, plug and view your guidance system of the Holy Spirit.
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Make it a Great Day in Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
Monday, January 11, 2010
Global Environment Comment
In 2006 Al Gore predicted the earth would become "frying pan" in 10 years due to Global Warming. He continually predicts the destruction of earth; he predicts the end of the world. Jesus says, only God the Father knows the last day; not even the Son or the Angels know the time of the end of the world.
Al Gore is NOT God the Father!
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!!
Rick E. Meyer
Al Gore is NOT God the Father!
Walk with Christ, Talk with Christ, Achieve with Christ!!
Rick E. Meyer
Monday, December 28, 2009
Confess and Refresh
December 28, 2009
This is certainly a white Christmas! The eastern one-half of Nebraska experienced a blizzard last week, closing most of the highways in the eastern one-third of the state. Yesterday, Sunday, most highways re-opened; including Interstate 80. This morning, I drove the 140 miles from my mother’s home in south central Nebraska to Albion. I do not know the exact amount of snow in Albion, estimates range from 15 – 18 inches.
My driveway was covered in snow, the drifts deepening to three feet by the street. Consequently, the first order of business involved starting the snow blower, dozing through the deep drifts by the garage door; before starting on the drive. Two hours later, the driveway was opened and the car parked safely off the street in the drive.
I then transferred luggage and Christmas presents from the car to the house; the tea kettle began boiling water for a cup of rich hot chocolate. The refreshing, tantalizing, aroma of the hot chocolate filled the house’s interior atmosphere, including pulsating alerts to my sensory system. Suddenly, I realized: my breath was atrocious!! Grabbing my suit case, I dashed up the stairs, opening as quickly as possible. I then reached for the tooth paste and tooth brush; brushing my teeth and refreshing my breath. Instantly, I felt like a new man!
My breath did not instantly deteriorate; rather the fresh, aromatically pleasing air, alerted my senses of my breath being unacceptable. Have you ever experienced this occurrence?
Similarly, worshipping, praying, reading scripture and associating with other believers of the inerrant Word of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; alerts our souls of our sinful nature. Upon this sometimes instant recognition of sin in our life; we rush to confess our sin. Upon confession, the Holy Spirit immediately refreshes our soul.
This sin, like the bad breath, had been around for awhile; however like breathing the fresh aroma; breathing the Word of God, alerted us of our atrocious traits. You and I are easily rid of bad breath with proper hygiene activities. We are also able to quickly rid ourselves of sin in our life. The Holy Spirit convicts our hearts, alerting us to the sin. We must simply allow, through confession and belief, Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection permanently remove our sin: God says he casts our sins as far as the east is from the west.
Blizzards may close highways and cities, however the power of Holy Spirit and the forgiveness of sins by Jesus Christ will be in your heart regardless of any external or internal storms in your life or surroundings.
“For unto is born this day in the city of David, a Savior – Jesus Christ.”
In Christ,
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
This is certainly a white Christmas! The eastern one-half of Nebraska experienced a blizzard last week, closing most of the highways in the eastern one-third of the state. Yesterday, Sunday, most highways re-opened; including Interstate 80. This morning, I drove the 140 miles from my mother’s home in south central Nebraska to Albion. I do not know the exact amount of snow in Albion, estimates range from 15 – 18 inches.
My driveway was covered in snow, the drifts deepening to three feet by the street. Consequently, the first order of business involved starting the snow blower, dozing through the deep drifts by the garage door; before starting on the drive. Two hours later, the driveway was opened and the car parked safely off the street in the drive.
I then transferred luggage and Christmas presents from the car to the house; the tea kettle began boiling water for a cup of rich hot chocolate. The refreshing, tantalizing, aroma of the hot chocolate filled the house’s interior atmosphere, including pulsating alerts to my sensory system. Suddenly, I realized: my breath was atrocious!! Grabbing my suit case, I dashed up the stairs, opening as quickly as possible. I then reached for the tooth paste and tooth brush; brushing my teeth and refreshing my breath. Instantly, I felt like a new man!
My breath did not instantly deteriorate; rather the fresh, aromatically pleasing air, alerted my senses of my breath being unacceptable. Have you ever experienced this occurrence?
Similarly, worshipping, praying, reading scripture and associating with other believers of the inerrant Word of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; alerts our souls of our sinful nature. Upon this sometimes instant recognition of sin in our life; we rush to confess our sin. Upon confession, the Holy Spirit immediately refreshes our soul.
This sin, like the bad breath, had been around for awhile; however like breathing the fresh aroma; breathing the Word of God, alerted us of our atrocious traits. You and I are easily rid of bad breath with proper hygiene activities. We are also able to quickly rid ourselves of sin in our life. The Holy Spirit convicts our hearts, alerting us to the sin. We must simply allow, through confession and belief, Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection permanently remove our sin: God says he casts our sins as far as the east is from the west.
Blizzards may close highways and cities, however the power of Holy Spirit and the forgiveness of sins by Jesus Christ will be in your heart regardless of any external or internal storms in your life or surroundings.
“For unto is born this day in the city of David, a Savior – Jesus Christ.”
In Christ,
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickemeyer.com
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