Isaiah 55:8-9

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.ESV.

In hindsight, I was fortunate to find a mentor who demonstrated through their life and words what a successful business life was all about. Now in the autumn of life, I still appreciate the support and wisdom of those who have gone before me. Why re-create the wheel? Life’s lesson have taught us it is easier, more economical, and more effective to build upon the work of others rather than venture into an unknown path. The arrow scars from my youth are still there as a reminder that some ways are better than others.

The same with life in general. When one has a choice to follow either the latest guru or the divine designer of the universe, who would you choose? Would you rather study the book of an author who writes one or two #1 best sellers or the One who has repeatedly, year after year lead all books as the #1 seller?

Each of us maintains a perspective of the events that unfold before our eyes. For example, three people viewing the same accident may see differently depending on their angle of the situation. The same with us. We typically view a situation from a historical perspective rather than a future outcome. The only One who grasps the future is the One who simultaneously views the future, present, and past. He is Lord, Creator, and Sustainer. The Bible reveals who he is. More importantly, He wants you to know He is available to be your mentor. You only have to ask Him. So why not take advantage of such a relationship?

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Encourager & Founder of
Vocational Leadership 360
Author of e-Books:

*  Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
*  Great Business Emulates a Good God
*  Be Radical…Follow Christ!
*  Simply The Messenger
*  Unequally Married

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Copyright 2017 Abbaco LLC | All Rights Reserved

Romans 8:18

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.ESV.

Some Christians are drawn to God by obtaining a ticket to heaven. Others come to God by first experiencing the fruit of His hands. Yet most if not all will eventually come to truly know HIM through the pain in their life.

Suffering is an experience that most of us avoid at all costs. We find ourselves fleeing from those who may be hurting because of the uncomfortable feelings they reflect in us. Yet the Bible continually highlights how through suffering we cry out to God. Through suffering we realize our limitations and dependency on others. We come to see a side of life that our human side wants to avoid. Yet through pain, most of us learn to lean on God and actually see Him carry us through our ordeal. It is through the suffering that we really come to know the heart of God.

Since He lives in us, we are connected with Him through the Holy Spirit which gives us the privilege of calling Him Papa. Just like a blessed child sitting on the lap of their Daddy, being bounced and playfully being entertained, so is it with us. Yet most of us get so busy with life and forget the eternal relationship we possess with Him, we need a catalyst to draw us back. Without suffering, most of us would totally ignore God.

So instead of having a self-pity party with the pain you are going through, cry out to your Daddy. Be frank with Him. Be open with Him. Be totally transparent with Him. He may or may not change your circumstances, but you will discover the internal fortitude (shalom) He provides so you both may travel through the pain together. In hindsight, you will realize how the hand of God moves you to come to know His heart through your suffering.

God Almighty is your heavenly Dad. He cares for you and wants what is best for you. Like the athlete, short term pain leads to long term gain. Suffering is the least desired but eventually the most practical way for us to experience the heart of God in our life.  Therefore, the quicker you can learn to lean on him through the ordeal, the faster you will come to realize his hand in your life.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Encourager & Founder of
Vocational Discipleship 360
Author of e-Books:

*  Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
*  Great Business Emulates a Good God
*  Be Radical…Follow Christ!
*  Simply The Messenger
*  Unequally Married

Encourage a Friend…Share Today’s Message!

Copyright 2017 Abbaco LLC | All Rights Reserved

Matthew 5:16

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.ESV.

As a rabbi breathes the text, lives the text, and teaches the text, so do their disciples.  The most powerful sermons are always unspoken. The best disciple-making method is simply to be the message. Are you living the message?

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Encourager & Founder of
Vocational Discipleship 360
Author of e-Books:

*  Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
*  Great Business Emulates a Good God
*  Be Radical…Follow Christ!
*  Simply The Messenger
*  Unequally Married

Encourage a Friend…Share Today’s Message!

Copyright 2017 Abbaco LLC | All Rights Reserved