Peter and John had been very bold in their witness of what Christ had done in their lives; how their lives had become whole and Christ's love had filled them.  God took these ordinary men and inspired them to "connect" with a man who had been lame for forty years.  This man was healed, in the name of Jesus, by the power of God's love through these two men.  Naturally, the church council and the religious leaders were not happy about this love and energy that was permeating "their" religious camp.  But, these religious leaders could not deny the courage and boldness that had come over these two men to speak the truth about how their lives had changed since meeting Jesus.  Peter and John were acting on what they could now see from God's horizon.  Peter and John were more concerned about what God desired to do through them, than how these people around them listening might react to what they might do and say.  This is an example of a stand of courageous love for God and people.  It is that courage for which we, as Christ followers, must seek to "connect." The Holy Spirit is the Giver and Initiator of such courage.  Following this story, the healing of the lame man, we see the early Church (followers of Christ) ramping up their prayer for courage...

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We connect with God and people through words; in this way we are simply acting like Jesus.  Our words are powerful and, therefore, must be purposeful. God created the universe through the Word, breath of God, and the Spirit manifested material substance.  We can create environments with our words, as well.  We can inspire by sharing our hopes and dreams or we can be a negative voice that brings everyone's spirit down. 

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I love talking about happy places, times, and endings.  You know; abundant living in connection to Christ.   But, God's Word reminds us that around the Light of His love, darkness can be found.  We are so used to the sunlight that follows the nighttime that we forget God's Word talks about a darkness that is eternal.  The life of Judas can tell us about the darkness.  Picture the story.  Jesus is sharing a final meal with his disciples.  Judas, who is choosing to remain in the darkness, acts like he really cares about Jesus.  Oh, he might care about him, but make no mistake, Judas cares more about himself than anyone else.  It's a dark process of thinking; selfishness.  The pressure of being near the Christ (the selfless One) is putting too much pressure on poor Judas.  He has to leave the presence of Love; "So Judas left at once, going out into the night" (John 13:30).  Yes, it is much more comfortable in the darkness when you're selfish.  

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There was a man named Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader who was a Pharisee.  After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus.  "Rabbi," he said, "we all know that God has sent you to teach us.  Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.  Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God."  (John 3:1-3).  Nicodemus pursued Jesus as he just had to know more about the mystery of salvation; the mystery of God's love that offered "new life."  His finite rational mind wanted to know the infinite work of God and gain some Light.  Nicodemus was a very knowledgeable man, a ruler of the Jews, who understood sin and separation from God meant death.  Jesus told him that salvation was for everyone because all of us have sinned (1 John 1:8). No one has ever lived a sinless life apart from Christ.  Since we are accountable to God, we need a way to be free from the penalty of sin. 

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Do you feel like you live each day to the fullest?  A day lived for the glory of God?  If you do, I imagine your day is filled with joy.  Joy is great, because it is not based on our circumstances.  Joy is a positive inward attitude; fruit of the Spirit and a gift from God.  People who live with this attitude live life with a capital L.  If you are a joy-filled person you have a grateful heart.  According to Bill Bright,"The joy of the Holy Spirit is experienced by giving thanks in all situations."

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A spirit of kindness is a great gift; a fruit of God's Spirit.  Do you value kindness and make it a goal to share some everyday?  Barbara Johnson reminds us, "the attitude of kindness is everyday stuff like a great pair of sneakers.  Not frilly.  Not fancy.  Just plain and comfortable."  We need to put on kindness each day and get comfortable sharing it. 

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Have you ever had one of those days when you just had to have a nice long talk with God or you wouldn't make it?  Well, God would like you to have one of those "talks" everyday.  In fact, it is a perfect way to start the day. Mornings with God...

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It takes a courageous spirit to live among the challenges of our days, doesn't it?  The spirit of the world intends to lead and expects us to obediently follow; demands our worship.  Courageous decisions are in demand if we are going to be Christ followers.  If Christ calls us to take a courageous stand for Him, we need to get ready for war.  Expect it.  The battle with fear is just around the corner and it is a doozy!

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Creativity is the activity of our God; Creator of all things.  Therefore, our "inner circle" needs to have creative influencers.  In other words, you need to include highly creative people in your circle.  These folks will bring a wonderful portion of God's creative Genius--Christ--to your inspired visions and efforts; expanding a good vision to a great reality!

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I have been seeking to encourage you to understand the value and importance of the people within your "inner circle."  Carefully choose the people you allow to influence you.  Within that circle you need a great mentor.  Christ wants to be your Ultimate Mentor; one on one times with Jesus cannot be replaced.   However, God also brings mentors who will help to bring growth and development to you and your life dream.  Let's look at an example from the Bible.

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