Loving-Kindness

September 24, 2016

Hey Dad!

Why am I sending you my first real college paper? Because I can, and I know you like to write. I wouldn’t [have] been able [to] write this paper if it wasn’t for you. I love you. I dedicate this paper to Rosco, and my father (the one that taught me to never give up).

Having a pet teaches you to love. Living with a pet is like living with a human. When you have the responsibility of taking care of humans, you have to keep them alive by feeding them, giving them shelter, and loving them. You also have to do the same thing with your pet. I believe having a pet lays down the foundation to loving and caring for others.

It was close to 12:45am on a Sunday morning when I was lying in bed. As I lay in bed, I began to hear a heaving sound. Minutes later, I see [a spreading] pile of vomit on my quilt. I quickly wondered why my dog threw up. Was it from his food? I look up to see my dog licking his chops clean of vomit.  [i]

I quickly pick him up, and rush him out of my room…to the back porch. After I put him down on the porch he continues to vomit. I go back into my kitchen, and dampen a paper towel. After he is done vomiting, I start to clean the vomit off his mouth.

I then bring him back inside, and get him to start drinking water from his bowl. After this, we both head back upstairs, and I start to clear off my sheets (because they were covered in vomit). I then proceed to put on a new set of sheets and a new blanket on my bed. After turning off the lights, we both cuddle back in bed and fall asleep.  

I had to take care of my dog just like a mother would take care of her baby.[ii] Some people don’t think of pets like a child (but some do), and I am definitely one of those people.

As an only child, I didn’t have any siblings to love because my mother had eight miscarriages. Because my siblings are in Heaven and not physically here, I loved my pets instead.

My friend, Myranda, was sick with a cold, and she wasn’t able to get out of bed. Myranda’s mom didn’t know how to love, but because of having a pet I did. I got her medicine and orange juice for her cold. I also made sure she had food that wouldn’t upset her stomach too much (so she wouldn’t vomit).  Taking care [of] Myranda was just like caring for Rosco.

Because my siblings are in Heaven and not physically here; I love my pets instead.  I have three Chihuahuas: Rosco, Chico, and Lola. The things you do for your pet are: clean them up when their sick, feed them, and love them to any degree.

Caring for Rosco caused me to have an emotional bond with him, making me love him, and do anything for him.

Caring for Myranda when she was sick brought us closer, and made us have a loving, sister-like relationship. In the end, by loving Rosco, I learned the foundation of love.[iii]

The scripture informs us of the Almighty’s never-ending love (and kindness) for His children. We should always model this divine quality to both human kind and the animal kingdom of what our Heavenly Father’s character at all times models.

There’s an abundance of both scripture (and quotes) to lead us further down the path of heavenly enlightenment. Here are just a few selections:

1.  “Generosity is the most natural outward expression of an inner attitude of compassion and loving-kindness.”  (Dalai Lama XIV)

2.  “For Your loving-kindness is before my eyes, and I have walked in Your truth.” (Psalm 26:3)

3.    “Don’t just love a person for the image, idea or concept of them, but love them for every fantastically weird and twisted [detail] that makes them up.” (Lauren Klarfeld)

4.  “Oh, continue Your loving-kindness to those who know You, And Your righteousness to the upright in heart.” (Psalm 36:10)

5.  “I want people to feel safe around me. Calm and at peace and I want to make people feel accepted. I want to express confidence on my own path, and spread confidence to other people on theirs.”
(Charlotte Eriksson)

6.  “Do not withhold Your tender mercies from me, O Lord; Let Your loving-kindness and Your truth continually preserve me.” (Psalm 40:11)

7.  “The more we genuinely care about others the greater our own happiness & inner peace.”
(Allan Lokos )

8.  “Because Your loving-kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You.[iv]” (Psalm 63:3)

9. 
“We live in a world today that lacks loving-kindness and compassion for our fellow man and woman. As Gandhi so eloquently stated, "Be the change that you wish to see in the world." We need to strive to be better, to be the image of selflessness.

10.     Love and give to those in need--expecting nothing in return. Give out of sincerity and from the depths of our hearts. Have compassion for every man, woman and child, no matter what ethnicity or background they come from. Love is blind. Love is unconditional. Love has the power to heal and redeem, and that is what Humanity should strive for.” (Terry A. O'Neal)

11.     “To declare Your loving-kindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night.” (Psalm 92:2)[v]

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[i] “As a dog returns to his vomit, so a fool repeats his foolishness.” (Proverbs 26:11, NLT)

[ii] “But we were gentle among you just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children.” (I Thessalonians 2:17)

[iii] Allena’s paper is entitled, “Love Is Unconditional.” All writing material on this post (by her) has been slightly edited for grammar, accuracy, and clarity. Private material (provided by my daughter) is used with her permission.

[iv] Loving-kindness is affection (or tenderness) coming from genuine love (or devotion) for another individual.

[v] All scripture is taken from the New King James Version of the Bible (unless otherwise indicated).

Allena and Rosco hugging

My Beautiful Allena

Shy (but Feisty) Rosco

Anger Management

If you regularly “fly the friendly skies” for the purpose of work or pleasure, you realize that it’s not always peaceful inside the passenger cabin (before one arrives at their destination).

According to NBC4 Today at 5am, your complaints have been heard (and rightfully noted) concerning the airline industry. Below are the top five reasons (from worst to least) that airline travelers may find this form of transportation unpleasant.

1.  Passengers kicking your seat

2.  Passengers reclining (in their seat) too far

3.  Loud passengers

4.  Crying babies of other passengers

5.  Passengers taking up too much space (for their carry-on items in the overhead bin[i]

Life will always be full of frustrations. Often it’s more important how one handles those challenges than the object that is causing the irritant.

You Heavenly Father want His children to live joyfully. Here are a few tips on achieving that in the midst of a strife-filled world.[ii]

1.  “Bridle you anger, trash your wrath, cool your pipes – it only makes things worse.”  (Psalm 37:8)

2.  “God is all mercy and grace – not quick to anger, is rich in love.”  (Psalm 145:8)

3.  “A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper fire.” (Proverbs 15:1)

4.  “Quick-tempered leaders are like mad dogs – cross them and they bite your head off.” (Proverbs 20:2)

No one in this world is exempt from losing their temper. Life (in all its unpredictability) happens. Stopping your irritation when it’s just begun (at simmer) is much easier to discontinue that you when are in the midst of a heated disagreement (at full boil).

I’ve learned it is very difficult to get in a screaming match with someone, who remains calm the whole time as they whisper their objections.

Another great exercise to try is to picture the other person as an angry customer, and you are the clerk (that will lose their job if they respond to the other person loudly and angrily with their unpleasant inner thoughts).

Whatever you do remember that you are not alone in the use of anger management; no one is perfect. If you are a follower of Christ, your goal is to always become more like Him (than the opposite). The reality is that some days are better than others.

Great reminder for us all.

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[i] Adapted from “New Information: Biggest Travel Pet Peeves,” September 22, 2016 (www.nbc4i.com)

[ii] All scripture is taken from The Message.

Rule of Thumb

My mother taught me…

Sibling Rivalry – “If you’re going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning.”

Religion – “You better pray that comes out of the carpet.”

Time Travel – “If you don’t straighten up, I’m going to knock you into the middle of next week.”

Common Sense – “Because I said so that’s why.”

Recreational Pursuits – “If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you’re not going to the store with me.”

Driving – “Make sure you wear clean underwear in case you’re in an accident.”

Emotions – “Keep crying and I’ll give you something to whimper about.”

Meal Time – “Will you shut your mouth, and eat your supper?”

Cleanliness – “Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck?” intended

Time-Out – “You will sit there until all that [food] is gone.”[i]

[i] Adapted from the article, “Hilarious Things My Mother Taught Me” by Epic Parenting

The scripture will always be a timely (and accurate) source that can be trusted when parental advice may be less than reliable: Do any of the above quotes sound familiar?

When I was a boy at my father’s knee, the pride and joy of my mother; he would sit me down and drill me: “Take this to heart. Do what I tell you – live!” (Proverbs 4:3-4, MSG)

Rule of Thumb- These are helpful standards with many different implications (not deemed to be accurate).

Second in Command

Near the end of September 2016, Bobbi got a small white envelope from our daughter, Allena (at school in Circleville, OH). The index card letter inside read:

“Hi Mama 

I’ve had this bracelet for awhile now. I have one, and I wanted us to have matching ones. I hope it reminds you to always put God first.

This song came on while I was writing this. You should listen to ‘Arms That Hold the Universe’ by 33Miles.”[i]

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God. I will praise Him again – my Savior and my God….” (Psalm 42:5-6, NLT)

Also enclosed in the envelope was a pink rubber bracelet with the phrase “I AM SECOND” on it in white lettering. The attached product tag said this:

“Peace, purpose, happiness –Everyone is looking for something, some kind of satisfaction. But what if life is not about you? What if life is about something bigger, Someone bigger? What if you live Second? Join the movement, and find out what it means to be “Second.”

CAUTION: This product may cause conversations with complete strangers. [An] explanation of Second will be required. Watch the films at iamsecond.com.”

I have discovered two main lessons about myself in my Christian walk. The first is when I am emotionally (or physically) worn-out, I tend to stop fighting Satan (and give in to his demands).

Sometimes temptation comes in the form of hunger, exhaustion, or boredom (when I am at my weakest). Often I give in with open welcoming arms without a hint of resistance. (The Devil always makes sure to condemn me for my poor Christianity afterward (and instigates me to give into your selfish desires before). The Father of Lies (John 8:44) makes this losing proposition either way.

Second, when I try to control something that the Heavenly Father should be in control of; I tend to jumble it all up by inadvertently causing chaos for myself (and anyone else involved).

I want to be in control (and it upsets me) when I have to pass it over to the Almighty (or anyone else). Trying to be in control constantly is an exercise in futility that causes you to be rather jaded as you believe that you are the only one with the perfect solution.

Here are a few insights from both the scriptures (and other knowledgeable individuals) that may be able to aid you in your spiritual warfare against the evil forces of darkness.

At least, they will get you thinking in a Heavenly direction. God has given you all the power you need to be a conqueror (in your personal life):

1.  “My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes to its own in your weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9, MSG) 

2.Top of Form

3.  "The devil is a better theologian than any of us…."     (Billy Sunday)

4.  “After all, we don’t want to unwittingly give Satan an opening for yet more mischief – we’re not oblivious to his sly ways.” (2 Corinthians 2:11, MSG)

5.  "My main ambition in life is to be on the devil's most wanted list." (William Howells)

6.  “Those who live to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit.” (Galatians 6:8, NLT)  [ii]

7.  "The devil divides the world between atheism and superstition." (C.S. Lewis)[iii]

Bobbi modeling bracelet

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[i] VERSE ONE

I know it seems like this could be the darkest day you’ve known

But believe you me, the God of strength will never let you go

He will overcome, I know

And the arms that hold the universe are holding you tonight

You can rest inside, it’s gonna be alright

And the voice that calmed the raging sea is calling you His child

So be still and know He’s in control

He will never let go

Through many dangers, toils, and snares you have already come

His grace has brought you safe this far, His grace will lead you home

CHORUS

You can hope, you can rise, you can stand

He’s still got the whole world in His hands

You can hope, you can rise, you can stand

He’s still got the whole world, the whole world in His hands

[ii] This blog topic was suggested by my wife, Bobbi.

[iii] "The devil divides the world between denial in the existence of God and unreasonable beliefs held by a faith in God." 

Home Improvement

The statistics below don’t lie concerning money. Americans (in their home lives) need a little tender loving care (TLC) when it comes to their finances:

1.  The most common sources of stress include money (64%), work (60%), the economy (49%), family duties, (47%) and personal health concerns (46%).

2.  51% of the American population is putting off major financial decisions. 

3.  76% of the American population lives from paycheck to paycheck (including 25% of those earning more than $100,000 per year.)

4.  What keeps people up at night? Personal finances (nearly 80%), nothing (13%), job security (4%), and marital concerns or raising children (2%) are on the list.

5.  52 % of the American population would not be able to cover an emergency of $400. 

6.  36% of the American population is not saving at all for retirement. (29% of the American population has less than $1,000 in savings.)

7.  The average American household has total debt of $117,951.

8.  61% of parents feel more comfortable talking about finances with an advisor than they do with their adult child. 

9.  64% of couples (without children under eighteen) argue about money. 80% of couples (with children younger than 18) argue about money.

10.     21% of the American population (aged 75+) is carrying mortgage debt into retirement.

Wise money management means knowing all wealth comes from God.

1.  "One verse in every six in the first three Gospels relates either directly or indirectly to money. Sixteen of our Lords forty-four parables deal with the use of misuse of money. A loving, joyful, liberal giving to the Lords work is an acid test of a spiritual heart, pleasing to God." (David Livingstone)

2.  “In my heart and my soul
Lord I give You control
Consume me from the inside out
Lord let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out”

(Chorus of a song by Hillsong)

Wise money management means returning some of your wealth back to God.

1.  “Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back – given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” (Luke 6:38)

2.  "The real measure of our wealth is how much we should be worth if we lost our money." (J. H. Jowett)

3.  It’s not your employer’s money. It’s God, who pays the wages.

Wise money management includes saving some wealth to honor God.

1.  “The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get.” (Proverbs 21:20, NLT)

2.  “A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks; a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.” (Proverbs 22:3)

3.  “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”              (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV)

4.  ROBERT’S OPINION – Per Malachi 3:8, a tenth is the standard percentage for tithing. If personal debt prevents you from doing this, give a little (or nothing if needs be).

God expects you to pay your debtors. (Matthew 18:26-27) [i]Giving can also be done through the avenue of volunteering because time is money.

Because of 2 Corinthians 9:7, the Almighty wants your tithe cheerfully. If that’s not possible, avoid giving your tithe. The Heavenly Father owns everything, and He will find another way to supply for His ministries. (Psalm 50:10) [ii]

Here’s a question for you. Is it right to use bill money to tithe with? Will God provide that missing money when the bill comes due? (You must discover the answers for yourself. Remember, the Almighty can bless in other ways than monetary.)

Wise money management includes limiting most of the debt to glorify God.

1.  “The poor are always ruled over by the rich, so don’t borrow and put yourself under their power.” (Proverbs 22:7)

2.  “Don’t run up debts; except for the huge debt of love you owe each other.” (Romans 13:8)

3.  Lots of debt ways people down emotionally, and prevents focusing on God (and loving others freely).

Wise money management includes being able to budget all your expenses to glorify God.[iii]

1.  “Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances.” (Philippians 4:11)

2.  “This is amazing grace
This is unfailing love
That You would take my place
That You would bear my cross
You lay down Your life
That I would be set free
Oh, Jesus, I sing for
All that You've done for me”
(Chorus of a song by Phil Wickham

3.  “The secret to life and maintaining a budget is to be content with what you have. God has abundant blessings to share with you (in His will).”

4.  "Today Christians spend more money on dog food than missions." (Francis Bacon)

When possible, I believe it is vitally important to live within your means. Do you agree? Monetary improvement (in its simplest form) can be summarized in Hebrews 13:5:

Don’t be obsessed with getting more material things. Be relaxed with what you have. Since God assured us, “I’ll never let you down, never walk out and leave yo

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[i] The poor wretch threw himself at the king’s feet and begged, “Give me a chance and I’ll pay it all back.” Touched by his plea, the king let him off, erasing the debt. (Matthew 18:26-27, MSG)

[ii] “For all the animals of the forest are mine, and I own the cattle on a thousand hills.” (Psalm 50:10, NLT)

[iii] Inspired by the sermon “The Choose Wisely Series: Wise Money Management,” Installment Four (final), Pastor Jon Fulton (of CenterPoint Church Westerville), September 25, 2016, CenterPoint Church Gahanna, Gahanna, OH

Sunrise…Sunset

Directions: Pray any of these scripture passages at the start and end of your day. See how much better your daily schedule progresses.

1.  This is the day that the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it.

2.  God’s mercy and grace are new every morning in my life.

3.  I receive because I am God’s child.

4.  I have been filled with His Spirit.

5.  Greater is He that is in me than He that is in the world.

6.  The Holy Spirit will give me wisdom and discernment regarding every decision I need to make today.

7.  When I acknowledge God through prayer and worship, my steps are ordered and directed of Him.

8.  The Lord gives me wisdom and might concerning all the affairs of my life.

9.  I choose to be a blessing to all those around me.

10.              No matter what happens today, I know God will see me through.

11.             I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and if God is for me then no one can be against me.

12.             I choose to honor God today by the words, I speak, I will honor God by the way I act. I honor God by allowing His love, light and truth to shine through me.

13.             I am the head and not the tail, I am above and not beneath.

14.             I am blessed coming in and blessed going out.

15.             He always causes me to triumph.

16.             No weapon formed against me shall prosper.

17.             I am strong in the Lord and the power of His might.

18.             Today is going to be a great day. [i]

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[i] Adapted from an article on www.memorydelight.com.  Verses used in this prayer guide include Psalms 118:24; Lamentations 3:22-23; Proverbs 3:6; Philippians 4:13; and Romans 8:31.