Scripture--Ezekiel 8-11; Revelation 4
“You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power,
for you created all things,
and by your will they were created
and have their being.” Revelation 4:11
Observation--Ezekiel and John both try to use terms we understand to describe the throne of heaven in these passages. They both use descriptions of semiprecious and precious stones and metals to describe the colors they saw: chrysolite, jasper, carnelian, sapphire, emerald, gold, crystal. Yet, I'm having a hard time seeing what the throne looks like, and not just because I had to look up some of the stones. And the four beasts. I can picture the individual faces, and wings, and hands, but how does that work all together? I suddenly see a cross between Napoleon Dynamite's Liger and "Trogdor the Burninator."
Film makers have captured the imaginations of millions with amazing cinematography, live action and/or CG. I wonder if the writers of Scripture had the technology we have available today--CGI animation, the magic of Industrial Light and Sound--could they describe it in a way I could better understand?
Tangent. Look at the change in technology used in film. Compare the 1930's King Kong to any of the last three versions to have come out in the last decade. Compare Star Wars: A New Hope to Revenge of the Sith. The Ten Commandments to The Prince of Egypt. Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark. Aslan's kingdom in The Chronicles of Narnia movies. The realm of Asgard in Thor.
Man, if John and Ezekiel could use those tools to describe what they saw....I still am not sure I could see what the throne looks like. Who God really is. The reason being, with our finite minds, I think humans cannot adequately describe the throne of God, let alone God Himself.
Don't get me wrong. I believe God has revealed through His Word descriptions of Him, of His character, of His Kingdom. But, I don't think full understanding will happen until we stand before him. And, I don't think it will all be understood in a day.
So, why did I write all that when the verse that stuck out to me had to do with a quote of the 24 elders that sit around the throne. We know very little about them. Who are they? Where did they come from? Is that really all they do, say this phrase when the living creatures praise/thank God?
It's what they say that resonated within me. I don't know that they even have a complete understand of God. That is not of importance. What they say is of great importance.
“You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power,
for you created all things,
and by your will they were created
and have their being.”
God created the universe. God created me. For that alone, he deserves to receive glory and honor and praise from me.
Application--Often, I become so focused on other things that I neglect to focus on God, on spending time with Him. That's evident in the frequency of my journal entries and blog posts. Sure, I acknowledge with my words that he created me. That I, as a wretched human being am lost without Him, and that I need His leadership in my day-to-day happenings. I will quote the psalmist in stating that the whole earth (and universe) is the Lord's, and everything in it. But, do I truly take time to acknowledge with my heart that His Lordship is worthy of my praise? I need to take time to do that, and that time needs to be when I pause and reflect on His Word.
I may not even be able to adequately describe my thanks and praise to Him, but I need to make a daily attempt at it.
Prayer--God, thanks for the blessings that you have given me in family, friends, daily provisions, talents and dreams. Help me to not lose sight of you in the circumstances I encounter daily. Remind me that when I fail, I can still enter your indescribable throne room to find grace and mercy to help in a time of need. May the words of the 24 elders come to mind when I have reason to praise and honor you. Every breath should be enough of a reminder to me that your are my Creator and worthy of my thanks and praise. Amen.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
surroundedbyair: Atlantis
This is a great description of the NASA Tweetup Atlantis landing from another pilot's perspective. I'm bummed that I didn't get to meet Dr. Wolper in person, seeing as how we're nearly neighbors. But, I now follow him on Twitter, @DrATP.
I think I'm going to have to load the simulator to which he refers.
surroundedbyair: Atlantis
I think I'm going to have to load the simulator to which he refers.
surroundedbyair: Atlantis
Monday, August 1, 2011
Where's my zeal?
Scripture--Isaiah 63 & 64; Psalm 107; John 2
"His disciples remember that it is written: "Zeal for your house has consumed me." John 2:17 (This cross-references back to Psalm 69:9)
Observation--This Scripture passage has always interested me. It is one of the only times in the Bible where we see Jesus display anger. We so often see his compassion, mercy, love, even sorrow, for mankind. When speaking with the Pharisees and Sadducees, we even seen disdain for their actions. However, this scene in the temple courts brought about a righteous indignation that moved him to immediate action.
The vendors there weren't having a bake sale for missions. No, they were looking to profit off of the sacrifices that others were intending to make. They were concerned for their house, not God's house. The Jews, after Jesus "cleaned up shop," asked by what authority he did this. They thought his actions were unwarranted. Who was right? Jesus.
I see from this that there is a time for righteous anger. We know that we are supposed to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger (James 1:19). But, this is different. Zeal for the Lord should insist that we honor and respect the Lord's house. Christians, and others, often get angry about various social ills in our society. Often times, that anger is justified. But, how often do we get upset at how his church is handled--treated--by others, or by us? How often do we feel angry enough about how the temple is being used for things other than to worship God?
I could go off on a tangent and specifically talk about how we treat our own bodies, for we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19). But, I'm going to keep this more generalized. How often do I show my zeal for God, to stand up for his Church and his Word? Do I have a zeal for him that consumes me? I can be a zealot for other things: sports, flying, music. What about God?
Application--I need to be zealous for the Lord's house...my own body, my family, my church. It's not that I need to just go off on a rant about anything just to vent pent-up anger. No, I need to know his Word so that I can know how to live a life that will adequately represent him. I should be more consumed by God, by his Word...consumed by a desire to live a life that honors him, by making sure he is honored among family and friends, more than I am consumed by my "for profit" interests.
Prayer--God, let your zeal consume me. Let it burn in my heart and soul. Let it be seen, in the proper way, at all times in my life. Amen.
"His disciples remember that it is written: "Zeal for your house has consumed me." John 2:17 (This cross-references back to Psalm 69:9)
Observation--This Scripture passage has always interested me. It is one of the only times in the Bible where we see Jesus display anger. We so often see his compassion, mercy, love, even sorrow, for mankind. When speaking with the Pharisees and Sadducees, we even seen disdain for their actions. However, this scene in the temple courts brought about a righteous indignation that moved him to immediate action.
The vendors there weren't having a bake sale for missions. No, they were looking to profit off of the sacrifices that others were intending to make. They were concerned for their house, not God's house. The Jews, after Jesus "cleaned up shop," asked by what authority he did this. They thought his actions were unwarranted. Who was right? Jesus.
I see from this that there is a time for righteous anger. We know that we are supposed to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger (James 1:19). But, this is different. Zeal for the Lord should insist that we honor and respect the Lord's house. Christians, and others, often get angry about various social ills in our society. Often times, that anger is justified. But, how often do we get upset at how his church is handled--treated--by others, or by us? How often do we feel angry enough about how the temple is being used for things other than to worship God?
I could go off on a tangent and specifically talk about how we treat our own bodies, for we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19). But, I'm going to keep this more generalized. How often do I show my zeal for God, to stand up for his Church and his Word? Do I have a zeal for him that consumes me? I can be a zealot for other things: sports, flying, music. What about God?
Application--I need to be zealous for the Lord's house...my own body, my family, my church. It's not that I need to just go off on a rant about anything just to vent pent-up anger. No, I need to know his Word so that I can know how to live a life that will adequately represent him. I should be more consumed by God, by his Word...consumed by a desire to live a life that honors him, by making sure he is honored among family and friends, more than I am consumed by my "for profit" interests.
Prayer--God, let your zeal consume me. Let it burn in my heart and soul. Let it be seen, in the proper way, at all times in my life. Amen.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
How about that for consistency?
Wow. I've been doing splendidly well with blogging on a consistent basis. My journal writing has been slightly more consistent, but not by much. I'm going to go back through and post some writings; I'm curious for any feedback you may have--whoever you are.
What foresight
July (8) 20, 2011
Scripture--Hosea 13-14; Psalm 100-102; Hebrews 5
"Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord:" Psalm 102:18
Observation--Although this psalm's author isn't mentioned by name, how awesome to think that his words would reach me, an uncreated person at the time he wrote them some 3,000 years ago. What foresight he had.
If it was King David, we might expect he would know that, as king of God's chosen people, his words would be preserved. But, we don't know for certain.
We do know that the writer was "afflicted." He was in a deep hole, crying out to God. And, yet in his despair, the writer recognizes God's power and majesty. Then, he has the thought of actually want to help other people in the future do what he can, praise God. Whoa.
Application ("And so, what we have learned applies to our lives today, God has a lot to say in his Book."--While my words may never make it past this page (blog), may my actions reflect a life that is full of praise and adoration to God. If for some reason a future generation should hear of it, may it be for God's glory.
Prayer--God, help me to live as forward-thinking as this psalmist. Help me to want to help others--my family, friends, co-workers, enemies--praise you. Amen.
Scripture--Hosea 13-14; Psalm 100-102; Hebrews 5
"Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord:" Psalm 102:18
Observation--Although this psalm's author isn't mentioned by name, how awesome to think that his words would reach me, an uncreated person at the time he wrote them some 3,000 years ago. What foresight he had.
If it was King David, we might expect he would know that, as king of God's chosen people, his words would be preserved. But, we don't know for certain.
We do know that the writer was "afflicted." He was in a deep hole, crying out to God. And, yet in his despair, the writer recognizes God's power and majesty. Then, he has the thought of actually want to help other people in the future do what he can, praise God. Whoa.
Application ("And so, what we have learned applies to our lives today, God has a lot to say in his Book."--While my words may never make it past this page (blog), may my actions reflect a life that is full of praise and adoration to God. If for some reason a future generation should hear of it, may it be for God's glory.
Prayer--God, help me to live as forward-thinking as this psalmist. Help me to want to help others--my family, friends, co-workers, enemies--praise you. Amen.
He was really tempted by all of the same things?
July (7) 19, 2011
Scripture--Hosea 10-12; Psalm 73; Hebrews 4
"Seeing then that we havesuch a great high priest who that has passed into the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to the (our) profession of our faith. For we have not a(n) high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help us in time of need." Hebrews 4:14-16 (I was trying this from memory, which I learned in KJV.)
Observation--The writer of Hebrews had introduced in chapter 2 that Jesus is our great high priest and that he suffered to become such, to make atonement for us. But, he rose again, and has passed into heaven to serve (intercede Hebrews 7:25) as priest or us.
Jesus' suffering on our behalf--in human form--allows him to be our Good Shepherd. He empathizes with us when we go through trials and temptations because he has been there, yet without sin! He can intercede with the Father on our behalf because he went through the same thing.
It's hard--for me, at times--to believe that Jesus was tempted in every way like we are. I'm not sure why guys always default to sexual temptation, but let's go there. He didn't have the various forms of media we have today. But, it all has root in the same temptation.
For other temptations, any form of power or wealth that may be craved today for the wrong reasons, there were the same reasons back then. Disobedience is still disobedience. Sin is still sin. But, when we do sin, when we do fail, we can approach the throne of God boldly. Why? Because our faith in Jesus, the great High Priest, allows us to do so! He intercedes on our behalf, allowing us to find the unmerited grace and mercy needed, when we need it most!
Application--Lord, help me to hold fast to my profession of faith, knowing that you, Jesus, are the apostle and high priest (Hebrews 3:1). You act on my behalf, having gone through what I have, to offer me grace and mercy.
Prayer--Psalm 73:26, 28 (NIV) "My heart and flesh mail fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever....28 But as for me, it is good to be near to God, I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell all your deeds."
Scripture--Hosea 10-12; Psalm 73; Hebrews 4
"Seeing then that we have
Observation--The writer of Hebrews had introduced in chapter 2 that Jesus is our great high priest and that he suffered to become such, to make atonement for us. But, he rose again, and has passed into heaven to serve (intercede Hebrews 7:25) as priest or us.
Jesus' suffering on our behalf--in human form--allows him to be our Good Shepherd. He empathizes with us when we go through trials and temptations because he has been there, yet without sin! He can intercede with the Father on our behalf because he went through the same thing.
It's hard--for me, at times--to believe that Jesus was tempted in every way like we are. I'm not sure why guys always default to sexual temptation, but let's go there. He didn't have the various forms of media we have today. But, it all has root in the same temptation.
For other temptations, any form of power or wealth that may be craved today for the wrong reasons, there were the same reasons back then. Disobedience is still disobedience. Sin is still sin. But, when we do sin, when we do fail, we can approach the throne of God boldly. Why? Because our faith in Jesus, the great High Priest, allows us to do so! He intercedes on our behalf, allowing us to find the unmerited grace and mercy needed, when we need it most!
Application--Lord, help me to hold fast to my profession of faith, knowing that you, Jesus, are the apostle and high priest (Hebrews 3:1). You act on my behalf, having gone through what I have, to offer me grace and mercy.
Prayer--Psalm 73:26, 28 (NIV) "My heart and flesh mail fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever....28 But as for me, it is good to be near to God, I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell all your deeds."
A Major Funk
June 6, 2011
Scripture--Ecclesiastes 1-3; Psalm 45, Ephesians 2
"24 A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This, too, I see, is from the hand of God, 25 for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?" Ecclesiastes 2:24-25Observation--Solomon is in a major funk as he begins writing Ecclesiastes. "'Meaningless! Meaningless!' says the Teacher. 'Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.'"
I'd say that qualifies as a funk.
Thing is, I've been in a bit of one too. More on that in a bit. (Maybe)
Why is he so depressed? Perhaps he realizes what all he threw away by turning his back on the one who gave him his wisdom, fame and fortune. He had all of those things, but without God, what are they worth?
He goes on to write that wisdom, folly (although wisdom is better than folly) and toil are all meaningless. Thanks for the words of encouragement, Solomon.
Ah, but wait. Solomon points something out. A beam of golden light in his apparent darkness. Satisfaction in what we do comes from God; it comes from his hand. But how?
Verse 26 of chapter two provides the answer. "To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God."
Application--My meaning and purpose come from God. Only by seeking to please him will I find enjoyment in what I do. I apparently haven't been good in seeking him lately. It shows in my life. I need to change that. Starting today.
Prayer--God, raise me up from the funk hat I'm in by showing me the meaning and purpose you have for what I do. May I please you. Amen.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Solomon not Wise Enough
Scripture: I Kings 10 & 11, II Chronicles 9, Romans 6
"23 King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.24 The whole world sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart." I Kings 10:23-24 (II Chronicles 9:22-23)
Observation: Solomon was a world-renowned king. These passages tell of the wealth he obtained from those who sought audience with him. He had so many horses and chariots that he had to have cities to contain them. He had so much gold that all of his household articles were made of it. He was so wealthy that silver was no longer precious in his kingdom. And how did he amass all of this treasure? People brought it to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart and mind.
Back in II Chronicles 1, Solomon asked God for wisdom and knowledge to rule the people, God's people. God honored him for such a noble request by not only granting it, but by blessing him with riches no one had seen previously and the likes of which have not been seen since. Solomon literally had it all, until he turned away from the wisdom he had been given.
David admonished Solomon to follow the Lord's commands. The Lord promised that if Solomon would follow his law and commands, David's line, through Solomon and his descendents, would reign forever. Solomon even prayed this in his dedication of the temple. He wrote in the beginning of Proverbs that the fear--awesome reverence, respect, obedience and literal fear--of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 1:7). So, how could one who was so wise forget the knowledge and wisdom he attained and fall out of God's grace?
Some might say it was trying to maintain a household of 700 wives and 300 concubines. I think that's pure insanity. I'll forgo the practical side of taking care of all of these women and their children (I know he was rich), let alone trying to fulfill one's marital duties with each significant other. Good grief. God obviously didn't intend for him to have multiple spouses (see Matthew 19). Seriously, Solomon failed to heed God's instruction.
God warned the Israelites not to intermarry with foreign women. Not because he's against interracial marriages...I'm pretty certain he's for it (I know I am). No, it's because he knew these other nations worshipped other gods, and they would draw the Israelites' hearts away from Him. And, guys, let's face it. Women who have a hold of our hearts can lead us many places.
Solomon's downfall didn't happen immediately, but over time. "As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been." (I Kings 11:4) Solomon's demise came from not listening to God's admonition. It was putting beautiful women before God, putting someone else first in his heart before God.
Application: Solomon, the all-wise king, couldn't follow his own instructions. We should seek wisdom and understanding. James reminds us that if we lack wisdom, we can ask of God who gives liberally (generously), without holding back. But fearing the Lord should be the top priority of our lives.
Jesus told us the greatest commandment: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind (Matthew 22:37). The second greatest commandment is like the first, loving our neighbor as ourselves. However, allowing someone or something to come in between us and God will be our downfall.
I need to make sure that my relationships with others, my dreams and ambitions, do not turn my heart and mind away from God. If they do, it doesn't matter how much wisdom and knowledge I seek and ask for.
Prayer: God help me to keep your commandments. In doing so, I will show my love for you. Help me to ask that your will be done in my life, and help me to focus on it, rather than my own will. Amen
"23 King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.24 The whole world sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart." I Kings 10:23-24 (II Chronicles 9:22-23)
Observation: Solomon was a world-renowned king. These passages tell of the wealth he obtained from those who sought audience with him. He had so many horses and chariots that he had to have cities to contain them. He had so much gold that all of his household articles were made of it. He was so wealthy that silver was no longer precious in his kingdom. And how did he amass all of this treasure? People brought it to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart and mind.
Back in II Chronicles 1, Solomon asked God for wisdom and knowledge to rule the people, God's people. God honored him for such a noble request by not only granting it, but by blessing him with riches no one had seen previously and the likes of which have not been seen since. Solomon literally had it all, until he turned away from the wisdom he had been given.
David admonished Solomon to follow the Lord's commands. The Lord promised that if Solomon would follow his law and commands, David's line, through Solomon and his descendents, would reign forever. Solomon even prayed this in his dedication of the temple. He wrote in the beginning of Proverbs that the fear--awesome reverence, respect, obedience and literal fear--of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 1:7). So, how could one who was so wise forget the knowledge and wisdom he attained and fall out of God's grace?
Some might say it was trying to maintain a household of 700 wives and 300 concubines. I think that's pure insanity. I'll forgo the practical side of taking care of all of these women and their children (I know he was rich), let alone trying to fulfill one's marital duties with each significant other. Good grief. God obviously didn't intend for him to have multiple spouses (see Matthew 19). Seriously, Solomon failed to heed God's instruction.
God warned the Israelites not to intermarry with foreign women. Not because he's against interracial marriages...I'm pretty certain he's for it (I know I am). No, it's because he knew these other nations worshipped other gods, and they would draw the Israelites' hearts away from Him. And, guys, let's face it. Women who have a hold of our hearts can lead us many places.
Solomon's downfall didn't happen immediately, but over time. "As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been." (I Kings 11:4) Solomon's demise came from not listening to God's admonition. It was putting beautiful women before God, putting someone else first in his heart before God.
Application: Solomon, the all-wise king, couldn't follow his own instructions. We should seek wisdom and understanding. James reminds us that if we lack wisdom, we can ask of God who gives liberally (generously), without holding back. But fearing the Lord should be the top priority of our lives.
Jesus told us the greatest commandment: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind (Matthew 22:37). The second greatest commandment is like the first, loving our neighbor as ourselves. However, allowing someone or something to come in between us and God will be our downfall.
I need to make sure that my relationships with others, my dreams and ambitions, do not turn my heart and mind away from God. If they do, it doesn't matter how much wisdom and knowledge I seek and ask for.
Prayer: God help me to keep your commandments. In doing so, I will show my love for you. Help me to ask that your will be done in my life, and help me to focus on it, rather than my own will. Amen
His Love Endures Forever
Scripture: I Kings 9, II Chronicles 8, Psalm 136 and Romans 5.
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever." Psalm 136:1
Observation: God's love endures forever. From Adam to Abraham, from Egypt to the Promised Land, from David to Solomon, from John the Baptist to Jesus, from the Cross to us, his love endures. God fulfilled his promises made to these people. His promises to us have been, are being and will be fulfilled.
The Word, who was in the beginning, who was with God, who was God, who created the world, became flesh and dwelt among us. He lived a perfect life among us, and died for us, while we were still wretched sinners. He gave us the right to be called children of God. We can be justified through faith, being made righteous through Jesus' loving sacrifice made on our behalf. It's not because of what we do, but because of what he's done for us. It was a plan that was laid out before the universe's foundation.
His love endures forever.
Application: I need to give thanks to the God of gods and the Lord of lords, my God, for he is good. His love endures forever. He has blessed me with a wonderful family, great friends, a good job and so much more. I need to count my blessings and give thanks to him, for they show how his love endures in my life. When things don't go right, I still need to give thanks for his building perseverance, character (I trust) and hope in me. Why? Because his love endures beyond temporary trials. His love endures forever.
Prayer: God, thank you for your enduring love. Thanks for considering me in your creation. Help me to acknowledge your love before others. Your love is apparent in every aspect of my life, if I only stop to reflect. May my expressions of thanks to you for your provisions in my life be a witness to others of your love and grace. May I always be ready to give an answer for this hope that is within me, in hopes that others will also know that your love for them endures forever. Amen.
My Foray into the Blogosphere
I occasionally enjoy taking some time to read blog posts. Most of the time, I have a personal interest in the author: a family member, friend, acquaintance, someone with a common interest, or maybe there's a humorous point to the post. Sometimes, I come across posts after doing an Internet search--no shameless plugs for the leading search engine here. Occasionally, I get a post forwarded to me from someone else on a certain topic. However, I don't typically go searching for blogs.
Blogs are an interesting medium. They can provide a simple way of communicating news and notes with others, without being as restrictive in characters allowed like the various social media outlets. They allow a form of expression that can be very cathartic, although it can at times become nothing more than mental diarrhea.
Blogs allow the author the possibility of a global audience, be that a good or a bad thing. They also provide a forum for anonymous blathering, complaining and outright libel, the latter being a subject many seem to care very little about anymore. I could go off on how anonymous comments on forums, media stories, etc., drive me up the wall, especially when they are fraught with spelling and grammatical errors--written as I re-read this looking for the same. "Now, I don't want to get off on a rant..." Thank you, Mr. Miller. I'll refrain.
So why would I start a blog? Good question. I've often thought it'd be a tad egomaniacal to think I have something to say that others would find worthy of reading. Perhaps I am. I often think about random subjects and realize that writing down said thoughts can help with clarification. And, as the blog title denotes, I foresee my posts being very stream of consciousness--insert snarky depth comments here. However, writing it in a public forum such as a blog would allow opportunity for feedback and critiques from those who might have thoughts on the same topic. But, for me, there's a more specific reason.
Over the past month, I've been attempting to form a good devotional habit with a few friends by working through Wayne Cordeiro's "Life Journal" reading plan. A key part of the plan includes keeping a journal that allows for meditation using a SOAP methodology (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer). Take a small portion of the Scripture read that day, write down observations about it, determine how one can apply the Scripture/observation to one's own life and finish with a prayer to ask for God's help in doing so. There's only one problem. I hate journaling.
Now, hate might be a strong word, but I've never really enjoyed writing. I dreaded writing papers for school. Give me a test over a paper any day, except for an essay test. The one class that required a daily journal to be kept made for a long semester (my wife may claim some form of mental/verbal communication constipation as the reason I don't easily share my thoughts). The disdain for writing wasn't because I did poorly on papers; I typically received good marks. In fact, I take a bit of professional pride in my written communication abilities. Nevertheless, it's not a pleasure for me to put pen to paper or fingers to keys for a specific, scholastic assignment. So, again, why blog?
From the FAA's Aviation Instructor's Handbook, I know that application is the third level of learning: Rote, Understanding, Application and Correlation. Now, I'd like to think of myself as a lifelong learner. Seeing that learning is a change of behavior as a result of experience (also defined in the AIH), I figured I should be purposeful in trying to establish this new habit. I also thought the use of a blog might be good from an accountability standpoint with my devotional mates. Additionally, I can see the benefits of being able to look back on how God was working in my life at a particular point in time. And, despite my limitations, He might even be able to use my random thoughts to speak to someone else.
So, here's my first post. Please watch your step around this spot for mental regurgitation. I won't promise frequency or quality in any entry. My posts will at times be random. I doubt they will ever contain earth-shaking content. I can't promise piety, pithy ponderings or possible solutions for the world's problems. Why blog then, Kyle?
I hope I just might learn something along the way.
Blogs are an interesting medium. They can provide a simple way of communicating news and notes with others, without being as restrictive in characters allowed like the various social media outlets. They allow a form of expression that can be very cathartic, although it can at times become nothing more than mental diarrhea.
Blogs allow the author the possibility of a global audience, be that a good or a bad thing. They also provide a forum for anonymous blathering, complaining and outright libel, the latter being a subject many seem to care very little about anymore. I could go off on how anonymous comments on forums, media stories, etc., drive me up the wall, especially when they are fraught with spelling and grammatical errors--written as I re-read this looking for the same. "Now, I don't want to get off on a rant..." Thank you, Mr. Miller. I'll refrain.
So why would I start a blog? Good question. I've often thought it'd be a tad egomaniacal to think I have something to say that others would find worthy of reading. Perhaps I am. I often think about random subjects and realize that writing down said thoughts can help with clarification. And, as the blog title denotes, I foresee my posts being very stream of consciousness--insert snarky depth comments here. However, writing it in a public forum such as a blog would allow opportunity for feedback and critiques from those who might have thoughts on the same topic. But, for me, there's a more specific reason.
Over the past month, I've been attempting to form a good devotional habit with a few friends by working through Wayne Cordeiro's "Life Journal" reading plan. A key part of the plan includes keeping a journal that allows for meditation using a SOAP methodology (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer). Take a small portion of the Scripture read that day, write down observations about it, determine how one can apply the Scripture/observation to one's own life and finish with a prayer to ask for God's help in doing so. There's only one problem. I hate journaling.
Now, hate might be a strong word, but I've never really enjoyed writing. I dreaded writing papers for school. Give me a test over a paper any day, except for an essay test. The one class that required a daily journal to be kept made for a long semester (my wife may claim some form of mental/verbal communication constipation as the reason I don't easily share my thoughts). The disdain for writing wasn't because I did poorly on papers; I typically received good marks. In fact, I take a bit of professional pride in my written communication abilities. Nevertheless, it's not a pleasure for me to put pen to paper or fingers to keys for a specific, scholastic assignment. So, again, why blog?
From the FAA's Aviation Instructor's Handbook, I know that application is the third level of learning: Rote, Understanding, Application and Correlation. Now, I'd like to think of myself as a lifelong learner. Seeing that learning is a change of behavior as a result of experience (also defined in the AIH), I figured I should be purposeful in trying to establish this new habit. I also thought the use of a blog might be good from an accountability standpoint with my devotional mates. Additionally, I can see the benefits of being able to look back on how God was working in my life at a particular point in time. And, despite my limitations, He might even be able to use my random thoughts to speak to someone else.
So, here's my first post. Please watch your step around this spot for mental regurgitation. I won't promise frequency or quality in any entry. My posts will at times be random. I doubt they will ever contain earth-shaking content. I can't promise piety, pithy ponderings or possible solutions for the world's problems. Why blog then, Kyle?
I hope I just might learn something along the way.
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