Growing Through What You're Going Through

 Change, that word conjures up varied emotions for men and women, young and old alike. Some talk about changing jobs, others talk about changing habits, while other conversations circle around changing hairstyles or colors, changing the flooring in your house, or any other in a myriad list of trivial "things" we may want to change in our lives. We tend to get a little fidgety though when we start talking about changing our minds. Our mindset is what shapes our day in and day out walk. I'm not talking conservative or liberal viewpoints, and I'm not referencing changing from a sedentary lifestyle to a more active lifestyle. What I am suggesting today is that we must be willing to change our mindset in terms of how we perceive the hardships, struggles, or challenges that we encounter in our walk of life. The more we view ourselves as the victim the less we will be able to see the opportunity to grow through whatever it is that we are going through. 

I had started a completely different topic for today's message, and honestly it just wasn't flowing the way most of my writing sessions go. Now I know why, it wasn't the message to be shared today. This morning as I started my devotional time the verse of the day was Philippians 3:10-11 which reads "I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!" It is important to remember that a majority of Paul's letters to the different churches he wrote while being imprisoned. Wrongfully imprisoned, beaten often, and persecuted as he traveled about sharing the good news of Christ, it is safe to say Paul's life wasn't a bed of roses. Based on what Paul wrote to the Church in Philippi, it doesn't sound like he is crying out for freedom from his wrongful imprisonment, but instead Paul wants to benefit himself by knowing more about the suffering of Christ and then living his life in a manner that allows him to grow through sufferings similar to what Jesus endured here on earth. 

How many of us thank Christ when we are enduring or suffering? Not a lot of virtual hands going up I would presume. Suffering and hardship are not comfortable, as a matter of fact they are both equally uncomfortable. When we pray, do we ask God to remove the sickness and provide answers to our dilemmas, or do we ask God to show us how to grow through the difficult, and challenging instances we are traversing through in our daily lives? That my friend requires a major change in how we think about hardship. Paul's perspective isn't common, that is why it isn't the predominant manner in which the average person perceives the difficulties in their life. At times some people, a large percentage of people, start asking, "What have I done to deserve this to happen in my life?" Instead of being the victim to our circumstances what if we became the beneficiary of those moments or chapters in our life where we actually grow closer to Christ through what we are enduring. Mainly because it isn't easy. In the very next verse of Philippians 3 Paul lets us know that he struggled with this shift in mindset just like anyone else might, "I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me." Philippians 3:12.

Other than being the exact message that I myself needed to hear today, I'm not sure why I felt so inclined to change directions in the thought to share today, but I do not feel this message will have to travel far before it lands in the lap of someone that needs to embrace their current circumstances and dig deep to see how they can grow through what they are going through. Doing a little self inspection this morning was all I needed to see that I am guilty of playing the poor me card more often than I would like to admit. I want to be more like Christ, I want to grow in Christ, and if that means I must go through some not so comfortable situations along the way, then so be it. We have no further to look than the example that Paul provided. His choice to focus on the growth through his circumstances was based on the pain and suffering Jesus endured for us to be saved. Over and over again, Paul encouraged the early Christian churches to endure, persevere, and to hold tight to the hope that can only be found in Christ. Through the persecution and pain that Jesus Christ endured on the cross, Paul found strength to share with us that what we will endure here on earth will never compare to the reward we will receive if we do not give up or lose our faith in God, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." Romans 8:18. 

The world will tell you to blame someone for anything and everything you go through that isn't comfortable and pleasing. The world will tell you to do whatever it takes to remove the pain and suffering you are experiencing, the "there's a pill for that" mentality. Trusting that things that are not comfortable to us can be good for us isn't an easy mindset to adopt, but if we begin to look for ways to grow through adversity, we may just find that the outcome on the other side will make us a bigger, stronger person. And if we are growing through our adversities, what we are going through suddenly begins to look completely different as we move confidently forward with Christ! Bring it on!

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." II Corinthians 4:16-18. 

Coach Carter

 

How Green Is the Grass?

 We've all heard the expression, "The grass isn't always greener on the other side". I'm pretty sure that when this old adage was first coined there was no such thing as artificial turf in existence. In its early days, some of us remember artificial grass being referred to as "astro turf". That term became popular because there was one leading supplier/installer of this year round, lush green, artificial grass and their company's name just happened to be "Astro Turf". In the 70's and 80's artificial turf became the popular way to go for major league athletic fields especially in football due to the potential for mud laden messes as teams battled for yards, feet, and many times inches during rain and snow covered conditions in our college and professional stadiums. Today, artificial grass has been infused with computerized technology, allowing digitized advertising, pinpoint accuracy in measurement, and the potential for an increased artificial intelligence presence in our sports arenas. It would appear that the grass is most certainly greener where  natural grass has been replaced with a maintenance free, greener than green artificial option. I would like to offer a conversely different opinion, I'd like to suggest that even if it is greener on the other side, that doesn't necessarily guarantee that it is better.

What might appear to be the ideal setting for outdoor athletic competitions, may in reality be blanketed with the potential for injury and limited usability. Ankle injuries, increased cuts and abrasions, and a higher risk for damage to an athlete's ACL, have caused us to raise an eyebrow to whether turf is actually greener on the other side. Beyond that the lifespan of a turf field is limited to between 5-10 years, guaranteeing a recurring expense to keep that lush, green playing surface. Lastly, of course planting flowers, shrubs, or even trees is not an option on an athletic field. But,  for that maintenance-free seeking homeowner, the allure of year round, greener than green grass that doesn't have to be mowed or even trimmed might be a temptation. That is until the decision is made to plant a flower garden or tree in their yard. See how that works with a corner to corner artificial rug. To my opening point, just because the grass on the other side may be greener, that doesn't necessarily mean it is better. 

This same principle holds true in our walk of faith today. Modern advances in technology provide us with options and alternatives galore. Morals and ethics have been placed in the backseat over the years and replaced with allowing each person to decide their right or wrong and their definition of good and evil, creating an artificial playing field of life. Just as the illustration above provides evidence that just because something is greener, doesn't always mean it is better or even good for us, I believe the same principle applies here. The old adage was that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. To me that message was that things aren't always better on the other side. On the surface, the visual appearance may be alluring, but once you are on the other side, things don't always translate to a greener, better situation. The message I want to share today is that even if our society shows us an easier way, a quicker path, or a less bumpy road to travel, that does not guarantee that any of those are beneficial to you and your journey with God. Paul shared this message with the Christians residing in Rome and it still is so applicable for us today; "... but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5. The problem is, I just don't see folks rushing to the maintenance and restoration line. The easier, "greener" path appeals because it doesn't require sweat, cuts and scrapes, or use of "me" time. It sounds like the curb appeal would make this the choice of even the Godly saints of old. 

The prophet Isaiah wrote a whole chapter with that very thought in mind. In case people started thinking that a simple, work-free day meant you were living right and under God's provision for such chapter 5 can be summed up with this statement. "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet" Isaiah 5:20. In other words don't go around thinking that just because it is greener that all of a sudden it is better. There still exists today, right and wrong, good and bad, and it is our God given responsibility to hold tightly to the green grass of God's word and His guidance for this life He has given us to live. 

I'll conclude today with a thought, when you look into your neighbor's yard the grass may appear to be greener. Who knows, they could have artificial grass from corner to corner of their property and their turf may appear to be greener year round. But, keep in mind the truth we have discussed today. Greener on the other side, does not always mean better on the other side! In one of the most popular and often quoted selections from the Bible, David's twenty-third psalm shares this exact thought. The psalm starts out stating that God offers him green pastures to lie down in. But then David reminds us that at times he is walking through the valley of the shadow of death. David affirms that even though it is dark and desolate, he knows he isn't walking through the troubles of life alone. God's rod and staff comfort him and are right there with him (vs. 4). At the end of the psalm, David reaffirms that he is promised that he will "dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (vs. 6). So today, mow your own lawn, be thankful you have a lawn to mow, and give thanks that your life isn't made up of man-made artificial joy! 

Coach Carter

Right Foot, Left Foot

 Over the years, inspirations for topics to share in the weekly Flat Tire Ministries Thoughts have come through numerous paths. A song on the radio, a part of the preacher's sermon on Sunday, a devotional thought, and many times topics to cover come out of a conversation with a friend, family member, or acquaintance. With over 450 weekly posts recorded, I can honestly say, I've never had a week that there wasn't a message to share. At times the ideas come three or four in rapid succession. At other times, a scripture or story from the Bible seems to weave itself perfectly into a situation I have recently encountered and thus spurred a message to share. For me, the most important part to understand is the topics and ensuing messages aren't mine, the pen and paper, (or in this case the keyboard and computer screen) are mine, but I depend on God to provide the words He wants to share. I am grateful that God allows me to be a scribe, and I pray that He will continue to use me as He pleases for as long as I can be of use to His purpose for the life He gave me to live! 

That being said, today's message is no exception. When the topic came to mind I wasn't really sure where it was going to head. My thoughts centered around things like: "You can go for a walk on your own",  or "You can walk in the same direction or the opposite direction, but whatever direction you are walking you should be walking with God." Soon after that, I had thoughts about Jesus walking in the Garden of Gethsemane, or back in Genesis how Adam and Eve disobeyed God and then heard God walking around the garden. I wasn't exactly sure what direction the message was headed, but then as He always does, God made it clear what He wanted me to share today. 

In one of my daily devotionals, the author shared that for us to grow in our relationship with God we must deepen our ability to trust and obey Him. The devotional went on to compare trusting and obeying to walking. Right foot step / trust, left foot step / obey. Trust and obey, right foot-left foot. To "walk" with God requires us to take that first step, then we can't just stop with one step, to walk with God we must continue that right foot-left foot succession. We take our first step in faith, we place our trust in God. As sinners, we must turn from our sins and take that first step towards God. We make the decision to trust God and seek forgiveness for our sins. Trust allows us to forgo self and submit all we are to God. But, it doesn't stop there. To walk with God requires progression. A step in the right direction is critical, but if we are going to be walking with God more than a step is required. 

That is where taking a step becomes a walk of faith. We must learn to obey God which requires us to take additional steps beyond trusting in Him. First step trust, second step obey. Right foot, left foot, right foot left foot, on and on we go, moving forward and not looking back. Trust and obey. So, how do we obey God? We have to listen, we have to learn, we have to seek, and we have to follow God in all we do if we are truly walking with God. Think about it this way, if you don't know the laws of the city, state, or country you live in, how will you ever know if what you are doing is legal or illegal? Or if you don't follow the directions on the recipe, how in the world do you expect the outcome of your cooking efforts to be successful? It is the same way with God's commands. We can't obey what we don't have knowledge of, so it just stands to reason that if we are going to trust God and obey God, then we have to seek what God wants us to do for His Kingdom. That is all part of the process, we can't trust and obey what we do not know or understand. We must commit to reading His word daily, praying without ceasing (I Thess. 5:17), and seeking His will in all we say and do. 

Is walking with God daily as easy as taking a stroll in the park? Nobody ever said it was easy, there are several paths that we must choose between throughout each day. Jesus shared this pedestrian warning in Matthew 7:13-14, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." The world offers a plethora of wide open paths we can choose to journey each day, but just as Jesus pointed out above, the vast majority of those roads lead to destruction. Addiction, dishonesty, unfaithfulness, or placing things in front of our relationship with God will all ultimately lead to destructive choices and quickly make walking with God a real challenge. Yet, when we place our faith in Christ who died for our sins and enlightens the path of His righteousness, we are assured that each step we take, right foot, left foot towards God's calling for the life He gave us to live, we will not walk alone. We can truly trust that God is in control and if we obey His commands and follow His instruction we will walk with God as we live out the life we have to live. Right foot/trust, left foot/obey!

Coach Carter

 

The Path

"Train up a child in the way that he should go: and when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6. It would be hard to argue that "training" or educating our children isn't one of the top priorities in any society. Primarily the responsibility of parents; teachers, coaches, and other influencers provide a mentoring role in the lives of our young people, and are tasked with preparing the next generation of leaders. Of course, as an educator that "raising" includes learning to read and then teaching students how to read to learn. Math, science, and history also rank up there as significantly important, along with all the other academic and non-academic courses our children take throughout their educational experience. Those are critical no doubt, yet there are skills and lessons that will prepare our children for life that we must ingrain in their hearts, minds, and souls. The inherent problem here is that the skills I'm talking about are tough lessons to learn and in most instances they hurt physically, psychologically, or even in both ways many times. Today's message titled "The Path" is related to a question a preacher once asked, "Are you preparing the path for the child, or are you preparing the child for the path?" That is a tough question to ask today, but even more so, it is a tougher question to answer if you are one of the aforementioned path builders listed above. 

I'm pretty certain that most of us have heard the old adage, "the path to destruction is paved with good intentions", well that aptly fits our message today. As parents we obviously want what is best for our children. Teachers want their students to all make straight A's, and what coach doesn't want their athletes to feel successful and accomplished in the sport they are coaching. The danger therein lies in determining what is "best" for our proteges, best for their future and the progress of society. My parents grew up during the aftermath of the Great Depression, they did without, but so did everyone else. As parents they wanted to ensure that Bob, Donna, and I had a "better" life than what they experienced as children. I'd go out on a limb a little and say they actually gave us a little more than what we needed and with much less toil and sweat than what they experienced as children and young adults. Fortunately for us, we learned a great deal about hard work from both of our parents and that has made the difference in our lives. Fast forward to a more current day, and you will find a generation that wants a better life for their children, but I'm not so sure this generation wants their children to face the struggle and even disappoint that accompanies that "better" life. 

By preparing the path for the child, we remove any obstacles that lie ahead, we straighten the path so children don't have to risk wrecking in the curves, and we fill in all the potholes along the way so that the path is smooth and easy to navigate. But, how does this look in the real world of raising children you ask? I thought you would never ask! Fixing arguments between classmates, expecting our child to never make below an "A", or wanting your child to be the star of the team regardless of the effort they invest or the dedication they commit are just a few examples of paving the path for our children. Each of these would be considered commendable efforts today in the realm of parenting, but the actual price tag to obtain these should be earned and paid for by the child, and that is where our quandary lies today. If we pave the path for the child then we remove the actual things that will build up two critical attributes, perseverance and resilience. By not allowing the younger generation to stumble and even fall at times, they won't learn to get back up and to carry on even if the possibility of falling again may still exist. Think about it this way, a baby actually learns to walk by falling down numerous times. Each plop on their behind creates a neuro memory of what happened that didn't work, the child may not even recognize the learning through the experience, but the resilience and perseverance of wanting to walk around like everyone else serves as the foundation of learning through our struggles. Conflict resolution is a key life skill for us all, but often today, the term "bullying" is used to label what may actually be a lesson in learning to not get along with someone, an important skill that is expected in the world of work and in life. (Note: I am in no way disregarding the presence of bullying, I am a certified Anti-Bullying trainer and a huge advocate for those that are truly experiencing bullying and support any effort to stop bullying in our schools. There is no place for that type of behavior in this world, and definitely not in the lives of our children.)  In sports, in most cases, the victories go to the ones that put in the hard work and when they don't win those athletes don't look for someone to blame. The bottom line here is this: we can't pave out the path for our children, in doing so we do more long term harm than short term gain. I never had to worry about getting straight "A's" in school, but over my 33 years in education I have witnessed my share of exemplary students with outstanding GPAs. I would suggest that the struggle to get those straight "A's" will have more of a lasting impact on setting goals and then obtaining them than the grades recorded on their transcript. And when the "A" isn't there, that is where the resilience and grit of overcoming adversity rises to the top. I say all of this to express the thought that having high expectations for our children should be the norm, but when their best doesn't represent perfection, or when the challenge they are facing begs for us to interfere, it may be best for us to allow the struggle and thus build the path in the child. 

The psalmist's advice from the lead into our message today would probably tell us that "the struggle" is worth its weight in gold. In other words, preparing the child for the path that lies ahead will pay off down the road. The Apostle Paul commented that he learned how to be content through the hardships of life (Phil. 4:11-13) and the author of the Book of James stated that we should consider it pure joy when we face trials because those trials ultimately produce perseverance and if we persevere we will be complete and mature. (James 1:2-4) By preparing the child for the path rather than the former, we place the child in a position to be successful in life and to handle the bumps in the road along the way. By smoothing out the rough spots in their journey we unintentionally put them at a disadvantage when the stakes are much higher and we as the caring adult are no longer able to intervene and swoop in for the save. It is our job to prepare our children for the ups and downs of life, and part of that is to allow them to grow through adversity. The seed does not turn into the flower until it struggles to reach the surface and then breaks through to ultimately see its full potential. 

As our time together comes to a close today, I want to be the first to admit that I was not the stellar parent in this area of life and I made my fair share of mistakes. I'm working harder in the lives of our grandchildren. We want to encourage them to attempt hard things. Not impossible things, but things that stretch their abilities and their perseverant mind sets. I don't applaud when they fall short, but I cheer when they get back up and give it another try. At the core of all of the struggle and defeat, I want to assure them that they are not alone. Just as Jesus promised His disciples that He would always be with them in their struggles, I want my children, my grandchildren, and all those that I coach or support to know that I am there for them. (John 16:33). 

Training up our kids in the way they should go since 1986 and learning something new every day!

Coach Carter

The Value of Things

Over the past couple of years I've been hearing the term Cryptocurrency more and more frequently. To be quite honest, I didn't really have a clue about what crypto cash really is, so I did a little Google search and this is what I found: 

"Mining is the term used to describe the process of creating cryptocurrency. Crypto transactions need to be validated, and mining performs the validation and creates new cryptocurrency. Mining uses specialized hardware and software to add transactions to the blockchain. But, not all cryptocurrency comes from mining. For example, crypto that you can't spend isn't mined. Instead, developers create the new currency through a hard fork. A hard fork creates a new chain in the blockchain. One fork follows the new path, and the other follows the old. Crypto you can't mine is typically used for investments rather than purchases." (Source Coursera).

Again, I can honestly say that after my Google search was completed, I still don't have a clue about what cryptocurrency is?? I guess I'm getting old! Or, is it possible that this new fangled form of currency is beyond my grasp because I really don't understand how things have gotten so out of whack with what is valued in this world we live in. I've titled today's FTM "The Value of Things" let's dig a little into the value of the things we value. 

If we followed the trail of American history to a much earlier day and time, we would most likely find people trading goods for other goods. You have a beaver pelt I want, and I have a basket of potatoes that you want so we traded. But when and maybe more importantly who made certain shiny stones of value? Why is it that diamonds are so valuable and gold became worth dying for? I get it that the limited quantity of "precious" items such as emeralds, rubies, diamonds, and gold make them more desirable, but at the end of the day, they are still only shiny rocks. 

Dollar bills, credit cards, and even coins such as nickels, dimes, and quarters are all made out of items such as paper, plastic, and copper. Yet, we do all we can to acquire and safeguard our wallets and purses to ensure our money in our pockets and vaults. I fully understand the role of currency in today's economy, but what I don't get is how we got to the place where we value rocks, plastic, paper, and metals more than the true treasure of God's purpose for our lives. 

Throughout the Bible God reminds us and instructs us to not allow the treasures of this world to dominate our lives. Matthew 6:19 lays it out there pretty simply in this directive straight from the mouth of Jesus, "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal." Later in the same chapter Jesus shared that the flowers of the field are beautifully adorned and the birds in the sky are taken care of in the winter, so why should we be so worried about what we shall eat, or what we shall wear? (Matt. 6:26-34). The Apostle Paul strengthens us with this  reassuring message, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19.

We all know we need money to survive, and I am not really talking about the necessity or importance of a sound financial portfolio in your life. What I am really wanting us to think about is how to keep things in perspective. "But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33) Our marching orders are simple in what is of value to us. Seek God, follow God, and serve God. When we do that, we will have what we need. That is His promise and I have found value in doing just that. Amen. 

Coach Carter

Price Tag

How much does happiness cost? What is the actual, non-negotiable price tag for being content? I'm not too certain that many people go around placing a sticker price on happiness, but I would say that I see a society today that is driven to have more. Buy more, attain a higher position in your work life, while the old adage "Keeping up with the Jones'" has been replaced with "Pass up the Jones' and anybody else that is in front of me!" Our society is chasing after something elusive and I'm here to share today that I just don't think money, riches, or fame can provide what a large portion of our world believes is attached to a number with several zeroes following behind. 

On my way to work each day I pass a billboard that projects the current lottery jackpot totals. It amazes me that the prize totals at times reach upward of one billion dollars. What I really find peculiar is that when the prize is 30, 40, or even 100 million dollars there doesn't seem to be that much excitement. Wouldn't even a prize of one million dollars be grand? But as I said, the news media doesn't even give a mention of the lottery until it bounces well beyond the 800-900 million dollar range. Why? Would suddenly "winning" a billion dollars make someone happier than someone else that just won 500 million dollars? Based on several news stories about mega lottery winners who end up broke, divorced, or dead at an early age due to drugs or other vices, my guess is the answer is a solid "No". The thought must be I don't want a million dollars, I want ten million dollars, but then the next person says well I don't want ten million I want 100 million, and the next demands 500 million, and it goes on and on and on. What are all those mega winners  going to buy that someone with one million dollars can't buy? My thought is that someone driven in this manner believes they will be happy if they can just win a little more than the guy that won the lottery just before him. Point in place, John D. Rockefeller, arguably one of the richest men in history was once asked how much money was enough, Rockefeller quickly retorted, "Just a little bit more". The question begs to be asked, if riches make someone feel fulfilled, then how much wealth is required to reach that nirvana? 

Unfortunately, happiness is not found at the end of the rainbow in a pot of gold. Unfortunately, the rise to power and fame only leads most people to want more power and more fame, never feeling fulfilled with their status as it stands. The elusive search for happiness in bank account totals or the number of Oscar winning performances isn't the only evidence available. In our daily lives the average home has 3-4 bathrooms, 4-5 bedrooms, and a typical new home is running upwards of $500,000. +. I mean the United States is labelled as one of the wealthiest countries in the world, but if that is true, why is it that the divorce rate in the U.S. hovers around 40%, and drug or alcohol addictions rank high among the rich and famous? My guess is these folks are looking for something to make them happy and they just don't seem to have enough money to get them to that happy place. Sadly, I don't believe the vast majority of our society will ever find happiness in their wealth. In the book of Matthew 16:29 Jesus asked his disciples this question, "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, but forfeits his soul?" In other words, I don't believe there is a price tag for happiness. So, if we can't find happiness in riches or wealth, status or position, where does happiness reside?

 A current Contemporary Christian song by the band Cochren & Company harnessed my attention recently. In the song,  "Money Can't Buy" the vocalist lays it out there pretty quick and pretty straightforward "Oh Lord give me eyes to see that what I need don't cost a thing, You fill my life with somethin' money can't buy!" What is that "somethin'", and why can't it be bought? This song speaks to my soul, you can't buy happiness, there isn't a dollar amount attached to being content that you can set as a goal, and as Rockefeller so aptly replied, "just a little bit more" unfortunately, will never be enough. Happiness is found in the life you have been given and the people that fill that life each day. I believe Cochren & Company nailed it with the line from the song that goes like this, "It's the peace that comes from perfect love. The wonder in the stars, the beating in my heart. Sometimes you gotta stop, and look at what you got, and that's when you realize, ooh, the gift it is to be alive." For those that reach the place where they understand what true happiness is, that is the "somethin" being described in the song. 

If you aren't happy with your life, money, riches, position or status won't get you there. It is a sad state of affairs for those who are caught up in the rat race of life striving for "just a little bit more".  That little bit more just becomes a part of the never ending chase for happiness in the things of this world. Again in the book of Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus spoke about wealth and the futile efforts that storing up earthly treasures creates. Instead Jesus directed us to store up our treasures in Heaven where the impact is eternal. Don't allow the chase after shiny things that will only rust and dull to fill your days, seek the happiness that is found in knowing and serving Christ. Paul said it best in Philippians 4:11-13 when he stated that his contentment is found in Christ and the life-giving flow of love that is only found in Him. That my friend is the "somethin money can't buy". If you have it, you know what I'm talking about, if you don't have it, get it today, it is available and it doesn't cost a thing! 

"For the wages of sin is death; but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord"         Romans 6:23

Coach Carter

Whatever

The fourth chapter of the Book of Philippians may best be known as the chapter that houses the "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" Philippians 4:13 verse, yet the verses leading up to this more well known verse should serve as an encouragement to us as we traverse in and out of each day. In this chapter, I've labelled as the "Whatever" chapter, Paul describes how he has learned to deal with every adversity that life has thrown his way and what he has learned to do that allowed him to move forward, praising God "whatever" happens each day. 

Verses 6-7 are also often quoted verses telling us to not spend our days worrying about what is going on in our daily lives, but instead to present our troubles to God and we will receive a peace beyond our understanding. Sounds easy enough right? In other words, if we just pray, our troubles will vanish and we will be strolling through the daisy fields of life content that God is removing all of our worries and concerns. Well, I just don't believe that is what God is saying at all. To get the full gist of what Paul is proclaiming in chapter 4, you have to read on to see how Paul used prayer and petition to God to overcome and withstand the adversities of this life. 

In verses 11-12 Paul describes how he has learned to be content when he is in need, and how he has learned to be grateful when he has what he needs and also thankful when he is in desperate need. Full belly or empty stomach, overflowing bank account or dead broke, Paul states that he has learned how to be content through his relationship with Christ. (Phil. 4-13). Being content when life is tough isn't that easy, yet I firmly believe that Paul had reached that place through the art of not looking at the bad that was currently impacting his life, but instead, by placing his focus on the positive and good, his thoughts did not sink to pity or shame, but instead Paul's thoughts moved towards a glimpse into what is possible through God and His love. 

Paul shares the secret to being content in the "whatever" verses of chapter 4. What Paul suggests is that we have to adopt a different outlook on life. Instead of looking at every situation through the lens of "Why did this have to happen to me?" to a perspective of "How can I use what is happening in my life regardless of what it looks like on the surface?" That is tough, it is a challenge to see a health crisis as an opportunity, but it isn't the crisis that is the opportunity, it is more your perspective and what you do as a result of the crisis that will impact your life and the lives of others. The key to a different mindset is found in verses 8-9. "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Whatever, no matter what, whatever is going on in your life, think on these things and God's peace will prevail in all situations and circumstances. What we give our attention to determines our perspective on life. Focus on the adversity and you will only see adversity, focus on the promise of a life eternal where there will be no more adversity and you will experience hope.

When we put things in a different perspective from the world's view, what we begin to see isn't the challenges, but instead we see the opportunities that our challenges present. I often share a quote from one of my historical heroes Winston Churchill that goes like this, "The pessimist sees the challenge in every opportunity, while the optimist sees the opportunity in every challenge he faces." How is that possible? I believe it starts with the mindset that Paul provides in Philippians 4. If we focus our time and energy on things that are true and worthy of being thankful, our mindset will experience a shift towards Paul's way of thinking. When the world wants to tell you that you shouldn't have to be dealing with whatever it is you are going through, remember the words of Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength". Whatever it is, Gods got it! Amen. 

Coach Carter

The Hammer

 During one of my recent devotionals, the speaker noted that our words are like a hammer. When I think of a hammer my mind races to memories of my own father. Joe E. Carter was a builder and the evidence of his work still exists today in our home town, where he and his crews built close to 100 homes during the 60's and 70's. The houses he built have served as homes for thousands of families over the past 50+ years, and most likely will serve as homes for generations to come. His hammer provided safety, security, and a sense of belonging in our community. Just as a hammer can be used to provide the aforementioned assurances, unfortunately that same hammer can be used to tear down and destroy with one fatal blow. 

The devotional speaker I referenced above compared the words we speak to the power of that hammer. Our words can be used to build up and encourage or our words can beat down and destroy a person's sense of worth. Many times our words are said without considering the potential damage that they may cause. It is our responsibility to choose our words carefully, we make the choice of the outcome, building up or tearing down. The question you have to ask yourself today is "Do I build up or do I tear down with the words I speak each day?"

 Proverbs 18:21 warns us that "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit". Just as in our example of the contradictory uses of a hammer, our words have the power to provide encouragement and a sense of security, (build up), or we can use our words to tear down and destroy (death). Sadly, today I feel that many of our neighbors are using their words with the power to destroy and far fewer folks are building others up with their words. The good news is we are in control of our tongues and we make the choice of what impact our words will have on others. I want to encourage you to be a builder of hope and peace, not a demolition expert destroying others with the words you speak. 

The Book of Proverbs was written by King Solomon, considered to be the wisest man to have lived prior to the birth of Jesus, and throughout his contribution to the Bible, Solomon constantly speaks to the constructive/destructive ability of our words. At least seventeen times in Proverbs, Solomon shares his wisdom on the topic of the impact of our words, and the message found in Proverbs 12:18 serves as a standard bearer for how Solomon felt about the hammer our words have the potential to be. "The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." 

Choose to build people up with your hammer. Reconstruct what is broken in your world with your hammer and make the choice to firmly hammer love and truth to a world that so desperately needs  reconstruction in our hearts. Choosing to use your hammer to destroy may only take one fatal swing, so guard your words, think of others and the impact your words will have, and listen more than you speak. In doing so, your words will build safe and secure dwellings just like the homes my father constructed so many years ago. 

Coach Carter

What You Search for You Will Find

 Henry Ford is quoted as having said, "Whether you think you can or think you can't you are right." The perception of what we believe is powerful, our thoughts dictate our opinions, and our opinions shape our beliefs. Where Henry Ford remarked on our state of mind in the realm of fortitude and perseverance, Pastor John Maxwell has stated that "What you search for you will find." In similar fashion, the power of our thoughts and mindset create for us our unique vision of reality. In the world that we live in today it is easy to get bogged down by television and social media, but at the end of the day what is it that you are looking for in the people you share your time with each day? What state of the state are you seeking? Much like the old saying you are what you eat, I'd like to offer that you will find what you look for each day. 

In Matthew 7:3-5 Jesus tells His disciples (we are His disciples today), "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Ask for things that will glorify God and they will be given to you. Don't sit around and wait for things to be handed to you on a silver platter, go knock on some doors and those doors will open, and in context with today's message, if you seek you will find. So the question is what are you seeking? Do you want to see the bad in the world? Do you want to see the worst of people in your day to day journey? Is your daily goal to see just how many people can do you wrong and make your day a bad day? My friend, just as Jesus shared, if you seek those things you will find them. Now, do I believe Jesus was directing us to find the bad in the world? Not at all, but the directive fits both ways, whatever it is you are seeking you will find it. Look for bad, it is there. Look for the good in this world and it will become increasingly obvious that it is here, and if you seek it, you will find it!

At times we look through jaded lens, at other times we place things under a microscope, and still other times we perceive things through a one way piece of glass, never realizing that if we were to stand in front of a reflective mirror we might just see the exact thing we disdain. During another portion of the Sermon on the Mount in the same truth, teaching lesson, Jesus questioned His disciples and the crowd who had gathered, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" Matthew 7:3. Too often we want to be the judge and jury when it comes to people we share life with or situations that we encounter during our day's journeys. Personal reflection is a skill I have had to invest a significant amount of time and effort in, and when I say it is a challenge, it truly is, but just as Jesus so poignantly shares, many times we only want to see the speck in others when we have a plank of our own. As a matter of fact, preceding Jesus' directive regarding the speck and the plank, Jesus shared a pretty direct message, "Judge not lest ye be not judged" Matthew 7:1. 

Do you see grey clouds and thunderstorms or do you see a vital rain shower that provides nourishment regardless of its initial impact? Do you see a dirty, disheveled homeless vagrant, or do you see a person who is downtrodden, bound in hopelessness who needs to see Jesus through you today? Is the world stacked against you, or are you going through the very things you have to go through to become the person God purposed you to be? Whatever circumstance you are engaged in today one thing is abundantly clear and absolutely true, what you search for, you will find. 

Make the decision today to start self-reflecting more and begin the process to see the good in the world instead of focusing only on the perception of what is bad. As hard as it may be to realize, there is a purpose in the "bad" of life. It is my opinion and I'm sticking with it, but I do not believe in coincidences. God has a plan for each and every person on this planet. You have to make the conscious decision to seek the good and ultimately see the good in this world we all must live. Just as the DJ says on one of my favorite radio stations, WCQR, "There are a lot of good people in the world we live in, but if you can't find one today, be one!" I encourage you today, seek the good and you will find it!

Coach Carter

There Ain't No Free Rides

 In the Gospel of John 16:33 Jesus shares this comforting message with His disciples, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." Why did Jesus feel the need to share this with His band of early followers? Was Jesus forecasting pain and suffering? Why wouldn't Jesus just cover the disciples with a special blanket protection plan that would ensure they did not face hardship, medical issues, challenging situations, or even persecution to the brink of death? He could have, but look at the life of Jesus himself. Yes, Jesus was fully God, born of a virgin, a man who lived a sinless life, and what was His reward here on earth? As Jesus was sharing this message with the disciples, He was also preparing for what was inevitably coming, His arrest, undeserved humiliation, cruel torture, and then death on the cross. Why did God allow this to happen to His Holy Son? Well, if this conversation had been held between Jesus and His disciples in today's vernacular, Jesus may have said something like this, "Guys, just because you follow me doesn't mean that you get a pass on the pain and suffering of this world. In this world you are going to have to deal with medical conditions, relational devastation, unthinkable circumstances, and possibly unbearable situations, because their ain't no free rides. But, hang in there, because just like I, the Son of God, have been given a bad deal to bear, you are not alone and I will be with you through it all!" Jesus did not face the cross alone, nor did His disciples, most of whom suffered cruel, inhuman deaths while in service to God. But through it all they were not alone and that truth is the same for us today. There ain't no free rides, but there is a reason for that and that is what we are sifting through today. 

What was Jesus sent to this earth for in the first place? In the Book of John we are told that Jesus was sent to this world to save the lost and provide a path to salvation for mankind. (John 3:16). Jesus didn't receive a free pass, He knew what was going to happen before He was ever sent to this world, and He willingly accepted His called purpose. Jesus knew there was a much bigger purpose than what His human existence could accomplish, but He would be required to endure the cross. Did Jesus want to be beaten, tortured, humiliated, and then painfully nailed to a wooden cross to die an excruciating death? Jesus was flesh and bone, of course He did not want to endure that type of treatment, but because He was also fully God, He did it as a sacrifice for you and for me, so that we would have a path to eternal life with Him in Heaven. 

So, what does that mean for you and for me? Jesus suffered for us, Jesus died for us, and Jesus rose from the grave and ascended into Heaven where He rules at His Father's right hand. He did that so we can have a pathway to that same eternal life in Heaven, but He did not die on the cross so that you and I would receive that golden ticket to bypass pain and suffering. Remember what Jesus told His disciples in John 16:33, "In this world you will have trouble...", but just as in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, we are not alone, He the triune God will be with us through it all and just as Jesus Christ overcame the cross, you and I will overcome whatever trials, tribulations, and other hardships that we face and endure. 

You may be thinking that you are enduring something that you shouldn't have to endure. You may have been born into circumstances or conditions that seem completely unfair and possibly unbearable. You may have suffered a loss or numerous losses that make you question how your life could have a positive outcome or impact on you or on anyone else for that matter. Wouldn't it be nice if your life was paved with gold and you had a silver spoon to eat each meal along the way? If we believe and we proclaim that we have given our lives to serve God, and if Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins, then why would we have to suffer here on this earth? 

For me the answer is in direct correlation to today's post title. There ain't no free rides. "In this world you will trouble.", basically Jesus was saying troubles are part of the plan. Troubles are part of your plan. Your plan has a purpose connected to it and whether that purpose directly impacts you or if your purpose is for the benefit of someone else or a full directory of others, God foreordained you to encounter trouble. The promise is not that you will be trouble-free, but instead the true promise of John 16:33 is that you will not face your trouble alone and the good news is that Jesus overcame the world and so will you and I. 

Today, you may be sitting in a nest of hornets with a landing pad of vipers at your feet, you may be suffering through pain, loss, or the results of bad decisions in your life that make you feel like you can't endure another day. I have not walked in your shoes nor have you walked in mine, but what I would say today is this, each day you have a choice. You can wallow in your despair of which Jesus warned us we would face in this life, or you can turn to Christ who promised He would not allow us to face those challenges by ourselves. Either way, regardless of the choice you make, there ain't no free rides. So, why would you choose to face life's challenges alone? God is there, He always has been and He always will be. Amen. 

Coach Carter

You May Be...

 Think about this, you may be the only Christ someone sees today. If you really think about that for a minute I hope you realize the gravity of that responsibility. At your work, in your school, out at the grocery store, or even as you are driving down the road consider all the people you cross paths with on any given day. Now, stop and give some thought to what they see when those paths cross. We all have a bad day every now and then, but overall what you see is what you get. With that thought in mind, let's give some context to the notion that you may be the only Christ someone sees today. 

As a child growing up I was often reminded that my actions speak louder than my words. Thanks mom, you were so right. We can talk about taking care of the sick, hopeless, and lost, but what do we do when our paths cross someone who falls into one of those categories? Do we cross the road so we don't have to encounter the homeless person begging on the street corner? What is our instinct when we reach a disagreement with a friend or family member? Or, what is our response when we feel like we have been wronged by someone we trusted. The parable of the Good Samaritan comes to mind here (Luke 10:25-37). In each of these and all other day to day occurances, if we call ourselves Christians, we are in a position to reflect Christ's love or we are set to demonstrate the same type of treatment that the world displays. Our job as servants of Christ is to live in His image. In Matthew 5:14-16 Jesus reminded His disciples, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven." You were made to shine so others can see an example of what it means to be a Christian. 

When you heard the premise of today's message, that you may be the only Christ someone sees today, you may have thought, "Boy I feel sorry for them." Trust me, that is the exact thought that went through my mind when I first heard this truth. I fall down so many times and I make more mistakes on a regular basis than I could ever live to make amends for. But, God is merciful and full of grace. HIs message to me is always going to be the same, I am not perfect, ask for forgiveness and give more forgiveness than you deserve.  Give more, share more, step up and step out more. Be the first to volunteer and the last to leave. Give a hand up, not a hand out. Smile when you've had a rough day and laugh when things don't necessarily work out the way you wanted them to. In other words, change who you are and the whole world will change with you!

What are the chances that you will encounter someone this week that you will be the only Christ they see that day? Based on the scripture above, I would say the chances are pretty high, almost guaranteed. So, what will that person or group of persons see? Will they be inspired to be more like you which in turn would be that they have chosen to live their life more like Jesus, or will they just see their own reflection in your words and actions? We must live in this world, but we do not have to be an example of this world. (John 17:16). 

I'll close today with a reminder that is often shared on a radio station I listen to often during my morning and afternoon commute. It goes something like this, "There are lots of great people in the world doing amazing things for people, if you can't find one today, be one." You may be the only Christ someone sees today, what will they see? 

Coach Carter

Be a Quitter

 Well, I guess today's title got your attention pretty quick. I've been writing Flat Tire Ministries blogs since 2016 and I can't recall a single message that the focus was inspiring folks to quit! I have been a promoter of the mindset of never quitting, never giving up, and always doing your best since I started coaching back in 1986, so what is going on now? Rest assured, I haven't given up and I haven't changed my message, but today I do want to encourage everyone to "quit". The question is what do I want to inspire you to quit today? 

If I have inspired anyone to never give up in spite of circumstances, challenges, opposition, or supposedly insurmountable hardship, it is my hope that today's message will inspire someone to quit. Quit smoking, quit eating unhealthy foods or drinks, quit watching so much TV or digital media, quit using illegal drugs, and quit sitting around doing nothing productive. In addition, quit stealing, quit lying, quit gossiping, quit neglecting your loved ones, quit putting yourself first in every decision you make, and quit spending your precious time on things that will have no positive impact on your life or on the life of others that you love, serve, or otherwise share life. In other words, quit disobeying the directive that Jesus shared during His time here on Earth. 

An adulterous woman was about to be stoned to death by an angry mob when one of the crowd yelled out to Jesus for his take on what they should do to the woman. Long story short, Jesus said let the man or woman who hasn't sinned throw the first rock. (See John 8:3-11). Mic drop. The crowd shamefully dispersed, realizing that they too were just as guilty of sinning and thus could be the next contestant on the  "Who Gets Stoned to Death Today Show". The woman, probably standing there awaiting a chiding from Jesus, looked to Him for His condemnation. What did Jesus say? "Quit sinning!" (John 8:11). In chapter 5 of the same Gospel of John, Jesus heals a man who had been crippled most of his life. What did Jesus tell this man to do? The only directive Jesus gave this man was to "Quit doing the things that are counter to living a Christian life" (John 5:14). Although Jesus taught His disciples and all those he came in contact with to never give up and to never quit doing the work they had been called to do, Jesus did share a clear message, be a quitter, quit sinning!

Jesus left a lasting impression on his early followers, Paul in particular continued encouraging men and women to be quitters. In Galatians 5:19-21 Paul exhorts the people of Galatia telling them if they don't quit their evil ways they won't inherit the Kingdom of God. The list is pretty inclusive: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God." In other words, Be a quitter, quit sinning. And if you are struggling with the question, "If I quit doing all of the things listed above, then what will I do with all my time?" Never fear, Paul is near, in the same chapter he goes on to say instead of spending all of your time on these detrimental activities, invest your time, energy, and resources into activities that produce the following: "love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" Galatians 5:22-23. Paul goes on to remind us that there is no law or limit to the amount of time, energy, and resources we invest in these attributes. 

Today I am going to close this message with three words that I am pretty sure I have never said in my life. While I want to encourage you to do more, give more, share more, and invest more into people, projects, and programs that will have a positive impact on this world we are living in, I also want to encourage you to stop doing the things in your life that will only have a negative impact on you and your circle of influence. Stop hurting others, stop taking and never giving, and stop waiting on someone else to begin a good work before you get involved. Today my advice to you, me, and the world is "Be a Quitter", quit squandering your life away and start living the life that God purposed you to live! 

Coach Carter

Use As Directed

 If you have ever picked up a prescription from your local pharmacy, most likely you have read the phrase "use as directed" as the instructions for its use. The pharmaceutical assumption is that the prescriber has provided guidance to the recipient regarding the dosage and frequency for the medicine to be taken. Without proper guidance from the doctor or pharmacist it stands to reason that a person could overdose or not gain the full effects of the prescribed medication. Equipped with the proper instructions those risks are mitigated, we follow the "doctor's orders" and typically the condition lessens and soon we are feeling like ourselves again. Just as following the physician's instructions helps ensure we start feeling better, in life there is a Great Physician who gave us a life to live and He too provides us with instructions on how to live that life. 

As each new child is born around this world, I imagine God blessing that new life and saying "use as directed". At birth we are given a life to live which will be stockpiled with decisions and choices. Babies and young children have adults in their lives that make the majority of those decisions for them.  As we grow and learn we become more independent in our thinking process and quickly we become the one who makes those decisions, right or wrong, good or bad, we are given the free will to choose to follow the instructions or follow our own desires. 

But, how do we know what is the right choice? How do we know we are living this life we have been given "as directed"? The answer is simple, we read the instruction manual and then we talk to the Physician who gave us the life we have been called to live. What gives us the confidence to live out our life according to the instructions we have been given in His Word? The words of Jesus quickly answer that question, "For the word of God will never fail" Luke 1:37. Do not get confused, reading the Bible and building a relationship with God doesn't give us a cure for every illness, issue, or challenge that we will face in life. Just as there exists the possibility that the medicine prescribed by a doctor does not take care of our illness, there are going to be trials and tribulations in the life God gave us to live and we may not receive the answer we want just because we presented it to God and asked for the answer we want to transpire. I think of Paul in II Corinthians 12:7-10 where he explained that he asked God to take away a thorn or some sort of medical infirmity three times to no avail. Paul came to terms with the fact that the medical issue was not going to be healed, but he also had a revelation that God wanted Paul to rely less on his own abilities and lean in more on God's strength which in turn made Paul strong enough to not only endure the affliction, but to be stronger through it for the sake of God's plan for the life He gave Paul to live. 

God gave each of us a life to live, He also gave us the directions for how to use the life He gave us to live. When we attempt to live outside of the "use as directed" guidance we have at our disposal, life can get wonky and if we choose to live outside of the instructional handbook, life continues to become more and more challenging. As the Apostle Paul was training and preparing Timothy to continue the Kingdom work he had been called to do, he reassured Timothy that the Bible would be his go to instructional reference in this verse, "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." II Timothy 3:16-17. 

We take the medicine that our doctors prescribe because we trust that they have the knowledge and training necessary to heal us as long as we take their guidance and "use as directed". Living life and living it to the fullest can be a much bigger challenge. Building a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior gives us comfort, strength, and encouragement that if we take His guidance and "use as directed" we will fulfill His will and purpose for the life we have been given to live! 

Coach Carter

More of These

 As we roll on into 2025 it is commonly accepted that folks will compile a short list of resolutions that they intend to apply to their day in and day out lives. Exercising regularly, changing dietary habits, slowing down on smoking, stepping up on work habits,  and turning the electronic devices off most likely top our lists. Well, I would not be forthcoming if I didn't admit that I too have set some goals for change in 2025, some physical (getting rid of about 10 lbs. and keeping it off!), and some transformative in more of a spiritual sense. Whatever it is that you have listed as a "New Year's Resolution" it will only be as successful as you make it a part of who you are and how you do you. It's kinda like that old saying, "what you put in is what you will get out". In 2025, my prayer is that you will make an investment into making goals that will not only impact you, but goals that will impact others through the work to improve you and your walk with God. 

Trimming off 10 lbs. will obviously be of benefit to me personally. The health benefits alone make it a no-brainer, but more than that the better physical condition I am in the better capable I am of working without experiencing adverse physical limitations, the better my endurance will be, and the better I feel about myself the more likely I will be to engage myself in activities and settings where I can learn, grow, and serve others. You see, if I only look at decreasing my weight for my personal benefit, then I'm the only one that I am accountable to thus lowering the stakes on sticking to my resolution. Placing the opportunities to serve others and benefit others through my service raises the stakes and increases my role and responsibility in ensuring I stick to my plans. Not that trimming off 10 lbs. isn't important to me, but my intrinsic goals far outweigh any self weight loss goals I could set anytime, beginning of the year or not! 

I have landed on two such goals as we embark on the wonder of a new year filled with myriad opportunities to serve others and provide a glimpse of the One who modeled the example on what true service looks like during our own daily walk. Kindness isn't always considered a quality that tops the list in new year resolutions, but after I heard a radio disc jockey provide the following definition I decided to up my kindness ratio in 2025. Paraphrasing the definition "Kindness is lending your strength when someone is in need." Now you can place that in simple terms such as opening the door for someone when their arms are full, that is the kind thing to do, but when I heard this definition it hit me that I need to be on the lookout each day, seeking opportunities to show kindness to someone who is in a position of need. Homelessness creates a scenario of great need. Regardless of why someone is homeless it is not my job to judge them, but it is my responsibility to show them kindness because they are definitely in need. Lending strength to a homeless person could mean utilizing my financial ability to provide a hot meal or an extra blanket, but it could also mean serving hot meals at a shelter, working to expand mental health services in my community, or just acknowledging a homeless person exists and calling out their name to God for deliverance from the situation that has created this situation in their life. That is just one example, kindness can be shown in any and all aspects of your life. On the job, with your family, or even in the passing of someone on the side of the road stranded by a flat tire or other mechanical breakdown. Mark Twain is credited with having said, "Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see." May your life be filled with opportunities to show kindness to those in need in 2025. 

Coupled with kindness I want to do more to sacrifice self over others. The United States Air Force motto is "service before self", this embodies the idea that our professional and personal lives should be more focused on how we can help others rather than how we can be supported by others. We can sacrifice our time, our means, and our personal wants for the good of others. In the same vein as kindness, when we sacrifice we take our strengths, skills, and assets and lend them to someone else that is in need. Doing what is expected does not necessarily constitute a sacrifice, to sacrifice we must do something that is out of the ordinary, and in some cases that sacrifice borders extraordinary. In our reference to the USAF service before self lends itself to the ultimate sacrifice, a trait that members of the armed forces in general accept when they sign up for duty. Jesus is our true example of sacrifice. In the Gospel of John, Jesus stated that, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15:13. I'm not expecting anyone to go out and physically lay down their life for the sake of someone in need, but the essence of sacrifice is that we are giving something up that makes us comfortable, for the sake of someone who is less fortunate and in need of what we can offer. If we give to someone in need out of abundance that isn't really a sacrifice. If, on the other hand, we don't have an abundance and we still give to someone in need that becomes a sacrifice. 

I have chosen kindness and sacrifice as two key attributes that I want to increase in my life in 2025. Both of these are direct examples of service before self and both require giving away something to someone in need. Being nice to those who are nice to us isn't necessarily increasing our kindness quotient. And doing things that are expected of us doesn't really qualify as making a sacrifice. Both require giving of oneself out of a spirit of service to others in spite of our own needs. I am choosing kindness and sacrifice and I invite you to join me in giving more of ourselves in those areas in 2025, but please don't limit your choices to something that I feel I need to do. Whatever it is that you can do that will benefit others more than it will impact you, go for it! Find your area to serve or who knows, your decision may be to serve in 2025. My prayer is that God will give you more, more opportunities to give, to serve, and to sacrifice. Less of me, and more of these! 

Coach Carter