tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52742356084226893672024-03-13T22:33:08.462-04:00Genuine LeadershipMusings about Godliness, leadership, and aspirations.Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-81499803008992665042011-04-06T06:30:00.013-04:002011-04-07T21:30:30.305-04:00It's Who You Know.I've at times, questioned the validity of a persons claim to be "saved". After all, shouldn't there be more to it than just a claim? Shouldn't it bring about change...a difference? We claim commitment to a church, we're known in the community, do noble things, serve in all sorts of capacities, yet our boast still seems shallow. Somethings missing. One profound Biblical example about just such a person who seemed to have all the "right" qualifications is found in John 3.<br />
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One night while praying, Jesus was interrupted by a man named Nicodemus. An educated man who thoroughly knew the Law of Moses and the Covenant of God and had been appointed ruler among the people, comes to the Teacher with a question, "Who are you"? Before he gets his answer, Jesus presents him with a statement that would challenge everything he knew and did, "You need to be born again".<br />
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It's not the sum total of what we know or do that defines our lives, it's <i><b>Who</b></i> we know. Do you know Him?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://2.gvt0.com/vi/upGCMl_b0n4/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/upGCMl_b0n4&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/upGCMl_b0n4&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div>Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-66789510672718237382011-03-31T22:00:00.019-04:002011-04-06T06:13:38.643-04:00Don't forget the baseballs.I love to play baseball. I love both the challenge and the shear joy of playing. It seems no matter the outcome- win or loose- I can still walk away with a fulfilled feeling. As I was recently studying Bible faith, I thought about how ridiculous it would be to approach the start of a game only to discover that no one brought <b><i>any</i></b> baseballs! All the pregame prep, the strategy, the adrenaline and excitement, the fans, the anthem, and then...nothing. At that point, every bit of the prep becomes pointless.<br />
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Sound absurd? Yet time and again, we'll declare we have faith in what God's Word says but are without the most important element of the faith "game"...corresponding action! People should <i>see</i> our faith! Jesus saw faith in Luke 5:20. There were plenty of people sitting in front of Him as He spoke; in fact, the house was packed. But the actions of four men- their movement- caused them to stand out from the rest. Jesus recognized faith when He <b><i>saw</i></b> it! The defining difference in my faith should be my actions.<br />
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The Message Bible puts it this way, "Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it?" It goes on to say, "Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?" It concludes chapter two of James by saying,"The very moment you separate body and spirit, you end up with a corpse. Separate faith and works and you get the same thing: a corpse."<br />
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As impossible as it would be to play a game of baseball without baseballs, so too, is the impossibility of having productive faith- faith that gets results- without actions that support that same faith. When we make a claim to believe God's Word, what plans do we have to demonstrate that belief? Can we demonstrate our faith without actions?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-61880254439001576222011-01-22T10:13:00.009-05:002011-01-24T05:14:08.702-05:00The Essential E'sAlthough there are probably an endless list of leadership essentials, here are three I'm suggesting that are meant to help energize your organization. They are the three essential E's...enlightenment, empowerment and encouragement.<br />
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1. Enlightenment is imparting your wisdom, experience and most importantly, the vision for your organization to the rest of the team. It's no mystery that a runner greatly improves his/ her chances of winning if they know where the finish line is and the route to get there! Communicate often. Let your team hear your plans and expectations.<br />
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2. Empowerment is having the confidence to entrust "ownership" to other members of your team. This can be one of the more difficult essentials because it demands a greater level of trust and trust can take time. Micromanaging however, is a blueprint to stiffled growth- the proverbial "ball and chain" to your organizations progress. People are generally more productive if they're made to feel an integral part of the whole; which leads us to the third essential...<br />
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3. Encouragement is nourishment. Too often organizations are starving or malnourished simply because the leadership either won't or doesn't know how to use encouragement. When encouragement is offered sincerely- and often- it can generate a steady flow of energy and enthusiasm which are vital ingredients to progress. This is especially true during a particularly difficult or challenging time.<br />
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How do you currently incorporate these essentials in your organization? Are there other essential E's that you can think of?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-70575177208694380452010-10-15T03:47:00.012-04:002011-01-23T19:25:57.843-05:00Is it really necessary?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0kxEC5Puy0ezMyp_9lrxrlheo0FiIT8t1pi-0MDKgFab2DghcTr6ZNXmCYkIw0Rk535xT3YOKY8-bTah5ec7VJwxHAZvy4o2vzKzn4yzzKYbr8lBtV0GW-dLkusKTPD8lpJk7kzuBE4/s320/24fighting_600.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Channing Tatum in the movie "Fighting"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0kxEC5Puy0ezMyp_9lrxrlheo0FiIT8t1pi-0MDKgFab2DghcTr6ZNXmCYkIw0Rk535xT3YOKY8-bTah5ec7VJwxHAZvy4o2vzKzn4yzzKYbr8lBtV0GW-dLkusKTPD8lpJk7kzuBE4/s1600/24fighting_600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>I hated fighting. For some reason though, growing up in a fairly large neighborhood and being the oldest in a family of five (four boys) put me in the precarious position of having to fight the neighbor boys from time to time. I don't know if it was a guy thing, a supremacy thing (though we didn't have gangs back then), or if we just felt this was the best way to resolve differences, fighting just seemed a necessary part of growing up. Funny thing, it was always fear more than aggression that kept me in any fight. Every single time I'd find myself staring down a fight, I'd think to myself, "I hate going through this".<br />
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I recall during a particular gym class session in 7th grade, the teachers- we had two- had announced a wrestling series we were going to start. In my mind, wrestling was just like fighting and I hated fighting. There was no way I wanted to go through this series. I went home and told my mother how I hated anything to do with fighting and didn't want to participate. When I reluctantly presented her note to the teacher to excuse me from class, I was told that not wanting to participate wasn't reason enough to be excused. So, once again I found myself faced with "fighting" with the rest of the guys in class.<br />
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The one match I do remember, I gave my opponent a little tussle just to seem authentic. But, I knew the <i>quickest</i> way to end the fight was to give up and end up on my back. So I did. I hated fighting.<br />
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Through those experiences however, and many others, I've learned that life is full of fights. In fact, quite often we find those things worth having require a fight. It probably won't be with fists or on a mat, but in our minds and hearts. We have a spiritual opponent, the devil, who's only goal is to steal, kill and destroy anything and everything that humanity will give up. We mustn't give up! We have to fight; and we don't just fight for the sake of fighting, we fight because what's right and good is worth contending for. <br />
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Muhammad Ali was once quoted as saying, <i>“The fight is won or lost far away from witnesses - behind the lines, in the gym, and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights”. </i>There are fights most of us go through that no one will ever know about, but they are still fights. The outcome of which will be determined by the value we put on winning. Is it worth the fight?<br />
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Over and over we can read in God's Word of adversity, warring, an enemy and fighting. In 1 Timothy 6:12 the Apostle writes to his young protege telling him, <i>"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life..."</i> And again in Jude we read, <i>"...contend earnestly for the faith..." </i>(Jude 3).<br />
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Fighting may not be a part of our lives we relish, but it's nevertheless a real part of everyday life. The quickest way to end a fight is give up, but God's Word encourages us to fight, saying <i>"...in all things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us."</i> (Romans 8:37). Have you determined what you want the outcome to be? Are you willing to fight for it?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-65054752041720080272010-07-31T15:19:00.016-04:002010-10-15T17:46:52.601-04:00Start by Building a Team.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOXKuqQo1sLY1mvgsa-xSxFH4OVCGZrQxIMm4W8w7vI22aFLvDXV6HZrvg9WyzwKpDZffo1Lof5-RhMZzOnC4kFhNQ18HCJIrzxF8efi8DBW2KHJaiTcIiCl8KbmuJOFI4VltEjqwrh7g/s1600/sxc-Teamwork+889293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOXKuqQo1sLY1mvgsa-xSxFH4OVCGZrQxIMm4W8w7vI22aFLvDXV6HZrvg9WyzwKpDZffo1Lof5-RhMZzOnC4kFhNQ18HCJIrzxF8efi8DBW2KHJaiTcIiCl8KbmuJOFI4VltEjqwrh7g/s400/sxc-Teamwork+889293.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Several years ago I was asked to coach a little league baseball team. It's the only time I've done so. Not that I wouldn't enjoy doing it more often, but I mention this instance simply as an illustration.<br />
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My roster ended up being comprised primarily of a bunch of randomly selected kids...and these kids were young enough that most had little (if any) experience. Although I took opportunity at each practice to teach basic individual baseball skills, believe it or not, my main objective was to simply get them to think and work together. It's amazing what you can do with a bunch of kids (people) that will work together!<br />
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To make a long story short, despite an average season, our season highlight came about mid-way through. We were playing the team with the most talent and a better record. We had already however, in the short time I'd had them, been able to develop an understanding of individual roles, but more importantly, we'd started to think like a team. We ended up surprising everyone (including ourselves) by beating them, and not because of any one play or player; we beat them <i>as a team</i>. For me and probably several parents it was a shining illustration of what can happen when you get an average (or below) bunch on the same page. <br />
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One of the most effective ways a leader can create a culture of success is by team building. When a leader unites his or her team under a common cause and cultivates a "we" mentality rather than several personal goals, they're well on their way to a more successful outcome. <br />
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You start by letting each member of the organization be assured they are part of the success formula. Every single member has value- <i>none exempt</i>. Whenever possible, verbally communicate that value- it's generally perceived as more genuine. As members begin to realize they're an integral part of the overall success of the organization, they gain confidence and are more apt to freely contribute.<br />
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Too often, leaders become possessive of the organization, to the point that it couldn't succeed without <b><i>them</i></b>. True, it takes the skills of leadership to properly facilitate success; however, only a fool would think they're the "be all, end all". End all maybe...but it won't be the end they had in mind!Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-12839520132129282052010-07-06T23:03:00.003-04:002010-07-31T13:54:01.902-04:00Knowing Eternal Life.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUs4jKNzvXV0ejNdmbZHKR3cLIPltq5jJY4sRswWtIpRz4mVpQFRZflb8IvWVehihd8Fs5y7Uo-wHNqT-ElJNFT4Nvql0KT8H_K8gqwfAUbdy3b4YvVz4W5LSG9b5XdWuFi0A1iChjrzg/s1600/Sunburst-istock+4613041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUs4jKNzvXV0ejNdmbZHKR3cLIPltq5jJY4sRswWtIpRz4mVpQFRZflb8IvWVehihd8Fs5y7Uo-wHNqT-ElJNFT4Nvql0KT8H_K8gqwfAUbdy3b4YvVz4W5LSG9b5XdWuFi0A1iChjrzg/s640/Sunburst-istock+4613041.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>We always think of it as a measure of time. Ironically, eternal is outside of the confines of time (Titus 2:1). It has no beginning or end. Jesus defined eternal life as knowing himself and His Father- the Only True God. We don't generally associate getting to know God as eternal (even though it may take "forever" to get to know Him fully). According to Jesus though, eternal life is getting to know God (John 17:3). <br />
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When speaking about life, Jesus often referred to it as eternal, but he also called it "abundant". Jesus said He came to give life and it more abundantly (John 10:10). "Abundant" in the original manuscripts was also described as superabundant, more abundant, exceedingly abundant, very high and beyond measure!<br />
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Eternal life should be more than just an endless duration of existence, it should be life that is abundant or <b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>full</i></span></b> of God. Jesus said he came for the express purpose of giving us this quality of life. The reason we may not be experiencing abundant life is because we're surrounded by a world full of spiritual death. Death runs contrary to eternal life or the God-kind of life.<br />
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We can start knowing Eternal Life today! It's starts by excepting God's Word as foremost authority and Jesus Christ as Lord of our lives. Once we receive the life of Christ into our lives, we have the right to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). A life in Christ should eventually begin to express God's nature- love, joy, peace, health, mercy, etc.<br />
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Are you living as though you know Eternal Life?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-18525411863201321722010-06-05T07:08:00.057-04:002010-06-06T06:33:14.476-04:00Now that you've said that...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbl-0V6ME_rxZQQhlTtdjjoM7A4x68Ke-Q_xT2Pyr-dCZGXLfxdFsR1x1lt5E7_1EOxqA2ax5YzqZTi5PX5lo0xO-FAtSC9S1AIRT2iv9Ru7L2jFsPm05GCUhh6qEPIsh3DF50LtJ1LQ/s1600/In+the+Beginning-istock+1264058.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 25px 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbl-0V6ME_rxZQQhlTtdjjoM7A4x68Ke-Q_xT2Pyr-dCZGXLfxdFsR1x1lt5E7_1EOxqA2ax5YzqZTi5PX5lo0xO-FAtSC9S1AIRT2iv9Ru7L2jFsPm05GCUhh6qEPIsh3DF50LtJ1LQ/s200/In+the+Beginning-istock+1264058.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479473585010583954" border="0" /></a><br />"For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">speaks</span>." (Matthew 12:34)<br />"...he will have whatever he <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">says</span>." (Mark 11:23)<br />"...we also believe and therefore <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">speak</span>..."<br />(2 Corinthians 4:13)<br />"If anyone does not stumble in <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">word</span>, he is a perfect man..."<br />(James 3:2)<br /><br />We've highlighted certain words from each of the above Bible verses to consider a point. (There are many other verses but this seemed like a goodly sampling). In each verse, the power of what someone <span style="font-style: italic;">says</span> is the topic. However, are these isolated comments or is this a reoccurring theme throughout the entire Bible?<br /><br />It's rather ironic the Bible is often called "God's <span style="font-style: italic;">Word</span>"? God has revealed Himself to us through His Word. Jesus, God's only Son, was God's <span style="font-style: italic;">Word</span> incarnate (John 1:14). Everything God has ever done, He's done by using His Word.<br /><br />In the first chapter of the Book of Genesis we read that when God began creating, He <span style="font-style: italic;">said</span> something pertaining to each element of creation. There are probably several ways God could have initiated creation, but He started by <span style="font-style: italic;">speaking</span> His intentions. Before creating man He said, "Let us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness..." So in creating man, we can see God planned that man should be just like Himself. As we review the entire creation, we can see a pattern. God would first <span style="font-style: italic;">speak</span> something about each element of creation and then the expressed result followed.<br /><br />In chapter 11, we later read of how man's own words are also very powerful. In verse 6, men express their intentions about building a city and tower by saying, "Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth." However, God is displeased with their intent. In response, He immediately addresses mans words, "...they all have one language...now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them. Come, let Us go down and there <span style="font-style: italic;">confuse their language</span>..." By confusing mans ability to use words, God immediately defuses their prideful intents. Interestingly, God had to confuse mans words in order to change the outcome!<br /><br />God created with words, He sustains all things with His words (Hebrews 1:3) and does the miraculous by using words (Romans 4:17).<br /><br />When speaking of how revealing words are about the condition of someones heart, Jesus warns, "Every one of these careless words is going to come back to haunt you." He concludes by saying, "Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation." (Matthew 12:36-37, Message Bible)<br /><br />Someone once said "Words are containers". Much of the time without realizing it, we're carrying explosive results in what we're saying- good and bad! Remember, Proverbs tells us that, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue..."! Have you ever stopped to consider just how powerful your words are? Your words carry creative power!<br /><br />The next time you're about to spew out some provocative sentence, consider the outcome of what you're about to say. Will you eventually stumble over those same words?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-30317842108384543982010-05-29T16:29:00.020-04:002010-05-31T07:52:54.929-04:00The Honor they're due...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthjoe-lC0RhxdcisMJmWWicVRXdRCjzqG9U-Plyaw5FcSA2Ffoiz9Q5yUvHb4jrYvxrOYsIJXQDTp1YBcoHaCVa3Hs-aCzWJEKePtcTZeILBFWBJGPhIkz2k5Iac-HtvcI_WfTMS4tZM/s1600/Graves+and+flags.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 20px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 380px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthjoe-lC0RhxdcisMJmWWicVRXdRCjzqG9U-Plyaw5FcSA2Ffoiz9Q5yUvHb4jrYvxrOYsIJXQDTp1YBcoHaCVa3Hs-aCzWJEKePtcTZeILBFWBJGPhIkz2k5Iac-HtvcI_WfTMS4tZM/s320/Graves+and+flags.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476799349629096594" border="0" /></a><br />Parades. Marching Bands. Cemetery Memorials. Gun salutes. They've all become a part of what we, in America, proudly celebrate as Memorial Day. But why the celebration?<br /><br />What started in the mid-1800's as a day to decorate graves in honor of the Civil War dead is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May, though several southern states have an additional day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 in Louisiana and Tennessee.<br /><br />The National Holiday Act of 1971 was passed by Congress to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays. However, many feel that when Congress made Memorial Day into a three-day weekend, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."<br /><br />To help remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed in Dec. 2000 which asks that on Memorial Day, at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."<br /><br />Ever been approached by a veteran in uniform offering you an artificial poppy? Have any clue what for? It too, is associated with Memorial Day. The red poppy, which became associated with war after the publication of a poem written by Col. John McCrae of Canada, "In Flander's Field," describes blowing red fields among the battleground of the fallen. Since that time the VFW's Buddy Poppy program, which sells the poppies made by disabled veterans, has raised millions of dollars in support of veterans and their dependents.<br /><br />So, enjoy the three-day weekend, but let this Memorial Day also serve to remind us all that there are thousands who've given their lives that we might enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted in this the <span style="font-style: italic;">"land of the free and home of the brave"</span> (Francis Scott Key, "The Star-Spangled Banner").Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-69831054957307810842010-05-29T12:15:00.015-04:002010-05-29T18:07:55.290-04:00Touching other People.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXPGRq9k_oe4BMLnJ8ItrT0-gdPjgiGS6Ga6PLSRfz9rXK7KqpkcyfkPlwb5h2dpVkOq5lSWv5jDMX-FT00kzJHeJglT2kvhVUa_cGTkzAa0ZnovUVnOKV6zRGbWazPUIg9NTK69d4CY/s1600/sxc-autumn+walk.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 25px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 384px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXPGRq9k_oe4BMLnJ8ItrT0-gdPjgiGS6Ga6PLSRfz9rXK7KqpkcyfkPlwb5h2dpVkOq5lSWv5jDMX-FT00kzJHeJglT2kvhVUa_cGTkzAa0ZnovUVnOKV6zRGbWazPUIg9NTK69d4CY/s320/sxc-autumn+walk.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476744559936547570" border="0" /></a><br />Recently, I listened to a gentleman with whom I was doing business, share how over the last two years he'd rethought his priorities as he battled cancer. He said that there was a time hunting, fishing and his love for guns was his passion. Now, his family, friends and his volunteer work through the Knights of Columbus were what he lived for. This wasn't the first time I'd heard of someone amending their priorities.<br /><br />I recall a radio broadcast with Glen Beck several years back. He was interviewing three men who'd survived captivity in the jungles of South America. Their plane had been forced to land and they were immediately captured and held by Colombian rebels for <span style="font-style: italic;">five years</span>. At one point during the program Glen asked what kept each of them going, what gave them hope to survive. Not that the rest of their answers weren't similar, but I distinctly remember one of the three speak of seeing his family again. That made such an impression. When that man could have easily despaired of life as he spoke in retrospect of five long years of never knowing if he'd see the light of morning, the hope that kept him going was seeing his family again!<br /><br />A couple of other clients who've recently made impressions include an elder widow in her 80's (it's hard to tell sometimes), who stays active with volunteer work at the local hospital and has done so for over <span style="font-style: italic;">30 years</span>. Though she uses a cane to navigate slowly, she said in a rather matter-of-fact tone, "I just can't stop my volunteer work". Absolutely amazing! Incidentally, this same woman was a foster parent along with her husband, to over 40 children!<br /><br />Another client, an elderly woman who lives alone and suffers from arthritis in her hands and neck such that she can't move her fingers or turn her head easily, stays active by being a "cheerleader" for a local Triple A baseball team. Her and eleven other "aged" friends entertain hundreds of fans every week with their jubilant cheers!<br /><br />There are many similar stories I could share but the point I want to make is simply this: The essence of life is making others an inclusive part of our day. We truly live when we go out of our way to touch another persons' life!<br /><br />Do you regularly take time to "reach out and touch someone"? If not, is there someone you can think of right now that could use a touch today?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-68092412798892841052010-05-13T22:12:00.003-04:002010-06-05T21:29:16.574-04:00Known by our Actions"Do what I say and not what I do". I grew up hearing those words more than once, and every time they'd go down like I'd just swallowed a fish bone. To translate, it should of sounded something like, "I'm expecting you to do or act in a way I have no intention of myself". It was <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >hypocrisy</span>...pure and simple! Don't tell me 'til you can show me!<br /><br />There are people in courtrooms across the land pleading that their intentions be considered above their actions as if what they've done just somehow "happened" mysteriously. How can someone honestly say that what they've done was completely unintentional- an act apart from their will? They may have known better, but they're actions certainly were what they intended.<br /><br />As leaders, our actions speak so much louder than what we say. What we <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">do</span></span> is being critiqued constantly. No matter how well-meaning our intentions or eloquence, it's ultimately our actions that people judge. In fact, with one careless act, someone could invalidate even the most well-crafted, well-meaning words.<br /><br />When instructing his young leader about the qualifications of an Overseer, the Apostle Paul wrote Timothy , "...he must have a good testimony among those who are outside lest he fall into reproach..." (1 Timothy 3:7). That good testimony is established through the actions and conduct amongst others- especially amidst those outside the faith.<br /><br />In the Book of James we read that with our words we can bridle our whole body (James 3:2), but if our conduct isn't in harmony with our words, it's our words that become invalid not our actions. Our words and actions should align however, our actions will always override our words.<br /><br />Someone once said, "I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day; I'd rather have one walk beside me than merely point the way." As Ben Franklin was quoted as saying, "A good example is the best sermon."<br /><br />Would you agree that our actions speak louder than our words?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-41986395562729292502010-04-13T04:57:00.027-04:002010-05-29T03:19:32.613-04:00Here I Am!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzDqr-AnDPetduMco7eVS5zOHlJWySp7oBvALja4xpH-VXh1WyjXFrHgeW-2ocNEeGcsu7D6fizHFwzoUz0tPi387F4bWO6UOz6Qn9msf9DdQN-qr-1H6fZ2Dw0uGzSIbf1NkLL-7l6A/s1600/Number+One-iStock+5714488.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:35px 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 230px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzDqr-AnDPetduMco7eVS5zOHlJWySp7oBvALja4xpH-VXh1WyjXFrHgeW-2ocNEeGcsu7D6fizHFwzoUz0tPi387F4bWO6UOz6Qn9msf9DdQN-qr-1H6fZ2Dw0uGzSIbf1NkLL-7l6A/s200/Number+One-iStock+5714488.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459563477117005170" /></a><br />Ever been around someone who's continually the "The Show". You know, the guy who always demands everyones attention. They're never satisfied with any position other than in front. I've worked with a few. They're not center stage because of their position or responsibility, but because they're obnoxious. <br /><br />As an example, start talking about your situation with this person present and they've got a story that involves them- <em>a long one</em>- that isn't even related! They seem to have this innate ability to manipulate a conversation around themselves as if everyone should be as enthusiastic as they are about their story. <br /><br />Their personality is toxic. They fear the "team" concept or any environment that emphasize the value of others. Obvious signs of their own insecurity. No matter how talented or valuable someone else might be, they're certain to find that person's shortcomings; while all along providing the weakest link.<br /><br />For the sake of the whole, someone needs to shatter their glass house and let some fresh air in. Of course, it's always precarious when that someone just happens to be your boss! I mean, how do you politely articulate, "You're being an idiot, and your ruining the organization"? I'm sure you'll come up with something creative. <br /><br />But as long as that person's left to themself, they'll continue having a negative impact. So...go head, let 'em smell what fresh air is like!Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-30217430042625135692010-04-04T21:04:00.011-04:002010-04-15T12:42:35.828-04:00What we didn't see.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYOZuBAycdz6hyBMYv7Rj0FdvIPy5W8U1LZZdBiqBUKng8sudDhGAs-G581m5cIzCQ5WE6CJuKkEa1N14l38SRNxlxZa25fU3mB9-cvWoioCVL91uVgC99RSK5KzXEejEkd6p_SP7dX0/s1600/On+the+cross-istock+4136308.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:35px 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 281px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYOZuBAycdz6hyBMYv7Rj0FdvIPy5W8U1LZZdBiqBUKng8sudDhGAs-G581m5cIzCQ5WE6CJuKkEa1N14l38SRNxlxZa25fU3mB9-cvWoioCVL91uVgC99RSK5KzXEejEkd6p_SP7dX0/s320/On+the+cross-istock+4136308.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458759355122798962" /></a><br />Every Easter we celebrate Jesus' death and resurrection, which, without question, represent the most significant events in history. Yet it would seem we understand too little of what actually took place during those final days. We've seen the depictions of the beatings, the crown of thorns, the blood that ran from his face, and the nails that pierced his hands and feet; but those are the obvious sufferings. What brought about perhaps the greatest mystery was what we didn't see. It's what I believe Jesus really was distressed about to the point of blood, when he questioned his Father in the Garden.<br /><br />At the dawn of time, when God commanded light to shine out of darkness, Jesus was there. He knew of Heaven's glory, with all its unfathomable splendor. He was equal with God. But we were separated from God and unable to relate because of our inherent nature. We were sinners. So when asked to pay the penalty for the sin of humanity, Jesus willingly left <em>everything</em> to complete the plan that had been established from the foundation of the world's.<br /><br />When Jesus cried out from the cross that dark afternoon, "Into your hands I commit my spirit", he was about to experience separation from his Father- the supreme price to pay for sin. His entire hope to be rescued from the bowels of the earth would now rest in his own words and the words of the prophets. <br /><br />What was to follow would go unseen by all of creation. The Lamb of God would slowly descend to the place of eternal suffering and torment; a place were the worms do not die and the flames are never satisfied. This would be the ultimate antithesis for One so holy and perfect. Yet it was the penalty a spotless Lamb had to pay for the sins of the world. There He would be held captive while Satan celebrated his spurious victory. <br /><br />A few days later and quite suddenly, the dark chambers of the damned were shaken violently by the voice of the Almighty. God was demanding his Son's release. All of the legions of hell stood powerless, unable to stop Jesus' ascent. He had paid the price. Ironically, had Satan known of God's plan to free all mankind, he would never have crucified the Christ. <br /><br />Once raised, even Jesus' closest followers found it hard to believe what God had done. They were reminded of His death on the cross, his burial and now the resurrection, but hadn't a clue as to what it all meant for them. It wasn't until the Apostle Paul's revelation of Christ's redemptive work that they finally got a glimpse into what Jesus had actually done during those few short days following his burial. <br /><br />For us, it all simply means that whoever turns from their sinful ways to except the horrific price Jesus paid, and that He's alive today, will receive eternal life. And as the Apostle Peter wrote, <em>"...though we do not see you now we are filled with inexpressible and glorious joy." </em>You don't have to see or understand all of what happened to believe it. Do you believe? You can!Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-40054276722700772892010-02-21T09:02:00.054-05:002010-04-15T12:44:03.124-04:00What's in Your Closet?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ElPzeHJ_y_kUBQyqiDj9J-XGhcsPmssLlohp27xhKSv085tzWCwOJGDKYZhW8qdtLP_S7sQlR2Xv_29iDdsyL-BmFHE156FTpFd8-FHXc5gwnA6CBu3prU_luNONd4fUDLNoIN17aK8/s1600-h/sxc-closet+door-267764_2911.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 30px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 238px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441290969555428434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ElPzeHJ_y_kUBQyqiDj9J-XGhcsPmssLlohp27xhKSv085tzWCwOJGDKYZhW8qdtLP_S7sQlR2Xv_29iDdsyL-BmFHE156FTpFd8-FHXc5gwnA6CBu3prU_luNONd4fUDLNoIN17aK8/s320/sxc-closet+door-267764_2911.jpg" /></a><br />I'm not a devotee of Tiger Woods, but the recent exposing and confessions of Golf's most elite player certainly should prove a lesson for us all- and not about amassing fame, fortune or female acquaintances either.<br /><br />We had placed this man- and many others- on a pedestal, somewhere above failure. He had become the epitome of what we thought a gifted superstar should be. But alas, he was found to be just as human and subject to the guiles of sin as the rest of us. <br /><br />So let's consider a few thoughts in light of human frailties.<br /><br />First, regardless of accolades, absolutely no one is out of reach of the temptations of sin. The Bible tells us, "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). We live in a world contaminated with the effects of a spiritual outlaw. Satan despises humanity and is relentless with his pernicious efforts. Guard your life carefully- temptation is lurking in the shadows.<br /><br />Second, it's critical we deal with sin quickly and honestly. The ultimate effect of concealed sin is destruction. Truth is, we'll never hide it from ourselves or God, anyway. Try holding burning coals in your lap and not get burned. <em>We can't!</em> God has promised to forgive our sin when confessed from a repentant heart. Let's not kid ourselves with feeble attempts at hiding our wrongdoing behind a closet. Eventually, someones going to open the door and find out.<br /><br />With the unescapable truth that we're all going to fall at some point, are we hopelessly doomed to a life harassed by sin? Remember that even Jesus Christ was tempted; but, unlike the rest of us, he never once fell short of the title of Champion. He was and always will be the <strong><em>only one</em></strong> ever to emerge from temptation sinless (Hebrews 4:15). The good news is, because of <em>his</em> accomplishments, we're offered the right to stand along side him free from the dominance of sin. We must however, be honest with ourselves and with him. We must learn to trust him.<br /><br />Has sin left you hopeless? Are you struggling with sin? There is a way out! Write us today for more info.Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-71089007104990369452010-02-15T19:26:00.008-05:002010-03-02T20:34:44.299-05:00Passion...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEoxM9-IihtZytSh2D8c4-PQJCKbUl6GyUJYXtHs2pZ_9g560zRrFotpgTrUi1T2zjrOmuRR22yTjAqUNlJL8y0yVYE2LkDnYgym0dJGAOW5ygjFy_OhimYriCQ1nSqRImysv7nJS1Dk/s1600-h/sxc-Man+thinking+485708.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:30px 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 159px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEoxM9-IihtZytSh2D8c4-PQJCKbUl6GyUJYXtHs2pZ_9g560zRrFotpgTrUi1T2zjrOmuRR22yTjAqUNlJL8y0yVYE2LkDnYgym0dJGAOW5ygjFy_OhimYriCQ1nSqRImysv7nJS1Dk/s200/sxc-Man+thinking+485708.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440513855684608786" /></a><br />Martin Luther had a desire. Hitler had a desire. Mao Tse-tung had a desire. Walt Disney had a desire. Erik Weihenmeyer had a desire. The list is endless, but the results are the same. Each of their achievements speaks for itself. Each started with a desire- good or bad. <br /><br />It was passion however, that drove each to pursue their desires to the extent that they did. <strong>Passion became the fuel of their desire.</strong> Desire points the way, but passion carries a person beyond mediocrity, beyond adversity to achieve the extraordinary.<br /><br />I remember meeting a gentleman several years ago who raised pigeons. He raised this unique breed for the sole purpose of competing. They were raised and trained to be taken, eventually, several hundred miles from their home and then released! These incredible birds knew exactly where they were headed and amazingly, knew the way to get there. You talk about having GPS! Of course, the purpose was to see who's pigeons arrived "home" first.<br /><br />We too, need clear direction- a desire. But it will take more than just a desire. It took those pigeons a couple days to get to their destination. I suppose they could have settled down at any spot along their journey, but they'd been bred and trained to finish their race. Getting home was now "in them"- it had become instinctive. They weren't about to be detoured. We too, will need something extra to get us to our destination; and the more grand the desire the greater the need. That something will need to be <em>passion</em>! But how does one get passion? <br /><br />Passion is a "heart-thing". It's a drive that originates from inside. In essence, you build your desire <em><strong>within</strong></em> before you ever attempt to start. Passion can however, be cultivated. By reading and studying what it is you want to accomplish you build an inner image. Spend time observing others who have thought or who think similarly. Train and practise whatever it is you want to accomplish. Eventually, passion will begin to push you beyond just imagining and drive you to the point of <em>acting</em>. That's when passion becomes the fuel of your desire. <br /><br />So let the fire begin. But a word of caution: Once the fires of passion begin to burn, they can become difficult to put out!<br /><br /><em>Is there something you feel passionate about?</em>Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-29864673934993101612010-02-06T05:27:00.023-05:002010-02-23T13:53:58.480-05:00The Power of Positive<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Ld82i5VGWj0NqgwfkcSIHaFQH2jYQdS1FEL3TsyrXDO9h7a9ff35kvYDETqVRNIebXlA9ZJ4MvPeLBQi8CnAOcez85rdhi0EmyNX5-WzuBpx-AkIYfNOGp1EFG6Ku_Oqq41fh1FciTw/s1600-h/sxc-Excellent-866529_26072537-2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:30<br />px 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 177px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Ld82i5VGWj0NqgwfkcSIHaFQH2jYQdS1FEL3TsyrXDO9h7a9ff35kvYDETqVRNIebXlA9ZJ4MvPeLBQi8CnAOcez85rdhi0EmyNX5-WzuBpx-AkIYfNOGp1EFG6Ku_Oqq41fh1FciTw/s200/sxc-Excellent-866529_26072537-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440480164082383634" /></a><br />Looking for a way to supercharge an individual on your team or even your entire team? Among other suggestions, one of the simplest yet most often overlooked ways is by offering words of encouragement regularly. Encouragement provides fuel for the soul. It nutures and stimulates positive performance.<br /><br />"Encouragement is the oxygen of the soul,", says leadership and motivational speaker and author John Maxwell, "Everyone needs it and they perform better when they get it".<br /><br />Without trying to oversimplify, positive comments promote positive results; negative comments invoke negative responses. It's a knee-jerk reaction. When I speak critically to someone, it's human nature for them to feel immediately defensive- even if they know they're in error. Conversely, as I offer positive comments, that same person can feel inspired to press on even if adjustments might still be necessary. This doesn't mean we throw around flowery words at the expense of being honest. That's manipulative. There's no quicker way to jeopardize ones credibility than with disingenuous comments.<br /><br />To quote Proverbs 16:24, Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, <em>sweeeeet</em> to the soul and health to the bones (emphasis added!).<br /><br />Sincere words of encouragement demonstrate ones own personal confidence, the same confidence you want your team to carry. However, a leader who is insecure can have difficulty helping others feel confident. John Maxwell continues, "Good leaders liberally hand out encouragement. It cost little to affirm others ,yet pays great dividends".<br /><br />Here are just a couple of suggestions to help you become a better encourager:<br /><br />1. In spite of what you may know about someone, make it a habit to identify <em>something</em> positive and mention that first.<br />2. Maintain reasonable expectations. No one is perfect, not even you!<br />3. Whether anyone else does, find reasons and the means to encourage yourself.<br /><br />Does offering encouragement come easy for you? Do you think others see you as motivational?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-53022591772778455882010-01-19T05:06:00.041-05:002010-02-04T21:02:11.774-05:00Beyond The Wall<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiEEakhp8oQqOl82mllXLOZKnzdH1yZPi4B5rn0NM8y-OMY7-mOOstOQPRDYl6cCTo9CVYyQ3Il7ulx3pQPrzSTMyIzb25CUHvxt90B_5zqCy_AxRl8hay7I8vQxpNjP1wUznW6byijA/s1600-h/Warkworth-Castle2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 25px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 268px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434573653668552546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRiEEakhp8oQqOl82mllXLOZKnzdH1yZPi4B5rn0NM8y-OMY7-mOOstOQPRDYl6cCTo9CVYyQ3Il7ulx3pQPrzSTMyIzb25CUHvxt90B_5zqCy_AxRl8hay7I8vQxpNjP1wUznW6byijA/s400/Warkworth-Castle2.jpg" /></a><br />For years, living within The Wall seemed perfect. I knew what the limits were, what I could and couldn't do. It was safe. It was secure. Things were in order. I had built it to minimize failure. After all, who'd ever want to come face to face with...<em><strong>Failure</strong></em>?<br /><br />I suppose, if it weren't for the constant gnawing in my heart, I'd have settled for life inside The Wall. But I couldn't- not and have real peace. There had to be more. I knew it. Something was beckoning me to greater things, greater than what I'd surrounded myself with.<br /><br />Eventually, that yearning became stronger than the mysteries that awaited. I would push myself to the edge of The Wall. As I bent my ear, I could hear the call of greatness. And for the first time, like a light piercing through darkness, it seemed as though somehow, I might actually be capable of confronting the giant that for years, had kept me hemmed in!<br /><br />As I ventured past the first shadows of The Wall, there was plenty of apprehension. I was cautious, calculated. After all, this was new territory; I hadn't been here before. Yet with every step, somehow...slowly...confidence began to stir. It was like my legs had been asleep and these were the first painful, tingling feelings of life coming back.<br /><br />I would soon learn I had a voice. In fact, when I spoke I'd hear myself like never before. My voice had changed. It was deeper...bolder. Things would move when I'd speak. My words were like a sword that could cut through years of growth. I was reminded of Moses and what it must have felt like as he marched on the dry, sandy sea-bed with the waters towering on either side.<br /><br />As I pressed ever further, this new path began to look and feel more like a road...the road beyond The Wall.Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-38609598182631288452009-12-27T12:56:00.055-05:002010-02-04T20:13:10.026-05:00Where Are You Going?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEb8UXTknGXapoS0W6MsZk-ojxubQYh8N9PJJ0O5WOGMNjsyq16jav_8v8nDP4cyFSZeJRkOp4XuMyCnjNiB24JsxjB_hyKEVaflT3uVBFLa20dC_ZGrvKF1g1zla75rhM2WbX_wBCSdQ/s1600-h/Compass-iStock8791096.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 35px 15px 15px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 133px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420393106454215538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEb8UXTknGXapoS0W6MsZk-ojxubQYh8N9PJJ0O5WOGMNjsyq16jav_8v8nDP4cyFSZeJRkOp4XuMyCnjNiB24JsxjB_hyKEVaflT3uVBFLa20dC_ZGrvKF1g1zla75rhM2WbX_wBCSdQ/s200/Compass-iStock8791096.jpg" /></a><br />You've probably heard it said, "If you don't know where you're going how will you know when you get there?" In the same way, if you don't set some goals or have direction for your life, how will you know when you've successfully accomplished your task? You could be wasting valuable time and energy as you wander aimlessly.<br /><br />Successful people are successful on purpose, they've planned to get "there". Too often people get frustrated, discouraged and end up quiting not because of good intentions but because of poor direction...not having a clear goal. Having clear goals increases focus and helps you concentrate your energy; they help insure greater results.<br /><br />As a believer in Christ, your first goal should be to consider Jesus "lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls" (Hebrews 12:3 NKJV). Get in the habit of looking to Him for guidance. He should of course, be the ultimate purpose to your life, but he also wants to help you get there. As author of many of those dreams and desires, he's committed to helping you on your journey to completion. He'll also teach you how to deal effectively with the frustrations and setbacks that arise along the way.<br /><br />How are you going to accomplish those dreams? Start by clarifying your intentions on paper. Begin to set some goals. Even if you end up revising them, start by <em><strong>writing</strong></em> out your thoughts. Writing them out helps you capture what's going on inside.<br /><br />Another tip to setting clear goals is to get additional input from someone you trust and can confide in, especially the larger the task. You might be surprised by what you <strong><em>can't</em></strong> see. An outside perspective can often provide an angle you hadn't thought of, but ultimately, it provides greater clarity.<br /><br />Finally, J.C. Penney once said,<em>"Give me a stock clerk with a goal and I'll give you a man who will make history. Give me a man with no goals and I'll give you a stock clerk."</em> If you have hopes of a successful endeavor, plan on it by setting goals. They won't eliminate obstacles, but they can help insure you stay moving in the right direction to your success!Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-83570549930893900592009-12-19T19:49:00.042-05:002010-02-04T20:14:15.476-05:00Christmas Giving- Incognito!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpeeLFayWYjgyRV_cYOEumthVqAzMOZuYC1mRD6rrlQ51it024FsODkyvoftyIJ4K5K_6i-fZSnito7fqerW2VhVCOqP078YG75SCGOtgJqHUmGt6_XD_IidZOmVUir25muyqKxdw0oVQ/s1600-h/nativity.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 25px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417155033371256802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpeeLFayWYjgyRV_cYOEumthVqAzMOZuYC1mRD6rrlQ51it024FsODkyvoftyIJ4K5K_6i-fZSnito7fqerW2VhVCOqP078YG75SCGOtgJqHUmGt6_XD_IidZOmVUir25muyqKxdw0oVQ/s200/nativity.jpg" /></a><br />There are a lot of things that make this time of year special. Yet, by far and away the most meaningful for me is reflecting on Christ’s birth and the Nativity; God giving His Son. For hundreds of years humanity had longed for the Savior that was foretold. Now the time had come! Without doubt, this would become the most significant event in history.<br /><br />Amazingly enough however, is the manner in which God choose to give us His Son. His arrival wasn't announced in a way that would have seemed appropriate. As a matter of fact, even though there were far more people in Bethlehem at that time than normal, no one had a clue as to what was about to take place. It wasn’t until angels heralded the news to a few shepherds in a nearby field that anyone even knew that God’s Son was being born that night.<br /><br />And so it was, removed from all the commotion, somewhere in a small barn, amidst a few livestock, a young woman groaned with the pains of birth. God’s salvation was being revealed...and no one- except the shepherds- had any idea what was happening! Incredible! God had sent his Son to save all humanity, the same Son who always was and always will be (Revelation 1:8) and it nearly goes unnoticed.<br /><br />It reminds me of something Jesus said during His Sermon on the Mount, <em>"When you do something for someone else, don't call attention to yourself. You've seen them in action, I'm sure—'playactors' I call them— treating prayer meeting and street corner alike as a stage, acting compassionate as long as someone is watching, playing to the crowds. They get applause, true, but that's all they get. When you help someone out, don't think about how it looks. Just do it—quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out."</em> Matthew 6:2-4 Message Bible.<br /><br />This seems to sum up God’s giving nature; though He commands highest honor, he does some of his most amazing acts of kindness quietly and unpretentiously. He didn't need extra fanfare to announce the arrival of His Son. He's God...He doesn't need any fanfare!<br /><br />Why not try giving a gift this Christmas, as much as is possible, without letting the recipient know who it's from. You'll still enjoy the reward of sharing and I think you might find the gift will still have as great an impact on the person opening it!<br /><br />Do you enjoy giving? Do you prefer to put your name on gifts when you give?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-57727984844498539702009-12-07T18:55:00.023-05:002010-02-04T20:15:30.811-05:00The Board Room.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLkmWvGhOBl3zdmfd3UmoSIRnOZBRWdobCu7u3eZN2Ewmj1qOQqC4JXDhUY97cXlaBEraYCTtKOiqZD8Al8R4ChLZMp7YlgglVuWw_8RIsBOEjMSnlG3Ie-dUUxC__K8sD2N-0CZknF5o/s1600-h/It's+your+move.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 30px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 133px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412691075320456226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLkmWvGhOBl3zdmfd3UmoSIRnOZBRWdobCu7u3eZN2Ewmj1qOQqC4JXDhUY97cXlaBEraYCTtKOiqZD8Al8R4ChLZMp7YlgglVuWw_8RIsBOEjMSnlG3Ie-dUUxC__K8sD2N-0CZknF5o/s200/It's+your+move.jpg" /></a><br />Dread having those annual board meetings? Never seem to get results during business or committee meetings? People will always bring differing points of view, but here's a couple of ideas to keep things on course for success.<br /><br />1. Have a plan. Establish the order of business as soon as possible...maybe even ahead of the meeting. Without goals or direction too much time can be wasted wandering. Focus increases the chance for productive results.<br /><br />2. Spill the beans. Create an atmosphere where hearts and minds can be shared honestly and openly. It may at first, be uncomfortable but such an enviroment can bring out some of your best ideas.<br /><br />3. Avoid rabbit trails. Since business meetings can tend to be infrequent and lengthy, make the most of your time by minimizing peripheral discussions.<br /><br />4. Delegate. No organizations' success is the result of any one person. However, too often good suggestions/ intentions fail simply for want of empowerment- no one was delegated the responsibility of seeing an idea through.<br /><br />Meetings are a necessary part of any organizations growth and success, and everyone in the room should play a part in bringing about that success. Are you planning a successful Board Meeting?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-3248282475195018452009-11-28T10:32:00.030-05:002010-05-30T21:30:51.495-04:00Gratitude is Attitude.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQVI_uH24PI19J58OVl8EsYpxH5Hh6q2rOnAtA9Gg-isqog3RwyzpdT5tTIxZisg0OZvhs9zeIqnxLV0B_2zUUZK0P6Wsh6k0Qv4pgnkCv7JvjoGEA5TeKpk0yqUvnt3Ai9rqt7xC3yw/s1600/Food+018-3.jpg"><img style="margin: 25px 0px 10px 10px; width: 184px; float: right; height: 230px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409331762127269202" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQVI_uH24PI19J58OVl8EsYpxH5Hh6q2rOnAtA9Gg-isqog3RwyzpdT5tTIxZisg0OZvhs9zeIqnxLV0B_2zUUZK0P6Wsh6k0Qv4pgnkCv7JvjoGEA5TeKpk0yqUvnt3Ai9rqt7xC3yw/s200/Food+018-3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Thanksgiving! It’s a great time to be with family and friends…when you can be. Being around those we love…and those who love us. It’s about family; however, it can be a whole lot more than family. There’s a lot we take for granted…especially in this country. We can read about world happenings, but reading and being in the middle of them are completely different.<br /><br />I remember traveling to Mexico in ‘75. When our group left Mexico City on a bus tour of some historical sites, I saw poverty cover the hillsides like I’d never seen before. People living in "shacks" made of anything they could find…cardboard, tin, junk metal, etc. But even still, it was only a picture to me. I wasn’t experiencing it. I couldn’t feel what they felt. I remember kids comin’ up to us in Mexico City begging. They were probably as young as four (?). They love to see Americans! There was no way I could relate to what life was like for them. Maybe they had food that day, maybe they didn’t, I don’t know. I only know I just could not relate. Oh, the things we take for granted.<br /><br />The Bible tells us to give thanks in all things. That’s a lot of thanksgiving if it’s to be in <strong>all</strong> things. There’s something powerful about being thankful in the midst of every situation. Being genuinely thankful can change our perspective. Circumstances may not immediately change, but the way we view them can.<br /><br />In Luke 7, we read an account of a woman who had an immoral lifestyle. Jesus happened to be eating at someone’s house when she comes bustin’ in- uninvited for sure- and falls at His feet. Immediately she starts making a scene, kissing His feet and letting her tears fall so that she can wash his feet with her tears. Finally, after several minutes of this, Jesus makes a powerful comment about gratitude…<br /><br /><em>"...her many sins have been forgiven- for she loved much. But he who had been forgive little loves little."</em><br /><br />Her love was expressed through gratitude. She recognized the life she’d been living and wanted desperately to be free. The rest who were present couldn’t see for their blindness and therefore didn’t think they needed to express <strong><em>any</em></strong> gratitude. Because she recognized her need and earnestly sought Jesus with a grateful heart, she found sweet forgiveness.<br /><br />Thanksgiving isn't something we celebrate once a year but an attitude we continually embrace. How thankful we are says so much about what we think of God. We may not be able to wash Jesus' feet, but we certainly can seek Him with hearts full of attitude...<em>a grateful attitude</em>!Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-5942796331613975992009-10-31T12:23:00.045-04:002010-04-16T06:01:59.836-04:00Breaking down the fence.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxqMZdyNVdMjJtxV84e2WkIdXz5w2IKMgTBbXtq4cAWlSCgSwMflcqaS6tV5GWmby_pOP7xV-aK9WwS492CXFJxOU37u8uW6gobudNiKLB-SxsTeDMbxcEpoNtp_6_oXzeeTR5oVTSHk/s1600-h/Rural+344-2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 35px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 138px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404435750972506450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxqMZdyNVdMjJtxV84e2WkIdXz5w2IKMgTBbXtq4cAWlSCgSwMflcqaS6tV5GWmby_pOP7xV-aK9WwS492CXFJxOU37u8uW6gobudNiKLB-SxsTeDMbxcEpoNtp_6_oXzeeTR5oVTSHk/s200/Rural+344-2.jpg" /></a><br />We all have comfort zones- those places of contentment where we're currently satisfied with the present. However, could these "zones" also be places we've completely surrounded with a fence of limitations. Too often, we settle for what is now. Do you have a longing to achieve more, to reach greater potential? Is there a fence that lies between you and a dream?<br /><br />One of our more formidable "fences" we tolerate is fear. Fear paralyzes people from attaining their God-given dreams. As someone once said, "A great deal of talent is lost to the world for want of a little courage." How often Jesus would say to those he was ministering to, "Fear not" or "Have no fear". He was well aware the impact fear had on the results.<br /><br />Imagine how the dynamics could change if there was no such thing as fear- that is, unhealthy fear. Imagine living free of fear! We're not talking about a fear of rattlesnakes, heights or a high-voltage power source, but the opposite of faith. What kind of liberty would that bring to your life. Where would you venture to go? What would you venture to do?<br /><br />Faith is going in the complete opposite direction of fear. Faith is a firm conviction- and expectation- in what is yet unseen. Fear is being motivated (or not) by what <em>seems</em> at the moment to be apparent. Like fear, faith is a powerful force; in fact, so powerful it can break down those fences we've allowed to encompass us. Faith in God's Word positions us to tap into <strong>God's</strong> ability, provision, and wisdom. No wonder Jesus said, "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God".<br /><br />To attain to this kind of faith, we need to become acquainted with God and His Word. As we become keenly aware of what His Word declares we must purpose to walk it out. It's important to learn to do God's Word not just read it. Without taking <strong>action</strong>, faith is powerless. As we find ourselves stepping out, we can begin to move out past the fences that have been built up through the years.<br /><br /><em>Take courage today! Determine to know God and His Word and start the journey of tearing down some fences and living fear free!</em>Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5274235608422689367.post-20628617835483303842009-10-31T08:33:00.042-04:002010-02-04T20:18:22.187-05:00Where do I start?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpn-Tfc_4xBzszyCJpSw0MB6srVHyF2TGghJbBCPEeb1TMm2CA0w6O8OJLlzXlxwpCo4pdl5vsLFIwANDiTY-cvf8A-ly0QJI2W94s8eN5lDaJLBvGfL0Ni5xOOZERhl06Y2o06vGMCU/s1600-h/Contemplation-istock+3565715-cropped2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 35px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 179px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399350481256455842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpn-Tfc_4xBzszyCJpSw0MB6srVHyF2TGghJbBCPEeb1TMm2CA0w6O8OJLlzXlxwpCo4pdl5vsLFIwANDiTY-cvf8A-ly0QJI2W94s8eN5lDaJLBvGfL0Ni5xOOZERhl06Y2o06vGMCU/s200/Contemplation-istock+3565715-cropped2.jpg" /></a><br />If I had only counted the times I've watched others accomplish greatness and thought, "I would've loved to have done that". My heart swells as I take account of those who have passionately pursued a dream- and succeeded. I've always had this affinity for people like that; people who've accomplished great things- things beyond the ordinary. I yearn to do likewise; I think I'm wired that way.<br /><br />However, does accomplishing "great things" have to be relegated to a select few? I've never been content to live in the successes of others; and yet too often, I've found myself doing the very thing I don't like...sitting in the grandstands...watching...wishing, all along wanting to be on the field. I realize there are some who are content to watch. I'm not.<br /><br />So what is it that moves some to get going, to elevate themselves above the mundane? I've thought about it many times. I mean, are certain people given special grace to scale the mountains that stood between them and their dreams? Obviously, people differ in ability. But surely it can't be as easy as the obvious...or can it?<br /><br />When my wife and I set out to teach our sons to walk at 10 months old, there was nothing special that suddenly rose up inside. Not that I remember anyway! No goosebumps just bumps to the head and knees. However, after several weeks of hand holding and help, we realized it was time and they were ready. With a little coercing, they eventually started to take those first short steps. Wobbly though they were, they were their own! And those steps would soon transform their lives, elevating them to the next level of lifes experiences.<br /><br />Could getting started toward the fulfilling of dreams be as simple and as close as just a few short, wobbly steps?Rob Frieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16550123695569127735noreply@blogger.com0