God Answers Prayers

The second grade teacher, Mrs. Johnson, went around the room. "If you could buy anything you wanted at the dime store, what would it be?" Most of my classmates liked the idea of a Hershey's bar. Even though I was already a chocoholic, I had a different answer: "A Big Chief tablet so I could start writing my book!"

It's been a long time since second grade, but God finally answered the call He put on my heart to write a book. The circumstances that got this book published are not normal. Someday, I may share that story, but for now, I am thrilled to have this book designed to encourage Christ-followers. Please consider buying it for yourself, for your church library, for your women's small group study or Bible class... or bring me into speak on this new topic.

You can order the book through www.WinePressBooks.com or www.Amazon.com or through me!

The book is comprised of 52 short essays, suitable for a quick read or a devotional. One church in Texas is using it for a Bible class, so I've developed questions to ask at the end of each chapter. You have to get those from me.

Now, I'm off to find a Big Chief tablet so I can start my next book...

The Blessing of a Cat

A strange-looking cat showed up at my parents' place in the country about a year ago. They thought it was wild until it came up and rubbed against their legs. He could leap up on the roof or a treetop in a single bound. He looked hungry, so Mom kept putting food out. He would eat and eat and eat and never gain an ounce.

Soon the mystery was solved. He was a Bengal Cat, bred to look like a Leopard. He's beautiful, with burnt orange fur and black spots. He's affectionate. He looks hungry because these cats are longer and leaner than a normal house cat.

Mom was afraid he was someone's pet. So she got him to the vet's (there is only one vet in their town) to see if anyone was missing such a special animal. No, said the vet, but let's see if he has a microchip. No chip, so he became a member of the family and got a name: Tigger.

Mom and I are allergic to most cats, but not to Tigger. He's earning his keep by killing plenty of rodents. The Schnauzer, Muffin, Does Not Like Tigger. She was having a hysterical barking fit at him, and Tigger just went up and rubbed against her. Muffin became barkless. Isn't that a great lesson for us all? When our mere presence incites wrath, we can just go offer love.

May blessings like Tigger wander into your life unexpectedly and bring you love and affection.

Buckle Your Seatbelt!

At work, in preparation for promoting the Phillips, Craig & Dean concert in our listening area, I checked the artists' website. This quote from Dan Dean about not having expectations caught my eye:

"We were just working in our churches, doing what we do, not even really looking for this. Then God said, 'Buckle your seatbelt. Have I got plans for you.'"

We don't have to be working in churches or creating award-winning music for God to use us in a mighty way. God has plans, amazing plans, for each one of us.

If God whispered, "Have I got plans for you!" in your ear, what would He be talking about? What would that whisper encourage, empower and inspire you to do?

He just whispered it, my friend. Buckle your seatbelt. The ride of your life is about to begin.

God's Mysterious Ways

Nine years ago, my husband and I were thousands of dollars in debt, so we sold a house we loved to downsize and make some money. We were so sad to leave our beautiful home, and we were not thrilled about the new subdivision.

But in the alley one day, we met gregarious neighbors, Tom and Brenda, whose house backed up to ours. Long story short, Mark and I both were invited to be in their wedding and to this day, four moves later, consider this couple among our dearest friends.

Every once in a while, we would congratulate ourselves on paying off our debt, but we still wondered about that stage of our lives--why things happened the way they did, why we had to leave the house we loved, and so on.

Fast forward to last January. Brenda's brother-in-law hired Mark when he needed a job. If we hadn't known Brenda, we sure wouldn't have known about the job in Arizona that's a great fit for Mark's talents. If Mark hadn't been in Arizona, I would never have been looking for the Christian radio job in Tucson that I started in April. God's ways are not immediately known to us, but I thank Him that he watches out for us.

Mark and I left another house we loved in Georgia. We are wondering about the last two years in Atlanta--what relationships did we make there that will make a difference some day? Will we ever know specifically why we felt called to ministry there? We try to be obedient, but our human nature wants to see a reason why we were there. However, we may not see the big picture until we see Him face to face.

In these times of uncertainty, I am thankful to have a job, and I am thankful that God sets plans in motion years before we ever know our needs.

We have traded a dream house for a worn apartment, but I know that God has a mansion waiting for me. I hope mine backs up to yours.

Inadequacy

Do you ever feel inadequate? I sure do. Although I try to concentrate my life on the obvious gifts God gave me, I still have to get places (no sense of direction) and eat (can't cook). A sense of embarrassment keeps me from listing all the other things I can't do.

When I focus on the things I can do (talk, listen, encourage), it helps me focus and be more productive. That feeling of inadequacy though, reminds me to surrender and pray. For instance, someone asked me to do something recently that made me feel uncomfortable. It wasn't anything immoral, illegal or out of bounds, just not something in my experiencce that sounded like a fun way to spend time. What made me feel inadequate was that I didn't have the words to explain in a kind way why I didn't want to do this.

Fortunately, God has put friends (and a smart mom) in my life who talk me through situations like this and give me wise counsel. They then remind me that we don't have to be adequate... we only have to serve the One who is.

Persevere

There is a sense of exhilaration that comes from facing head-on the hard truths and saying, "We will never give up. We will never capitulate. It might take a long time, but we will find a way to prevail."

- Jim Collins, from his book, Good to Great

Checking In

April was the craziest month on my record of life. I racked up three addresses in two states and lived in three states! It was fun, though. If I owe you a phone call, an email, an invoice or a report, now you know why. [Thank you for your patience!] I still feel as though I'm living out of a suitcase, and it might be that way awhile, as I sort out some possible long-term assignments or try to sell a house.

This week, you can hear me on morning radio again! If you live in Arizona, dial in a terrestrial station from 6-9 and listen. If you live out of state, go to www.myflr.org and then where it says, "Find a Station," click on an Arizona city, then scroll down to "Listen online." It's fun to be back on the air in broadcasting ministry. If you want to call in, the number is 1-800-776-1080.

Things are still tough for many people. So I feel blessed to have work in my field. If you are struggling, I want to encourage you to avoid stressing or worrying. God has a plan, and everything will work out. Enjoy your extended vacation. Now you have the time you always wanted. Clear out the clutter. Recycle, throw away, give away. Clean, exercise, read. Enjoy. Praise. Write a letter. Start a blog. Volunteer. Pray. And pray some more.

Interview With a Former Athiest

I met Brad White about 14 years ago when we both joined the National Speakers Association. Then, we went at least a decade with no contact. One day about a year ago, he emailed me and shared an amazing story. He has graciously allowed me to interview him so that you can be encouraged and blessed by his experiences, too.

LA: Brad, how did you come to decide you were an atheist?

BW: Although my parents were Christians, I had never had a personal connection or relationship with God during my childhood. So by the time I got to college and started making decisions for myself, I was 100% of the world.

I took a philosophy class that really made me question what I believed and what I didn't believe for the first time. I spent a lot of time soul searching, but in the end it was a purely intellectual decision for me. I concluded that either the universe and everything in it had always existed, or God has always existed and He made the universe.

I couldn't tangibly prove God...but I could tangibly prove the world. So, I placed my faith in what I could see and touch with my own hands...the world. It was then that I decided to become an atheist.

LA: What led you to start thinking that there may be a real living God?

BW: Fate. All the circumstances and "coincidences" leading up to finding and marrying my wife Sharon was fate. I resisted that conclusion for many years because of the obvious implications; fate would mean that there was a higher power orchestrating events in my life. When I finally accepted fate as a reality, I started to seek that "higher power."

LA: If we know someone who is an atheist, how should we approach him or her about spiritual matters?

BW: Just like there is not one type of Christian, there is not one type of Atheist. What I can tell you is that no canned approach, strategy, or series of arguments will work. Any attempt to convince them of a spiritual realm will be met with resistance. However, if you truly love the person and aren't solely out to "save" them, I have two recommended approaches.

1) Ask them about their beliefs. Ask them why they believe what they believe. Ask them to share with you their life experiences and how their life has led them to their current way of thinking.

The critical part of this approach is to NOT get into a debate, try to change their mind, etc. Don't listen for the perfect angle or opportunity to jump in and share your beliefs. Just listen with love; without judgment or criticism. Be a real friend who cares for them and is available to them...regardless of their beliefs.

It's God's job to convict their hearts and minds. At some point in your relationship, they might ask you about your beliefs. When they do, share just as they have done. But since you listened, they will be more open to hearing from you.

2) Love them without trying to change their mind. Serve them just as Jesus would do. Forgive them quickly when they hurt you. Be the type of person they would admire and respect. Walk the walk. Be real and transparent. Be a worthy representative of "Jesus" to them.

In other words, live your life such that they would recognize a positive difference in you worthy of emulating. It must be real...not a mask of perfection. Then, be ready for them to ask what causes you to be different. Explain your faith and let God take it from there.

LA: That is such good advice. We can follow your recommendations for anyone of little or no faith. How has your life changed since you became a believer?

BW: The biggest change has been my worldview of people and their value. When I was trying to be my own god, other people really didn't matter that much. Life was all about me; my happiness, my success, my glory. I had no mercy or compassion.

Since becoming a believer, I try to see people through God's eyes. I see other people as worthy of my love and attention. I have mercy and compassion for other people... because we have all been hurt and emotionally scarred. I try to love and serve other people. I'm quick to forgive and I treat other people with grace.

In this life, people are ALL that matters. It's been a complete 180 degree change in my life.

LA: Brad, I always thought you were a nice guy. But that really touches my heart. And it gets even better... Tell us about the two ministries you created.

BW: I have started two important ministries that I'm passionate about. The first ministry is Deeper Bible Studies (http://www.deeperbiblestudies.com/). I write and sell bible studies that are all about life changing, life application.

I started this ministry because I recognized a problem with many of the studies currently in the market. Too many Bible studies overwhelm people in their busy lives with lots of reading. They have questions that make no attempt to personalize the reading and they lack accountability. So, people get behind in the reading, cram to catch up, and then do it all over again.
The result is no real change.

My studies offer an alternative. For example, my 1 John study has 5 units to match the 5 chapters in 1 John. The reading for each unit takes less than 5 minutes. I write questions geared to help you personalize and apply the reading to your life. Then, each unit concludes with a "mini" action plan that each participant creates. These action plans are shared with the group and are followed up the next week for accountability.

It's a fresh approach that people really like...and they make a difference in people's lives. That's what makes it worthwhile for me.

My second ministry is called "Changing the Face of Christianity"
(http://www.changingthefaceofchristianity.com/). This is what I feel God has prepared me for and has led me to leave as a legacy of my life.

Non-believers have a highly negative perception of believers...I would know.
All too often, Christians come across as hypocritical, intolerant, anti-gay, intellectually "challenged," prideful, arrogant, judgmental and too political. This perception has been confirmed through research conducted by the Barna group (http://www.barna.org/), and documented in the book titled unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons.

This negative perception is a stumbling block for non-believers. With such a negative perception, Christian missionary work, evangelism and outreach efforts to non-believers are met with resistance and contempt.

Our ministry's goal is to change that negative perception and pave the way or "prepare the field" for more palatable and effective evangelism. The change we are seeking is not a cosmetic or marketing/spin type change. Instead we are seeking life transformation in believers.

For every significant negative perception, there are volitional changes we can make to reverse the perception: consistency, openness, acceptance, humility, compassion, grace and unconditional love. Truly living the Christian faith and treating others as Jesus would is the essence of what we're after.

This is the new face of Christianity we seek. By changing our thoughts, actions, and words in accordance to essential Biblical teaching, non-believers will start to see a new face; a face that compels them to want to know the source of the change: Jesus Christ.

Here is the exciting part: IT IS POSSIBLE! Non-believers typically form their opinion and interest in Christianity through only a handful of Christian friends or acquaintances. If we live what we preach and act in accordance to our beliefs...we WILL change the world.

LA: How can people get involved?

1) You can join our cause. Visit http://www.changingthefaceofchristianity.com/ and sign-up to join the movement. We'll keep you informed of upcoming events and practical ways to make a difference in your own circle of influence.

2) We need Champions and Ambassadors to share the vision around the globe.

3) We need leaders and volunteers of all kinds to support the ministry and make it a reality. Email Brad@changingthefaceofchristianity.com with your desire to get involved, and we'll equip you to share the vision and find meaningful ways for you to serve the cause.

4) Sales of deeperbiblestudies.com Bible studies are used to partially fund this ministry, so please order your small group bible studies from our site.

LA: What would you like to add?

We have an abundantly loving, gracious and patient God. I'm humbled every day to think how far away from Him I ran, and how quickly and joyfully he accepted me when I returned to Him.
If we will surrender ourselves to His purposes and will for our lives, He will transform us into Christlikeness and use us to bring glory to His kingdom.

LA: Brad, thank you for sharing your life and your ministries. I am excited to see how God is using you and your talents!

Today Could Be the Day!

Here in the Peach State, the Georgia Lottery's commercials are surrounded by a catchy jingle, "Today Could Be the Day!" I'm guessing the Lottery team wants you to think today is the day you could win big money... if you play the game.

As a Christian, "Today Could Be the Day" has a different meaning to me. Today could be the day that:

• God has a special surprise planned.
• I lead someone to faith in Jesus!
• I help someone who needs it.
• I grow closer to God.
• I grow more mature and wise in my faith.
• Jesus returns!

And those are all better options. Today could be your day to _________! Fill in the blank... play the Believer game... and win no matter what your numbers are.

Be a Winner

"The winner is always part of the answer. The loser is always part of the problem.
The winner always has a program. The loser always has an excuse.
The winner says, "Let me do it for you." The loser says, "That is not my job."
The winner sees an answer for every problem. The loser sees a problem for every answer.
The winner sees a green near every sand trap. The loser sees a sand trap near every green.
The winner says it may be difficult but it is possible. The loser says it may be possible, but it is too difficult."

-- Barbara Johnson from Fresh Elastic for Stretched Out Moms

Walking in Faith

Robyn from Kingsville gave me permission to share her story with you:

"This morning I decided that I needed to get back on my walking schedule. So I bundled up and took off. As I got just to the end of my street I noticed a young woman, who appeared to be by herself, unloading a truck, moving into a house. As I passed I waved and immediately starting thinking of spiritual opportunities. And of course, the obvious physical help it seemed she could use right here and now. I thought of how God, who is always faithful to my prayers (prayed with evangelism on my mind this morning) in that area.

"I continued to walk, thinking that I just got started good, and I really need to take care of my health (before I can take care of others, trying to heed my own counseling words to others). Rationalizing, trying to not feel guilty. So, I walked with purpose and determination, feeling good about disciplining myself toward lowering my cholesterol. At the same time I would not forget about what I might do for this young woman: take her homemade banana bread, welcome her to the neighborhood, invite her to worship services... I made my big loop of several blocks, and as I got close to my street I decided that I would double-back. I said, 'OK God, if she is still there and still unloading furniture, I will need your help to not injure my back,' which was already hurting.

"So, I rounded the corner and headed her way. I could not see if she was still there at first, so I kept walking. Then I could see her standing at the front door, just looking at the sofa, half was in the back of the truck and half on the front porch. I thought, 'OK God, maybe it's not too heavy and we can do this.' Just as I was about one house away, my husband drove up beside me. [He had taken the day off to make some repairs]. I told him what I was about to do, so of course he pulled over, and we went up and met our new neighbor. I held the glass door open out of the their way as they moved the sofa inside.

"I had faith that God would help me, and he sent my husband at just the perfect time. Isn't that cool?"

Are You a Faith Olympian?

To say the stories of the Olympic athletes are inspiring is an understatement. They can teach us to be gold medalists in our faith contest.

1. Olympians don't give up. Despite injuries, falls, personal tragedy, they keep their eyes on the goal. We can keep our eyes on Heaven. And we can never give up on bringing others to Christ.

2. Olympians do whatever it takes. Did you see the stories about cross-training? Skaters work out in the gym and jog. Skiers ride bikes. We need to be cross-disciplined, too. We need to pray, study, attend church--whatever it takes.

3. Olympians support their team. It's not all about the individual; it's also about national pride. Are we supporting our home team? Or are we gossiping, cutting each other down and being critical of ministry efforts? Support your team with encouragement, prayer and love.

4. Olympians sacrifice. The stories about parents giving up everything to provide training for their children get to me. Then the athletes themselves sacrifice their time, their diets and more. What are we giving up for the cause of Christ?

I will never stand on the podium and hear my country's anthem. But I hope to hear something even more special one day: "Well done, good and faithful servant." How about you?

Miracles We Take for Granted

Isn't it amazing that we turn a knob and have hot, clean water? Isn't it wonderful that we flip a switch and have light? Isn't it terrific that we can go to store and find millions of choices? We are so blessed. We get so used to these fantastic gifts, that we take them for granted until an earthquake happens, a power line breaks or our favorite store closes.

By the same token, those of us brought up in church from Cradle Roll on, heard the Bible stories so early in our formative thoughts, that we sometimes do not realize the spectacular, awesome, amazing events that we take for granted. Specifically, I have been thinking about Jonah being swallowed by a big fish and being spit out without having any digestive juices tear up his skin, his eyes or limbs! I heard a great sermon Sunday from Mark--the story about the men who tore a hole in the roof to get their friend to Jesus. Some discount this, saying the roofs of that time were flimsy, thin and easy to tear. Maybe so, but it still wasn't that easy. There are so many other wonderful stories that only God could've orchestrated. We may rationalize by saying, "God can do anything."

That may be the point. When we need hope, when we need a miracle, when you are being swallowed by unemployment, illness, tragedy... remember that God can do anything. And you've got friends who will do anything to get you to Jesus.

Witness

Our church chooses a theme each year. We have a theme verse, and the sermons support the theme. Last year, the theme was so appropriate, and it was chosen months before the downfall in the economy! It was "Unshakeable."

This year, it is "Witness." The tagline is "Walk, Talk, Live the Light." The theme verse is "There came a man, sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to every man, was coming into the world." John 1:6-9

Yesterday, our preacher talked about what it means to be a witness. He says we have a passive and active witness. I'm eager to see how this challenge will unfold in 2010.

I have a girlfriend who chooses an inspirational theme for herself each year. Two years ago, it was "Be great in 2008!" What is your theme for this year? What is your theme scripture for this year?

Lose Your Temper?

A good friend of mine, who shall remain nameless to protect her reputation, confessed to me that she would like to control her temper better in the new year. This surprised me. In the years I've known her, she always seems calm and in control.

"Who do you lose your temper at?" I asked. (Not great grammar, but that's how it came out.)

"My husband and my kids," she admitted.

"You could get a goldfish to yell at."

"I wouldn't do that to a poor goldfish."

I started laughing at that response. Then she realized what she was saying and started giggling, too.

Goldfish don't have ears, memories, feelings or egos. And they cost a lot less than counseling.

Happy New Year!

2010 is going to be great!

Shirley from Kansas sent me this photo and said I could share it with you! I can't tell if Sunshine enjoys the costume, but she sure is cute in it, isn't she?

A couple of people have inspired me to do things differently this year so that I can expect different results. Linda Swindling asked what would I be disappointed about at the end of the year if I didn't get it done... that question really focuses me to my top priority.

And Sam Horn suggested that if you do something for the first 32 days of the year, it sets the tone for the whole year! What a great habit to get into. What can you start today that will change your year? Bible reading, journaling, acts of compassion? Notes of encouragement? Will you be healthier, smarter, kinder by the end of 2010?

Maybe you will be like Shirley, making others smile with photos of your pet come December!

Want to Speak Professionally?

So many people will come up to me after presentations and say, "I want to do what you do!" If you have a message to share that will inspire, motivate or inform, professional speaking can be a great part-time or full-time career/calling.

Here I am with a role-model in the speaking profession, Barbara Glanz. She is beautiful on the inside and the outside. We are in the Phoenix airport, about to get on the same flight after the National Speakers Association's annual convention. The event is always a morale-booster. Imagine how you would feel after hearing the world's best speakers, hour after hour for four days straight!

If you want to get better at speaking, or get over your fear of speaking, join Toastmasters International. But if you're a good speaker and are getting paid for your speeches, join NSA. You'll love the encouragement, mentoring and advice that members give each other. It's a giving, loving profession.

Follow Me on Twitter

Yesterday at work, we saw a Twitter presentation about an employee who died too young. His short messages, strung together, painted a picture of a sweet husband, a fanatic father and a praying ice cream lover. If his tweets could inspire people to be better, get creative, love God and be kinder, then I want to do the same. Follow me at www.Twitter.com/LorriVAllen and let's encourage each other!

Kindness

We all want to be kinder, right? Or maybe more accurately, we all want to be treated more kindly. I was excited to find out about The Kindness Revolution, which is taking the idea to companies and schools. The organization is looking for representatives--can you do the job?

What Did God Make You For?

Our minister, Don McLaughlin, inspired us so much Sunday in his sermon, "Seeds of Hope." You can listen to it online, but let me give you the short version of how it encouraged me.

First, Don quoted a story about how seeds are used as tools, weapons, jewelry, but it's only when we plant them that they are truly used for the purpose that God intended. And just as the seed dies to give life, we must die daily to all else but Jesus to reach the purpose that God intended for our lives.

So, ask yourself, "Am I being used for what God made me?"

My answer was, "God made me a talk show host, speaker and writer to win souls for him, to encourage others and to strengthen their faith." Am I used that way every day? Unfortunately, no. But having that as a mission statement will focus me to surrender to his will daily.

Then Don reminded the Christians in the audience, "You signed up for this!"

The part that convicts me is the writing challenge. In addition to two personal blogs, a work blog, two monthly e-newsletters and assorted work writing, I feel called to write books. I have five viable projects in various stages. But something is holding me back from completion. I really think these books will help people, encourage them or strengthen their faith. But I am stuck.

Maybe a little Miracle-Grow (sleep), water (focus and prayer) and rich soil (exhortations like Don's) will cause my book-writing seed to sprout!

What about you? Are you stuck? What do you need? Think about what God made you for and head toward it.