I am really excited to be attending the CEX event tomorrow. This event is focused on component relations professionals who work in professional associations. They deal with chapters, states, sections, affiliates etc. There has never been an event like this with this type of focus and the community has been starving to get together to share ideas. This also gets me thinking about my own community and how much effort I am putting forth to develop relationships. I need to host an event in my neighborhood to build community!

Reading through Book of James and was reminded that prayer should be the first action in good and bad times. I tend to lean more into God during difficult times. My challenge is giving the credit to God in the prosperous and healthy times. A good life can be a step back when it comes to faith and I try to be consistent through all circumstances. I can only do this through prayer!

Listening to Francis Chan this morning from Book of James. Share a good prayer- “Help me to gain wisdom that will honor God in all my actions.” Need to focus on being led by the spirit and not by jealousy and money. This is tough to do as times as a businessman. I am a work in process who is continually being refined.

My mom just had emergency surgery on Monday night. The surgery was successful, but we are vigilant about infection and leakage.

I know in my heart the trials we go through in life bring us closer to God and each other. We actually connect emotionally through our weaknesses not our strengths. With that said, it is not easy going through pain or seeing a loved one in pain. Jesus experienced our pain and wants us to give it him. It may be difficult to do in these situations, but in the end God’s purpose will shine through us! “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:7

I was listening to a message from Andy Stanley regarding ways to guard what comes out of your heart- Jealousy, Greed, Guilt and Anger.

Jealousy should be fought with celebration- Celebrate the success of others. Greed we combat through giving. Guilt is controlled by confession and Anger through forgiveness.

I now see my sons going through some jealousy and anger issues. It is my hope that I can share this knowledge to them which will keep their hearts at peace. Always keeping in mind, life is a process and not a destination.

I need to give the following serious consideration to avoid being greedy and allowing money to be my master.

Give

Save

Live

I am currently watching a series called Guard Rails and it really has opened my eyes. Andy Stanley defines Guardrails- A standard of behavior that becomes a matter of conscience. The point of a guardrail is to light up our consciences before we hurt others or ourselves. For me, I need guardrails when it comes to my relationships. In most situations, I ask myself, would I feel comfortable if my wife and kids were here with me? This guardrail usually lets me know quickly if I am in a danger zone.

Just reading about the concept of Do What You Resist. Whether it is picking up the phone, making a presentation or being the first to reach out to a new friend or prospect. I need to work against my natural instinct to be lazy and get things done right away in the morning. We all have a limited Will Power muscle and it gets tired like everything else. I have the most Will Power in the morning and do what I resist the most right away while my WP muscle is strong and can weather any pain that comes my way. Remember, we all stink when we first try something and then we gradually improve. Just like a toddler learning to walk.

I attended the ASAE conference in Toronto last weekend and had a good time visiting with prospects and seeing the city. I had the opportunity to go to the top of the CN Tower during my stay. I was a little hesitant because I do not like heights. Nonetheless, I was told to keep looking up and down. In the end, that’s all the matters when climbing a tower and with my faith. I can’t expect to succeed if I don’t continually look up to God!

Generosity continues to be on my scorecard each day. Trying to look for opportunities to be a blessing. I can at times by a slave to money, but when I let go and give to others I am making progress toward a more Christ centered life and away from being self centered.