Gratitude seems to be a boundary marker for our lives. An attitude of gratitude seems to color everything in our world. Kindness, grace, peace, and a sense of calm are just a few of the attributes that are evident in the lives of people who exercise gratitude. The Bible is filled with passages that lead us in this direction as well: Psalm 7:17 I will give thanks to the Lord because of…
Read MoreThe Danger of Self-Pity
Let’s face it, we have all fallen victim to feeling sorry for ourselves. There is an interesting quote by John Gardiner “Self-pity is easily the most destructive of the non-pharmaceutical narcotics; it is addictive, gives momentary pleasure and separates the victim from reality.” Amy Morin in her book 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t do offers a checklist to help us determine if we are susceptible to self-pity: You tend…
Read MoreThe Power of Encouragement
Criticism and complaint seem to be the order of the day. It is easy for us to get into the habit of complaining, finding fault, and being generally disagreeable. One thing is sure you and I have a choice. It is just as easy to be an encourager as it to be a complainer. I understand that it is appropriate to ask questions, give honest assessments, and voice our disagreement.…
Read MoreBookend your Days!
Routines are a part of all of our lives. At one time, someone had to remind you to brush your teeth and comb your hair. These were not things you were born doing. You had to learn how and then had to incorporate the practice into your everyday life. Little to any thought is given today to brushing your teeth or combing your hair, and it is such a habit…
Read MoreI Don’t Know What To Do
Today is a time that few, if any, of us have ever experienced. Even the bravest find they are moving confidently forward, all the while knowing they do not know where they are going exactly! It is time to take a deep breath and be candid and confess: “I am not really sure, but I think it is this way.” After all, we can not sit down and give up.…
Read MoreHow to Handle Temptation
Temptation is seemingly everywhere. You cannot let down your guard; it will strike at the least opportune times. If you think you are immune, you must remember Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Before Jesus performed a miracle or preached a sermon, He was led by the Spirit into the desert/wilderness to be tempted by Satan. This event comes immediately after Jesus was baptized…
Read MoreAt Home with…
The first part of Colossians 3:16 says “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly..” The word translated home is the word used to be welcome or to feel comfortable and at home. In other words, there is no place like home. Home is where we can be ourselves. Though the home is considered a loving and nurturing place, it is also a place for correction as well as…
Read MoreLearning Contentment
The Apostle not once but twice in the book of Philippians speaks about contentment. The passage is found in the book of Philippians 4:11-13: “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being…
Read MoreWhat You Do Today Matters
Today many have regrets about yesterday. Something that happened decades ago still looms large in the thinking of many people. The impact of yesterday can be quite large and exaggerated. Everyone has a past. All people have a story to tell of misfortune, hurt, and or heartbreak. Remember, your history should be a reference, not your residence. Indeed, our past shapes us, but it does not have to be the…
Read MoreA Word about people
Life is about many things, but right up toward the top is the relational aspect of life. Take a moment and reflect on the people who have been a part of your story. Naturally, your family is a significant factor, as are teachers, pastors, good friends, and many more. Throughout my life, there have been a host of people who entered into my life. Some of these people have been…
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