Are you sick of me posting these emails from Joel Osteen? Today was another one that spoke to me. A lot of them lately have been talking about God working behind the scenes on my behalf. I like that. I need His help!
Today's Scripture
“This one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind I press forward to what lies ahead” (Philippians 3:13).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Are you determined to forget what lies behind? I know many people don’t fully understand what it means to forget the past. They wonder, “How can I forget something that’s happened to me?” But one definition of the word forget means to disregard intentionally, or to overlook. You have to intentionally disregard your past so that it doesn’t keep you from moving forward. That means the good and the bad. Sometimes our past victories keep us from rising higher as much as past failures. If we don’t let go of the old, we’ll never be able to embrace the new. It doesn’t matter what’s happened in your history, it’s time to forget what lies behind. Make the choice today to press forward. Trust that God has a better future in store for you. Trust that He’s working behind the scenes on your behalf. As you forget what lies behind and press forward, you will see the abundant life the Lord has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, I choose to forget the past today. I don’t want anything to hold me back from the future You have prepared for me. I choose forgiveness and ask that You help me, by Your Spirit, to press forward in every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Friday, January 25, 2008
Put on Christ
In the future life a Christian will not be tested as to whether he performed vigils, whether he prayed, whether he wept, or performed any other such good deeds in the present life; but he will be carefully tested as to whether he has some kind of likeness to Christ, as a son to his father, as the Apostle Paul also says: "My little children over whom I am again in travail until Christ be formed in you" (Gal 4:19). "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Gal 3:27). ~ Saint Symeon the New Theologian via the Magnificat
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Do All That is in Your Heart
This was the Today's Word I received today. Right now, my biggest desire is for this move we are considering.
Today's Scripture
“Then Nathan said to David, Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you.” (I Chronicles 17:2). Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
What is in your heart today? What are the dreams and desires deep on the inside of you? Maybe you want to start a business, or ministry, or go back to school. Whatever is in your heart, ask the Lord to confirm it to you. God leads us by desires, but we have to first submit our desires to Him. Sometimes we have to allow Him to change our desires, but know that He is always out for your good. It says in the book of Psalms that God gives us the desires of our heart. That means He places desires within us then brings them to pass so that we can live a fulfilled life here on earth. I believe David did this very thing. He was known as a man after God’s own heart. He submitted His heart to the Lord, and then Nathan came along and said, “Yes. Do what is in your heart. God is with you.” Whatever is in your heart today, submit it to the Lord. Trust that He is out for your good and working behind the scenes on your behalf. As you put your faith and trust in Him, He will guide you in the life of victory He has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, today I submit my dreams and desire to You. I trust that You are out for my good, and I desire only Your plan for my life. Confirm the plans You have for me so that I can walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Today's Scripture
“Then Nathan said to David, Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you.” (I Chronicles 17:2). Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
What is in your heart today? What are the dreams and desires deep on the inside of you? Maybe you want to start a business, or ministry, or go back to school. Whatever is in your heart, ask the Lord to confirm it to you. God leads us by desires, but we have to first submit our desires to Him. Sometimes we have to allow Him to change our desires, but know that He is always out for your good. It says in the book of Psalms that God gives us the desires of our heart. That means He places desires within us then brings them to pass so that we can live a fulfilled life here on earth. I believe David did this very thing. He was known as a man after God’s own heart. He submitted His heart to the Lord, and then Nathan came along and said, “Yes. Do what is in your heart. God is with you.” Whatever is in your heart today, submit it to the Lord. Trust that He is out for your good and working behind the scenes on your behalf. As you put your faith and trust in Him, He will guide you in the life of victory He has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, today I submit my dreams and desire to You. I trust that You are out for my good, and I desire only Your plan for my life. Confirm the plans You have for me so that I can walk in Your ways. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Wednesday Walk
Since I am going to be giving the 4th Day talk at the walk I am working, I thought it would be a good idea for me to start reviewing the reunion sheet every week. So, Wednesday's will now be "Wednesday Walk" days.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful and kindle in them the fire of Your love. Send forth Your Holy Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O, God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and every enjoy Your consolations. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Review your service sheet - Christ needs you. He needs you committed in faith, so that you may witness that faith in Christ with your brothers and sisters through:
Your Spiritual Life - Morning Devotion, Prayer Life, Worship Attendance, Communion, Spiritual Retreat
Your Study - Reading Holy Scriptures, Daily Spiritual Guides, Religious publications, Denominational newspapers, Religious magazines, Bible studies, Church school classes, Religious Seminars
Your Action - What have you done during this week so Christ will be better known and loved in your: Family, vocation, community, small group, Christian community
Closest to Christ - At what moment this past week did you feel closest to Christ? I found out on Monday night that a good friend, sort of mentor to me will also be working the walk. It was a confirmation that I was supposed to say yet.
Call to Discipleship - At what moment during this week did you feel you were responding to God's call to be His disciple? Saying yes to work the walk.
Discipleship Denied - When was your faith tested this week through failure? We should minister and show Christ's love to our family members first and I am not good with that. Honey was here this weekend and didn't have school Monday and I was annoyed and ready to have my house back to myself. I got angry with Sugar Pop yesterday because he needed to be up early and interrupted my quiet time. (I really hope to have a "room" in our new house that is "mine" and not a multi-purpose room like I have now.)
Your old plan - I didn't have a plan.
Your new plan - What is your plan for spirituality, study, and action for the week to come? Spirituality ~ Morning Quiet Time, Worship on Sunday - perhaps visit someplace since Sugar Pop is not playing this weekend.
Study ~ Continue reading my Magnificat daily. I need to make some time to read in Ordering Your Private World. I haven't read it in a while and would like to finish it.
Action ~ Start working on talk - at least scan the outline. Start working on February newsletter.
Prayer of Thanksgiving: Almighty God, who lives and reigns forever, we give You thanks for all the gifts You have bestowed upon us. Amen.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful and kindle in them the fire of Your love. Send forth Your Holy Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth. O, God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and every enjoy Your consolations. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Review your service sheet - Christ needs you. He needs you committed in faith, so that you may witness that faith in Christ with your brothers and sisters through:
Your Spiritual Life - Morning Devotion, Prayer Life, Worship Attendance, Communion, Spiritual Retreat
Your Study - Reading Holy Scriptures, Daily Spiritual Guides, Religious publications, Denominational newspapers, Religious magazines, Bible studies, Church school classes, Religious Seminars
Your Action - What have you done during this week so Christ will be better known and loved in your: Family, vocation, community, small group, Christian community
Closest to Christ - At what moment this past week did you feel closest to Christ? I found out on Monday night that a good friend, sort of mentor to me will also be working the walk. It was a confirmation that I was supposed to say yet.
Call to Discipleship - At what moment during this week did you feel you were responding to God's call to be His disciple? Saying yes to work the walk.
Discipleship Denied - When was your faith tested this week through failure? We should minister and show Christ's love to our family members first and I am not good with that. Honey was here this weekend and didn't have school Monday and I was annoyed and ready to have my house back to myself. I got angry with Sugar Pop yesterday because he needed to be up early and interrupted my quiet time. (I really hope to have a "room" in our new house that is "mine" and not a multi-purpose room like I have now.)
Your old plan - I didn't have a plan.
Your new plan - What is your plan for spirituality, study, and action for the week to come? Spirituality ~ Morning Quiet Time, Worship on Sunday - perhaps visit someplace since Sugar Pop is not playing this weekend.
Study ~ Continue reading my Magnificat daily. I need to make some time to read in Ordering Your Private World. I haven't read it in a while and would like to finish it.
Action ~ Start working on talk - at least scan the outline. Start working on February newsletter.
Prayer of Thanksgiving: Almighty God, who lives and reigns forever, we give You thanks for all the gifts You have bestowed upon us. Amen.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Monday, January 21, 2008
Empty Wells
From Lose it for Life Day by Day, April 28th (Day 118 Binge-Free):
Placing unrealistic expectations on others is like going to an empty well that cannot give us what we need. This may be a familiar scenario for you when you think about your parents, spouse, employer, friends or even your church. We all go back to these empty wells, demanding and pouting for them to give us what we want: attention, support, nurturing, acknowledgement, praise. When they can't deliver in the ways we expect, we may become more demanding, and even judgemental or indignant, about how they have failed us.
This feeling from being let down has been one of our invitations to fill the void with food, either by over-consuming or over-controlling it. We rationalize that because we have unmet needs, we deserve to treat ourselves with desserts, or a snack or just large quantities of food. Then, disappointed in ourselves, we fall into discontent and shame.
It is actually our expectations that are off track. We need to look at all our empty wells with forgiveness, realizing that the people we love are doing the best they can with what they know. We must let go of our demands upon them to give us what they do not possess to give. Then we must turn to Jesus for our deeper spiritual thirst to be met.
Today, Lord, forgive me for going to empty wells and demanding that all my needs be met. I want to run to You and drink from the bottomless well of Your presence, love, and mercy.
Placing unrealistic expectations on others is like going to an empty well that cannot give us what we need. This may be a familiar scenario for you when you think about your parents, spouse, employer, friends or even your church. We all go back to these empty wells, demanding and pouting for them to give us what we want: attention, support, nurturing, acknowledgement, praise. When they can't deliver in the ways we expect, we may become more demanding, and even judgemental or indignant, about how they have failed us.
This feeling from being let down has been one of our invitations to fill the void with food, either by over-consuming or over-controlling it. We rationalize that because we have unmet needs, we deserve to treat ourselves with desserts, or a snack or just large quantities of food. Then, disappointed in ourselves, we fall into discontent and shame.
It is actually our expectations that are off track. We need to look at all our empty wells with forgiveness, realizing that the people we love are doing the best they can with what they know. We must let go of our demands upon them to give us what they do not possess to give. Then we must turn to Jesus for our deeper spiritual thirst to be met.
Today, Lord, forgive me for going to empty wells and demanding that all my needs be met. I want to run to You and drink from the bottomless well of Your presence, love, and mercy.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Walk to Emmaus
I got a call on Friday to work a Walk to Emmaus in May. I hesitated saying yes because I have just been off work for 6 weeks for my surgery and I will be off a week in March for spring break. And of course we are condsidering moving. If we do decide to move, I am going to have lots to do and I would also feel a litle guilty about taking another 3 days off work. But, I sent an email to my boss and he said it was fine (he doesn't know about the potentional move). Then I discussed with my husband. If we do decide to move it will be this summer and he made the comment that he doesn't want to neglect the Lord's work. So, I called the lay diretor and said yes.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Sowing Seeds of Peace
From Grace for the Moment, January 18th, by Max Lucado
Plant good, harvest the fruit of loyalty, plow the new ground of knowledge. ~ Hosea 10:12
Want to see a miracle? Plant a word of love heartdeep in a person's life. Nurture it with a smile and a prayer, and watch what happens.
An employee gets a complement. A wife receives a bouquet of flowers. A cake is baked and carried next door. A widow is hugged. A gas-station attendant is honored. A preacher is praised.
Sowing seeds of peace is like sowing beans. You don't know why it works; you just know it does. Seeds are planted, and topsoils of hurt are shoved away.
Don't forget the principle. Never underestimate the power of a seed.
Plant good, harvest the fruit of loyalty, plow the new ground of knowledge. ~ Hosea 10:12
Want to see a miracle? Plant a word of love heartdeep in a person's life. Nurture it with a smile and a prayer, and watch what happens.
An employee gets a complement. A wife receives a bouquet of flowers. A cake is baked and carried next door. A widow is hugged. A gas-station attendant is honored. A preacher is praised.
Sowing seeds of peace is like sowing beans. You don't know why it works; you just know it does. Seeds are planted, and topsoils of hurt are shoved away.
Don't forget the principle. Never underestimate the power of a seed.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Paranoid or Cautious?
The doorbell rang tonight about 8:30. I was home by myself and I wasn't expecting anyone. I didn't get up and answer it. This is normal for me...I seldom answer the door when I am not expecting anyone. Most of the times when I have answered the door, it has ended up being someone trying to sell something door-to-door. Door-to-door sales people are probably the main reason I have stopped answering the door. But, when the door bell rings after dark and I am home alone, it does make me nervous.
Apparently it was just the UPS man because when Sugar Pop got home, he looked on the porch and there was a package.
Does anyone else not answer their door?
Apparently it was just the UPS man because when Sugar Pop got home, he looked on the porch and there was a package.
Does anyone else not answer their door?
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
A Course in Miracles
I give you a command in the sight of God and Christ Jesus. Christ will judge the living and the dead. Because he and his kingdom are coming, here is the command I give you. Preach the word. Be ready to serve God in good times and bad. Correct people's mistakes. Warn them. Cheer them up with words of hope. Be very patient as you do these things. Teach them carefully. The time will come when people won't put up with true teaching. Instead, they will try to satisfy their own longings. They will gather a large number of teachers around them. The teachers will say what the people want to hear. The people will turn their ears away from the truth. They will turn to stories that aren't completely true. But I want you to keep your head no matter what happens. Don't give up when times are hard. Work to spread the good news. Do everything God has given you to do. ~ 2 Timothy 4:1-5
An old boyfriend/boss of mine emailed me today and asked me about A Course in Miracles. Back in the early 90's when I was working for him, I read Marianne Williamson's book A Return to Love and he of course remembered this (he is smart like that). Anyway, apparently she is now on Oprah and Friends and going through the 365 lessons from A Course in Miracles. Anyway his question was whether I thought it was good or evil. Now, he was an atheist when we were together and when I worked for him, and as far as I know he still is. I have had him on my prayer list for a long time...and as of the first of the year, I have actually been looking at and praying through my prayer list everyday. I felt it was significant that I received this email from him and then I read the scripture above when I was searching for the scripture I would email out to my list today. I have thought on how I should respond to him all day. I want to encourage him to study Christianity because I believe if he does he will learn the Truth. I didn't want to say anything that would lead him to discount Christianity. Below is my response to him.
I guess I don't really have an opinion on A Course in Miracles itself as I never finished it. I read the book A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson and really liked it - I actually read it twice. I bought the Course in Miracles and the index cards with the 365 lessons, but I didn't get very far in either. I'm not sure if it was because I lacked the discipline at the time, or maybe it didn't hold my attention. I don't remember that it had anything offensive to me, but I remember that it led me to study Christianity further instead. I guess because I knew Christianity and the Bible came first and this came along later (like Mormonism), I decided to start at the beginning. So, I don't think that A Course in Miracles is the Truth. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life. But because I think my reading A Return to Love and hence A Course in Miracles contributed to my journey to a closer relationship to Jesus Christ, I wouldn't call it evil. Maybe if I read the whole thing, I might have a different opinion, but I didn't, so that's all the opinion I can form. Have you ever read it? I remember that you asked me about it a while back.
I wrote him the truth. I never did read the whole thing, so I can't really form an opinion on it. But like I said, it did lead me to investigate Christianity and I think it helped lead me to be the person in Christ that I am today. God writes straight with crooked lines.
An old boyfriend/boss of mine emailed me today and asked me about A Course in Miracles. Back in the early 90's when I was working for him, I read Marianne Williamson's book A Return to Love and he of course remembered this (he is smart like that). Anyway, apparently she is now on Oprah and Friends and going through the 365 lessons from A Course in Miracles. Anyway his question was whether I thought it was good or evil. Now, he was an atheist when we were together and when I worked for him, and as far as I know he still is. I have had him on my prayer list for a long time...and as of the first of the year, I have actually been looking at and praying through my prayer list everyday. I felt it was significant that I received this email from him and then I read the scripture above when I was searching for the scripture I would email out to my list today. I have thought on how I should respond to him all day. I want to encourage him to study Christianity because I believe if he does he will learn the Truth. I didn't want to say anything that would lead him to discount Christianity. Below is my response to him.
I guess I don't really have an opinion on A Course in Miracles itself as I never finished it. I read the book A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson and really liked it - I actually read it twice. I bought the Course in Miracles and the index cards with the 365 lessons, but I didn't get very far in either. I'm not sure if it was because I lacked the discipline at the time, or maybe it didn't hold my attention. I don't remember that it had anything offensive to me, but I remember that it led me to study Christianity further instead. I guess because I knew Christianity and the Bible came first and this came along later (like Mormonism), I decided to start at the beginning. So, I don't think that A Course in Miracles is the Truth. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life. But because I think my reading A Return to Love and hence A Course in Miracles contributed to my journey to a closer relationship to Jesus Christ, I wouldn't call it evil. Maybe if I read the whole thing, I might have a different opinion, but I didn't, so that's all the opinion I can form. Have you ever read it? I remember that you asked me about it a while back.
I wrote him the truth. I never did read the whole thing, so I can't really form an opinion on it. But like I said, it did lead me to investigate Christianity and I think it helped lead me to be the person in Christ that I am today. God writes straight with crooked lines.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Strengths Finder
I am reading the book Now, Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckinghma and Donald O. Clifton, Ph.D. I took the Strengths Finder quiz this afternoon and my top five talents are:
Discipline
People strong in the Discipline theme enjoy routine and structure. Their world is best described by the order they create.
Consistency
People strong in the Consistency theme are keenly aware of the need to treat people the same. They try to treat everyone in the world with consistency by setting up clear rules and adhering to them.
Harmony
People strong in the Harmony theme look for consensus. They don't enjoy conflict; rather, they seek areas of agreement.
Responsibility
People strong in the Responsibility theme take psychological ownership of what they say they will do. They are committed to stable values such as honesty and loyalty.
Intellection
People strong in the Intellection theme are characterized by their intellectual activity. They are introspective and appreciate intellectual discussions.
Discipline
People strong in the Discipline theme enjoy routine and structure. Their world is best described by the order they create.
Consistency
People strong in the Consistency theme are keenly aware of the need to treat people the same. They try to treat everyone in the world with consistency by setting up clear rules and adhering to them.
Harmony
People strong in the Harmony theme look for consensus. They don't enjoy conflict; rather, they seek areas of agreement.
Responsibility
People strong in the Responsibility theme take psychological ownership of what they say they will do. They are committed to stable values such as honesty and loyalty.
Intellection
People strong in the Intellection theme are characterized by their intellectual activity. They are introspective and appreciate intellectual discussions.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Expect Good Things
Today's Scripture
“Surely goodness and loving-kindness will follow me all the days of my life…” (Psalm 23:6).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
What are you expecting today? Are you expecting to rise higher in life? Are you expecting good breaks? Are you expecting goodness to follow you everywhere you go? If you are expecting to get the short end of the stick, your own wrong thinking will keep you in mediocrity. Remember, God will meet you at the level of your expectations. Pay attention to what you are thinking about and make the choice to believe God for good things. Every day, imagine there are blessings, favor, increase, and promotion in your path. They already have your name on it! It’s just a matter of time before you come across them. Start confessing everyday “Something good is going to happen to me today.” Stand strong when trouble comes, knowing that your best days are ahead. Believe that God’s blessings will overtake you! Expect goodness and mercy to chase you down. If you’ll learn to raise your level of expectancy, God will pour out His blessings and favor on you. You’ll rise to new levels and live the life of victory He has in store.
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, today I expect your goodness and loving-kindness to surround me. I choose to believe that my best days are right out in front of me. Help me stand strong in You so that I can see Your blessing in every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name.
“Surely goodness and loving-kindness will follow me all the days of my life…” (Psalm 23:6).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
What are you expecting today? Are you expecting to rise higher in life? Are you expecting good breaks? Are you expecting goodness to follow you everywhere you go? If you are expecting to get the short end of the stick, your own wrong thinking will keep you in mediocrity. Remember, God will meet you at the level of your expectations. Pay attention to what you are thinking about and make the choice to believe God for good things. Every day, imagine there are blessings, favor, increase, and promotion in your path. They already have your name on it! It’s just a matter of time before you come across them. Start confessing everyday “Something good is going to happen to me today.” Stand strong when trouble comes, knowing that your best days are ahead. Believe that God’s blessings will overtake you! Expect goodness and mercy to chase you down. If you’ll learn to raise your level of expectancy, God will pour out His blessings and favor on you. You’ll rise to new levels and live the life of victory He has in store.
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, today I expect your goodness and loving-kindness to surround me. I choose to believe that my best days are right out in front of me. Help me stand strong in You so that I can see Your blessing in every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Prayer
I received the following in an email from my Uncle...one of those things you are supposed to forward to everyone. I really like this pray and thought I would share it here.
Dear Lord, I thank you for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep on blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through Your eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth of my wrongdoing, and receive forgiveness.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example -- to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do Your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those who are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those who are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those who don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.
I believe that You change people and You change things for good reasons. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every one of my family members and friends and their families. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than You. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord, I thank you for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep on blessing me. Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe from all danger and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through Your eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth of my wrongdoing, and receive forgiveness.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example -- to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do Your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those who are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those who are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those who don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.
I believe that You change people and You change things for good reasons. I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every one of my family members and friends and their families. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than You. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Fear of Change
We must learn how to look into our fears because we cannot let ourselves be controlled by fear. We have to look our fears right in the face and we can't always do it by ourselves. We need to be helped, because if we can't look death and failure in the face, well, then we can never live because to live means to risk, to do things, to have projects which might fail, which might go wrong. We cannot be totally secure for everything; we must discover inside ourselves this power that we have been given to receive the Holy Spirit, not alone, with with others in the community, to decide to go forward and risk things. ~ Jean Vanier via The Magnificat
This was good for me to read today. I must say that I am afraid of change and afraid of failure. It is what has kept me stuck in my current job. I have been in a rut at work. It is not a very challenging jobs and I feel like my skills have waned because of that. I need a change, but I am afraid of a change because I am afraid of failure and of the unknown. Now we are talking about moving and that is going to be a HUGE change. It scares me. But it is also exciting. I don't think I would ever make such a big move on my own, but I've got my wonderful husband to make the move with me. It is going to be an adventure.
This was good for me to read today. I must say that I am afraid of change and afraid of failure. It is what has kept me stuck in my current job. I have been in a rut at work. It is not a very challenging jobs and I feel like my skills have waned because of that. I need a change, but I am afraid of a change because I am afraid of failure and of the unknown. Now we are talking about moving and that is going to be a HUGE change. It scares me. But it is also exciting. I don't think I would ever make such a big move on my own, but I've got my wonderful husband to make the move with me. It is going to be an adventure.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Happy Birthday to Me!
Today is my first 39th birthday. Don't worry. I am not going to be one of those people who "stays" 39. I am actually looking forward to turning 40. Yes, I know that seems strange. But, I am 16 years younger than my husband and the youngest of all my siblings. Almost all of our couple friends are closer to my husband's age than mine. So even though I am getting older they are all still older than me. And because I have always been around older people, I realize that getting older is not such a bad thing. Besides...every birthday means I am one year closer to retirement and ultimately one year closer to the day I get to go be with my Lord.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Contentment?
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ~ Philippians 4:11
I have not learned to be content. I am dreading going back to the office next week. I am so sick of where I work. I have been praying and waiting for a new job for a long time now. However, I am glad that I don't have it yet. I had plenty of sick leave accrued to take off for my surgery which I would not have had with a new job. Since we are now thinking about relocating, a new job is still several months away. But with the move, I will definitely be getting a new job. I am looking forward to it.
I have not learned to be content. I am dreading going back to the office next week. I am so sick of where I work. I have been praying and waiting for a new job for a long time now. However, I am glad that I don't have it yet. I had plenty of sick leave accrued to take off for my surgery which I would not have had with a new job. Since we are now thinking about relocating, a new job is still several months away. But with the move, I will definitely be getting a new job. I am looking forward to it.
Monday, January 07, 2008
Angels
My mother collected angels. Some were out all the time and some she just put out in a display at Christmas. I inherited some of them when she passed away and then I add to the collection every year on her birthday (she had a December birthday). This year I put them out the weekend of the time change and I will leave them up until Groundhog Day (which is also the half-way point of winter and the Feast of the Presentation).
Friday, January 04, 2008
Fear of Change
We are often afraid of change because it means giving up something we want or losing something we already have. We protect even the painful way things are because familiarity seems so much more comfortable and less scary. Like the Gerasene people, we may be so afraid of change that we are limiting God's ability to work and more us forward. ~ Lose it for Life Day by Day, April 11th
The fear of change is my biggest obstacle for this move we are thinking of making (the 2nd biggest is fear of the traffic I will have to endure there).
I read this really good quote this morning:
If you think the name 'Jesus' continually, it purges your sin and kindles your heart; it clarifies your soul, it removes anger and does away with slowness. It wounds in love and fulfills charity. It chases the devil and puts out dread. It opens heaven, and makes you a contemplative. It puts all vices and phantoms from the lover. ~ Richard Rolle via the Magnificat, January 3rd
The fear of change is my biggest obstacle for this move we are thinking of making (the 2nd biggest is fear of the traffic I will have to endure there).
I read this really good quote this morning:
If you think the name 'Jesus' continually, it purges your sin and kindles your heart; it clarifies your soul, it removes anger and does away with slowness. It wounds in love and fulfills charity. It chases the devil and puts out dread. It opens heaven, and makes you a contemplative. It puts all vices and phantoms from the lover. ~ Richard Rolle via the Magnificat, January 3rd
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Reactions of Others
This is from Lose it For Life Day by Day, April 10th.
We must be aware that some people will have doubts and may attempt to sabotage our progress in recovery, even when they are happy for us. They may say, "A little won't hurt!" or, "You can't have that ever?" This can be discouraging and throw us off track if we again focus our attention on deprivation rather than the fullness of life in God.
We must stay focused on how Jesus is restoring us to our "right mind." We have been given the opportunity to allow God to do the impossible through us. Sitting at the feet of Jesus -- a surrendered position -- we have become God-focused instead of food-focused. We begin to lose or maintain weight and grow spiritually. We are not bothered by the negative reactions of others.
I like eating a healthy diet. I feel better. It is easy to maintain my weight. I sleep better. My skin looks better. But there always seem to be food-pushers around. The holidays come and there are special holiday foods to eat and people look at you funny if you don't eat those foods. Or we go on vacation and my routine is thrown off and I don't want to bother with bringing along food to stick to my routine. However, because I know how much better I feel when I stick to my food plan, when events arise that through me off, I am much quicker about getting back to normal. And because I have finally learned what works for me, I am not tempted to try every diet plan (or "non-diet" plan) that comes out. I am in a good place. I like it. I have been working on being binge-free. Today is day 100! This is the year I am going to be binge-free. I just need to remember to "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the body is weak." ~ Matthew 26:41.
We must be aware that some people will have doubts and may attempt to sabotage our progress in recovery, even when they are happy for us. They may say, "A little won't hurt!" or, "You can't have that ever?" This can be discouraging and throw us off track if we again focus our attention on deprivation rather than the fullness of life in God.
We must stay focused on how Jesus is restoring us to our "right mind." We have been given the opportunity to allow God to do the impossible through us. Sitting at the feet of Jesus -- a surrendered position -- we have become God-focused instead of food-focused. We begin to lose or maintain weight and grow spiritually. We are not bothered by the negative reactions of others.
I like eating a healthy diet. I feel better. It is easy to maintain my weight. I sleep better. My skin looks better. But there always seem to be food-pushers around. The holidays come and there are special holiday foods to eat and people look at you funny if you don't eat those foods. Or we go on vacation and my routine is thrown off and I don't want to bother with bringing along food to stick to my routine. However, because I know how much better I feel when I stick to my food plan, when events arise that through me off, I am much quicker about getting back to normal. And because I have finally learned what works for me, I am not tempted to try every diet plan (or "non-diet" plan) that comes out. I am in a good place. I like it. I have been working on being binge-free. Today is day 100! This is the year I am going to be binge-free. I just need to remember to "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the body is weak." ~ Matthew 26:41.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
New Year
I am reading through Streams in the Desert this year. Below is a quote from yesterday's reading.
Today we stand at the threshold of the unknown. Before us lies a new year, and we are going forward to take possession of it. Who knows what we will find? What new experiences or changes will come our way? What new needs will arise? In spite of the uncertainty before us, we have a cheerful and comforting message from our heavenly Father: "The Lord your God cares for [it]; the eyes of the Lord...are continually on it from the beginning of the year to its end." Deu 11:11-12
We are seriously thinking about moving this year. There is a lot of uncertainty before us and if we do move a lot of changes. 2008 could be a year of adventure.
Today we stand at the threshold of the unknown. Before us lies a new year, and we are going forward to take possession of it. Who knows what we will find? What new experiences or changes will come our way? What new needs will arise? In spite of the uncertainty before us, we have a cheerful and comforting message from our heavenly Father: "The Lord your God cares for [it]; the eyes of the Lord...are continually on it from the beginning of the year to its end." Deu 11:11-12
We are seriously thinking about moving this year. There is a lot of uncertainty before us and if we do move a lot of changes. 2008 could be a year of adventure.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Each Day...
From Grace for the Moment by Max Lucado:
Each Day...
It's quiet. It's early. My coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming.
In a few moments the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding pace of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.
For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now that I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I'm free to choose. And so I choose.
I Choose Love...
No Occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love. Today I will love God and what God Loves.
I Choose Joy...
I will invite God to be the God of circumstance. I will refuse the temptation to be cynical...the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.
I Choose Peace...
I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.
I Choose Patience...
I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clinching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.
I Choose Kindness...
I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone. Kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to the unkind, for such is how God treated me.
I Choose Goodness...
I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness.
I Choose Faithfulness...
Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My [spouse] will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their [parent] will not come home.
I Choose Gentleness...
Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself.
I Choose Self-Control...
I am a spiritual being...After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will rot, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek grace. And then when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.
A friend gave me this devotional book about three years ago and I have never read through the whole thing. Being the first of the year, I was looking through my books to see what I might want to read through this year and saw this. It is going to go beside my makeup mirror to be read each morning. I really liked this preface to the devotional. It would be a great prayer to begin each day.
(Note: When I quoted things I used to put my comments in green, but starting today I will be putting what I quote in green.)
Each Day...
It's quiet. It's early. My coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming.
In a few moments the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding pace of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.
For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now that I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I'm free to choose. And so I choose.
I Choose Love...
No Occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love. Today I will love God and what God Loves.
I Choose Joy...
I will invite God to be the God of circumstance. I will refuse the temptation to be cynical...the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.
I Choose Peace...
I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.
I Choose Patience...
I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clinching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.
I Choose Kindness...
I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone. Kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to the unkind, for such is how God treated me.
I Choose Goodness...
I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness.
I Choose Faithfulness...
Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My [spouse] will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their [parent] will not come home.
I Choose Gentleness...
Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself.
I Choose Self-Control...
I am a spiritual being...After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will rot, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek grace. And then when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.
A friend gave me this devotional book about three years ago and I have never read through the whole thing. Being the first of the year, I was looking through my books to see what I might want to read through this year and saw this. It is going to go beside my makeup mirror to be read each morning. I really liked this preface to the devotional. It would be a great prayer to begin each day.
(Note: When I quoted things I used to put my comments in green, but starting today I will be putting what I quote in green.)
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