joyce's posts with tag: inspiration
HUMILITY Proverbs 15:33 ......The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility goes before honor. Matthew 23:12 ..... All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. 1 Peter 5:5 ..... In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Psalm 18:27 ..... For you deliver a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down. Zephaniah 2:3 ..... Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, who do his commands; seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the Lord's wrath. Psalm 25:9 ..... He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. Matthew 11:29 ..... Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Ephesians 4:1-2 ..... I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, Colossians 3:12 ..... As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. 1 Peter 3:8 .... all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Matthew 18:4 ...... Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. . Humility
Don't brag about your successes,
Don't put on false airs,
Jesus was a truly humble Man
When He lost his life to a nightmare.
God loved the world so much,
He gave His only begotten Son,
That when we truly believe
Great battles are won!
If we will listen to this message,
And believe with all our heart,
We, too, will win great battles,
And our fears will all depart.
Kneel in humble submission,
Invite Jesus to come in,
Confess all your sins to Him
And you can't help but win.
Praise His name with honor,
He is the Prince of Peace,
He takes our every problem,
And our joy will always increase.
Open your heart to the Savior,
Who gave His life for you,
He is the bright and morning star,
Humble, loving, and true.
He will bless all who listen,
All who humble themselves and pray,
Jesus is the only answer,
And He walks with us every day.
~ Eva May Young ~
'Humility is the only true wisdom by which we prepare our minds for all the possible changes of life.'
'Modesty is a shining light; it prepares the mind to receive knowledge, and the heart for truth.'
'Don't be so humble--you are not that great.'
'In peace there's nothing so becomes a man as modest stillness and humility. '
'God hath sworn to lift on high who sinks himself by true humility.'
'O be very sure That no man will learn anything at all, unless he first will learn humility' .
A Prayer for Humility
Lord Jesus, I must begin my day today by confessing that my heart has often been deceived into thinking that I am living a life of humble service when in reality, many of my motivations are grounded in selfishness. I am so grateful You helped me to understand this about myself many years ago -- and are still faithfully reminding me when I start to get off track again.
Remind me that it is far better to have no reputation at all than to attain great things on my own power. The more I have come to understand how wise You truly are, and how Your Holy Word is so full of practical advice for my day to day living, the stronger I have grown. You have blessed me with fruit that was planted solidly. Thank You that You are showing me that my feelings of inadequacy are actually good because they keep me from becoming self centered.
I pray today that I will become more like Jesus than I was yesterday. I pray I will be unafraid to act in obedience when I hear You call. Make me more aware each day of the tremendous authority I have received from You, which helps me not blow it by claiming it as my own. Please never let me misuse the gifts You have given me.
I close this prayer today by asking You to never let me become a stumbling block to anyone. Help me to never do anything that could bring harm to others. True humility empowers and strengthens and casts out fears.
Thank You for reminding me.....
 Technology As Distraction
We are often lured by the promise of new technologies to make our lives easier and help connect us to others. While they do so in many ways, they also present each of us with opportunities to make new choices about how we spend our time and invest our energy. Most gadgets are generally meant to improve the quality of our lives, but it is when we spend too much time with them that they actually do the opposite. By always using our portable emailers, cell phones, video games, and surfing the Internet, we actually become less connected and more distracted. By becoming aware of these tendencies, we harness the power to overcome them and make better choices for ourselves and our families.
Once we decide to consciously put our gadgets to work for us, we become masters of our time. We can give our full attention to whatever we are doing and not let phone conversations and other distractions take the place of human contact. Each of us has the ability to consciously choose to be more present in our lives. We can decide at any time to leave our gadgets behind and become aware of the sights and sounds around us in order to expand our awareness and be fully present in our bodies and our surroundings.
When we use our discernment about how we invest our personal energy, we can be sure that we choose only the best for ourselves and those we love. Our gadgets can be useful tools for our journey in the material world, but we must not forget that we are spiritual beings having a human experience and that means interacting with people on a personal level. Choices that enliven us and help us feel connected to our world and our loved ones always deserve our full attention and presence of mind, body, and spirit. (Call 1-877-2-DAILYOM (1-877-232-4596) to listen to DailyOM messages on your phone for free.) What do you think?
Tree of Life Psalm 1:3....... He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Psalm 106:3....... Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right. Pasalm 106: 8....... His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes. Daniel 12:3..... Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Hoseah 10:12..... Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you. Malachi 3:3..... He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, Malachi 4:2..... But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Matthew 15:4...... Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. Matthew 15: 5...... "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. The Tree Of Life Each man is as a tree, created by God, Unique as it reaches to the heavens above. For, the tree of life, it blossoms, it grows, From its roots to the heavens, its majesty shows. The tree of life, kept strong as it grew, Shed the old, and began to renew. With Christ as its roots, that we do not see, Providing the strength, for each special tree. With rings of age, trial hidden within - sturdy it stays. Through life’s stormy days - gently it sways. Its bark is a shield, to weather the strife, But, it is the blood that gives precious life. And, if its trunk grows crooked - may it not fall, As it searches for heaven - and tries to stand tall. For, the tree of life, its branches span wide, Though the tree can be hurt, by those at its side. But, a broken branch, like a broken heart, Can make the tree stronger, though it’s ripped apart. Left alone, it can wither, and most surely die, As tears, from heaven, rain down - in great cry. But, cared for, it grows – still mighty and strong, Its fruits can be many, though its life not long. For, from a single tree, fruit and seed come in plenty, Food... shelter...air... soil fertility - so abundantly. And, though the tree can be cut, shoots continue to sprout, For, the tree of life can not be put out! And when the time comes, its wood will burn bright, For, the tree of life gives warmth and eternal light. And if lightning strikes, and life on Earth stops, I’ll reap what I’ve sown as seeds for my crops. For, the tree of life, it blossoms, it grows, From its roots to the heavens, it majesty shows. Yes, each tree is special, for it is true, That Christ died on the tree - For me - and for you! By: Jeanne A. Brohart "If others believe you not, go ahead and be who you are made to be. Beleiving oneself starts from the capabilities to shoulder the real person you are" "Love your own life,
And make others love their life.
This is nothing but life."
May every creature abound in well-being and peace May every living being, weak or strong, the long and the small, the short and the medium-sized, the mean and the great-- may every living being, seen or unseen, those dwelling far off, those nearby, those already born, those waiting to be born-- may all attain inward peace. Let noone decieve another, despise another in any situation let noone, from confusion or hatred, wish evil to anyone at all. Just as a mother, with her own life, protects her only son from hurt, so within yourself foster a limitless concern for every living creature. Display a heart of boundless love for all the world In all it's height and depth and broad extent-- love unrestrained, without hate or second thought Then, as you stand or walk, sit or lie, until overcome by drowsiness, devote your mind entirely to this it is known as ... living here the life divine
THANKFULNESS Ephesians 5:20,.... Give thanks always for all things unto God and the father in the name of the Lord jesus Christ; Colossians 3:15 .... And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful Psalm 30:12....To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent, O Lord my God, I will give thanks to thee for ever Psalm 35:18....I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people. 1 Thessalonians 5:18....In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you Psalm 116:17....I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the Lord. 1 Chronicles 29:13....Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. Psalm 69:30....I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. Psalm 75:1....We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks, for your Name is near; men tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 136:26....Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever Everyday I'm Thankful, by Heather Kemper, USA Everyday I'm thankful
you came into my life.
The good days and the bad
the darkest and the bright.
No matter what has happened
it's been better because you're there.
For your love and understanding
no words can compare.
The gifts that you have given me
I never dreamed that I'd receive.
The strength I've always found in you
gave me hope when I couldn't believe.
Some days I know you question
your effect upon my life.
Trust in all I'm saying
it's been nothing but good and bright.
All my dreams and longings
came true because of you.
Without which I'd be lost
unsure of what to do.
So every day I'm thankful
for the love and hope you give.
You've given me the reason
to dream, to love, to live.
The word "thankful" is often thought of in the most basic sense: Being grateful for something you have. But all too often, when our turn comes to list the things we are thankful for, we merely rattle off lists we have memorized by heart and that we repeat every year without even thinking about it. Examples of items on such a list are family, friends, having a home, pets, and food. However, the term "thankful" has come to mean so much more. No more does it simply mean being grateful for the bigger things--it also means being grateful for those moments where you want to lift up your hands and praise God for giving you something. The 'something' doesn't have to be a material possession--it can be the love of a friend, a beautiful sunset, the sound of rain upon a window, or the feeling you get when you accomplish a major goal. Still, this does not mean that you should not be truly thankful for the bigger things, as well. I challenge you to take time to think about everything, even the smallest things, that you are thankful for.
HEAVEN #2779 : When You Are Perfectly Still * Thanks, Kelly!
God said: All is in stillness. Nothing is stirring, not even a mouse. There is stillness within stillness. And even when a leaf dances, it dances in stillness. Even in movement, the leaf is still.
And you who watch the leaf, even if you are jumping up and down, you are also stillness. You are Being, and Being by its every nature is still. Even within a hurricane, there is stillness. Of course, within you, stillness reigns supreme. I am your Stillness, beloveds. You never see Me running around. In perfect stillness, I perform all activity. Rather, I do not perform. I call all activity to Me. I say its name, and it is done. In stillness, everything is easy. By its very nature, stillness is effortless. Everything travels to you when you are perfectly still. You do not have to go to it. Even when you run around, you are stillness. Even when you are angry and your blood pressure goes up, even so, you are still. Even when you run a race, you are still. Your mind and body can rush around, yet the core of you is stillness. Lean into that stillness, beloved, and you will accomplish more. The easier you are, the more easily everything in the Universe falls in your lap. If you dig a ditch, you are digging it. You work hard. And yet you are doing nothing. Your body gets its exercise. A hole is dug. All the while, you are doing nothing at all. Have you experienced what I mean? Who or what is doing the doing? Your body, your mind. But you are stillness. Stillness is great enlivenment, and yet it is still. Before, during, and after death of the body, the enlivenment goes on. The body stops, but not the liveliness of Being. Your Being continues to permeate the Universe. Being is a constant, and it goes on forever in its stillness. It is almost as if you masquerade as a doer when you are in reality stillness and nothing but stillness, so help you God. I vibrate stillness. What I vibrate is. What I do not vibrate is not. Even in madness, there is stillness. Even in yelling. In everything, there is the stillness of stillness. There is a watcher aspect of you that knows this, knows the mirage of activity, knows the stillness of Reality, knows that you are ever in Heaven, playacting on Earth. Action can only go so far. Even action movies have their limitations. The more subtle movies have greater power than the rough and tumble ones. The subtle movies are more evocative, and their meaning takes you to the still and subtle levels. The more still is also higher. Talk is only talk. Doing is only doing. But Being goes on silently amidst the activity. Of course, you eat. Of course, you walk. Of course, you swim. And yet you are far more than an eater, a walker, a swimmer. What you really are cannot be defined, anymore than I can be. And when your body swims, where do you think it swims? It swims in the Ocean of your own Being. What do you think I am but Being? What do you think you are if not Being? Being is attributeless, and yet you are Being, and yet you are a Human Being on Earth gathering facets of yourself and calling them attributes. You are bundling Being, beloveds.
Patience Romans 5:3..... And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; Ephesians 4:2.... With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Hebrews 6:12.... That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. James 1:3.... Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. James 1:4.... But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 5:7.... Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. James 5:8.... Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Revelation 14:12.... Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. PATIENCE Patience is a divine virtue that we are not only badly wanting, but we neglect it most foolishly. It is an inner assurance of God's unreserved love and unconditional guidance. Patience is God's power hidden in us to weather the teeming storms of life. If failure has the strength to turn your life into bitterness itself, then patience has the strength to turn your life into the sweetest joy. Do not surrender to fate after a single failure. Failure, at most, precedes success. But success once achieved, confidence becomes your name. Have patience in the heart; you will feel that the world is nor only with you and in you, but for you. Time is a flying bird. Do you want to capture the bird and encage it? Your fondest dreams will be transformed into fruitful realities if you just know the secret of growing the patience tree in your heart. Patience is your sincere surrender to God's Will. This surrender is by no means the effacement of the finite self which you now are, but a total transcendence of your finite existence to the Infinite Self. In silence patience speaks to you: "Try to live the inner life. You will not only see and reach your goal, but also become the Goal." Patience can never be imposed on you from outside. It is your own inner Wealth, Wisdom, Peace and Victory. Patience is passion tamed. The secret of patience is doing something else in the meanwhile Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears. The keys to patience are acceptance and faith. Accept things as they are, and look realistically at the world around you. Have faith in yourself and in the direction you have chosen. The two most powerful warriors are patience and time. All human wisdom is summed up in two words - wait and hope
 Prayer
Matthew 6:6.... But you, when you pray, enter into your room. And shutting your door, pray to your Father in secret; and your Father who sees in secret shall reward you openly. 1Timothy 2:8.....Therefore, I desire that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. Psalm 5:3.....My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning I will direct my prayer to You, and I will look up. Luke 18:1.....Then Jesus spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart Hebrews 4:16....Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Matthew 6:7....And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. . Matthew 6.9-13..... After this manner therefore pray ye...
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen Matthew 5.44..... I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you Philippians 4.6-7 .....Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. I Shall Remember Thee Shall I remember Thee and all Thou art,
presented by this meal, Thy presence true,
this day, this creature, yea, and all things new?
I come by grace through faith, and faith apart
from works is dead, and death shall have no part
when I believe, and bless, and break bread to
remember Thee, and witness Thee, and view
Thy hands and feet and side and broken heart.
As Thou art risen, raise me from the dead
to kisses which are better than this wine
and to embraces better than this bread,
for I am Thine, O Lord, and Thou art Mine,
Thy body and Thy blood, broken and bled.
I shall remember Thee, and I shall dine I want to be the kind of person who trusts God, not just in the midst
of prosperity, but during difficult times. He is a wonderful God and He has promised to never leave me nor forsake me.
God is a person -- namely, your Father. Prayer is a deeply personal, intimate CONVERSATION with your Father -- not some *magical incantation* or religious babbling.
 Giving Excuses
Excuses may seem like rational reasons for us not to do something, but if we’re not careful we can allow them to keep us from reaching our goals. Too often we accept our excuses as reasons why we cannot accomplish what we set out to do, and instead of finding alternatives we give up. But if we can be honest with ourselves and take responsibility for our choices, we will begin to notice that we no longer give excuses. When we keep our minds focused on our goals, we will find that excuses fade away in the light of our priorities, and issues become challenges that can help us become wiser and stronger.
Sometimes we may give others excuses rather than be fully honest. We may think it is kind to tell someone we are willing to do something with them, whether work or play, but then keep putting them off. This diverts our energy into keeping the truth at a distance while continuing a falsehood. But when we can take responsibility for our feelings and express them honestly, but gently, the other person is free to find someone who is better suited to accompany them while we are free to pursue the things we like. When we can do this, our energy can be invested in building better lives and relationships.
There’s another way in which excuses rob us of energy—and that is in the power of our thoughts and words. If we find ourselves in a situation, for example, where we are being asked for a financial contribution but we use the excuse that we can’t afford it, we create and attract lack and limitation into our lives. The same goes for seemingly simple things like pretending to not feel well or any other false statement. We may think that excuses make things easier, but they complicate matters with smokescreens. When we can commit to our priorities, take responsibility for our choices, and communicate them honestly to others, there will be no need to make excuses, and we will have much more energy to dedicate to all the things we love. What do you think?
The Life Cycle Flowers and leaves both begin their lives as organisms so tiny we cannot see them with the naked eye. With time, they become visible, curled in upon themselves, colorful buds slowly softening and releasing. With the proper warmth and moisture, they unfold little by little, revealing with each degree of opening a new color, shape, or dimension. Sometimes buds open seemingly all at once, unfolding the full majesty of their potential, of what looks to the human eye like courage, openness, and generosity.
As days go by, the bloom slowly moves through more stages, revealing still more colors, shapes, and dimensions of its essence. It falls apart, strewing its petals on the ground, or it wilts, or it closes back in on itself. When we can appreciate the full beauty of each stage of the cycle of life, from bud to blossom to disintegration, we feel more at home with our own earthly process. We can be inspired not to hold back the fullness of what we have to offer, knowing that our time to give of ourselves in this way will come to pass. At the same time, we can honor others, and the little processes that go on within the larger process of living our lives.
Each stage we go through has its time of fulfillment and recession, as do all living things. Every moment of every stage has its own particular beauty, and we can appreciate that, even as most of us tend to love the spectacular moment of full blossoming most of all. When we feel the wisdom contained in the budding, blossoming, and dissolution of a simple flower, we begin to feel it everywhere, in each moment that comes and goes, in each sunrise and sunset, in every hello and goodbye, as the very essence of the pulsating ebb and flow of existence. What do you think?
Friendship Proverbs 16:28....A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends. Proverbs 17:17....A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 27:6....Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. Proverbs 27:9.....Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel. Proverbs 27:10....Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off. John 15:15.....Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Philippians 2:3....Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Philippians 2:4....Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 2 Timothy 2:22.....Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. A friend is like a flower
Blooming in the sun,
And your world is a better place
With the beauty of each one. A friend is like an owl,
So beautiful and wise,
Or like a special angel,
Whose spirit never dies. Friends are like the blades of grass
That you can never mow,
Standing straight, tall, and proud
In a perfect little row.
A friend is like a heart that beats
So strong until the end.
Where would we be in this world
If we didn't have a friend?
"True friendship means knowing your needed even without being told" Building a Friendship
It starts with "Hello"
As time proceeds it grows
Doing things together
Going wherever
Making the best of everything
While you have the time and can
No matter where your life leads you
Know your friendship will stay true
Miles and time can not break your bond
If of your friendship you are fond
Remember all the things you do
They will help pull you through
Treasure them in your memories and hearts
And nothing can break your friendship apart "Being a true friend is being the kind of friend that you want as a true friend"
 Conscious Gardening Gardens offer us a perfect opportunity to reconnect to our true selves and remember our place in the natural world. Rather than approach our gardens as mere investments of energy, we can look at the entire process of gardening, from planting seeds to harvesting food, as a way of deepening our conscious relationship with the creative force of the universe. If we are willing to shift our intention from dominating, or at least directing nature, to co-creating with nature instead, we may discover a deep peace and renewed sense of wonder.
To co-create we must first begin with a foundation of mutual respect. As you create your garden in partnership with nature, you can respect the earth, water, insects and animals by using organic seeds, soil and fertilizers. You can also communicate with the plants, insects and elements involved in your garden, and create a regular practice of stillness to listen for any messages they may have for you. When it comes time for harvesting fresh vegetables or picking beautiful blooms, you might even ask permission first. If you ask with an open heart, you will always receive an answer.
Imagine what it would be like to surrender certain aspects of your human world to the precision and surety of the natural environment. You might decide, for example, to forego your calendar and plant in rhythm with the cycles of the moon. Or, you might choose to ignore clock time and water your garden when the sun hits a certain position in the sky. By opening your garden experience to more of nature’s input, you can become available to witness a whole universe of miracles, while engendering a greater sense of honor between the two worlds.
When we recognize ourselves as allies, co-creators, with the earth and the natural world, our relationship to our environment begins to change. We no longer feel the need to control the circumstances around us and can relish in the perfection of all that is. What do you think?
 God will not let us down: Isaiah 41:10 Fear not; for I am with you. Be not dismayed; for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea, I will uphold you with the right hand of My righteousness.
Who can harm or condemn those who belong to God? Isaiah 54:17 "No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of Me", says the LORD The Lord will stop the enemy: Isaiah 59:19 When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. God will be found by those who seek him, and will prosper those who find him: Jeremiah 29:11-13 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you", says the LORD, "thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall you call upon Me, and you shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And you shall seek Me, and find Me, when you shall search for Me with all your heart." We were hand picked by God: John 15:16-19 You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remin; that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that you love one another. If the world hate you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love his own; but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Why we endure: Romans 5:3b-5 ...we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulations works patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maks not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
In both life and death, we belong to God: Romans 14:7,8 For none of us lives to himself, and no man dies to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. With Jesus you can do anything: Phillipians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. God will give us mercy and grace: Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. I asked for strength and God gave me difficulties to make me strong. I asked for wisdom and God gave me problems to solve. I asked for courage and God gave me dangers to overcome. I asked for patience and God placed me in situations where I was forced to wait. I asked for love and God gave me troubled people to help. I asked for favors and God gave me opportunities. I received nothing I wanted. I received everything I needed Believe in Yourself , Author: Emily Matthews Believe in yourself -
in the power you have
to control your own life, day by day,
Believe in the strength
that you have deep inside,
and your faith will help
show you the way.
Believe in tomorrow
and what it will bring -
let a hopeful heart carry you through,
For the things will work out
if you trust and believe
there's no limit
to what you can do.
 Start Today One of the hardest things in life is feeling stuck in a situation that we don’t like and want to change. We may have exhausted ourselves trying to figure out how to make change, and we may even have given up. However, each day offers us an opportunity to renew our resolve and to declare to the universe that we are ready for change. We may even say out loud that we have tried and struggled and have not found a way, but that we are open to help, and that we intend to keep working to create change for ourselves. Making this declaration to the universe, and to ourselves, may be just the remedy for the stagnation we are experiencing. And, it can be done today, right now.
It is difficult to understand, even with hindsight, how the choices we have made have added up to our current situation, but it is a good idea to examine the story we tell ourselves. If we tend to regard ourselves as having failed, this will block our ability to allow ourselves to succeed. We have the power to change the story we tell ourselves by acknowledging that in the past, we did our best, and we exhibited many positive qualities, and had many fine moments on our path to the present moment. We can also recognize that we have learned from our experiences, and that this will help us with our current choices.
When we do this kind of work on how we view our past self, we make it possible for the future to be based on a positive self-assessment. This inner shift may allow us to get out of the cycle we’ve been in that’s been keeping us stuck. Now we can declare our intentions to the universe, knowing that we have done the inner work necessary to allow our lives to change. Allow today to be the day to end cycles and enter into a new way of being. What do you think?
Entering Awareness Entering into our own spirituality is a private journey. Each of us will be drawn to a different gateway to begin on our personal path to awakening to a greater experience of ourselves. Even though we may be taught certain philosophies or beliefs as children, we still need to find our own way of understanding and applying them in our lives. For those who are raised without a spiritual framework, they may not even know their process as a form of spirituality. But at some stage in their lives, whether in youth or adulthood, they are likely to recognize the resonance of their beliefs, the ring of truth in their philosophy, and their dedication to their chosen purpose.
Our inner guidance will lead us, so that we will be drawn to the right doorway for us--a doorway that only we can recognize by the way it makes us feel inside. It could be a picture of an angel or the gift of a crystal. We may meet someone special who shares their experiences with us in a way that we find intriguing. While visiting the home of an admired friend, we may notice a book or statue of a diety, and ask why they chose those tools. Or a word or phrase may catch our attention in a song, or a lecture. For some they may find their way by walking through the experience of illness before they begin the search for what will help them to truly heal, while others may seek physical improvement and stumble across yoga or meditation--only to find that it leads them to an unexpected place beyond the body.
As we awaken to ourselves and to life, we will become more attuned to what is right for us. The universe speaks to all of us through infinite channels, but we each have our own frequency. Others may share what worked for them, but only we can decide what truly makes us feel inspired, awakened, connected, fully conscious, aware and alive. Whatever our path, it is perfect and is meant especially for us. What do you think?
HUMILITY Job 22:29 When men are brought low and you say, 'Lift them up!' then he will save the downcast. Psalm 9:12 For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cry of the afflicted. Psalm 10:17 You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, Matthew 18:4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 23:12 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 6:20 Looking at his disciples, he said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Proverbs 10:8 The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 27:2 Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips . Mathew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls . Humility
Don't brag about your successes,
Don't put on false airs,
Jesus was a truly humble Man
When He lost his life to a nightmare.
God loved the world so much,
He gave His only begotten Son,
That when we truly believe
Great battles are won!
If we will listen to this message,
And believe with all our heart,
We, too, will win great battles,
And our fears will all depart.
Kneel in humble submission,
Invite Jesus to come in,
Confess all your sins to Him
And you can't help but win.
Praise His name with honor,
He is the Prince of Peace,
He takes our every problem,
And our joy will always increase.
Open your heart to the Savior,
Who gave His life for you,
He is the bright and morning star,
Humble, loving, and true.
He will bless all who listen,
All who humble themselves and pray,
Jesus is the only answer,
And He walks with us every day.
~ Eva May Young ~
He who speaks without modesty will find it difficult to make his words good.
Humility leads to strength and not to weakness. It is the highest form of self-respect to admit mistakes and to make amends for them.
Humility is the only true wisdom by which we prepare our minds for all the possible changes of life. Plenty of people wish to become devout, but no one wishes to be humble.
 Physical Bodies on Earth We are on this earth, in our physical bodies, because our souls have things to learn that we could not learn in any other way. It is through our physical body and the physical world that we can experience life. Purely spiritual beings are just that - they are in a state of being rather than doing – in a place that is beyond the limitations of time and space. But when we incarnate on the physical plane, we are automatically subject to the laws of physics and the world of dualities. In this place, we know what happiness is because we have experienced sadness, and we understand the value and power of light because we have known darkness. Knowing this, we have the opportunity to let ourselves be spiritual beings having a physical experience.
There is no pain in the spiritual realm, because we know we are one with the limitless source of the universe. But here, in the material realm, our sense of limitation and separation allows us to feel our emotions and to learn about love, forgiveness, and compassion. We go from a spiritual state of oneness to learning how to be in relationship with people who are different and distinct individuals. We learn to understand ourselves through our relationships with the world around us—its seasons and landscapes, challenges and opportunities. And through our journey to find our place among so many others, we begin to recognize our own glimmer of light in a constellation of stars.
Once we remember that we are spiritual beings, we can revel in the experience of being human while knowing we are all connected. We can live from the place of oneness while truly appreciating the beauty of diversity, the bittersweet feel of love and loss, and the elation of triumph over challenges and adversity. It is through these opposites that we experience life itself, and we can ride through the dark times with the understanding that it will help us to appreciate the light of life and love and spirit more fully. We are here now because we made the choice to experience an earth life, so now we can choose to enjoy the journey as completely as possible. What do you think?
 RESTORATION John 10:10.....The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Hebrews 4:16.....Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Philippians 4:6-7..... Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Matthew 16:16-18....There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD. Simon Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. Isaiah 54:17...... No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD.The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. Proverbs 16:9.....In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 20:24..... A man’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way? Galatians 5:6...... For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. What a man desires is unfailing love. Philippians 2:12-13..... Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Hebrews 11:1....Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." Matthew 21:22.... "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." Isaiah 41:10-13......"Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Behold, all those who were incensed against you shall be ashamed and disgraced; They shall be as nothing, And those who strive with you shall perish. You shall seek them and not find them–Those who contended with you. Those who war against you Shall be as nothing, As a nonexistent thing. For I, the LORD your God, will hold your right hand, Saying to you, "Fear not, I will help you." Hebrews 10:35-36.... So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 'Restoration', by Mike Bullock
Peace has fallen on this person
In a static place, no less
It's a lull before the storm breaks
Restoration time, I guess
To the state that He created
Undefiled by human touch
Like an onion, we've gained layers
Some a few, but many much.
Take a painting, sad and lifeless
Vibrant colours dulled by time
You can damage hidden beauty
As you scrub away the grime
So He takes His time about it
Lovingly He cleans away
Years of dead and poisoned foliage
In our cesspit of decay.
So I offer up my secrets
Some remembered, others not
Like a time lord reaching backwards
He is in a land forgot
But I know that when He's finished
I will be His child renewed
Thankful that He loves me dearly
Restored, refined,
no longer crude. God's plan for restoration in the Church is not to return it to some original condition of the Church, but to the original intention for the Church in the exalted Christ. The restoration of the Church is not about going back to Acts 2 (this was the Church in seed-form), but onwards to the perfection of the holy city of Jerusalem which is (even now) "coming down out of heaven from God,"
FRIENDSHIP (Prov 18.24).... A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 17:17.... A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity Proverbs 27:17.... Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend Proverbs 27:6.... Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful Proverbs 27:9.... Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel Proverbs 18:24.... A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother Proverbs 22: 24.... Make no friendship with an angry man, and with a furious man thou shalt not go John 15: 13.... Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends John 15: 14.... Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. We know for ourselves that when we have a good friend, we don’t want them to suffer alone when we are just a phone call away. We want them to call us and share their sorrows with us, as well as their joys, because this is what sharing a life through friendship is about. It is at our lowest points that we really need to rely on our friends without worrying that we are a burden. If you are feeling self-conscious about having a tough time, you can bring this fact into the conversation by acknowledging it. Chances are your friend will reassure you that she is happy to be there for you. In fact, rather than feeling taxed, most of us feel better when we have helped a friend simply by listening empathically while they share their feelings.
Without our friends, we would be hard pressed to get through the tough times and celebrate the good ones. If we leave our friends out of our process when the going gets tough, our friendships can begin to feel shallow. On the other hand, when we include our friends in the full story of our life—the good, the bad, and the ugly—we build authentic relationships in which we can be who we truly are. When we do this, we invite our friends to bring their whole selves to the relationship as well. What is a friend? I'll tell you. A friend is a person with whom you dare to be yourself.
Your soul can go naked with him. He asks you to put on nothing, only to be who you really are.
When you are with him you don't have to be on your guard.
You can say what you think, so long as it is genuinely you. He understands those contradictions in your nature that cause others to misjudge you. With him you breathe freely.
You can avow your little vanities and envies and absurdities and, in opening them up to him, they are dissolved in the vast ocean of his loyalty. He understands.
You can weep with him, laugh with him, pray with him.
Through and underneath it all he sees, knows, and loves you. A Friend, I repeat, is one with whom you dare to be yourself.
Author unknown
 [got this in an email..and had to share it..It's Beautiful!]
The Lord is my Shepherd (That's Relationship)
I shall not want (That's Supply)
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures (That's Rest)
He leadeth me beside the still waters (That's Refreshment)
He restoreth my soul (That's Healing)
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness (That's Guidance)
For His name sake (That's Purpose)
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death (That's
Testing)
I will fear no evil (That's Protection)
For Thou art with me (That's Faithfulness)
Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me (That's Discipline)
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies (That's
Hope)
Thou annointest my head with oil (That's Consecration)
My cup runneth over (That's Abundance)
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life
(That's Blessing)
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord (That's Security)
Forever (That's Eternity)
Face it, the Lord is crazy about you.
Send this to people you are crazy
about. I thought this was pretty special, just like YOU!!! What is most valuable, is not what we have in our lives, but WHO we have in our lives!
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