joyce's posts with tag: what's real
LIVING FOR GOD (Ephesians 4:31-32 & 5:1-2)..... Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has also forgiven you. Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children: and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma (Romans 12:9-11)..... Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord (Matthew 5:14-16)....."You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. "Nor do men light a lamp and put it under the peck-measure, but on the lamp stand; and it gives light to all who are in the house. "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Philippians 4:4-7) ..... Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. 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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (James 1:22-25)..... But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man shall be blessed in what he does. (Colossians 2:6)..... As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. (1 Corinthians 10:31)..... Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (Matthew 10:32-33)....."Everyone therefore who shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. "But whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." (Hebrews 12:1)..... Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (Philippians 4: 8-9)..... Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you. Speak To Us Of Love When love beckons to you, follow him,
Though his ways are hard and steep.
And when his wings enfold you yield to him,
Though the sword hidden among his pinions may wound you.
And when he speaks to you believe in him,
Though his voice may shatter your dreams
as the north wind lays waste the garden.
For even as love crowns you so shall he crucify you.
Even as he is for your growth so is he for your pruning.
Even as he ascends to your height and caresses your tenderest branches that quiver in the sun,
So shall he descend to your roots and shake them in their clinging to the earth. Like sheaves of corn he gathers you unto himself.
He threshes you to make you naked.
He sifts you to free you from your husks.
He grinds you to whiteness.
He kneads you until you are pliant;
And then he assigns you to his sacred fire, that you may become sacred bread for God’s sacred feast. All these things shall love do unto you that you may know the secrets of your heart, and in that knowledge become a fragment of Life’s heart. But if in your fear you would seek only love’s peace and love’s pleasure,
Then it is better for you that you cover your nakedness and pass out of love’s threshing-floor,
Into the seasonless world where you shall laugh, but not all of your laughter, and weep, but not all of your tears. Love gives naught but itself and takes naught but from itself.
Love possesses not nor would it be possessed;
For love is sufficient unto love. When you love you should not say,
"God is in my heart," but rather, "I am in the heart of God."
And think not you can direct the course of love, for love, if it find you worthy, directs your course. Love has no other desire but to fulfill itself.
But if you love and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:
To melt and be like a running brook that sings its melody to the night.
To know the pain of too much tenderness.
To be wounded by your own understanding of love;
And to bleed willingly and joyfully.
To wake at dawn with a winged heart
and give thanks for another day of loving;
To rest at the noon hour and meditate love’s ecstasy;
To return home at eventide with gratitude;
And then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart and a song of praise upon your lips. ~Kahlil Gibran Faith makes all things possible.... love makes all things easy." The road of life twists and turns and no two directions are ever the same. Yet our lessons came from the journey, not the destination. When you have come to the edge Of all light that you know And are about to drop off into the darkness Of the unknown, Faith is knowing One of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on or You will be taught to fly" His Power Through us, Oh Lord, let Your radiance shine forth
As we bow in humbleness and awe.
Arise within us, Oh Mighty Power
As prayer and faith bring clarity of thought. Your Love alone, will conquer all!
Nothing else can stand with pride.
As You arise within our hearts
Your Glory alone will shine! No force within or without is greater
but Your power alone brings light to all.
Open our eyes to Your wondrous Being
capturing our hearts as understanding abides. Your power will rise within our hearts,
revealing strength, forgiveness, and love to all.
Let mercy and peace reign upon this earth
as revelation knowledge has begun. Holy, my Lord, to You alone.
Everlasting One…with no beginning and no end.
Embracing You with utter wonderment
Oh, how lovely, pure, and beautiful You are! Viola M. Jaynes
Father, I pray for those in my circle of family and friends who are carrying heavy loads...
Your Word says an anxious heart
weighs a person down, and this is how I think they must feel—as if they're carrying heavy loads, more than they can bear. When they feel upset and beside themselves, calm them down and comfort them with the assurance of Your love. Help them not be overwhelmed by anxious thoughts. (Proverbs 12:25a; Psalm 94:19)
Our hearts are not supposed to be troubled; but that's their struggle—help them trust You and the Lord Jesus, as I know they must. Help them understand that You are the One who makes a way when things seem impossible; nothing is too hard for You! (John 14:27; Isaiah 43:19; Jeremiah 32:17; Luke 1:37)
Help them be faithful to You and to the way You want them to live, for You guard the lives of those who are faithful; You protect them and never turn away from them. Help them know You as their fortress, as the rock in whom they take refuge, as One who is good, whose love endures forever, whose faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 97:10; Proverbs 2:8; Psalm 37:28; 94:22; 100:5)
In Jesus' name, amen. - Jim & Kaye Johns
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.
 ENCOURAGEMENT
Luke 21:15..... For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. Jeremiah 1:9..... Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. Numbers 11: 17 ..... I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take of the Spirit that is on you and put the Spirit on them. They will help you carry the burden of the people so that you will not have to carry it alone. Exodus 31:3..... and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts-- Job 32:8..... But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding. 2 Timothy 3:16 ..... All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, Romans 1:17....." And Jesus said unto them ... , "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible to you."
1 John 4:18 ....."There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear ... " Deuteronomy 31:6 .....Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Isaiah 35:4 ...... say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you."
By Faith Not By Sight Author: Stephanie Storey Morant In waking I give thanks
In what’s not known
I have to trust, My Father
That yesterday’s pain is gone
For you’ve given me this day
For me to rejoice
To faithfully follow
To willingly hear your voice
For trials will come sometimes
And burdens I’ll have to bare
But you promised me father
To always be there
So I’m standing on that promise
No matter what I go through
And just in case I stumble
I’m depending on you
For you hold the master plan
And your path is always right
So today I’m embarking
By faith and not by sight Anyway Author: Mother Teresa People are often unreasonable and self-centered.
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you.
Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough.
Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end it is between you and God.
It never was between you and them anyway.
Mother Teresa 'I believe that any man's life will be filled with constant and unexpected encouragement, if he makes up his mind to do his level best each day, and as nearly as possible reaching the high water mark of pure and useful living. '
'There are high spots in all of our lives and most of them have come about through encouragement from someone else. I don't care how great, how famous or successful a man or woman may be, each hungers for applause. '
'There is nothing better than the encouragement of a good friend.'
 VISION 1 Timothy 4:13--Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Acts 13:2 --As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. 1 Timothy 4:15--Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Psalms 127:1 --Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. Proverbs 19:21 --There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand. Acts 16:9 --And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. Proverbs 29:18 --Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he Habakkuk 2:2--And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Never allow what you see (your vision) be limited to current circumstances. Spiritual vision is given from above due to purpose and destiny for your existence. When circumstances seem to or attempt to cloud your view, find a Word 'seed' of promise for you to plant in what may seem like a barren time. There may be times of CHALLENGES UNCERTAINTIES FRUSTRATION FEARS SADNESS .....and DISAPPOINTMENTS Sometimes they are weeds attempting to choke out your seed. At other times, they themselves can be seeds of preparation... that can be used. Water your promises, dreams, visions, ... with faith, and allow God to grow them into existence ... of the destiny and purpose for which He created you... with spiritual encouragement and power for your journey to times of refreshing and fulfillment.
One of the most important aspects of success is the ability to visualize your path
and stay focused on the lighted path to your dreams, aspirations, callings, etc until you reach them. Establishing, or identifying your vision or life's purpose is the first step. "Not with his eyes but with His vision" "Life just seems so full of connections. Most of the time
we don't even pay attention to the depth of life.
We only see flat surfaces."
"To see what is in front of one's nose
needs a constant struggle."
"The art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook."
"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order."
"Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful,
for beauty is God's handwriting -- a wayside sacrament.
Welcome it in every fair face, in every fair sky, in every flower,
and thank God for it as a cup of blessing."
"If you go as far as you can see,
you will then see enough to go even farther."
"Our visions begin with our desires."
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?
JUSTIFICATION Proverbs.17:15-- He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous, both of them together are detestable to the Lord. Roman.3:23,24-- For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus Romans.4:6,7-- Just as David also speaks about the blessedness of the man to whom God reckons righteousness apart from works: BLESSED ARE THEY WHOSE TRANSGRESSIONS ARE FORGIVEN, AND WHOSE SINS ARE COVERED. Psalm.103:2,3-- Bless the Lord, . . . Who forgives all your iniquities, . 1 John.2:2-- And he (Jesus Christ) is the reconciling sacrifice for our sins, and not only for our sins but also for the sins of the whole world. Romans.3:10-12-- As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one. There is no who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away, together they have become worthless; there is no who does good, there is not even one." Romans.7:18,19-- For I know that no good thing dwells in me, that is in my sinful nature; for the willingness is present in me, but doing the good thing is not in me. For the good that I desire to do, I do not do; but the evil that I do not desire to do, this I keep doing. Psalm.19:12-- Who can discern his errors? Pardon my sins of ignorance. 2 Corinthians.5:21-- He made him (Christ) who knew no sin to be sin for our sake, so we might become the righteousness of God in him. Romans.5:9-- Therefore, having now been justified in his blood, by how much more shall we be saved through him from his wrath! The Stonecutter There was once a stonecutter who was dissatisfied with himself and with his position in life. One day, he passed a wealthy merchant's house and through the open gateway saw many fine possessions and important visitors.
"How powerful that merchant must be!" thought the stonecutter. He became very envious, and wished that he could be like the merchant. Then he would no longer have to live the life of a mere stonecutter. To his great surprise, he suddenly became the merchant, enjoying more luxuries and power than he had ever dreamed of, envied and detested by those less wealthy than himself. But soon a high official passed by, carried in a sedan chair, accompanied by attendants, and escorted by soldiers beating gongs. Everyone, no matter how wealthy, had to bow low before the procession.
"How powerful that official is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be a high official!" Then he became the high official, carried everywhere in his embroidered sedan chair, feared and hated by the people all around, who had to bow down before him as he passed. It was a hot summer day, and the official felt very uncomfortable in the sticky sedan chair. He looked up at the sun. It shone proudly in the sky, unaffected by his presence.
"How powerful the sun is!" he thought. "
I wish that I could be the sun!" Then he became the sun, shining fiercely down on everyone, scorching the fields, cursed by the farmers and labourers. But a huge black cloud moved between him and the earth, so that his light could no longer shine on everything below.
"How powerful that storm cloud is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be a cloud!" Then he became the cloud, flooding the fields and villages, shouted at by everyone. But soon he found that he was being pushed away by some great force, and realized that it was the wind.
"How powerful it is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be the wind!" Then he became the wind, blowing tiles off the roofs of houses, uprooting trees, hated and feared by all below him. But after a while, he ran up against something that would not move, no matter how forcefully he blew against it -- a huge, towering stone.
"How powerful that stone is!" he thought. "I wish that I could be a stone!"
Then he became the stone, more powerful than
anything else on earth. But as he stood there, he heard the sound of a hammer pounding a chisel into the solid rock and felt himself being changed.
"What could be more powerful than I, the stone?" he thought.
He looked down and saw far below him the figure of a stonecutter. Benjamin Hoff from The Tao Of Pooh 'The curse of poverty has no justification in
our age...The time has come for us to
civilize ourselves by the total, direct
and immediate abolition of poverty.'
Martin Luther King, Jr "Power is when you have every justification to kill someone, and then you don't" 'The modern conservative is engaged in
one of man's oldest exercises in moral
philosophy; that is, the search for a superior
moral justification for selfishness.'
"He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." - John 7:38 - Like a glass waiting to be filled
I looked around expectantly; but
Being filled doesn't always come
from the external
where we yearn to be touched,
where the heart is answered with words
or a humanly caress,
where the soul is satisfied
with so little
when life is a mess
The thirst of my soul
cannot be quenched by
mother’s milk
or lover’s nectar; so why
mourn the milk and
pine for the nectar when
I carry within me
A promise fulfilled?
A well
Of living water
in my very own belly.
The living water is a fire
that never goes out
It is poured in cool, but it infinitely burns hot
My longing for you
Will not abate
But I’ll survive and thrive
While I wait
Milk – the past
Nectar – the future
But parched today
God show me the way
to drink from the well
You placed in my belly
and be grateful
it never runs dry.
rainbowrev &jakuper (6/21/08)
 Interesting People Everywhere It’s easy to forget sometimes that everyone has a story to tell if we take the time to listen. We are so accustomed to hearing the stories of people in the news that we sometimes lose track of the fact that the random stranger on the bus also has a fascinating story about where they came from and how they got to be where they are. The sheer variety of paths taken in this world, from farmers to CEOs to homeless people to world travelers, is indicative of how much we can learn from each individual. Sometimes the shy, quiet person at work has the most amazing life story and the biggest dreams, it is up to us to take the time to find out.
Some people travel a path of wealth and privilege, while others struggle with only themselves to rely on, and both have great stories to tell. Each person learns lessons, makes choices, and develops a unique perspective, which only they can claim and share. Even two people who have had very similar lives will have slightly different experiences, leading them to a different point of view, so each person remains a treasure trove waiting to be explored. When we take the time to ask questions and listen, we find that every person has a fascinating story to tell and an utterly unique perspective from which to tell it.
Bearing this in mind, we have the opportunity to approach the world around us in a new way. There is never any reason to be bored at a party, or on the bus, or in a conversation with a stranger. When we retain the spark of curiosity and the warmth required to open someone up, we always have in front of us the makings of a great story. All we have to do is ask. What do you think?
The Unseen World Just because we can’t see something doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist, although this is a common way in which people deny the existence of spirit guides, angels, and other unseen helpers in our lives. However, anyone who has encountered such beings can attest to the fact that they do, indeed, exist, just as our breath exists, keeping us alive, even though we can’t see it. The wind exists, too, but we only know this because we feel it on our skin and hear it moving the leaves on the trees. All around us and within us are things we can’t see, and yet we know they are just as real as the grass beneath our feet.
What we see and don’t see may just be a matter of perspective, like the ladybug who sees the leaf on which she sits, but not the tree the leaf grows on, or the person sitting beneath it. And the person beneath the tree may or may not see the ladybug, depending on where he focuses his attention. Still, all of these things, whether seen or not seen by the person or the ladybug, exist in reality. Some people are more gifted at accessing that which we cannot see, but given an open and willing heart, anyone can tune into the invisible realm and begin to find their way.
Human beings have always done this, and it is only recently that we have fallen into distrusting the existence of what we can’t see. If you have lost touch with the unseen world, all you have to do is resolve to open your heart to its existence, and it will make itself known. Closing your eyes in meditation and visualization, or engaging the unseen through the written word, are just two ways to welcome the invisible back into your life. Whatever you choose to do, cultivating a relationship with that which you can’t see is a time-honored human practice that can greatly enhance your life. 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?
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