I am aware that it has been a very long time since I have published a post. Nothing to worry about. Actually I am doing quiet well. In fact, much better as I am looking to God for healing in my life and for the very issues that I write so passionately about. Being quiet can be a very good thing.
This Christmas season has started off in an unusual way for me. Typically by Thanksgiving weekend, I have decorated the house, and our family has "tackled" the tree. I have completed most of the Christmas shopping and sometimes even have the gifts wrapped (with the help of my husband!). The cookie swap has been planned and cookies are baked. Christmas cards are sometimes written and sent. So far, I have done none of these things. Today is December 6th.
I can't explain why I haven't started my Christmas frenzy. Yes, I am busy and working like so many of you. Being in the middle of a basement finish has taken much of my "free" time - but that isn't the reason. Really. The wonderful revelation of all of this is that I am not stressed nor am I in a panicked stated of mind.
There is much to be said about allowing things to flow in their natural state. Today our pastor talked about amusement verses amazement. I felt as if the Lord was putting the concept and words to what has been taking place in my heart. I want to be amazed this Christmas - and for whatever reason, taking things slower has helped.
You see, Christmas isn't about the decorations, gifts, productions and parties. We all know this in our hearts...but sometimes we feel things have to be amusing and festive to raise us to the height of exhilaration. Instead of exhilarated, we are exhausted. A quiet simple approach can help us to refocus on what IS the real meaning of Christmas. I don't believe the Lord Jesus cares whether my house is decorated or if I have my tree up. He does care about whether my heart is humble and ready to receive Him. The greatest joy in our amazement of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is His ever present love that changes everything in our lives.
Amazement - a movement in our hearts. This year, engage with the Christmas Story. Feel the wonder; experience the excitement in who God is; receive His love for you presented in the gift of His Son, Jesus. Consider the mystery of Christmas. Then respond in awe and astonishment to your God. Live and don't just exist this Christmas. You will not be the same!
Merry Christmas!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
New Life
I can remember as a little girl how I could smell and feel fall as it approached. The hot Georgia summers often felt unbearable as we became lethargic from the heat. We would try to escape to cool places: under a shade tree, wading bear-footed in the branch, finding a cool dark room, sitting in front of the box fan - but the exhausting heat followed us, suppressed us. So you can image how we loved the cool fall mornings when they arrived! Donning our sweathers for school and breathing in clean refreshing air. There was an excitment in the atmosphere as we awaited this new season in our lives. The anticipation of change was our deliverance.
It is easy to fall into complacency and apathy. Life can be suffocating and exhausting. We can allow stress to control us, and suddenly we find life out of control. There appears be no place to restore our hopes and dreams. Nothing satisfies. We may even question our faith or quesiton God. There is no relief...are you there? Have you been there? I have. But I have discovered that IF we have the desire, a fresh beginning and complete wholeness is waiting for us, no matter where we find ourselves in life.
It really is simple. The Lord gives us a fresh beginning and brand new start - daily. It is such liberation to know that once I acknowledge my sin or weaknesses, God washes His forgiveness and grace over me, instantaneously!! I wonder at times why I refuse God's gifts and His love only to remain in my state of turmoil. Looking back, I can see why the Lord refers to me as His sheep. It is either stupidity or pride that keeps me in the pit. I have to be willing to admit to what I have control over and what I don't. I have to take responsibility. And then surrender to God what I can't control. And that is where I find my sanctuary.
No matter what is going on around you - if you are at the place of wanting to be real and wanting true transformation and change, it can happen! The freedom we have in Christ is greater than anything we have in this life. It won't be easy - ridicule, persecution, doubt, unforgiveness from others (or even self), may be the troubles that persist. But during these times when we feel alone and scared, God promises to be with us in the heat of life. Right there with us. All we have to do is cry out to Him.
This summer has been a hard one for me. I have had to go through a period of darkness - waiting and suffering in loneliness. But it has "forced" me to look at my life and evaluate what is really important. And the realization is - nothing is more imporatant to me than my God and Savior. He has proven Himself faithful when I am not; He passionately loves me when I am unlovable; He has not given up on me with His patient pursuit; He has given me grace and courage to walk ahead into the unknown; He has not let me down. Not once.
God can use the oppressive heartaches of life to bring about a change in us. Through those things He can bring restoration and a fresh beginning to our hearts and lives for His glory. We just need to wrap His forgiveness, grace and power across our shoulders - then we are free to enter into new season of life. Remember to breathe.
2 Corinthians 4:16 (The Message)
"So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace."
It is easy to fall into complacency and apathy. Life can be suffocating and exhausting. We can allow stress to control us, and suddenly we find life out of control. There appears be no place to restore our hopes and dreams. Nothing satisfies. We may even question our faith or quesiton God. There is no relief...are you there? Have you been there? I have. But I have discovered that IF we have the desire, a fresh beginning and complete wholeness is waiting for us, no matter where we find ourselves in life.
It really is simple. The Lord gives us a fresh beginning and brand new start - daily. It is such liberation to know that once I acknowledge my sin or weaknesses, God washes His forgiveness and grace over me, instantaneously!! I wonder at times why I refuse God's gifts and His love only to remain in my state of turmoil. Looking back, I can see why the Lord refers to me as His sheep. It is either stupidity or pride that keeps me in the pit. I have to be willing to admit to what I have control over and what I don't. I have to take responsibility. And then surrender to God what I can't control. And that is where I find my sanctuary.
No matter what is going on around you - if you are at the place of wanting to be real and wanting true transformation and change, it can happen! The freedom we have in Christ is greater than anything we have in this life. It won't be easy - ridicule, persecution, doubt, unforgiveness from others (or even self), may be the troubles that persist. But during these times when we feel alone and scared, God promises to be with us in the heat of life. Right there with us. All we have to do is cry out to Him.
This summer has been a hard one for me. I have had to go through a period of darkness - waiting and suffering in loneliness. But it has "forced" me to look at my life and evaluate what is really important. And the realization is - nothing is more imporatant to me than my God and Savior. He has proven Himself faithful when I am not; He passionately loves me when I am unlovable; He has not given up on me with His patient pursuit; He has given me grace and courage to walk ahead into the unknown; He has not let me down. Not once.
God can use the oppressive heartaches of life to bring about a change in us. Through those things He can bring restoration and a fresh beginning to our hearts and lives for His glory. We just need to wrap His forgiveness, grace and power across our shoulders - then we are free to enter into new season of life. Remember to breathe.
2 Corinthians 4:16 (The Message)
"So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace."
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Come As You Are
Where do you go when you are lonely? What do you do when fear grips at your heart? Do you call out to God and hear His voice? God's promise rings true for all of us in Psalms 34:18, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
None of us has been passed over when it comes to trials, hurt, and the relentlessness of suffering. We love, and we hurt. Today while comtemplating this, the Lord reminded me that it is better to have a heart that feels pain, than to have no heart at all.
We often try to hide our pain - suffering in silence. Not only is our God ready and able to lift our souls, touching us with His healing and comforting Spirit, but He has given us wonderful friends and family to love us, to care for us, to be a light when it is too dark to see our way. Why inch blindly along? Is it fear? Pride? Belief in lies?
I am reminded of a song by Natalie Grant. I can't help but think of the words to Perfect People...
Never let 'em see you when you're breaking
Never let 'em see you when you fall
That's how we live
That's how we try
Tell the world you got it all together
Never let 'em see what is underneath
You cover it up with a crooked smile
But it only lasts for a little while
There is no such thing as perfect people
There is no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are
Broken and scared
Lift up your heart
Be amazed
Be changed
By a Perfect God
Suddenly it's like a weight is lifted
When you hear the words, "You are loved"
He knows where you are
And where you've been
And you never have to go there again!
There is no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are
Broken and scared
Lift up your heart
Be amazed
Be changed
By a Perfect God
Who lived and died to give new life
To heal our imperfections
So look up and sit up
Let grace be enough
Hold on. Don't lose faith. God is near. Not only is He near, He will save us! Preceding verse 18 is Psalms 34:17, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles."
I choose to believe God and believe what He says! We can go to Him, just as we are. I don't know about you, but that does my heart good.
Make way...I am coming through!!
None of us has been passed over when it comes to trials, hurt, and the relentlessness of suffering. We love, and we hurt. Today while comtemplating this, the Lord reminded me that it is better to have a heart that feels pain, than to have no heart at all.
We often try to hide our pain - suffering in silence. Not only is our God ready and able to lift our souls, touching us with His healing and comforting Spirit, but He has given us wonderful friends and family to love us, to care for us, to be a light when it is too dark to see our way. Why inch blindly along? Is it fear? Pride? Belief in lies?
I am reminded of a song by Natalie Grant. I can't help but think of the words to Perfect People...
Never let 'em see you when you're breaking
Never let 'em see you when you fall
That's how we live
That's how we try
Tell the world you got it all together
Never let 'em see what is underneath
You cover it up with a crooked smile
But it only lasts for a little while
There is no such thing as perfect people
There is no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are
Broken and scared
Lift up your heart
Be amazed
Be changed
By a Perfect God
Suddenly it's like a weight is lifted
When you hear the words, "You are loved"
He knows where you are
And where you've been
And you never have to go there again!
There is no such thing as a perfect life
So come as you are
Broken and scared
Lift up your heart
Be amazed
Be changed
By a Perfect God
Who lived and died to give new life
To heal our imperfections
So look up and sit up
Let grace be enough
Hold on. Don't lose faith. God is near. Not only is He near, He will save us! Preceding verse 18 is Psalms 34:17, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles."
I choose to believe God and believe what He says! We can go to Him, just as we are. I don't know about you, but that does my heart good.
Make way...I am coming through!!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
The Real Challenge
I am reading and working through an awesome book right now. Here are some helpful excerpts that I would like to share. I hope you find answers and encouragement on how to face the challenges in your life in order to make some changes. I have.
Ask yourself, "how often am I irritated and offended? Do I take full advantage of these opportunities by expressing how hurt and frustrated I am?" Irritable means to be near the point of a knife. People who are irritable are locked, loaded, and ready to overreact.
Irritation is the opposite reaction of love. When under pressure love doesn't turn sour. Minor problems do not yield major reactions. A loving person will remain calm and patient, showing mercy and restraining their temper. Rage and violence are out of the question. A loving person will not be overly sensitive or cranky but exercise emotional self-control.
There are two key reasons that contribute to irritable behavior: Stress. Stress weighs us down, drains our energy, weakens our health, and invites us to be cranky. It can be brought on by relational causes - arguing, division, and bitterness. There are excessive causes, too - overworking, overplaying, and overspending. And there are deficiencies - not getting enough rest, nutrition, or exercise. Oftentimes we inflict these dangers on ourselves, and this sets us up to be irritable.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. This means we must balance, prioritize, and pace ourselves. The Bible can help us avoid unhealthy stress. It teaches us to let love guide our relationships so that we aren't caught up in unnecessary arguments (Colossians 3:12-14). To pray through our anxieties instead of tackling them on our own (Philippians 4:6-7). To delegate when we are overworked (Exodus 18:17-23). To avoid overindulgence (Proverbs 25:16). The Bible also encourages us to take a "Sabbath" vacation day every week for worship and rest - allowing us time to recharge, refocus, and add breathing room or margin to our weekly schedule.
There is a deeper reason, though, why we become irritable. Selfishness. When we are irritable, the heart of the problem is primarily a problem of the heart. Jesus said, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34). Some people are like lemons: when life squeezes them, they pour out sour responses. Some are more like peaches: when the pressure is on, the result is still sweet. Being easily angered or irritated is an indicator that a hidden area of selfishness or insecurity is present where love is supposed to rule.
Selfishness wears many masks: Greed - being ungrateful for what we have and coveting for something we don't. A greedy and lustful heart will be easily frustrated and angered (James 4:1-3). Bitterness - a result of our unresolved anger. When bitterness takes root we will respond in a judgmental way and will refuse to work through our anger (Ephesians 4:31). Pride - a destructive condition of the heart where we view ourselves, our needs, our opinions are more important that those of others. Pride will lead us to act harshly in order to protect our ego and reputation.
These motivations can never be satisfied. But when love enters our hearts, it calms us down and inspires us to quit focusing on ourselves. It loosens the grasp and helps us to let go of unnecessary things. Love will lead us to forgive instead of holding a grudge. In each decision, love ultimately lowers our stress and helps us release the venom that can build up inside. It then sets up our heart to respond to others with patience and encouragment rather than anger and exasperation.
Romans 12:10 " Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor."
Ask yourself, "how often am I irritated and offended? Do I take full advantage of these opportunities by expressing how hurt and frustrated I am?" Irritable means to be near the point of a knife. People who are irritable are locked, loaded, and ready to overreact.
Irritation is the opposite reaction of love. When under pressure love doesn't turn sour. Minor problems do not yield major reactions. A loving person will remain calm and patient, showing mercy and restraining their temper. Rage and violence are out of the question. A loving person will not be overly sensitive or cranky but exercise emotional self-control.
There are two key reasons that contribute to irritable behavior: Stress. Stress weighs us down, drains our energy, weakens our health, and invites us to be cranky. It can be brought on by relational causes - arguing, division, and bitterness. There are excessive causes, too - overworking, overplaying, and overspending. And there are deficiencies - not getting enough rest, nutrition, or exercise. Oftentimes we inflict these dangers on ourselves, and this sets us up to be irritable.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. This means we must balance, prioritize, and pace ourselves. The Bible can help us avoid unhealthy stress. It teaches us to let love guide our relationships so that we aren't caught up in unnecessary arguments (Colossians 3:12-14). To pray through our anxieties instead of tackling them on our own (Philippians 4:6-7). To delegate when we are overworked (Exodus 18:17-23). To avoid overindulgence (Proverbs 25:16). The Bible also encourages us to take a "Sabbath" vacation day every week for worship and rest - allowing us time to recharge, refocus, and add breathing room or margin to our weekly schedule.
There is a deeper reason, though, why we become irritable. Selfishness. When we are irritable, the heart of the problem is primarily a problem of the heart. Jesus said, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34). Some people are like lemons: when life squeezes them, they pour out sour responses. Some are more like peaches: when the pressure is on, the result is still sweet. Being easily angered or irritated is an indicator that a hidden area of selfishness or insecurity is present where love is supposed to rule.
Selfishness wears many masks: Greed - being ungrateful for what we have and coveting for something we don't. A greedy and lustful heart will be easily frustrated and angered (James 4:1-3). Bitterness - a result of our unresolved anger. When bitterness takes root we will respond in a judgmental way and will refuse to work through our anger (Ephesians 4:31). Pride - a destructive condition of the heart where we view ourselves, our needs, our opinions are more important that those of others. Pride will lead us to act harshly in order to protect our ego and reputation.
These motivations can never be satisfied. But when love enters our hearts, it calms us down and inspires us to quit focusing on ourselves. It loosens the grasp and helps us to let go of unnecessary things. Love will lead us to forgive instead of holding a grudge. In each decision, love ultimately lowers our stress and helps us release the venom that can build up inside. It then sets up our heart to respond to others with patience and encouragment rather than anger and exasperation.
Romans 12:10 " Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor."
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Love and Life in Dead Places
This is the season for celebration! I just recently saw Mountain Bluebirds flying about and chirping as they gathered materials for the babies' nests...New life is all around us, although it is hard to imagine while looking out my window at a blanket of snow! At this point I am sure some of you (my friends from California??) may feel you will never see Spring, but trust me, you will. Spring is patiently waiting for God's proper time to emerge. The warm earth, life-giving sunshine, and longer days will all contribute to nature's life cycle. And, so it goes with our life cycle, too.
When the hardness and pain of life brings coldness to our reasoning and to our hearts, we often fail to see the beauty that lies just beneath the surface. A new and fresh perspective; a new and fresh spirit; a closer walk with God...the new life in what we face is waiting to emerge at just the proper time. God's perfect time. Once the beauty of new life springs forward, we then see glimpses of hope. One definition of resurrect is "to bring to view, attention or use again." We often don't see or appreciate the beauty of life unless we accept the hardships that had to be in order to bring God's purpose and plan to our attention.
The hope we can experience and have is because of the resurrection of another life: the life of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He came to bring warmth and beauty out of the pain and death of life's winters in each of us. He came to bring us a fresh and new beginning and purpose! The ever-lasting life that Jesus brings starts now; it can start today.
The flowers, the deciduous trees, and the wild life - everything in nature is waking up. I believe we need to wake up, too. Life is a gift, dear friends. An ever-present gift from God. We are the undeserving recipients. Being in our selfish sin state, God's Perfect Gift suffered, bled and died in order to conquer death victoriously for you and me.
I don't believe while on this earth I will ever fully comprehend the depth and power of Jesus' love for me. But I do comprehend this - because of Jesus I have crossed over from death to life! And I know that Jesus can resurrect love and life in the dead places of my life. When life's struggles tempt to over take me, I can claim His promises and experience life as He intended. You, too, can experience this hope. Reach out and feel the warmth of God's gift of life for you.
Happy Easter!
John 11:25-26 "You don't have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one, who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all. Do you believe this?" The Message (MSG)
When the hardness and pain of life brings coldness to our reasoning and to our hearts, we often fail to see the beauty that lies just beneath the surface. A new and fresh perspective; a new and fresh spirit; a closer walk with God...the new life in what we face is waiting to emerge at just the proper time. God's perfect time. Once the beauty of new life springs forward, we then see glimpses of hope. One definition of resurrect is "to bring to view, attention or use again." We often don't see or appreciate the beauty of life unless we accept the hardships that had to be in order to bring God's purpose and plan to our attention.
The hope we can experience and have is because of the resurrection of another life: the life of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He came to bring warmth and beauty out of the pain and death of life's winters in each of us. He came to bring us a fresh and new beginning and purpose! The ever-lasting life that Jesus brings starts now; it can start today.
The flowers, the deciduous trees, and the wild life - everything in nature is waking up. I believe we need to wake up, too. Life is a gift, dear friends. An ever-present gift from God. We are the undeserving recipients. Being in our selfish sin state, God's Perfect Gift suffered, bled and died in order to conquer death victoriously for you and me.
I don't believe while on this earth I will ever fully comprehend the depth and power of Jesus' love for me. But I do comprehend this - because of Jesus I have crossed over from death to life! And I know that Jesus can resurrect love and life in the dead places of my life. When life's struggles tempt to over take me, I can claim His promises and experience life as He intended. You, too, can experience this hope. Reach out and feel the warmth of God's gift of life for you.
Happy Easter!
John 11:25-26 "You don't have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one, who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all. Do you believe this?" The Message (MSG)
Monday, March 30, 2009
Ease PMS
When it comes to soothing premenstrual symptoms, the best medicine may be found in your kitchen—and it's not the chocolate and fatty foods you might crave. Studies have shown that healthy foods can actually eliminate the mood swings, bloating, blemishes, breast tenderness, and fatigue that often precede menstruation. Consuming soy, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds may help balance hormones and prevent PMS symptoms.
Salad of Asparagus, Mâche, Endive and Orange Vinaigrette and Strawberry Salad with Gorgonzola Dressing incorporate the ingredients to help ease your symptoms as well as your cravings!
From Yoga Journal, March 30, 2009
Salad of Asparagus, Mâche, Endive and Orange Vinaigrette and Strawberry Salad with Gorgonzola Dressing incorporate the ingredients to help ease your symptoms as well as your cravings!
From Yoga Journal, March 30, 2009
Monday, March 16, 2009
Can We Handle the Truth?
If you are like me, sometimes in the journey of life you come full circle. Whether it is in pursuit of a goal or discovering the revelation in a lesson God is teaching. And sometimes... the part where we acknowledge the truth about ourselves (or a situation) is very difficult.
God recently revealed to me during a much needed get away at the TLC Women's Retreat in February, that in spite of my self-sufficiency and dependence on self (which by the way isn't a blessing!), I am just like any other woman. I also have deep longings to be adored, to be cared for, and to be loved.
There is no shame in admitting this. However, the disappointment is when I find myself, once again, looking to others to compliment those needs; God has given us all godly friendships and family to be an expression of His goodness and love here on this earth, but we can not be complete in them. Our wholeness is a result of the One True God - pouring His love, truth and grace into the vast chasm of our hearts. He is the One who adores us, loves us and cares for us.
I would rather not focus on the reality of having to revisit the same lesson many times in my life, or the fact that I somehow need to be reminded that our God is a GREAT God and has always been faithful to me. We are all human - and essentially struggle in one way or another. Remember, Satan can use what we think on to gain a foot-hold...feeling guilt and defeat are perfect ways for the enemy to bring destruction. Friends, there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus! The Lord's call to be truthful to Him, to ourselves, is more important than the false guilt Satan is threatening. The distinct understanding for us is that we know the truth, and there is freedom in that!!!
John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." NIV
God recently revealed to me during a much needed get away at the TLC Women's Retreat in February, that in spite of my self-sufficiency and dependence on self (which by the way isn't a blessing!), I am just like any other woman. I also have deep longings to be adored, to be cared for, and to be loved.
There is no shame in admitting this. However, the disappointment is when I find myself, once again, looking to others to compliment those needs; God has given us all godly friendships and family to be an expression of His goodness and love here on this earth, but we can not be complete in them. Our wholeness is a result of the One True God - pouring His love, truth and grace into the vast chasm of our hearts. He is the One who adores us, loves us and cares for us.
I would rather not focus on the reality of having to revisit the same lesson many times in my life, or the fact that I somehow need to be reminded that our God is a GREAT God and has always been faithful to me. We are all human - and essentially struggle in one way or another. Remember, Satan can use what we think on to gain a foot-hold...feeling guilt and defeat are perfect ways for the enemy to bring destruction. Friends, there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus! The Lord's call to be truthful to Him, to ourselves, is more important than the false guilt Satan is threatening. The distinct understanding for us is that we know the truth, and there is freedom in that!!!
John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." NIV
Beth Moore states in the study of Esther that sometimes we are imprisoned by our unwillingness to tell the truth about ourselves. She is so right-on. God's promise is simple. Re-read it above. HIS truth will set us free. To experience that freedom is joy unspeakable! If we are willing to know and accept God's truth, we will be delivered from our chains! Hallelujah! Let me hear an AMEN! Amen.
There was a lightness in my heart this weekend. My heart had come home to me. I knew the joy of my Father, my God, and my King. I felt His comforting love. God will never be ashamed of us and what we are feeling. His is a big God - He can connect what we know in our heads to what we need in our hearts. Trust Him.
Simple. Truth. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal His truth to you - a perfect time would be when you experiencing quietness in your rest in Him...on your yoga mat, in your favorite chair, meandering on a wilderness path in the mountains. Be still. Know He is your God. Spend time in His Word. Meditate on His truths about Himself, about you, about life.
God will challenge you concerning the truths about yourself. Be courageous - ask to know the truth about where you have been and where you are going. It more than likely will be painful and hard taking that honest inventory, but our Lord will be with you every step of the way! Having the willingness to face the parts of ourselves that aren't so pretty is giving our God the opportunity to glorify Himself in our human weaknesses.
Joshua 1:9 "All your life, no one will be able to hold out against you. I'll be with you. I won't give up on you; I won't leave you. Strength! Courage! Give it everything you have, heart and soul. Don't get off track, either left or right, so as to make sure you get to where you're going. And don't for a minute let this Book of The Revelation be out of mind. Ponder and meditate on it day and night, making sure you practice everything written in it. Then you'll get where you're going; then you'll succeed. Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take."
The Message (MSG)
The Message (MSG)
Monday, February 16, 2009
Setting My Mind - A Reflection for the Weak
Recently, I have been contemplating the importance of what we "set" our minds on...In God's Word in Colossians 3:2, the Lord commands, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Why do you think God says this is important? How is it relevant to us in our day to day lives?
According to Webster, to set means: the act or action of settling; intent, determined, persistent; a state of psychological preparedness to an anticipated stimulus or situation. Wow. Did you know those three very small letters possessed so much meaning? Neither did I.
It is so easy to allow our emotions, feelings and mood dictate our decisions...this couldn't be more true than when we are in pain. At that precise moment I can't think of anything other than getting the "heck out there"! I don't like feelings of despair, loneliness, hurt, confusion, and brokenness...I really don't know of any human being who does. These experiences can leave us feeling battered and bruised. More so if our decisions at those moments of pain are ones that are contrary to God and His ways of love and peace. (Let me interject that this is not referring to issues of personal self-respect and taking a stand. Sometimes putting necessary boundaries around us is important.) Temptation to give in to these moments are difficult enough to resist the first time and second time. But what about that third and fourth time? It can go on and on until we are worn down. That is unless we set our minds.
Beth Moore in her study on Esther comments that Satan knows that even the strong can grow weak, but also states the opposite is true: even the weak grow strong if we set our minds to it! How many times did you hear your parents say, "you can do anything you set your mind to"? We can purpose to respond out of our mind-set rather than our mood. We can't depend on a positive mood or disposition to help us make Godly decisions. You and I both can contest that the times we live our lives like this are the times life is most uncertain as we are tossed around like a wave upon the sea.
We all can learn to be stronger and live with the intention of setting our mind on what God reveals about us, others and life in general. In His Word, He gives us all the hope and power to renew our minds and live a transformed life. In addition to knowing His Word, part of the process also involves staying with the pain, feeling it - then taking it before God to determine His purpose in it. The natural phenomenon of a open and receptive heart is the change and transformation of His healing touch.
I am forever grateful and thankful that my God loves me enough to pursue me with this lesson...left to myself, I often get it wrong. Left to myself I look in the wrong places when I feel insecure or needy. He wants me to live victoriously in this area of my life. He wants you to, also. He also wants us to experience a life full of His beauty and full of the glory of His presence. Something that is never changing and consistent. Our God is all beautiful and glorious!
I encourage you to take time to be with God, in His Word, in His presence...set your minds on Him - His teachings; His precepts; His commands; His desires; His will. He will guard your minds and hearts, and give you strength to make wise choices and decisions that bring life and not death to your spirit.
"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise to God." Philippians 1:9-11
According to Webster, to set means: the act or action of settling; intent, determined, persistent; a state of psychological preparedness to an anticipated stimulus or situation. Wow. Did you know those three very small letters possessed so much meaning? Neither did I.
It is so easy to allow our emotions, feelings and mood dictate our decisions...this couldn't be more true than when we are in pain. At that precise moment I can't think of anything other than getting the "heck out there"! I don't like feelings of despair, loneliness, hurt, confusion, and brokenness...I really don't know of any human being who does. These experiences can leave us feeling battered and bruised. More so if our decisions at those moments of pain are ones that are contrary to God and His ways of love and peace. (Let me interject that this is not referring to issues of personal self-respect and taking a stand. Sometimes putting necessary boundaries around us is important.) Temptation to give in to these moments are difficult enough to resist the first time and second time. But what about that third and fourth time? It can go on and on until we are worn down. That is unless we set our minds.
Beth Moore in her study on Esther comments that Satan knows that even the strong can grow weak, but also states the opposite is true: even the weak grow strong if we set our minds to it! How many times did you hear your parents say, "you can do anything you set your mind to"? We can purpose to respond out of our mind-set rather than our mood. We can't depend on a positive mood or disposition to help us make Godly decisions. You and I both can contest that the times we live our lives like this are the times life is most uncertain as we are tossed around like a wave upon the sea.
We all can learn to be stronger and live with the intention of setting our mind on what God reveals about us, others and life in general. In His Word, He gives us all the hope and power to renew our minds and live a transformed life. In addition to knowing His Word, part of the process also involves staying with the pain, feeling it - then taking it before God to determine His purpose in it. The natural phenomenon of a open and receptive heart is the change and transformation of His healing touch.
I am forever grateful and thankful that my God loves me enough to pursue me with this lesson...left to myself, I often get it wrong. Left to myself I look in the wrong places when I feel insecure or needy. He wants me to live victoriously in this area of my life. He wants you to, also. He also wants us to experience a life full of His beauty and full of the glory of His presence. Something that is never changing and consistent. Our God is all beautiful and glorious!
I encourage you to take time to be with God, in His Word, in His presence...set your minds on Him - His teachings; His precepts; His commands; His desires; His will. He will guard your minds and hearts, and give you strength to make wise choices and decisions that bring life and not death to your spirit.
"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise to God." Philippians 1:9-11
Friday, February 6, 2009
Grateful Heart
This journey that I am on has been quite the experience! Not only am I learning to think and respond (yes, I believe this is called communication) in a more deliberate way to our Lord and to others in my life, I am also learning about the not so related but important venues of communication. I am learning about...blogs...
So my "reflection" for this week is my thankfulness for one person in particular - Holly Smith. Holly has worked tirelessly with me to put my ideas and thoughts into a creative format for you and others to access in learning more about Yahweh Yoga. This blog is the work of her creative juices and her enduring patience. Where would I have been without Holly? Thank you, Holly! (Holly will soon be launching her own graphic and design company. If you need help in web, blog or business design contact her at chrishollysmith@msn.com.)
Along side Holly is her friend, Patty - a wonderful woman, whom I have never talked with nor met. But Patty colaborated with Holly on colors and layout. Thank you, Patty! You are a dear sweet soul.
And then there is Heather. Another wonderful selfless woman, who is also Holly's friend (I am happy that Holly has friends like these!) I also do not personally know Heather, but am forever grateful. The beautiful mountain range is a photograph from Heather's personal collection. The quite stream photo is also Heather's photography. She is gifted in seeing the beauty around her and capturing it through her camera's eye. Thank you, Heather, for sharing your photos that express exactly what I feel Reflections is all about.
And I want to thank my daughter, Sadie. Sadie is another creative soul, who gave me her honest and open opinions concerning my ideas. Her critical eye was essential to the final design of this blog. Thank you, Sadie.
I will continue to reflect on God's goodness in my life this weekend - and especially reflect on my husband's homecoming tomorrow! I have missed him so!
Our blessings are abundant if we open our eyes to them. I hope you will open your eyes to all that is around you, and reflect, too, on our Mighty God.
With Joy,
Pamela
So my "reflection" for this week is my thankfulness for one person in particular - Holly Smith. Holly has worked tirelessly with me to put my ideas and thoughts into a creative format for you and others to access in learning more about Yahweh Yoga. This blog is the work of her creative juices and her enduring patience. Where would I have been without Holly? Thank you, Holly! (Holly will soon be launching her own graphic and design company. If you need help in web, blog or business design contact her at chrishollysmith@msn.com.)
Along side Holly is her friend, Patty - a wonderful woman, whom I have never talked with nor met. But Patty colaborated with Holly on colors and layout. Thank you, Patty! You are a dear sweet soul.
And then there is Heather. Another wonderful selfless woman, who is also Holly's friend (I am happy that Holly has friends like these!) I also do not personally know Heather, but am forever grateful. The beautiful mountain range is a photograph from Heather's personal collection. The quite stream photo is also Heather's photography. She is gifted in seeing the beauty around her and capturing it through her camera's eye. Thank you, Heather, for sharing your photos that express exactly what I feel Reflections is all about.
And I want to thank my daughter, Sadie. Sadie is another creative soul, who gave me her honest and open opinions concerning my ideas. Her critical eye was essential to the final design of this blog. Thank you, Sadie.
I will continue to reflect on God's goodness in my life this weekend - and especially reflect on my husband's homecoming tomorrow! I have missed him so!
Our blessings are abundant if we open our eyes to them. I hope you will open your eyes to all that is around you, and reflect, too, on our Mighty God.
With Joy,
Pamela
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Class Descriptions
Morning Stretch:
Class begins with a gentle awakening of the body with warm up stretching, followed by arm and abdominal work. Coming onto the hands and knees attention is given for stretching the legs and side body. While on the feet sun salutations and warrior series are practiced. Finishing on the floor with gentle back bends and spinal twists. The session ends with the most important pose, Savasana or resting pose. Recommended for all levels.
Gentle Journey:
Similar flows as “Morning Stretch”, but poses are held for a longer period of time to increase strength. A reflective break-a-sweat practice designed to de-stress and tone mind, body, soul. Focus is given to strength building and learning balance. Great for beginners and students of all ages and fitness levels.
Faithful Flow:
A peaceful intermediate level practice to get you sweating and centered. Balancing poses like Tree, Crane and Warrior Three are added. To assist with balancing poses, breathing techniques or Pranayamas will be introduced. This class leaves you energized and ready to take on the day. Recommended for those looking for a challenge.
Rest and Restore:
Set in a darkened room this class is an excellent way to unwind after a long day. Receive the same benefits that come from the Morning Stretch and Gentle Journey classes, but at a slower, more relaxed pace. Recommended for all levels looking for a restorative experience.
Class begins with a gentle awakening of the body with warm up stretching, followed by arm and abdominal work. Coming onto the hands and knees attention is given for stretching the legs and side body. While on the feet sun salutations and warrior series are practiced. Finishing on the floor with gentle back bends and spinal twists. The session ends with the most important pose, Savasana or resting pose. Recommended for all levels.
Gentle Journey:
Similar flows as “Morning Stretch”, but poses are held for a longer period of time to increase strength. A reflective break-a-sweat practice designed to de-stress and tone mind, body, soul. Focus is given to strength building and learning balance. Great for beginners and students of all ages and fitness levels.
Faithful Flow:
A peaceful intermediate level practice to get you sweating and centered. Balancing poses like Tree, Crane and Warrior Three are added. To assist with balancing poses, breathing techniques or Pranayamas will be introduced. This class leaves you energized and ready to take on the day. Recommended for those looking for a challenge.
Rest and Restore:
Set in a darkened room this class is an excellent way to unwind after a long day. Receive the same benefits that come from the Morning Stretch and Gentle Journey classes, but at a slower, more relaxed pace. Recommended for all levels looking for a restorative experience.
Benefits of Yoga Practice
* Intimate connection with God
* Greater self-acceptance
* Peace of mind
* Greater strength, better balance, more stamina, and increased flexibility
* Joints are lubricated, muscles, tendons, and ligaments are toned and strengthened
* Spine and abdominal muscles are strengthened together, allowing the body to sit and stand tall without discomfort – improving posture
* Toxins are flushed, glands are stimulated, increased circulation feeds oxygen to each cell, and body functions will improve
* Lung capacity grows, stress and toxins are released with proper breathing
* Functions of the mind are sharpened
* More restful sleep
* Immune functions strengthened
* Greater self-acceptance
* Peace of mind
* Greater strength, better balance, more stamina, and increased flexibility
* Joints are lubricated, muscles, tendons, and ligaments are toned and strengthened
* Spine and abdominal muscles are strengthened together, allowing the body to sit and stand tall without discomfort – improving posture
* Toxins are flushed, glands are stimulated, increased circulation feeds oxygen to each cell, and body functions will improve
* Lung capacity grows, stress and toxins are released with proper breathing
* Functions of the mind are sharpened
* More restful sleep
* Immune functions strengthened
What is Hatha Yoga?
“Hatha” is a type of yoga. It includes any yoga that is physical.
“Ha” means sun in Sanskrit (an ancient language no longer in existence), and “tha” means moon. “Yoga” means union, to yoke, or to join. Hatha yoga is the practice of bring about the union of opposites. We become aware of our opposites (side to side, front and back, top and bottom, long and short, and left to right).
Through the physical practice of yoga poses, breath control, and flowing posture routines, we can learn balance and deep relaxation. Webster's dictionary states that yoga is "a system of exercises for attaining bodily or mental control & well-being."
In Hatha yoga, the body is awakened, and the mind is trained to be still. Yoga does not bring about peace but teaches us to be quiet to experience the peace that comes from God.
“Ha” means sun in Sanskrit (an ancient language no longer in existence), and “tha” means moon. “Yoga” means union, to yoke, or to join. Hatha yoga is the practice of bring about the union of opposites. We become aware of our opposites (side to side, front and back, top and bottom, long and short, and left to right).
Through the physical practice of yoga poses, breath control, and flowing posture routines, we can learn balance and deep relaxation. Webster's dictionary states that yoga is "a system of exercises for attaining bodily or mental control & well-being."
In Hatha yoga, the body is awakened, and the mind is trained to be still. Yoga does not bring about peace but teaches us to be quiet to experience the peace that comes from God.
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