Have a Good Day EveryDay Affirmations

A Letter from Michael - A Christmas Tradition from the Past

2011-12-27T03:33:00.000-08:00

When I heard this on the radio last night, I definitely had to find the letter and share it here...it might just change your outlook about how to live each day connected to God and his realm of Angels:

To Listen - Click This Link

A Letter from Michael
Merry Christmas everybody! My name is Lee Allan, and the story you are about to hear has become a Christmas tradition. It's been broadcast for over 25 years on radio stations all over America. The story was given to me by Ed Harding, news director of a radio station much like this one. It was a copy of a letter, written by a young Marine named Michael, who was hospitalized after being wounded on a Korean battlefield. The letter was written home to his mother, but it was first seen and read by a Navy Chaplain. In the letter, Michael describes what happened to him on that lonely, frozen battlefield. When the Chaplain first saw the letter, he talked with the boy's mother, the sergeant in charge of the boy's patrol, and the patrolled members themselves. Privately, they will all still tell you that what you are about to hear is a true story. Recently read the letter at Christmas time and let it stand on its own merit. The sergeant, the patrol members, and Michael are real people. The story is a letter, a copy of the original. A letter from Michael.

Dear Mom,

I wouldn't dare write this letter to anyone but you because no one else will believe it. Maybe even you will find it hard. But I've got to tell somebody. First off, I'm in a hospital. Now don't worry. You hear me? Don't…don't worry. I…I was wounded, but I'm okay. You understand? Okay. The doctor says I'll be up and around in a month, but that isn't what I want to tell you. Remember when I joined the Marines last year? Remember when I left, how you told me to say a prayer to St. Michael everyday? You really didn't have to tell me that. Ever since I can remember, you always told me to pray to St. Michael the Arc Angel. You even named me after him. Well I always have. When I got to Korea, I prayed even harder. Remember the prayer you taught me? "Michael, Michael of the morning. Fresh court of heaven adorning." You know the rest of it. Well I said it everyday. Sometimes when I was marching. Sometimes, resting. But always before I went to sleep. I even got some of the other fellas to say it. Well, one day I was with an advance detail, way up forward, in the front lines. I was plotting along, in the bitter cold. My breath was like cigar smoke. I thought I knew every guy on the patrol, but along side of me comes another Marine I had never met before. He was bigger than any Marine I had ever seen. He must have been six foot four, and built in proportion. It gave me a feeling of security to have such a buddy near. Anyway, there we were, trudging along, rest of the patrol spread out. Just to start a conversation I said, "Cold! Ain't it?" And then I laughed. Here I was, with a good chance of getting killed any minute, and I'm talking about the weather. My companion seemed to understand. I heard him laugh softly. I looked at him. "I've never seen you before. I thought I knew every man in the outfit." "I just joined at the last minute," he replied. "The name is Michael." "Is that so?" I said. "That's my name, too." "I know," he said. "And then we're on, "Michael, Michael of the morning." I was too amazed to say anything for a minute. How did he know my name? And the prayer that you had taught me. Then I smiled to myself. "Heh". Every guy in the outfit knew about me. Hadn't I taught the prayer to anyone who'd listen? Why now and then, they even referred to me as St. Michael. Neither of us spoke for a time, and then he broke the silence. "We're gonna have some trouble up ahead. He must have been in some fine physical shape, for he was breathing so lightly, I couldn't see his breath. Mine poured out in grape clouds. There was no smile on his face now. Trouble ahead, I thought to myself. Well, with the enemy all around us, that's no great revelation. Snow began to fall, in great thick globs. In a brief moment, the whole countryside was blotted out and I was marching in a white fog of wet, sticky particles. My companion disappeared. "Michael!" I shouted in sudden alarm. I felt his hand on my arm. His voice was rich and strong. "This will stop shortly." His prophecy proved to be correct. In a few moments the snow stopped as abruptly as it had begun. The sun was a hard shining disc. I looked back for the rest of the patrol. There was no one in sight. We lost them in that heavy fall of snow. I looked ahead as we came over a little rise. Mom, my heart stopped. There were seven of them and their padded pants and jackets and funny little hats, only there wasn't anything funny about them now. Seven rifles were aimed at us. "Down Michael!" I screamed and hit the frozen earth. I heard those rifles fire almost as one. I heard the bullets. But there was Michael. Still standing. Mom, those guys couldn’t have missed. Not at that range. I expected to see him literally blown to bits. But there he stood, making no effort to fire himself. He was paralyzed with fear. It happens sometimes, mom, even to the very bravest. He was…he was like a bird, fascinated by a snick. At least, that's what I thought then. I jumped up to pull him down, and felt a sudden flame in my chest. I often wondered what it felt like to be hit. Now I know. I remember feeling strong arms above me. Arms that laid me, ever so gently, on a pillow of snow. I opened my eyes for one last look. I was dying. Maybe I was even dead. I remember thinking well, this isn't so bad. Maybe I was looking into the sun. Maybe I was in shock. But it seemed I saw Michael standing erect again, only this time, his face was shining with terrible splendour. As I say, maybe it was the sun in my eyes, but he seemed to change as I watched him; he grew, bigger. His arms stretched out wide. Maybe it was the snow falling again, but there was a brightness around him; like the wings of an angel. In his hand was a sword. A sword that flashed with a million lights. And that’s the last thing I remember until the rest of the fellas came up and found me. I don't know how much time had passed, but now and then, I had a moment's respite from the pain. I remember telling them that the enemy was just ahead. "Where's Michael?" I asked. I saw them look at one another. "Where's who?" asked one. "Michael". "Michael, that big Marine that I was walking with just before that big snow squall hit us". "Kid," said the sergeant. "You weren't walking with anyone. I had my eyes on you the whole time. You were getting too far out. I was just gonna call you in when you disappeared in the snow." He looked at me, curiously. "How'd you do it kid?" "How'd I do what?" I asked, half angry, despite my wound. "This big Marine named Michael and I were just…" "Son," said the sergeant kindly. "I picked this outfit out myself, and there just ain't another Michael in it. You’re the only Mike in it." He paused for a moment. "Just how'd you do it, kid? We heard shots. There hasn't been a shot fired from your rifle. And there isn't a bit of lead in them seven bodies over the hill there. I didn't say anything. What could I say? I could only look, open-mouthed, with amazement. It was then the sergeant spoke again. "Kid," he said gently. "Every one of those seven bodies over the hill there was killed, by a sword stroke." That's all I could tell you mom. As I say, it may have been the sun in my eyes. It may have been the cold, or the pain. But that’s what happened.

Love,
Michael

A Happiness Thought

2011-12-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

If we want to find happiness, let's stop thinking about gratitude or ingratitude and give for the inner joy of giving."

-- Dale Carnegie

What Were You Thinking this Morning?

2011-11-28T03:06:00.000-08:00

“Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits...”
(Psalm 68:19, NKJ)

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria

This morning when you woke up, what was the first thing that went through your mind? Maybe you have a deadline to meet or a to-do list a mile long. Maybe you are facing a challenge or going through a difficulty in a relationship that’s consuming your thoughts.

Today, I want to encourage you, instead of focusing on what your circumstances have to offer, focus on what God has to offer you. His mercies are new every morning, and His compassion never fails. He has victory in store for you today. He has provision in store for you today. He has joy in store for you today, and He has peace in store for you today. He daily loads you with benefits!

The key to “loading up” these daily benefits is setting your focus in the right direction. You can’t wait to see how you feel, what kind of mood your spouse is in, or what the traffic is like. No, you have to set your focus by saying, “This is going to be a great day. I am blessed and cannot be cursed! I know God is directing my steps and something good is going to happen to me today!”

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, today I choose to focus on You. I open my heart and mind to receive Your daily benefits. Show me ways to be a blessing to others and use me for Your glory in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

Thanks Giving

2011-11-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ...”
(2 Corinthians 2:14, NKJ)

May all of you experience the Happiness of a Good Thanksgiving!

The LORD bless you, and keep you...

2011-08-28T06:05:00.000-07:00

The LORD bless you, and keep you;
The LORD make His face shine on you,
And be gracious to you;
The LORD lift up His countenance on you,
And give you peace.’

Source: Numbers 6:24-26

The Prayer of Faith

2011-08-17T03:08:00.000-07:00

The Prayer of Faith

by Hannah More Kohaus

God is my help in every need;
God does my every hunger feed;
God walks besides me, guides my way
Through every moment of the day.

I now am wise. I now am true,
Patient, kind, and loving too.
All things I am, can do, and be,
Through Christ, the Truth that is in me.

God is my health, I can't be sick;
God is my strength, unfailing, quick;
God is my all, I know no fear,
Since God and love and Truth are here.

Hannah More (February 2, 1745 – September 7, 1833) was an English religious writer, and philanthropist. She can be said to have made three reputations in the course of her long life: as a poet and playwright in the circle of Johnson, Reynolds, and Garrick , as a writer on moral and religious subjects, and as a practical philanthropist.
Source: en.Wikipedia.org

A Strong Positive Attitude will...

2011-07-03T04:06:00.000-07:00

A strong positive attitude will create more miracles than any wonder drug.

-Patricia Neal

I keep the Lord always before me. --Psalm 16:8

Easter Morning - Marvel

2011-04-25T03:05:00.000-07:00

But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen wrappings only; and he went away to his home, marveling at what had happened. Luke:24:12

...and the angel said unto them Fear Not.....

2010-12-26T06:58:00.000-08:00

....for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great Joy, which shall be to all people, Luke 2:10

Joy vs. Fear ... It was Jesus who brought the concept and emphasis of Joy into the world and our experience.

A prayer for this gift:
"Our Heavenly Father, we give You thanks for the Christmas message. What a wonderful story it is, so simple that even in the midst of life's complexities every one of us can find the way into glorious living. We give you thanks, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen"
Source:Positive Thinking for Every Day of the Year (December 25)

A Blessing for Today

2010-11-12T03:14:00.000-08:00

A Blessing

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you...and give you peace”
(Numbers 6:24–26, NIV)

Prayer for Today

2010-11-05T02:58:00.000-07:00

Joel and Victoria

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for Your good promises to me. I ask that You give me a heart that is steadfast and fixed on You. Fill me with Your peace and perseverance so I can live in victory all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

Take Time for....

2010-08-10T04:11:00.000-07:00

Mr. Peale had lunch with a long time friend and started the conversation about a man he had met who siad that "it was impossible to be happy anymore." His longtime friend reached into his pocket and pulled out a card. This is what is said:

Take Time to Laugh: It is music of the soul.
Take Time to Play: It is the source of perpetual youth.
Take Time to Pray: It is the greatest power on Earth.
Take Time to Love and be Loved: It is a God given priviledge.
Take Time to be friendly: It is the road to happiness.
Take Time to Give: It is too short a day to be selfish.

Norman added one last one:

Take Time for God: It is the way to Life.

Life Lifter - Keep up the Enthusiasm

2010-08-09T04:11:00.000-07:00

Years ago, Mr. Peale shares these thoughts:

Cushion the painful effects of hard blows by keeping enthusiasm going strong, even if doing so requires struggle. The Bible knows the score, the facts of life , so much better than any cynic. The tough-minded optimist views any problem as a challenge to his intelligence, ingenuity, and faith. He keeps on thinking, praying, and believing. He knows there is a solution and so he finally finds it."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you. Job 22:21
New International Version (©1984)

Faith - When I Pray for Healing

2010-05-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

I use my faith in positive and intentional ways.

I may consider my faith to be weak or strong. While my faith is strengthened through prayer and attention, I must also make certain that my faith is rightly directed.

I use my faith when I pray for healing, yet I am also using faith when I worry about a loved one. My intention in prayer is to experience a positive result, so I choose to recognize the feelings from which I pray.

I release any anxious feelings and pray with a sense of peace and positive faith. I become still and imagine only the best possible results. I believe that these outcomes will come to pass. As I use intentional faith, my mind and heart are at ease and my trust in God grows ever stronger.

Jesus said, "Go; let it be done for you according to your faith." And the servant was healed in that hour.--Matthew 8:13

Source:http://www.dailyword.com

Easter - a Time of Transformation

2010-04-03T05:15:00.000-07:00

ionNew Creation

The power of God transforms my life.

I may associate darkness with fear or sadness. Yet darkness may also mark a new beginning, a time of transformation. Out of what was, something new emerges. The chick emerges from the egg; the butterfly emerges from the cocoon. Time in the darkness is an important and essential part of the process of life.
Jesus knew that the darkness of the tomb held the promise of eternal life. In faith I move through times of challenge, even of sorrow, expecting good to be revealed through the activity of Spirit. In the midst of what may appear to be darkness, I open myself to new wisdom. With each experience, I emerge a new creation of Spirit.

Very truly, I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice; you will have pain, but your pain will turn into joy.--John 16:20

Source:http://DailyWord.com

Think on Purpose...

2010-03-04T03:39:00.000-08:00

Joyce Meyer quote from her series about Battlefield of the Mind :

"You dont have to just think about whatever comes to your mind...Think on purpose...cast down that thought...and if you know the word of God then you can Think instead on purpose...

Don't make yourself upset by your thoughts...
Now when I wake up in the morning I choose to say:

Thank you Lord for this day, Thank you God that I can enjoy this day, thank you for my family, my ministry and show me some ways that I can be a blessing to someone. My happiness is not dependent on happenings but on the Joy of the Lord..."

Can You Make Candy?

2010-02-11T11:46:00.000-08:00

Norman Vincent Peale relates a story about meeting a lady in Mississippi who told him: "I thought my husband would provide for me so that when he died I would'nt worry. But his estate was eaten up, and I've got to go to work or go on relief."

Norman didn't know how to answer, so he prayed: "Lord, gives us an insight for Miss Lou."...at the end of the prayer he asked Miss Lou, "Can you make candy?. She answered, "Now that is something I can do." Norman then asked her to make a pound of candy and send it to him.

Later Norman received a two-pound package of candy and replied to Miss Lou, to "Get busy merchandising that candy."

In his story, Norman suggested that when in Edwards, Mississippi to find a shop there called "The Sweetest Spot."

My searches for "The Sweetest Spot" were never successful until today. There is a postcard (postmarked May 1952) being sold on eBay that shows the actual spot where Miss Lou built her candy store. The sign shows the real name, Lou's Candy Kitchen and is located on the "sweetest spot on highway 80"!!!

Norman concluded: "Miss Lou found that by thinking creatively she could change her life...and by serving others, she became a great influence for good in the area where she lives."

May we be willing to ask the Lord to help us in a time of need and think creatively on how WE may serve others...

I Choose Positive Words Today

2010-02-03T03:51:00.001-08:00

Positive Words

I choose positive words and experience positive results.The thoughts I think and the words I speak have tremendous power. They can influence my life in either positive or negative ways, for they affect the expectations I hold in my heart and the outcomes I experience in my life. Today I choose to use positive words. I make a conscious effort to think positive thoughts and to act in positive ways. By doing so, I open my life and the lives of those I pray for to the ever-present abundance of God.

If I am anxious about a particular situation or event, I change my thoughts about it. I approach it with new eyes--spiritual eyes. By expressing my faith in God and holding positive thoughts, my expectations are elevated to a higher level and the outcomes I envision are revealed in wonderful ways.

The kingdom of God is within you.--Luke 17:21 (KJV)
Source: http://DailyWord.com

Are You Getting Better?

2010-02-02T03:12:00.000-08:00

I recently heard from subscriber James Hady, of Arlington Heights, IL, and felt his inspiring story was a great way to kick off the first issue of 2010.

"I read your article in Health & Healing discussing the affirmation, Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better. So I began repeating it to myself regularly. It worked great. I could actually feel the impact on a daily basis. I have experienced positive things in every aspect of my life. I'm 68 years young, and I am indeed getting better and better every day. I now work out and play over-50 softball, racquetball, and golf. I used to have some chronic pain, but it's disappeared. Even my eyesight has improved. I'm really impressed that something so little makes such a big difference. Thank you for that advice. It has been extremely helpful."

James isn't the only one who has benefited from this practice. We provide every patient at the Whitaker Wellness Institute with wristbands imprinted with this statement to help them get into the habit of repeating it as often as possible throughout the day. Do not underestimate the power of affirmations. They work! Try it right now. First, bring up a problem in your life. Then, in a focused manner, say, Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better. Patiently repeat this 10 times. Now, note how you feel about your problem. You may feel silly when you first start doing this, but that is your subconscious mind battling for control. Those feelings will pass over time. As you make your New Year's resolutions, use this affirmation to help you achieve your goals. With daily repetition, you'll find that everything really will get better and better

Dr. Julian Whitaker, MD

Health & Healing, January 2010

...and Fulfill All Your Plans

2010-01-29T03:31:00.001-08:00

Fulfilled

God is the source of all that fulfills me.

I take a moment in quiet meditation to consider what truly fulfills me. In this ease, I breathe deeply and fully. Gently, a thought comes to mind. Perhaps it's about something I have postponed or resisted. Have I been holding on to a limiting thought of I can't...? Am I willing to transform my I can't into an I can?
No matter what I want to accomplish, I never go through it alone. The spirit of God goes with me.
Knowing this, I put my God-given intelligence and strength to use and do what is mine to do.
Regardless of what is required mentally, physically or spiritually, I can accomplish it. I can because God, my constant companion and guide, is the source of all that fulfills me.

May he grant you your heart's desire, and fulfill all your plans.--Psalm 20:4

Source: http://DailyWord.com

Visit Grandfather Mountain!

Enthusiasm - enTheos

2010-01-09T03:41:00.001-08:00

Enthusiasm

I am enthusiastic about life!

My enthusiasm grows as I focus on God's presence within me and within others. As my appreciation of the sacredness of all expands, I not only dare to dream and set goals, but also to pursue them.

I bring enthusiasm and creativity to all I do. I actively engage in my relationships with family and friends. I find joy wherever I invest my time. Spirit within guides me in everyday tasks as well as in exciting new adventures.

This day and every day, I set my course on a journey of discovery. The goodness of God is constantly being revealed to me. I find great satisfaction in being an expression of divine goodness toward others.

Brothers and sisters, be all the more eager to confirm your call and election, for if you do this, you will never stumble.--2 Peter 1:10

Source: http://DailyWord.com

Look for Things to be Grateful for...

2009-11-07T04:23:00.000-08:00

Daily Word — Friday, November 6, 2009

Prosperity

I am blessed by the goodness of God.

Prosperity manifests in my life in myriad ways--not only as money. As I count my blessings, I realize that God's goodness is everywhere. I give thanks for my food, shelter, friends, family and livelihood. I focus on my blessings rather than dwelling on any perception of lack.

The more I look for things to be grateful for, the more blessings I find. By noticing these blessings and giving thanks, I am positive, productive and prepared for good.

The more good I perceive, the more I receive. As I appreciate all of God's blessings and dwell in abundance and contentment, even more goodness comes my way.

I choose to live in God's abundance, accepting all the blessings life has to offer.

I tell you, to all those who have, more will be given.--Luke 19:26

Source: http://DailyWord.com

Contribute to Others

2009-10-28T04:12:00.000-07:00

Daily Word — Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Contribution

I am love in action, contributing to the well-being of others.

God's love expresses through me to bless others. I perceive the people with whom I interact as the children of God they truly are. I look for opportunities to be of help, to appreciate and to make a positive contribution.

I find many opportunities to give from my heart. I extend a wave and a warm smile to a neighbor, call or e-mail a friend or relative, or give time and attention to someone in need.

I look beyond the outer persona of those who seem unfriendly or impolite and behold their true essence. For all those I meet or think of today, I say a silent blessing: I behold the Christ in you. I visualize you whole, happy, prosperous and peaceful.

"Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God."--1 John 4:7

Source: http://Dailyword.com

A Dynamic, Living and Demonstrable Reality...

2009-10-10T07:07:00.001-07:00

Today let's return on our earlier study of Emily Gardiner Neals' God Can Heal You Now and consider some of her early thoughts after she began to travel extensively about the US and witnessing wonderful healings.

To bring us all on the same page, recall the Emily Gardiner Neal was a magazine feature writer specilizing in medical scientific subjects. From the beginning she claimed to be a staunch agnostic,

"and the claim that healings of supposedly incurable disease were the result of the direct intervention of the Holy Spirit seemed to be fantastically childish nonsense at best."

Now we jump two years into her travels and witnessing "wonderful healings" and she concludes:

"The phenomenon is no longer new to me, but my sense of excitement and awe has not diminished...Today more clearly than ever before, I see in the healing Church, the unchallengeable anwser to the agnostic belief that Christianity is mere legend, born of Man's need; or only a philosophy, a way of life; or solely an historical event which occurred and finished two thousand years ago, to be interpreted or misinterpreted ever since."

"To know the healing Christ is to see Christianity transformed into what is is meant to be: a dynamic, living and demonstrable reality."

God Can Heal You Now...p.148

We will explore in our next post how Emily faced her first incredibly uncomfortable situation. This was when desperate Parents asked her to pray for their dying child. I don't know how many times I have personally read this, but it's always a spine tingling experience.

MikeR

Within that awful volume lies...

2009-09-20T17:54:00.001-07:00


Famous quote from Sir Walter Scott's,
Monastery, Volume 1, Chapter XII

"Within that awful volume lies
The mystery of mysteries!
Happiest they of human race,
To whom God has granted grace
To read, to fear, to hope, to pray,
To lift the latch, and force the way;
And better had they ne'er been born,
Who read, to doubt, or read to scorn."
======================================================

I need to study and get serious about this...

Got Unborn Promises?

2009-09-18T04:33:00.000-07:00

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"Sing, O childless woman, you who have never given birth"
(Isaiah 54:1, NLT)

TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria

Sometimes, when we don't see our dreams and desires coming to pass, we can feel empty and barren like a woman who is unable to have children. But look at what this verse is saying: if you've got unborn promises, don't just sit around in defeat. Don't just give up and say, "Too bad for me." No, God says when you're barren, the first thing you need to do is sing a song of praise. You might think, "Well, Joel, I'm kind of depressed today. I'll sing after I have my 'baby.'" No, this passage wasn't written to people who were holding their baby and had seen their dreams come to pass. It was written to empty-armed people; people who didn't have what they were believing for. Do you know why? When you're giving God praise, do you know what you are doing? You are activating your faith and putting yourself into position to give birth to that promise. You are setting yourself up for God to move on your behalf.

Why don't you get into position today by singing a song of praise? All throughout the day, thank Him for what He is doing in your life and watch those dreams and desires come to pass.

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

"Father in heaven, I surrender all my questions, all my doubts, all my fears to You today. I know that You have a plan to fulfill every dream and desire in my heart. I choose to sing praises to You this day and thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Source: http://JoelOsteen.com

Overdue Bills? Try This...

2009-08-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Overdue by Jan Week
Years ago I was living from paycheck to paycheck, and my teacher’s salary never seemed to cover my debts. I put off paying my bills as long as I possibly could. Worrying about all of those bills seemed less daunting than actually facing them.Then my sister sent me some inspirational tapes. I listened to them, and dug out my dog-eared copy of Dr. Norman Vincent Peale’s book The Power of Positive Thinking.

The tapes and the book talked about appreciating life, and about the blessings we take for granted.They made me realize just how blessed I really was. In fact, it was my gratitude that was really overdue. So instead of dreading my bills, I began to bless them!As I wrote out the check for the utility bill I said, “Bless all of you who work to keep me warm and illuminated.”

The telephone bill? “Thank you for making it easy for me to stay in touch with all the people I love.”Within a few months, I noticed that even though my paycheck didn’t increase, my debts seemed more manageable. Actually, they decreased.I really was able to pay my bills; I just needed a little encouragement to think positively.

The above article originally appeared in Guideposts magazine. Visit the recently updated guidepostsmag.com today.

Pain, Sunshine, Rain, Calm

2009-08-09T05:11:00.001-07:00

I am back from vacations and inspired to restart my posts:

Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,
There will always be sunshine, after the rain
Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall
But God is always ready, to answer your call.

He knows every heartache, sees every tear
A word from His lips, can calm every fear

Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night
But suddenly vanish, by dawn's early light
The Savior is waiting, somewhere above
To give you His grace, and embrace you
... in His everlasting LOVE.

~ Author: Unknown ~

Try This for a Week...

2009-06-01T02:50:00.001-07:00

The way to happiness: keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, expect little, give much. Fill your life with love. Scatter sunshine. Forget self, think of others. Do as you would be done by. Try this for a week and you will be surprised.

Share Your Plans with God and...

2009-04-11T07:03:00.001-07:00

Today I will dedicate myself to God and ponder on the miracle of Easter...and this wonderful promise.

Source:Positive Thinking for Every Day of the Year
Norman Vincent Peale

Capture God's Joy Today

2009-04-08T03:40:00.001-07:00

Inexpressible and Glorious Joy
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.
(I Peter 1:8, NIV).

TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria

Do you need more joy in your life? This verse tells us that when we choose to believe in God, we are filled with His joy. And not just any kind of joy, inexpressible and glorious joy! Have you ever seen someone filled with inexpressible joy over something? Their face is beaming, their heart is pounding. They can hardly contain themselves. They are so excited they can't think of anything else. They have so much confidence over what they know that nothing can take away their joy. As believers, that's how we should be. We should be confident in the goodness of God and filled with His inexpressible and glorious joy!

I encourage you today to be bold and believe God. Get to know Him better by knowing His Word. Hold His promises close to your heart so that you can be filled with His confidence and joy all the days of your life.
A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your joy unspeakable and full of glory. I choose to believe You and trust in Your goodness. I invite you to search my heart and remove anything that would keep me from all You have in store. In Jesus's Name. Amen

Source: http://JoelOsteen.com

Stability in an Unstable World

2009-03-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

Just a short detour from our healing survey of Emily Gardiner Neal.

This is a letter from Annette Capps, who I believe is the daughter of Charles Capps. In order to balance as much of the negativity currently in the news cycle as possible, I thought this letter is a way to a positive, resourceful path amidst the apparent chaos.

Thanks Annette!

The WORD is Stable!

Unstable markets, unstable world economy…Let’s focus on something that is stable…the Word of God and not fixate on the fear that surrounds us.

My Dad tells the story of how during a dry year when he was farming, he prayed for rain for his cotton crop. One particular field had no means of irrigation. As he was driving and praying for rain, he noticed that one spot in the field looked greener than the rest. God spoke to him and said, “Would it be OK if I just caused the moisture to come up under your crop rather than rain from above?” Of course my Dad replied, “Whatever you want to do is fine with me!”

That year the cotton made 1 bale per acre on that field where other farmers only made ∏ bale or less.

Sometimes we become so fixated on the problem or what we believe the solution is that we are not open to alternatives. God is not limited to our ideas of how to fix things. The real issue for Charles Capps was not rain; it was a good cotton crop.

Our real issue today is not the stock market or the credit crisis. The real issue is how we can prosper and succeed in spite of world crisis. God’s Word has not changed. God’s laws have not changed. The same laws of giving and receiving, sowing and reaping, seedtime and harvest still work in October 2008 as well as October 2007.

The spiritual principles that enabled you to pay your house payment, buy your gas and feed your family still apply no matter what the economy. God’s Word drives your economy! Choose kingdom principles to dominate your finances!

I encourage you to continue in faith, not being moved by what you see, hear or feel but what you believe…God’s Word. You are the seed of Abraham through Jesus Christ and His blessing rests on you.

The immoveable, unchangeable Word will work for you as you speak it and stand fast in faith.

God Bless You Richly,

Annette Capps

Spiritual healing not for the sick alone...

2009-01-13T04:41:00.001-08:00

The title of this post is taken directly from Emily's , "God Can Heal You Now", How to Stay Well chapter that deals with healings when we are not at the end of our ropes and seeking the "ministry of desperation". Emily sites several examples of wellness resulting in people's lives when they are involved in a healing ministry. Here are two examples:

"A Presbyterian attorney who became interested in the healing ministry two years ago, voices the experience of unnumerable people when he says: "I had all my life been subject to severe colds, throat infections, and sinus trouble during winter months. I am convinced that it is more than coincidence that during the past two years I have not been indisposed, even for a day"

"The experience of a mother with three youngsters is also typical. "For years I have been nervous and tired," she says, "and also terribly apprehensive about the children's health. But not any more. Through the healing ministry I have an entirely different concept of God. I know now that He wants them to be well, and that if they do get sick, He will heal them. The result has been that they have turned into the healthiest youngsters on our block, practically never have even colds..."

Emily concludes this section by making these remarks:

"There are very few of us who will not find ourselves recipients of the fringe benefits of the Christian faith -- health and joy -- if we follow the simple prescription consisting of two ingredients: daily devotions, and, if possible, weekly attendance at a healing service. For the Church, which is the Body of Christ and the extension of the Incarnation, is as indispensable as your private devotions."

Source: God Can Heal You Now, pp212-213

Sunny's Positive Thinking Thoughts for 2009

2009-01-02T04:16:00.001-08:00

Here is a positive thinking strategy from Sunny for 2009 - The Affirmations Coach.

January 02, 2009
10 Affirmations List For Today - Jan 2, 2009

1 - I'm Grateful For This New Day
2 - I Know Good Things Are Going To Happen Today
3 - I'm Looking For New Opportunities
4 - I'm Also Creating Time & Space That's Reserved Just For Me
5 - I DO Enjoy Being Busy
6 - I Also Enjoy Being Centered & Focused
7 - I'm Pacing Myself & Enjoying Every Moment
8 - I'm Writing Down My 10 Affirmations Today
9 - I'm Reading Them Out Loud To Myself
10 - I'm Living These Affirmations Today, And I'm Making My Life Be

GREAT

Additional Comment -- From Sunny :)

Read This Affirmations List Silently To Yourself

If You Have Time, Write Them Out In Your Own Handwriting

Make ANY Changes To Any Or To All Of These Affirmations, As YOU See

Fit.

Read Them Out Loud And Infuse Them With Some Feeling Of Sincerity

Make Them Yours

Other Options Include Writing Down Only 1 Or 2 Of Them, And Then

Posting Them On Your Computer, Or Carrying Them In Your Pocket, Or

Using Any Other Method To Help You Think, Say & Feel The Affirmations

That Are Special For YOU, Throughout The Entire Day.

Why Not Read Them Aloud Again Before You Go To Sleep?
Aloha! Sunny :)
Sunny Hills, CPCC, Maui, Hawai'i
Certified Professional Co-Active Coach
The Affirmations Coach (TM)

Please Tell Your Friends About Sunny Thoughts
Sign Up Here For FREE Positive Affirmations and Positive Thinking

The Meaning of ALOHA:
A = Ahonui = Patience
L = Lokahi = Unity
O = 'Olu'olu = Agreeableness
H = Ha'aha'a = Humility
A = Akahai = Kindness
~Paul Pearsall, Phd., The Pleasure Prescription

Check him out and get motivated for 2009:

http://www.sunnythoughts.com/

Experience the Favor of God in Healing

2008-12-16T03:58:00.003-08:00

An Opportunity for God's Favor

Today's Scripture

It was not because of his sins or his parents sins, Jesus answered. This happened so the power of God could be seen in him (John 9:3 NLT).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

In the Bible, we read of a man who was born blind. Some people were asking Jesus, Why was he born this way? Whose fault was it, his or his parents? They were trying to find someone to blame, some reason, some excuse for his condition. And interestingly, we tend to do the same type of thing today. But I love the way Jesus answered them; He said, It s not anybody s fault. The reason this man was born this way was so that the goodness of God could be displayed in his life. Then He touched the man and healed him.

When you have a setback, when life deals you a tough blow, when the economy is unstable, don t get bitter. Don t settle there. Recognize you are a prime candidate for God to show His favor and goodness through. When the storms of life come, your attitude should be, God, I m ready! I know You have something great in store! I refuse to live defeated and depressed. I know this difficulty is simply another opportunity for You to show Your goodness through me.

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing to show Your glory and goodness through me. I choose to stand in faith, knowing that You are working all things out for my good. I bless You and thank You for Your faithfulness! In Jesus Name. Amen.

Source:Joel Osteen Ministries

A Merry Heart and Medicine

2008-10-04T16:00:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 17:22. A merry heart doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

(Good News) Being cheerful keeps you healthy.

(Smith-Goodspeed) A happy heart is a healing medicine…

(Basic English) A glad heart makes a healthy body…

(Moffatt) A glad heart helps and heals…

(Jerusalem) A glad heart is excellent medicine, a spirit depressed wastes

the bones away.

(Knox) A cheerful heart makes a quick recovery; it is crushed spirits that

waste a man’s frame.

(Fenton) The best medicine is a cheerful heart…

(Rotherham) A joyful heart worketh an excellent cure…

(Living Bible) …a broken spirit makes one sick.

God's Mysteries in Healings

2008-08-06T03:52:00.000-07:00

Emily began to make some general conclusions in the early months of her journey into the world of spiritual healing:

"Scores of such verifiable healings, reported by reputable doctors, induced me to believe that these healings were not mere happenstance. At the end of a few months, I noted that this strange healing force worked in curiously different ways. Some healings occurred though absent prayer, with the patient miles away. Some were instant and complete; others were delayed and gradual. In most cases of spiritual healing, the defective organ supposedly causing the illness was resored to normal function, but in a few cases the individual attained complete health in spite of the fact that the condition of the organ remained ostensibly unchanged."

Emily tried to make sense out of the emerging evidence:

In an effort to shed some light on the healing phenomenon, I searched continuosly for some evidence of a general, underlying psychic factor - some common quality of personality, perhaps, that might make those healed peculiarly susceptible to the healing power, whatever it was an wherever it came from. I could find no such common denominator. Those healed came from every walk of life. They were of varying degrees of intelligence and different levels of education. There were of many diverse temperaments. Only after the healings was there a discernible common bond: a joyous faith in God, founded on the conviction shared by factory worker and professional alike, the God's mysteries cannot be intellectualized."

Source: Celebration of Healing, p.13-14

Spiritual Healing and the "Risen Christ"

2008-07-31T03:55:00.001-07:00

This description of spiritual healing was key to me as I read and studied Emily Gardiner Neal's encounter, as a skeptical reporter, of the faith healings she witnessed:

"There is nothing new about faith healing. It has been practiced in one form or another for thousands of years. Many were the sick treated, and probably helped, at the temples of Aesculapius, legendary Greek god of medicine. Many have been the sick treated and possibly cured by withchcraft. Many are the sick today, who by faith in an amulet, a well-phrased slogan, or their doctor, are physically improved.

But there is a vast difference between these kinds of "faith" healings, and today's revived ministry within the Church. Spiritual healing does not concern itself with the curing of the body alone with no reference to the spirit; nor yet is it the type of metaphysical healing which affirms the spiritual at the expense of the physical. Spiritual healing deals with the cure of the whole person -- body, mind and spirit. Its goal and purpose is the seeking of a closer relationship with God -- the soul's salvation. When the spirit is healed through faith in and through the power of the Risen Christ, healing of the mind and body follows as an expected corollary."

Source: God Can Heal You Now - Emily Gardiner Neal

A Reporter Finds God - A Great Hunger

2008-07-22T04:55:00.001-07:00

I will be sharing quotes and thoughts in the next few days (possibly weeks) from "Celebration of Healing", a selection of writings of Emily Gardiner Neal who came to a healing ministry from a background in journalism.

Her first book, published in 1956 was A Reporter Finds God Through Spiritual Healing, and she continued writing and engaged in healing ministry through 1989 - when she quietly went to be with her Lord, Jesus Christ.

Today I will start somewhere in the middle with this soul grabbing quote:

After traveling all over the nation, talking to and with people of every educational level and in every stage of belief and disbelief, I have observed a great hunger. The hunger is not for intellectual answers to religious questions that the mind may be satisfied, but for a personal experience of the living God that the soul may be fulfilled.

May this be our desire today...

Mark Twain's Secret to Getting Things Done

2008-06-17T03:06:00.001-07:00

Mark Twain said:

"The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting
started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small
manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one."

Toil and Blood and Treasure

2008-05-26T06:28:00.001-07:00

"I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure that it will cost to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth more than all the means..." John Adams

Pray for those that are in Military Service for our Country

2008-05-26T04:57:00.001-07:00

"These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier
and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the
service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the
love and thanks of man and woman."

-- Thomas Paine (The American Crisis, No. 1, 19 December 1776)

Reference: Thomas Paine: Collected Writings , Foner ed., Library
of America (91)

Ben Franklin said...

2008-05-23T11:58:00.000-07:00

Ben Franklin said.

We have gone back to ancient history for models of Government, and examined the different forms of those Republics which having been formed with the seeds of their own dissolution now no longer exist.

In the beginning of the Contest with Great Britain, when we were sensible of danger we had daily prayer in this room for the divine protection.- Our prayers, Sir, were heard, & they were graciously answered.

I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth- that God Governs in the affairs of men.

And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is
it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? Sir, in the sacredwritings,
that "except the Lord build the House they labour in vain that buildit."

Amen

Thomas Paine

2008-05-12T20:55:00.001-07:00

"I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. ‘Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death."
Thomas Paine, 1776

Christos anesti

2008-04-27T06:02:00.001-07:00

Today the Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter - Christos Anesti...lets celebrate with them and understand the history.

Introduction

Greek Orthodox Easter corresponds to the Biblical series of events leading to Christ's crucifixion and resurrection.

The Date of Orthodox Easter: Since AD 1582 October (when the Gregorian Calendar was adopted by much of Catholic Europe), the Orthodox Easter usually falls on dates different than the Western Christian Easter, although apparently the Churches are discussing using the same formula to determine Easter -probably a formula different than that currently used by either Church.

Easter

Eastern Orthodox Christians believe that the Orthodox Church is:The authentic and original Christian Church established by Jesus Christ and his Apostles. Easter begins on the Saturday of Lazarus (the Saturday before Palm Sunday, 1 week before Easter Sunday) with children going from door to door singing the hymn of "Lazaros" and collecting money and eggs.

Date

Easter Sunday is the Sunday following the Paschal Full Moon (PFM) date for the year.

Every few years, "Western" (Catholic and Protestant) Easter and Greek Orthodox Easter coincide; these years are indicated by (same) following the date. For example, this occurred in 1990 because the Western Easter Sunday date of (Gregorian calendar) April 15, 1990 is the same as the Orthodox Easter Sunday date of (Julian calendar) April 2, 1990.

Holy

Holy Thursday is the day for dyeing eggs. Holy Saturday is the only Saturday of the year where a strict fast is kept. Then they will go to a priest for confession, and are so allowed to partake in the Holy Communion. At midnight the priest announces the resurrection of Christ ("Christos anesti") and lets the people light their candles of the Holy Flame taken from Christ's nativity cave in Jerusalem. This is because all of these churches were originally one church calling itself the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.

Historically and theologically, Orthodox Christians use the adjective "Catholic" or "One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church" to refer to the Church body which holds to the Orthodox faith. Large Christian Orthodox communities exist in the middle eastern countries of Israel (and West Bank and Gaza), Lebanon, Syria and Jordan (some families can trace their ancestry to the earliest Christians of the Holy Land). [9] The faith taught by Jesus to the apostles, given life by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and passed down to future generations uncorrupted, is known as Holy Tradition.

Russian

The personal, idiosyncratic and creative traditions of Western European religious art are largely lacking in Orthodox iconography before the 17th century, when Russian iconography was strongly influenced by religious paintings and engravings from both Protestant and Catholic Europe. An article by a Russian Orthodox Father that states several reasons for the use of the Old Calendar.

Getting Rich in these Uncertain Times

2008-04-20T16:45:00.001-07:00

Getting Rich

We live in turbulent economic times and the headlines are full of alarms. Of course, that's what sells newspapers and attracts attention. After all, the networks won't sell many ads for a broadcast that headlines, "Nice Day, Millions are Safe and Happy!"

At the same time, I've received an astounding number of calls and emails from people facing real panic over home foreclosures, lay-offs, health or education costs. I have no idea why I'm suddenly getting these emails--it's a new thing compared to past years--but they concern me. While I hope the fear is largely based on media hype, for individual families, the anxiety is real.

Obviously, millions around the world (this is not just an American problem) are faced with rising prices, especially for food. We're faced with economic uncertainty and in too many cases, with real emergencies. Some of us are losing our jobs, our homes, even our hope. This is not acceptable!

Fortunately, history shows that over time things tend to get better, but what about the family who needs help today? As individuals and as groups, I think we should be upset about this. We need to get involved.

We need community conversations about globalization, housing costs, health care and job training. Fortunately, most TIPS subscribers live in democracies where we can voice our opinions. We can agree, or disagree. We can share our point of view--especially if we are willing to listen to opposing viewpoints. In this election year, get involved. I'm not suggesting any particular candidate, party or perspective, but I think democracy is a good thing and it works best when people get in the game.

On a personal level, however, I think we also need to be dramatically more aggressive about individual responsibility. I'm going to say some very blunt things, and some of you will disagree. Good for you! But here's my point of view:

1. Debt is bad. Most of us live beyond our means. As individuals and as a nation, we are addicted to spending money we don't have. Consumer and credit card debt is nuts! Pay off debt and set yourself free.

2. Greed is bad. Many (not all!) foreclosures happen because buyers got caught-up with brokers and took "leverage" to ridiculous extremes. People bought homes, cars, vacations, and other things counting on rising incomes and luck to bail them out. Like any form of gambling, over time the casino wins and the players lose. Every time.

3. Ambition is good. I love setting goals and having big dreams. A healthy desire to create, to have more and live better is good and it's best when based on solid plans, hard work, and patience. In building a great life, some boredom and routine are good. Adrenalin is usually a bad sign.

4. Saving is good. The hardest part of getting rich is accumulating the first $20,000 in savings. Week by week, putting money in a savings account is something any child can learn, and it's the first step to wealth. Live below your means, save a little every month. Getting rich fast is exciting, but rare. Getting rich slowly is easy and absolutely reliable.

5. Investing is good. The second step to getting rich (after learning to save) is investing for growth. I'm talking about Warren Buffet's attitude of steady, predictable growth over a lifetime. If you want to speculate with some of your hard-earned savings, I suppose that's alright, but never confuse speculation with investment. They are different games and have different results.

These are turbulent times and the news media may bring bad news for a long time to come. I don't know about that. But I do know each of us is in charge of our own decisions. We have the power to live well and we can encourage others to do the same. We can do our work and build a great life. We can save for the future and make a difference in our community. And along the way we can love well, and maybe have some fun!

Written & Published by Philip E. Humbert, PhD

Visit our website at:
http://www.philiphumbert.com

Enthusiasm

2008-04-08T03:51:00.001-07:00

Enthusiasm first appeared in English in 1603 with the meaning "possession by a god." The source of the word is the Greek enthousiasmos, which ultimately comes from the adjective entheos, "having the god within," formed from en, "in, within," and theos, "god."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Is enthusiasm important in selling? Yes, genuine,
heartfelt enthusiasm is one of the most potent factors of success in
almost any undertaking.”

- Dale Carnegie

This is Your Life!

2008-04-06T04:36:00.001-07:00

====================================================
The One-Minute TIP

This is your life. Don't blow it! It's been said that time is the only resource any of us truly has, and once it's gone, it's gone forever. Work as hard and as much as you choose, then quit! Work can be rewarding and delightful, but don't let it be an addiction. Earning money, building our businesses and "getting ahead" are things we DO, not something we ARE. Remember the distinction.

Written & Published by Philip E. Humbert, PhD
Visit our website at: http://www.philiphumbert.com
=====================================================

Resurrected Christ

2008-03-23T06:23:00.001-07:00

Provided by Pastor Wilson:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One way to meditate on Christ during this Easter season

is by looking thoughtfully at artists' depictions of the events
surrounding Christ's death and resurrection.

I have been greatly blessed by seeing these events through the eyes of James J. Tissot
(French painter and illustrator, 1836-1902). He was a well-known French impressionist painter, who in his later years produced a series of 700 watercolors to illustrate the Old and New Testaments -- and helped develop his own Christian faith. I hope you enjoy Tissot's exquisite work as much as I have.
Pastor Ralph
http://www.joyfulheart.com/
James J. Tissot, 'Resurrection' (1896)
Brooklyn Museum, watercolor.

IChThUS IMPRIMIS

2008-03-21T13:40:00.001-07:00

IChThUS IMPRIMIS

“Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat on it. His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. And the guards shook for fear of him, and became like dead men. But the angel answered and said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead, and indeed He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him. Behold, I have told you.’ So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word. And as they went to tell His disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, ‘Rejoice!’ So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him.” —Matthew 28:1-9
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“[I]f the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” —Romans 8:11

God's Promise to You Today

2008-03-14T05:33:00.000-07:00

"Call Unto Me and I will answer you,and show you great and mighty things, which you knowest not..." Jeremiah 33:3

Norman Vincent Peale comments in his daily devotional - Positive Thinking for Every Day of the Year - that:

"The Christian religion is far greater than anyone realizes. It tells weak people they can become strong. It tells defeated people they can become victorious, It tells unhappy, mixed up people they can become organized. It teaches that we can become great persons. There is nothing else like it in the whole wide world."

Have you called and asked God recently for great and mighty things?

If you want daily motivations about how God can be part of your daily life you can click the image above and get it from Amazon. These devotionals are no longer in print, but contain timeless, motivational messages from the Bible that will ignite your enthusiasm for life.

Why a Fish?

2008-03-09T04:28:00.001-07:00

One of the most significant statements the early Christians used was "Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior."

Because Greek was the universal language then (the New Testament books were written in Greek), Christians often said and wrote. "Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior" in Greek.

That phrase, if printed as an acrostic (using the first letter of each word), looks like this:

I = Jesus
CH= Christ (anointed)
TH=God
U=Son
S=Savior

The acrostic forms the word ICHTHUS which is Greek for fish! If Christians needed to know where to gather for worship, they could look for a fish and perhaps an arrow pointing in the right direction. Persecuted Christians, seeing a fish on the door of a home or business, knew it was a safe place occupied by fellow Christians.

Interview with God

2008-02-28T03:14:00.001-08:00

Have you ever dreamed of having an interview with God?

Do not fear,
for I am with you;
do not be dismayed,
for I am your God.

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

Ten Simple Words to Remember for Your Success

2008-02-23T09:02:00.001-08:00

Ten Simple Words
by Jim Rohn

My first mentor, Mr. Shoaff, taught me—over a five-year period of time before he died—some extraordinarily simple things...

Mr. Shoaff only went through the 9th grade. He never finished high school, never went to college, and never went to a university. So he put his experiences and ideas into very simple language, which, I think for me—a farm boy from the state of Idaho—was so important.

When I would say, "This is all the company pays." Mr. Shoaff would say, "No, that is all they pay YOU." I thought, "That is a new way to look at it." I told him things cost too much. But he said, "No, you can't afford them." Well, that too was a new concept for me. And he also promised me, if I would improve, then I would be able to earn more money. So one of the first lessons I learned was, I didn't need to work on the company, I needed to work on myself.

If his advice to me had been technical, I might have missed it. If it had been mystic, I would have backed away. But it was just basic, blunt, "a-b-c" familiar stuff that I hadn't thought of before. For me it was the beginning of what he called, personal development.

Mr. Shoaff also taught me that life puts some of the more valuable things on the high shelf so that you can't get to them until you qualify. If you want the things on the high shelf, you must stand on the books you read. With every book you read, you get to stand a little higher.

Mr. Shoaff only needed to use ten simple words to forever shift my thinking when he said, "Success is something you attract by the person you become." That phrase changed my life. It's true! Success is not to be pursued... Success is to be attracted by the person you become.

Therefore, if you want to do something remarkable, put your energy into becoming a better you—the best you. Learn the skills. Practice the skills. Apply the skills.

Those ten simple words, "Success is something you attract by the person you become" helped change my life, forever, and for the better. Thank you, once again, Mr. Shoaff.

To Your Success,

Jim Rohn

© 2008 by Jim Rohn International. All Rights Reserved.
_______

Jim Rohn is considered to be America's Foremost Business Philosopher, with a career that has spanned over 37 years and touched the lives of over three million people worldwide. He has been internationally hailed over the years as one of the most influential thinkers of our time and has helped motivate an entire generation of personal development trainers as well as hundreds of executives from America's top corporations. He's been described as everything from a master motivator, to a modern day Will Rogers, to a legend!

God is Awake

2008-02-20T05:19:00.001-08:00

"When you have accomplished all that you can,
Lie down and go to sleep.

God is awake"

--Victor Hugo---

The Rich and Poor: Questions?

2008-02-18T09:36:00.001-08:00

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Rich and poor are first created in the mind.
A poor man asks, "How much will it COST me?" A rich man asks, "How much will it MAKE me?"
Which one are you? ~ Author Unknown
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Technorati Tags: rich and poor, rich asks, poor asks

Ruth Peale - Than You for all the Positive Memories

2008-02-09T04:20:00.001-08:00

Thank you for all the memories.

Click for biography and memoriam

Ronald Reagan- Worth Memorializing and Memorizing

2008-02-07T01:49:00.000-08:00

"And whatever else history may say about me when I'm gone, I hope it will record that I appealed to your best hopes, not your worst fears, to your confidence rather than your doubts. My dream is that you will travel the road ahead with liberty's lamp guiding your steps and opportunity's arm steadying your way. My fondest hope for each one of you — and especially for young people — is that you will love your country, not for her power or wealth, but for her selflessness and her idealism. May each of you have the heart to conceive, the understanding to direct, and the hand to execute works that will make the world a little better for your having been here. May all of you as Americans never forget your heroic origins, never fail to seek divine guidance, and never lose your natural, God-given optimism. And finally, my fellow Americans, may every dawn be a great new beginning for America and every evening bring us closer to that shining city upon a hill." —Ronald Reagan

How Far Will You Go in Life?

2008-02-06T03:12:00.001-08:00

A great quote from George Washington Carver that sums up how we should relate to one another.

How persons will you encounter today that will fit the profile in this statement?

How and what will you do to make their life better at that moment...a smile is free and so is an encouraging word...

"How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in life you will have been all of these."
-George Washington Carver

Giving and Health

2008-01-28T04:21:00.001-08:00

Abraham Brunk, aprofessor and researcher in the Nehterlands, found that people oriented toward giving and sharing are more physically and emotionally fit than their self-focused and less generous peers.

Brunk's study showed that givers use 50 per-cent fewer sick days. They also have lower blood pressure and higher self-esteem.

The anonymous poet who wrote the following words was right on target:

Give strength, give thought, give deeds, give of your wealth,
Give love, give tears, and give thyself.
Give, give, always giving. Who gives not is not living;
The more you give, the more you live.

Overcome Shaky Economy - Focus on Goals

2008-01-24T05:05:00.001-08:00

How to Overcome Financial Anxiety in a Shaky Economy
by www.Sedona.com

Though economists are sidestepping the word “recession,” it’s clear that the U.S. economy is on shaky ground. Amid increases in unemployment and decreases in manufacturing, consumer spending, the strength of the dollar and persistent housing slumps, Americans are worried.

According to a Fortune Magazine poll of 1,000 Americans:

* 65 percent believe U.S. economic conditions are getting worse
* 57 percent believe the United States is heading into a recession in the next 12 months
* 48 percent have been cutting back their spending in the past 12 months
* 18 percent are somewhat worried about losing their job in the next year, and 8 percent are very worried
* 15 percent have not been able to keep up with their credit card payments, and 9 percent have not been able to keep up with their mortgage, rent or other loan payments

On a more personal level, a shaky economy can mean that your job is in jeopardy, your savings at risk or your bills are piling up uncontrollably. However, you can get through, and even thrive, during a recession by keeping in mind the following tips.

1. Stay calm. Experts recommend not making any hasty decisions about your investments, and keeping your focus on the long-term instead.

2. Focus on your goals. Whatever you do, avoid focusing on the shaky economy, as this will only draw more hardship into your life.

“Whether the economy is doing well or poorly you can survive and even thrive if you let go and focus on your goals and aspirations --and follow through with action,” says Hale Dwoskin, CEO and director of training of Sedona Training Associates.

3. Release your fears. Financial anxiety, or being debt-minded, will actively push away the financial security you so crave. Instead, use The Sedona Method to release your worry, fears, and negative thoughts about money.

“You do not deny the realities of the marketplace, but as you release you will find yourself rising above them,” Dwoskin says.

4. Save your money. As much as you can, now is the time to establish a financial safety net (experts recommend stashing away from three to six months’ worth of living expenses).

5. Reduce your spending. While overall spending will increase the economy, spending on an individual basis is not always the best decision amid recession worries. If your income is tight, now is not the time to splurge on big purchases, vacations or other non-essential purchases.

“And remember,” Dwoskin says, “you can learn to thrive even when things are difficult. When the economy is not doing well money merely moves into different hands. Open your consciousness and allow yourself to succeed by allowing what is to be and acting appropriately.”

Source

CNNMoney.com

Compare the size of your TV to your Library

2008-01-18T08:01:00.000-08:00

Jim Rohn is noted for saying you'll know the direction someone
is heading in life by the size of his t.v. when compared to the
size of his library. I think he's right.

I also think you'll know the direction someone is going based
upon how much time he spends reading compared to time
spent watching t.v.

Something to think about, eh.

Matthew Furey
Zen Master of the Internet®
http://mattfurey.com

Having a Busy Day?

2008-01-15T03:48:00.000-08:00

Today is a gift
From God above
With time for our work
And time for love.

When work pushes hard
And haste wants to shove,
That's just when we need
To share more Love.

-- Peggy Ferrell

To Act:

Never dwell on bitterness, anger and despair.

Wise Words to start your Monday

2008-01-14T03:38:00.000-08:00

Wise Words .....

Want to provoke a warm response from others? Look in people's eye and smile sincerely.
A Smile is free!

Peace must begin within ourselves. Anger only provokes anger in others.

A Good Day is a Choice

2008-01-13T04:45:00.001-08:00

A Time to Think:
Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it. -Margaret Thatcher

To Act:
Look at the world with the eyes of a child.

To Pray:
Lord, give me courage to stretch past my safe boundaries.

What are my choices today and what will I choose for the best.

The Many Forms of Courage

2008-01-08T09:32:00.001-08:00

Courage takes many forms. There is physical courage; there is moral courage. Then there is a still higher type of courage - the courage to brave pain, to live with it, to never let others know of it, and to still find joy in life; to wake up in the morning with an enthusiasm for the day ahead.

-- Howard Cosell

The Present is Like a Snowflake

2008-01-05T06:52:00.001-08:00

A Time to Think:
The present never ages. Each moment is like a snowflake, unique, unspoiled, unrepeatable, and can be appreciated in its surprisingness.—Gail Sheehy

To Act:
Face every situation with faith in your heart.

To Pray:
Father, what surprise has Your love in store for me today?

Annettet Funicello - Life does not..

2008-01-04T04:01:00.001-08:00

Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful.

Mickey Mouse... is always there-he's part of my life. That really is something not everyone can call their claim to fame.

Annette Funicello

Keep your Wonder of the Great, and the Noble

2007-07-06T03:32:00.001-07:00

A Time to Think:

We tend to get what we expect. -Norman Vincent Peale

To Act:
Keep your wonder of great and noble things.

To Pray:
Sill the waters of my mind, Lord, so that I may make my decisions based on an undistorted picture of reality.

And They Remembered his Words

2007-04-08T06:23:00.001-07:00

Luke 24:1-9 (King James Version)
King James Version (KJV)

Public Domain
[A Public Domain Bible] [KJV at Zondervan] [Zondervan]

Luke 24

1Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.

2And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.

3And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

4And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:

5And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,

7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

8 And they remembered his words,

9 And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.

Be Aware of Your Daily Supernatural Opportunities

2007-04-05T04:04:00.001-07:00

"A wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries."

(1 Corinthians 16:9)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

As a Christian, you will be given great opportunities to step out
and grow in faith. But these opportunities are also frequently
accompanied by some great adversity or challenge. Why does God do that?
Because He knows that nothing worthwhile is ever easy, and the same is
true when it comes to His work in your life.

When Jesus was walking on
the water, Peter called out to Him and Peter walked on the water toward
Jesus. The problem is that Peter took his eyes off Jesus and worried
about the waters, so he sank only to be saved by Jesus. Peter took a
great opportunity, but there was danger if he took his eyes off Jesus.

You can apply that lesson to your own life, because you will have
supernatural opportunities. Just be sure to keep your focus on Jesus!

A Prayer for Today

God, I know that You will give me great opportunities today, and I
pray that I will have the faith and determination to keep my eyes on
You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Source: Joel Osteen Devotions

Give Joy and Fly with Enthusiasm

2007-03-26T03:18:00.001-07:00

Joy is the serious business of heaven. –C.S. Lewis

To Act: Give your joy to others and it will come back to you.

To Pray: Lord, give me wings of enthusiasm.

Daily Battles - and Kindness

2007-03-26T03:14:00.001-07:00

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle. –Plato

To Act: Fill your heart with strength and love for each other.

To Pray: Lord, teach us to be open to the healing You want to send us.

How to Be Rich Right Now

2007-01-27T13:59:00.001-08:00

Are you thinking about your wealth or lack of money?
A Time to Think:

To feel rich, count all the things you have that money can't buy. -Anonymous

To Act:
Be introspective, because the better you understand yourself, the more you have to offer.

To Pray:
Dear God, help me to remember how rich it makes me feel to give freely to others.

Experience the Secret Today

2006-12-25T06:27:00.001-08:00

100

Quotes from

(1-20) Order the Full Version Here

1. We all work with one infinite power

2. The Secret is the Law of Attraction

3. Whatever is going on in your mind is what you are attracting

4. We are like magnets-like attract like. You become AND

attract what you think

5. Every thought has a frequency. Thoughts send out a magnetic energy

6. People think about what they don't want and attract more of the same

7. Thought = creation. If these thoughts are attached to powerful

emotions (good or bad) that speeds the creation

8. You attract your dominant thoughts

9. Those who speak most of illness have illness, those who speak

most of prosperity have prosperity

10. It's different from "wishful" thinking

11. You can't have a universe without the mind entering into it

12. Choose your thoughts carefully ... you are the masterpiece of your

life

13. It's OK that thoughts don't manifest into reality immediately (if

we saw a picture of an elephant and it instantly appeared, that would

be too soon)

14. EVERYTHING in your life you have attracted ... accept that fact ...

it's true.

15. Your thoughts cause your feelings

16. We don't need to complicate all the "reasons" behind our

emotions.

It's much simpler than that. Two categories .. good feelings, bad feelings.

17. Thoughts that bring about good feelings mean you are on the right

track. Thoughts that bring about bad feelings means you are not on the

right track.

18. Whatever it is you are feeling is a perfect reflection of what is

in the process of becoming

19. You get exactly what you are FEELING

20. Happy feelings will attract more happy circumstances

(21-40)

21. You can begin feeling whatever you want (even if it's not there)...

the universe will correspond to the nature of your song

22. What you focus on with your thought and feeling is what you

attract into your experience

23. What you think and what you feel and what actually manifests is

ALWAYS a match-no exception

24. Shift your awareness

25. "You create your own universe as you go along" ~Winston

Churchill

26. It's important to feel good ( ( ( (((good))) ) ) )

27. You can change your emotion immediately Â by thinking of something

joyful, or singing a song, or remembering a happy experience

28. When you get the hang of this, before you know it

you will KNOW you are the creator

29. Life can and should be phenomenal ... and it will be when

you consciously apply the Law of Attraction

30. Universe will re-arrange itself accordingly

31. Start by using this sentence for all of your wants:

"I'm so happy and grateful now that.... "

32. You don't need to know HOW the universe is going to rearrange itself

33. LOA is simply figuring out for yourself what will generate the

positive feelings of having it NOW

34. You might get an inspired thought or idea to help you move

towards what you want faster

35. The universe likes SPEED. Don't delay, don't second-guess, don't doubt...

36. When the opportunity or impulse is there ... ACT

37. You will attract everything you require-money, people, connections...

PAY ATTENTION to what's being set in front of you

38. You can start with nothing ... and out of nothing or

no way-a WAY will be provided.

39. HOW LONG??? No rules on time ... the more aligned you

are with positive feelings the quicker things happen

40. Size is nothing to the universe (unlimited abundance if that's what

you wish)

We make the rules on size and time

(41-60)

41. No rules according to the universe ... you provide the feelings

of having

it now and the universe will respond

42. Most people offer the majority of their thought in response to what

they are observing (bills in the mail, being late, having bad luck...etc.)

43. You have to find a different approach to what is through a different

vantage point

44. "All that we are is a result of what we have thought"-Buddha

45. What can you do right now to turn your life around? Be Grateful

46. Gratitude will bring more into our lives immediately

47. What we think about and THANK about is what we bring about

48. What are the things you are grateful for? Feel the gratitude...

focus on what you have right now that you are grateful for

49. Play the picture in your mind-focus on the end result

50. VISUALIZE!!! Rehearse your future

51. VISUALIZE!!! See it, feel it! This is where action begins

52. Feel the joy ... feel the happiness

53. An affirmative thought is 100 times more powerful than a negative

one

54. "What this power is, I cannot say. All I know is that it exists."

~ Alexander Graham Bell

55. Our job is not to worry about the "How". The "How"

will show up out of the commitment and belief in the "Why"

56. The Hows are the domain of the universe. It always knows the

quickest, fastest, most harmonious way between you and your dream

57. If you turn it over to the universe, you will be surprised and dazzled

by

what is delivered .. this is where magic and miracles happen

58. Turn it over to the universe daily... but it should never be a chore

59. Feel exhilarated by the whole process ... high, happy, in tune

60. The only difference between people who are really living this way

is they have habituated ways of being

(61-80)

61. They remember to do it all the time

62. Create a Vision Board-pictures of what you want to attract ... every

day

look at it and get into the feeling state of already having acquired these

wants

63. "Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming

attractions." Albert Einstein

64. Decide what you want ... believe you can have it, believe you deserve

it,

believe it's possible for you

65. Close your eyes and visualize having what you already want-and the

feeling of having it already

66. Focus on being grateful for what you have already ... enjoy it!! Then

release into the universe. The universe will manifest it

67. "Whatever the mind of man can conceive, it can achieve."

~W. Clement Stone

68. Set a goal so big that if you achieved it, it would blow your mind

69. When you have an inspired thought, you must trust it and act on it

70. How can you become more prosperous?? INTEND IT!!

71. 'Checks are coming in the mail regularly'... or change your bank statement

to whatever balance you want in there... and get behind the feeling of

having it.

72. Life is meant to be abundant in ALL areas...

73. Go for the sense of inner joy and peace then all outside things appear

74. We are the creators of our universe

75. Relationships: Treat yourself the way you want to be treated by others.

Love yourself and you will be loved

76. Always cultivate a healthy respect for yourself

77. For those you work with or interact with regularly .. get a notebook

and write down positive aspects of each of those people

78. Write down the things you like most about them (don't expect change

from them). Law of attraction will not put you in the same space together

if you frequencies don't match

79. When you realize your potential to feel good, you will ask no one

to be different in order for you to feel good

80. You will free yourself from the cumbersome impossibilities of needing

to control the world, your friends, your mate, your children...

(81-100)

81. You are the only one that creates your reality

82. No one else can think or feel for you .. its YOU .. ONLY YOU

83. Health: thank the universe for your own healing. Laughter, stress-free

happiness will keep you healthy

84. Your immune system will heal itself

85. Parts of our bodies are replaced every day, every weekÂ

Within a few years we have a brand new body

86. See yourself living in a new body. Hope leads to recovery.

Happy leads to a happier biochemistry. Stress degrades the body

87. Remove stress from the body and the body regenerates itself. You can

heal yourself

88. Learn to become still and take your attention away from what you don't

want. Place your attention on what you wish to experience

89. When the voice and vision on the inside become more profound

and clear than the opinions on the outside, then you have mastered your

life

90. You are not here to try to get the world to be just as you want it.

You are here to create the world around you that you choose

91. And allow the world as others choose to see it, exist as well

92. People think that if everyone knows the power of the LOA there

won't be enough to go around .. This is a lie that's been ingrained in

us

and makes so many greedy

93. The truth is there is more than enough love, creative ideas, power,

joy, happiness to go around

94. All of this abundance begins to shine through a mind that is aware

of it's own infinite nature. There's enough for everyone. See it.

Believe it. It will show up for you

95. So let the variety of your reality thrill you as you choose all the

things you want. Get behind the good feelings of all your wants

96. Write your script. When you see things you don't want, don't think

about them, write about them, talk about them, push against them, or join

groups that focus on them. Remove your attention from don't wants and

place it on do wants

97. We are mass energy. Everything is energy. EVERYTHING

98. Don't define yourself by your body. You are an infinite being that's

connected to everything in the universe

99. Our bodies have distracted us from our energy. We are the infinite

field of unfolding possibilities

100. Are your thoughts worthy of you? If not, NOW is the time to change

them. You can begin right were you are, right now. Nothing matters but

this

moment and what you are focusing your attention on....

Love or Judge Others

2006-12-14T02:33:00.001-08:00

A Time to Think: If you judge people , you have no time to love them. -Mother Teresa
To Act: Don't waste energy in the wrong areas on the wrong things.
To Pray: Lord, help me to see the possibility of love in others.

Where is Your Heart this Christmas?

2006-12-07T02:37:00.001-08:00

A Time to Think: He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree. -Anonymous
To Act: Create something beautiful with the intention of giving it away.
To Pray: Father, may my gifts to others reflect Your timeless love.

Compassion brings Happiness

2006-11-26T04:18:00.001-08:00

A Time to Think:

To me it seems that to give happiness is a far nobler goal than to attain it, and that what we exist for is much more a matter of relations to others...much more a matter of helping others to heaven than of getting there ourselves. -Lewis Carroll

To Act:

Be compassionate, be caring and loving.

To Pray:

Lord, help me to take the opportunities You give me and work with them, not against them.

Technorati Tags: compassion, haapiness

Think of a friend today -

2006-10-10T03:07:00.000-07:00

A Time to Think: I didn't find my friends, the good God gave them to me. -Ralph Waldo Emerson
To Act: Go out of your way for someone, but do it quietly without the need for recognition.
To Pray: Lord give me Your eyes today. Let me see the “heart” in the people I meet and the things that I do.

Do Unto Others...what you..

2006-09-26T03:04:00.000-07:00

Daily Thoughts:

A Time to Think:
I expect to pass through this life but once. Therefore, if there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do for another human being, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.
William Penn

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God."--1 John 4:7

I look for opportunities to serve my family, friends, and strangers I encounter everyday.

The Fountain of Youth and Today

2006-09-04T06:41:00.000-07:00

Daily Thoughts:
A Time to Think:
To find joy in work is to discover the fountain of youth. - Pearl Buck

To Act:
Pursue your dream job.
To Pray:
Lord, thank You for today.

=================================================================
Affirmation: I choose the highest good in the work I do today with ease, joy and expectation, knowing God will supply all my needs with the riches of his glory.

Are You Interested in Life?

2006-08-19T03:50:00.000-07:00

Daily Thoughts:
A Time to Think:
One thing life taught me -- if you are interested, you never have to look for new interests. They come to you. -Eleanor Roosevelt

To Act:
Never compromise your morals for your goals.
To Pray:
Lord, thank You for difficult tasks and the strength to confront them.
Daily Guideposts

Faith is for Today

2006-08-03T03:20:00.000-07:00

Faith happens NOW

Today's Scripture

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Are you "playing it safe" in life and avoiding uncertainties? Did
you know that in order to experience God's supernatural power and favor
in your life, you have to be willing to take risks?

The Bible says in Hebrews, "Now faith is..." In other words, faith is
always in the now. God is saying, now is the time to get out of the
boat. Now is the time to stretch your faith. Now is the time to do
whatever it is that God is telling you. You may feel uncomfortable at
first. Choosing God's way, instead of your own, will stretch your faith
and cause it to grow. In the same way a muscle grows when you work it,
your faith grows when you work it. You may not necessarily like how it
feels at first, but that is a sign that you're growing. God is taking
you to a higher level and if you'll continue exercising your faith,
you'll grow stronger and stronger.

If you're in a comfort zone today, we encourage you to step out of your
"safe zone" and step into your "faith zone." Be bold, rise up, and be
obedient to the voice of the Lord. As you do, you'll discover new
strength and freedom like you've never experienced before, and you will
discover the champion in you!

A Prayer for Today
God, I will listen to that voice inside me that tells me the risks
that You want me to take and find the courage to step into the faith
zone. Great things await me if I put my trust in You and really unleash
my faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Read another Word with Joel & Victoria Osteen

Encouragement from Joel Osteen

2006-08-03T03:13:00.000-07:00

If you are ruled by emotion—jump off the rollercoaster!

Your will is stronger than your emotions. Instead of living by how you feel, live by what you know. Let me remind you that God is in control, He has a great plan for your life, and His power is greater than any other power. When you begin to have negative or discouraging feelings, shake them off. Even when you do not feel like it, choose to rule over that negative feeling anyway. Tell yourself: I'm going to be steady, immovable, and full of joy regardless of my circumstances. The more you do so, the easier it will become. Today, decide to be a more stable person and begin enjoying life — all of it!
Joel Osteen

Faith, Hope and Love...

2006-08-01T05:36:00.000-07:00

Disarm the enemy by choosing to walk in love and peace. Refuse to be jealous or selfish, and at all costs, avoid strife. Meditate on I Corinthians 13, and allow God's Word to sink deep into your heart. As you allow God's Word to shape your actions and develop your lifestyle of love, you will discover the champion in you!

A Prayer for Today

God, I will put aside selfish things and focus on love today. Only when I meditate on Your Word do I truly begin to walk in the light and live the life You intended for me. I will aim to love my neighbors and avoid strife...the way Your son taught me to do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Be Patient for A Harvest of Abundance - Plant First

2006-07-18T04:02:00.000-07:00

Obey and Harvest the Rewards!

Today's Scripture

"No discipline at the time is pleasant, but later on it's going to bring you a harvest of great things." (Hebrews 12:11)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

If you want to experience God's best, it's going to take some hard work. In order to live the abundant life God has planned, we must be willing to stop acting on how we feel, and instead act on promises found in the Word of God. It's not easy to love people when they're not being nice. It's not easy just to overlook an insult. It's not easy to keep a good attitude and be patient when things aren't going your way. Sometimes it hurts to keep the flesh under, and sometimes it's uncomfortable.

The seeds you sow today will bring a harvest in the future. When you focus on the blessings that come from doing what is right in the Lord's sight, you will find strength to obey His Word. The Bible tells us that Jesus "focused on the joy that was set before Him" so He could endure the cross. Jesus knew the suffering He endured on your behalf would bring Him the joy of having a personal relationship with you–and you were worth the price!

A Prayer for Today

God, I will be strong today for You! There will be many tests along my faith journey and I intend to face them with a cheerful resolve. Though some days will be hard, keep my eyes on the prize, Lord—a life in eternity with You! In Jesus' name, Amen.

Read another Word with Joel & Victoria

Be Patient for A Harvest of Abundance - Plant First

2006-07-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

Counter Fear with Faith

2006-07-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

When fear comes, counter it with an affirmation of faith.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:1

Lord I am secure and deeply loved by you...

2006-07-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

Lord, help me to nurture the part of me that longs to feel secure and deeply loved by You.

I find Joy in all my situations

2006-06-18T04:55:00.000-07:00

A Daily Affirmation: I find joy in every situation...since the Joy of the
Lord is my strenght

There is no key to happiness—the door is always open.—Anonymous

To Act:

Remember that the act is more important than the recognition.
To Pray:

Lord, keep my arms wide open to life and make my heart merry.

Be Polite, Kind, Considerate

2006-06-07T03:40:00.000-07:00

"'Where there is strife, there is confusion and every kind of evil.' (James 3:16)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Strife is a powerfully destructive force that the enemy uses to try to bring confusion and turmoil into our lives. Marriages are torn apart, businesses are destroyed, and lifelong friends are divided by strife. Satan will make sure that you have plenty of opportunity each day to get upset with those whom you care about the most. Things often happen on a daily basis that can aggravate you and might make you want to be rude or angry toward your family and those around you.

Let us encourage you to make peace a priority in your life. Don't give the enemy a foothold. Make the choice to aggressively pursue peace. Refuse to argue. Refuse to be sarcastic or disrespectful. Decide that you are going to keep peace in your home and your life even if it means you have to swallow your pride. Sometimes you just have to release your 'right to be right.'

Jesus said, 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' It takes a mature person to apologize even when you are not in the wrong – to walk away even when you really want to argue. You can be that person. You can be the one to create an atmosphere of peace and harmony in your family.

If you will do your part and honor God by being a maker and maintainer of peace, God will honor you. He will fight your battles for you. He will pour out his blessings in your life and you will live the overcoming life of victory that He has in store just for you!

A Prayer for Today

I will make the choice to not be rude or impatient with my friends, family and co-workers today. These are the people I care about and I pray your blessings on them. Peace is my priority! In Jesus' name, Amen."

God is bigger than all your Problems

2006-05-31T03:17:00.000-07:00

It doesn't matter what you have been through in the past. Your future can start today. Let hope fill your heart and receive God's mercy. Release all of your anger, guilt, and condemnation. Forgive those who have wronged you, stop carrying around the baggage of yesterday and make a fresh start today. When you do, God will give you a new beginning. Begin each day declaring, "with God all things are possible," "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and "everything I put my hand to today will prosper." These are not idle words or motivational sayings; it's the Word of God, His promises for your life.
Joel and Victoria Osteen

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)

Admiration, Hope, Love

2006-05-18T03:43:00.000-07:00

A Time to Think:
If you're happy in what you're doing, you'll like yourself, you'll have inner peace. And if you have that, along with physical health, you will have had more success than you could possibly have imagined. -Johnny Carson

To Act:
Live with admiration, hope and love.
To Pray:
Lord, in good times and in hard times, let me look to You.

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Open Your Eyes to Opportunities

2006-04-28T03:29:00.000-07:00

Since we cannot change reality, let us change the eyes which see reality. -Nikos Kazantzakis

Action for today: Open your heart and eyes to see that opportunities to help and serve are everywhere.

My Prayer: Lord, when I am in the mood for an argument, help me to find something nice to say instead.

Real Spirit of Christmas Every Day

2006-03-27T04:50:00.000-08:00

To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. --Calvin Coolidge

To Act:
Remember that sometimes the smallest gesture can change the world.
To Pray:
Lord, let me never miss an opportunity to give.

Impossible Situations Create Miraculous Opportunities

2006-03-18T04:28:00.000-08:00

My impossible situations Create miraculous opportunities to grow and have victory.

Reflect: We are all faced with magnificent opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.-Charles R. Swindoll

Act: Focus on your goals and chase away excuses.

Pray: Lord, help me to take the opportunities You give me and work with them, not against them.
From Daily Guideposts Mar 18,2006

Mark 11:22-24
22 So Jesus answered and said to them, Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, Be removed and be cast into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. 24 Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.

Our Deeds

2006-03-15T02:59:00.000-08:00

A Time to Think:
Our deeds determine us, as much as we determine our deeds. -George Elliot
To Act:
Remember that faith will lead you through unsteady times. From Daily Guideposts

Your Affirmation: I am faithful through rough moments and see the solutions ahead.

How to Stop Worry...

2006-03-06T03:29:00.000-08:00

Everyone faces the monster of worry everyday. How do you counter that monster?

Refuse to worry!

Today's Scripture

"Who of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" (Matthew 6:27)

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Worrying gives the devil the opportunity to move, just like worship gives God the opportunity to move. Worrying means to play the enemy's lies in your mind, over and over again. God promises in Isaiah 26:3 that He will keep us in perfect peace when we keep our minds stayed on Him. So when the opportunity to worry comes, use it as a reminder to worship the Lord and thank Him for His good and precious promises! Cast all of your cares on the Lord, because He cares for you!

A Prayer for Today

God, I am weary from worrying. Please help me to stop the soundtrack of needless worry that plays over and over again in my head. I want to place my fears and concerns in Your hands and live in peace knowing that You will fulfill all of your precious promises to me. In Jesus' name - Amen.

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Hope and Faith

2006-03-03T03:02:00.000-08:00

Positive Affirmations

When there is no hope there is no faith...faith is the substance of hope

The natural flights of the human mind are not from pleasure to pleasure, but from hope to hope. - Samuel Johnson

Hebrews 11

1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Affirm your abilities to do good

2006-03-01T03:08:00.000-08:00

Positive Affirmations

Every day, remind yourself of your own ability, of your good mind, and affirm that you can make something really good out of your life. -Dr. Norman Vincent Peale