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Archive for the ‘Renewing the Mind’ Category

One Strategy to Change Your Life

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worry, tagged , , , , , , , on May 9, 2024| 22 Comments »

How would you finish this statement?

Nothing we do is more powerful or life-changing than _____________.

Some would suggest taking better care of ourselves, or setting goals that include a plan for completion, or training our minds to focus on the positive. And the argument could be made that all of these actions create beneficial influence in our lives.

But according to author Stormie Omartian, “nothing we do is more powerful or life-changing than praise”[1]. Others would likely agree with her, having cited numerous benefits themselves:

  • Prayers of adoration calm any fear, lift the spirit, and fill us with indescribable joy [2].
  • Praising God reduces our cares, levels our anxieties, and multiplies our blessings [3].
  • Continual praise is what changes the emotions, lifts the darkness, offers hope, frees the mood, and blesses God so that evil is driven out. It changes everything [4].
  • When we choose to practice adoration anyway in the midst of whatever we are feeling, our words lift us over that barrier and into a deeper connectedness with God [5].

But how could simple words produce such life-changing results? Psalm 69:30 offers a clue:

“I will praise the name of God with a song;

I will magnify him with thanksgiving” (ESV).

To magnify God is to make larger our view of him and his attributes, which lessens our view of the problems we face. The more often we focus on God, the more our faith thrives, and that in turn leads to less worry and fretting.

For example, see if these statements don’t boost your confidence in God for what you’re facing right now:

  • Praise God he is all-sufficient, all-knowing, and all-powerful. He has everything under control (Isaiah 55:11; Romans 11:33-36; 1 John 3:20b).
  • Praise God he is forever faithful, always working out his overall plan, always fulfilling his purpose (Lamentations 3:22-23; Job 42:2). 
  • Praise God he is continually gracious and good, full of love and compassion (Psalm 145:8-9).

The longer we gaze at him, arrayed in such glorious attributes, the less insurmountable our problems become.

And with an unknown Puritan of old we too can affirm:

“When I think upon and converse with Thee, ten thousand delightful thoughts spring up, ten thousand sources of pleasure are unsealed, and ten thousand refreshing joys spread over my heart, crowding every moment with happiness” [6].

That is the power of praise.

But the enemy of our souls is well aware of this power. He’ll do everything he can to keep us from developing the habit of praise. What might help?

Habit-stacking. Have you heard of it? The practice involves adding a new habit to some action that’s already a fixed routine.

For example, we might add more praise to our days while making the bed in the morning, completing some household chores, commuting to and from work, walking from place to place, waiting for the microwave, chopping fruit or veggies.

What routines are established in your life? Which ones lend themselves to spending a few minutes praising God for who he is and what he’s done?

Another possibility for adding praise to our lives comes from C. S. Lewis: “Make every pleasure into a channel of adoration.” He suggested several ideas to get us started: a beautiful mountain valley, delicious food, a great book, or a piece of music [7].

And you know what happens as we praise God for these blessings?

One’s mind runs back up the sunbeam to the sun [8].

Isn’t that lovely imagery?  

And is there any better place for our mind to be?

[1] Values for Life, 160.

[2] Kristine Brown (https://www.ibelieve.com/christian-living/prayers-of-adoration-to-fill-your-heart-wonder.html).

[3] Suzanne Dale Ezell, Values for Life, 160.

[4] Arnold Prater, Bonding with God, 78.

[5] Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 151.

[6] From The Valley of Vision, Puritan prayers and devotions compiled by Arthur Bennett, 1975.

[7] Quoted by Timothy Keller in Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God, 197.

[8] C. S. Lewis, Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer, 89-90.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pickpik.com (2); http://www.canva.com; http://www.freeimageslive.co.uk; www,pxhere.com; http://www.canva.com.

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Antidotes for What Ails You

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Power, God's Provision, Perseverance, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on March 7, 2024| 29 Comments »

We’ve all had days when discouragement, inadequacy, hurt, or fear want to plague our spirits. And we find our own weak efforts do little to ease the distress.

BUT!

Praise God he provides the antidote for every malady of the soul.

What follows is a list of ways he accomplishes that healing and binding [1]. I pray these declarations may be just the antidote to strengthen your inner being:

When we worry; he reassures.

When I worried about many things,

your assuring words soothed my soul.

—Psalm 94:19 GWT

When we stress, he soothes.

“Would you drown your cares? Then go, plunge yourself in the Godhead’s deepest sea; be lost in His immensity; and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated.

“I know nothing which can so comfort the soul; so calm the swelling billows of sorrow and grief; so speak peace to the winds of trial, as a devout musing upon the subject of the Godhead.”

—Charles Spurgeon

When we stagger; he steadies.

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you;

he will never let the righteous be shaken.

—Psalm 55:22 NIV

When we struggle; he strengthens.

“With the goodness of God to desire our highest welfare, the wisdom of God to plan it, and the power of God to achieve it, what do we lack?” — A. W. Tozer [2]   

When we falter; he lifts up.

The Lord upholds all who fall

and lifts up all who are bowed down.

—Psalm 145:14

When we fail; he forgives.

“With [God], each day—each moment—is a clean slate” — Aliza Latta [3].  

When we forget; he reminds.

For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand;

it is I who say to you,

“Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”

—Isaiah 41:13 ESV

When we doubt; he affirms.

Dismantle doubts with declarations of truth from God’s Word, truths that remind us: his character is flawless, his actions are righteous, his power is unlimited, his love is unfailing, his faithfulness unending [4].

When we regret; he forgets.

I will forgive their sins and will

no longer remember their wrongs.”

—Hebrews 8:12 GNT

When we hunger; he fills.

Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness]

are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness

[those who actively seek right standing with God],

for they will be [completely] satisfied.

—Matthew 5:6 AMP

When we’re bent; he repairs.

“God is mercifully shaping our lives into what is useful and beautiful” — Eugene Peterson [5].

When we desire wrongly; he directs rightly.

For it is God who is working in you,

enabling you both to desire

and to work out his good purpose.

—Philippians 2:13 HCSB

When we’re uncertain; he guides.

“Happy are those who place their hands in that of the Great Guide. He will bring them all the way and when he has brought them home to glory and has opened their eyes to see the way by which he has led them, what a song of gratitude will they sing unto God! Lord, lead your poor blind child this day, for I know not my way” — Charles Spurgeon [6].

When we’re discouraged; he inspires

He would have us know: “Nothing under My control can ever be out of control. Everything you need I know about in every detail. Remember, I am able to supply, to guide, to start, to stop, to sustain, to change, to correct in My time and for My purposes” [7] .

Again and again he provides the antidote for every need of our souls.

Our part is simply to receive.

[1]  “Binding” in Psalm 147:3 intimates holding together while an injury heals. God often allows time in combination with his antidotes to accomplish healing, fostering inner strength and perseverance in the process (James 1:2-4).

[2] Knowledge of the Holy, 70.

[3] www.incourage.com, 1-19-19

[4] Exodus 32:4; Psalm 145:17; Job 36:22-23; Psalm 117:1-2; 100:5

[5] Run with the Horses, 79.

[6] Faith’s Checkbook, March 23.

[7] Based on statements made by Chuck Swindoll in Intimacy with the Almighty, 73.

Photo credits: http://www.negativespace.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com.

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S-l-o-w Looking

Posted in Appreciation, Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Joy, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , on January 18, 2024| 41 Comments »

Most visitors to an art museum spend fifteen to thirty seconds looking at a painting, but art enthusiasts insist that’s not near long enough to fully enjoy each work.

Take for example da Vinci’s world-famous Mona Lisa. You’ve seen photographs; some of you may have viewed the original at the Louvre. Besides the model’s haunting expression, what makes this painting stand out from others?

First, note da Vinci’s use of shadow to give contour to the face and clothing. As a result, daVinci achieved more realism than other painters of his time.

Second, enlarge the image above and study da Vinci’s masterful attention to detail—the intricate gathers of the bodice, the graceful tendrils of her hair, the next-to-nothing veil.

Third, focus on the background. Mona Lisa appears to be sitting in front of a window with a lovely view of mountains, trees, and a lake. Da Vinci used a technique called foreshortening to condense the wide scene onto his narrow canvas.

Fourth, note the hazy atmosphere, created as da Vinci blurred the edges of his almost undetectable brushstrokes.

Of course, additional features also contribute to Mona Lisa’s magnificence. Yet even this short list makes clear: there’s more to the Mona Lisa than most of us realize.

And to know more makes us appreciate more and enjoy more. But such results require close observation through slow looking.

The same principle applies to God. To know God more will allow us to enjoy and appreciate him more.

But how do we observe closely Someone who’s invisible?

We begin with evidence of the Unseen. One example, his presence and character traits revealed in the events of our lives:

  • Caring protection from harm on numerous occasions
  • Generous provision of countless necessities, gifts, and blessings
  • Perfect wisdom, as certain desires of our hearts haven’t come true, recognized in hindsight
  • Unfailing faithfulness to see us through disappointment, difficulty, and uncertainty
  • Gracious goodness in every joyful moment, every delightful surprise. They all come from him.

Every day provides much evidence of his benevolent presence in the lives of each of his children. The more we look, the more we’ll find. And as each discovery is turned into praise our spirits fill with joy.

Another way to practice slow looking is to spend time in God’s presence, learning more about him through his Word.

It makes sense: “Delight in God cannot occur in an intellectual vacuum” [1].

“But I don’t know where to start!” someone might say.

The internet offers a variety of reading plans, and once a plan is in place, we apply the practice of slow looking as we read.

Writing the answers to such questions as these hones our observation skills:

  • What does this passage say about God and his character?
  • What truths does he teach?
  • What does God promise here that offers hope and encouragement?
  • Is there a prayer that applies to my life? (Write it out, perhaps in your own words, and personalize it.)
  • Has God included an example to follow or not follow [2]?

Slow looking through the act of writing also helps deepen our understanding and appreciation, expanding our capacity to enjoy God.

Another benefit? Taking joy in God and all his excellencies increases our strength to endure.

What moment of slow looking has led you to a recent discovery about God? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] Sam Storms, http://www.gracequotes.org

[2] Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 76.

Photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.wikipedia.org; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.heartlight.org; unknown.

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Think Again

Posted in Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, God's Grace, God's Power, God's Provision, God's Wisdom, Hope, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on January 4, 2024| 42 Comments »

As the new year makes its entrance, a fresh breeze of possibilities and dreams fills the mind:

  • Perhaps this year . . .
  • Wouldn’t it be wonderful if . . .
  • All things are possible with God, so . . .

But no sooner do I start finishing those statements with starry-eyed optimism, than some scratchy, irritating thoughts demand my attention.  Thoughts such as:

  • You’re too old, terribly unworthy, and under-qualified.
  • You’ve already waited so long. Your desires obviously aren’t God’s desires for you.
  • You’ve hopelessly veered from God’s plan; otherwise your life circumstances would surely be different.

And my heart cries out:

I need your Word, God, your Sword of the Spirit, to slay these lies. And though I am grateful for familiar sword-thrusts like Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11, and Philippians 4:13 to wield against the untruths listed above, a few new moves would surely increase my resolve. “Strengthen me according to your word” (Psalm 119:28b).

And God seems to say:

“All right, Nancy, let’s look at each statement from my viewpoint.

“You are too old? Not so. Moses was eighty when he became the leader of the Hebrew nation, bringing them out of Egypt and into Canaan. Daniel served as prime minister in Babylon well past the age of eighty. John was quite elderly when he received the Revelation. Age has nothing to do with usefulness.

“You are unworthy? Also not so. You are one of My chosen people, a royal priestess, who belongs to Me, the King of the universe (1 Peter 2:9a). Like all My children, you are precious and honored in My sight because I love you (Isaiah 43:4).

“You are under-qualified? All the better for My purposes! My G.R.A.C.E. (God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense) includes wisdom, power, strength, discernment, all spiritual gifts, all fruit of the Spirit, and more. My grace is more than sufficient for you; it’s all you need. In fact,“My strength comes into its own in your weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9 MSG).

“You’ve waited too long? Think again. Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac. Joseph waited seventeen years for his dream to come true. Caleb waited 45 years for his special parcel of the Promised Land.

“You’ve veered from My plan for you? Please refer to Ephesians 1:11. Your singular purpose is to display My glory, that is, my attributes of love, joy, goodness, and more. Wherever you are . . . “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23). And remember: small acts can achieve important results also.

“One closing thought to keep in mind: There is method and reason to every decree I have judiciously ordained since the beginning of time, to accomplish My will according to My sovereignty. I AM the Almighty, all-wise God, your Heavenly Father.”

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O God, help me to look toward 2024, not through the eyes of discouraging doubt but through the eyes of ever-increasing faith. And when I cannot understand, help me just to stand. In Jesus’ powerful name, Amen. *

* Based on a prayer from Selwyn Hughes in Every Day Light, 105.

Image credits: http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pickpik.com.

(Revised and reblogged from 1-3-2013 while we enjoy the last couple of days with out-of-town family.)

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Heart-to-Heart

Posted in Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on September 28, 2023| 44 Comments »

Online dating services have proved: you don’t have to see a person to fall in love. Through heart-to-heart sharing over the internet, couples can become acquainted with the likes and dislikes of one another, their opinions on current issues, and what brings them satisfaction in life.

The format provides the opportunity to learn about who the other person is before finding out what he/she looks like.  (One site requires five contacts back and forth before names are exchanged–much less photos.)

It’s possible that couples in new online relationships grow to know one another better than couples who meet face-to-face, because they communicate more and at a deeper level. (Assuming they’re being honest, of course.)

Similarly, we can grow to know and love God through heart-to-heart sharing, even though we can’t see him.

For example, we might share such whisper-thoughts as these, when:

The view from our deck one September morning

  • Our attention is drawn to sunbeams on mist-draped foliage, and we turn the observation into praise for God’s creative handiwork
  • Someone grabs us in an exuberant hug, and we thank God for family and friends who provide encouragement and support
  • An unpleasant task is finished, and we praise him for the fortitude to see it through
  • Humor comes into our lives and we laugh in response, but also in gratitude to the God of all joy
  • We light quiet-time candles, reminding us the Light of the world is with us in our solitude

There is no sweeter manner of living in the world

than continuous communion with God.

Brother Lawrence (1611-1691)

But one-sided communication doesn’t build a relationship. Listening for God’s words and watching for his works are essential. How do we do that? God rarely speaks audibly or shows himself physically. No one has seen his face (1).

However, God does reveal his heart to us in a number of ways through:

The Bible 

No surprise there. Its pages offer a lifetime of new discoveries about who our God is and how he works in our lives. We hear God’s wisdom in his words; we see God’s love in his actions (2).

Other reading 

Although Christian writers often provide personal impressions from God, he sometimes speaks through secular works as well. Such moments often catch me off guard.

Recently I read Natalie Goldberg’s Writing Down the Bones (1986). Among the many worthy morsels I wrote down, she said, “We walk through so many myths of each other and ourselves; we are so thankful when someone sees us for who we are and accepts us.”

O God, I thought, that describes YOU! You see more of my real self than anyone, yet you still accept me. How astounding that you, a perfect God, envelop me in absolute love–in spite of all my flaws.

People  

What a heart-lift when others provide encouraging words, warm smiles, or comforting hugs–especially when we remember such good and perfect gifts come from God himself (3).

Creation

John Calvin once described the world of nature as God’s glorious theater. As we take note of his infinite genius on display, we learn of his ingenuity, attention-to-detail, and ability to bring together disparate parts into harmonious habitats.   Our hearts fill with wonder.

Music  

Sometimes I can almost feel God’s warm touch on my shoulder as he speaks comfort, strength, and joy through the power of song.

Notice: when God communicates with us, there’s a heart-reaction.  We experience a quickening in our spirits as we recognize his truth, sense his loving attention, receive guidance and empowerment, or know without a doubt he’s with us and has everything under control.

So!

Keep your eyes open for God,

watch for his works;

be alert for signs of his presence.

Psalm 105:4 MSG

What a glorious way to live!

Notes:

  1. Exodus 33:20
  2. Hebrews 1:2-3
  3. James 1:17
  4. See “The Power of Song” for more on this subject.

Photo credits: http://www.wallpaperflare.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.commons.wikipedia.org; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pxnio.com; http://www.pexels.com (Gustavo Fring).

This post revised and reblogged from 9-17-2015 while we enjoy the company of old friends.

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Sit and Be Fit

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Presence, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on September 21, 2023| 42 Comments »

Some of you may know of the long-running PBS program with the same title as this post. Begun in 1987, it continues to provide seniors and those with physical limitations a way to exercise while seated in a chair.

Research has proven that participants experience better heart and vascular health, core and back strength, joint health, flexibility, posture, and balance. They also benefit from boosted energy, thinking skills, memory, and overall mental health [1].

Surprising, isn’t it, the number of benefits from chair exercises?

There’s another list of benefits we can enjoy–if we choose to sit in God’s presence.

A psalmist offers this lovely invitation:

Can you picture yourself seated at God’s feet, much as Mary sat at Jesus’ feet in Bethany [2]?

Imagine the love in his eyes as he gazes at each of us, the tenderness in his voice as he speaks, the gentle pressure of his hand on our shoulders as he expresses his affection.

And as we sit, he’d undoubtedly encourage us to participate in exercises for our spirits that will make us fit—trained and equipped to thrive [3].

What might such exercises include? These four offer a good place to start:

Bible Study and Meditation to Foster Strength

Soul strength doesn’t develop overnight any more than physical strength. Time spent in God’s Word is essential.

[Scripture] will not yield its astonishing riches except through diligence and sustained reflection [4].

Timothy Keller

But given our busy schedules, how do we pause long enough for sustained reflection? It may mean going to bed earlier and getting up earlier, reducing screen-time or limiting time spent reading for pleasure, but the results are supremely worth the small sacrifice.

We soon experience the soul strength to be gained from sitting with God and contemplating his Word–soul strength that equips us to better handle the everyday strains of life.

Worship (with Gratitude and Praise) for Improved Spiritual Health

Developing our gratitude-muscles fortifies our faith, refreshes our spirits, and adds vitality to life as we become attuned to God’s blessings all around us.

Praising God for who he is and what he’s done lifts our spirits and improves our mood. We soon find this exercise fostering encouragement, peace, and even pleasure within our hearts as we focus on him. (Praise music can be especially uplifting.)

Scripture Memorization to Enhance Endurance

The Bible creates endurance. Its promises lift the heart and its panoramic insights strengthen the will [5].

Timothy Keller

That endurance-factor increases when we commit meaningful passages to memory.

We can begin with just a phrase or single statement such as: “With God all things are possible” [6].

Speak it aloud in the shower or as you pull out of the driveway for work. While in the carpool line or running errands, quiet the noise around you with the sound of your voice saying His Word [7].

Sara Hagerty

Engaging the Imagination to Increase Heart Health

For example, imagine God as:

  • Your all-powerful King seated on his glorious throne, yet ready and willing to help you at any moment
  • Your constant Companion, accompanying you throughout the day
  • Your loving Shepherd, caring for your every need
  • Your heavenly Father, holding your right hand, protecting and guiding you [8]

Such visualizations will surely help us keep our balance as the day unfolds—even with its stresses, interruptions, and difficulties.

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

You don’t need me to tell you: if a person chooses not to exercise, he can’t expect to be physically fit.

The same is true in the spiritual realm. If we forego such exercises as suggested above, we can’t expect to be spiritually fit.

On the other hand, great benefits await those who do choose to sit in God’s presence.

They will become strong.

And that’s a promise:

What exercise helps you sit and be fit in the spiritual realm? Please share in the comment section below!

[1] https://sunshinecentres.com/7-benefits-of-daily-seated-exercise/

[2] Luke 10:38-42

[3] Psalm 92:12-15 HCSB

[4] Timothy Keller and Cathy Keller, The Songs of Jesus, 320.

[5] Keller, The Songs of Jesus, 310.

[6] Matthew 19:26b

[7] Sara Hagerty, Unseen, 149.

[8] Revelation 4:1-11; Psalm 46:1-3; Psalm 145:18; Isaiah 40:11, 41:13.

Photo credits: http://www.pexels.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.pixexid.com (Ralph, AI Artist); http://www.canva.com; http://www.rawpixel.com; http://www.dir.es.

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Seven Surprising Things to Celebrate

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , on July 13, 2023| 58 Comments »

My quote-collecting hobby started with a gift over thirty years ago–a charming floral journal.

Now there are three volumes. Two binders include typed notes and quotes from many books I’ve read.*

The newest journal for quotations is an elegant shade of lavender, which, it turns out, is the perfect color for a such a collection, based on a Rudyard Kipling quote I came across recently:

He wrapped himself in quotations—

as a beggar would enfold himself in

the Purple of Emperors.

Rudyard Kipling

It’s true, many quotes do provide rich enhancement for our lives, succinctly bestowing wisdom, challenge, encouragement, or humor. Great impact can occur in a matter of moments.

For this post I’ve culled just such quotations, with the potential of changing our perspective on troublesome circumstances—quotes that might inspire us to even celebrate them.

For example:

Hurray for Difficulty! 

Because: “Great things never come from comfort zones”—Ben Francia.

And . . . “The secret is Christ in me; not me in a different set of circumstances”—Elisabeth Elliot.

Hurray for Discouragement! 

Because: “If you knock with a heavy heart, you shall yet sing with joy of spirit. Never be discouraged”—Charles Spurgeon.

And . . .  “Do not get discouraged—it may be the last key on the ring that opens the door”—Stanisfer.

Hurray for Failure!

Because: “Failure is the fertilizer that feeds success. It stinks and is unpleasant to handle but without it, success is unattainable”—Unknown.

And . . .  “When something goes wrong in your life, just yell, “Plot twist!” and move on—Author Molly Weis.

Hurray for Hiddenness!

Because: “When we know we are seen by the one who created praise itself and he is the one who gives us a word of affirmation—when he is the one who notices us pouring ourselves out in secret—we realize that this is what we craved all along . . . Being elbow deep in soapsuds and breakfast sausage grease looks and feels different when we know God sees us there”—Sara Hagerty (Unseen;51).

And . . . “How can I feel depressed by the smallness of my life when the most important Man in the universe died for me? . . . When the most important Man in the universe has always been thinking of me?”—Anne Graham Lotz (The Vision of His Glory; 13, 14).

Hurray for Inadequacy!

Because: “God is attracted to weakness. He can’t resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need him”—Jim Cymbala (quoted by Beth Moore in Praying God’s Word; 260).

And . . .  “Never mind your weakness; it is the very thing that qualifies you. Never mind your feelings of inadequacy; it is God’s work, not yours. Simply make yourself available, and let go of any need to impress others, or prove yourself worthy, or achieve ‘success.’ What matters is that God has chosen you, and that God claims you as his own”—Br. David Vryhof.

Hurray for Waiting!

Because: “If God makes you wait longer than you could wish, it is only to make the blessing doubly precious”—Andrew Murray.

And . . . “What we are waiting for is not as important as what happens to us while we are waiting. Trust the process”—Mandy Hale (quoted by Jean Wise in Christmas Crossroads; 53).

Do you see a theme here?

“The eternal substance of a thing never lies in the thing itself [like difficulty, discouragement, or failure]. It’s in the quality of our reaction to it.

“If in hard times we are kept from resentment held in silence, and filled with inner sweetness, that is what matters. The event that distressed us will pass from memory as a wind that passes and is gone. But what we were while the wind was blowing has eternal consequences”—A. Wetherell Johnson.

I pray the wisdom and encouragement shared in these quotes will give uplift to the quality of our reactions.

*A large collection has limited value without an index, so I’ve created those too—prompted by a touch of OCD, no doubt.

Art & photo credits: http://www.pixabay.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pickpic.com; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.canva.com.

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Striving Too Hard for All the Wrong Reasons

Posted in Decision-Making, Encouragement, Excellence, God's Faithfulness, God's Grace, God's Power, God's Wisdom, Godly Character, Holiness, Humility, Renewing the Mind, Service, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on June 8, 2023| 45 Comments »

The Ruegg crew–1980

Years ago when my husband Steve was two-and-a-half years into his first pastorate and our three children were ages five and under, I found myself over-committed.

Sundays, of course, included Sunday School, church, and an evening service. Mondays we hosted a small group in our home that grew to about 30 (which, in my mind, required a clean house plus fresh iced tea and coffee). Thursday evening was choir practice.

From a handful of members to a loft-full; I’m 5th from the left

Every other week, I facilitated a Moms’ support group/Bible study. Also on the to-do list: leading Children’s Church each Sunday for a year, and participating in numerous other activities that happened on a less frequent schedule.

Do you see any issues here?! I didn’t.

All this activity felt important for the growth and community-building of our church that had been dying before we arrived. As a result, I was always on the go between the responsibilities there and at home. Sometimes I resented it (which can be one of the symptoms of striving too hard).  

But the bustle felt gratifying too. In seeking to please the people around me, I was feeding my own neediness for validation. Pride and self-satisfaction lurked in the corners of my soul—wrong reasons for the striving. In addition, I was discovering those attitudes are never satiated.

What’s a Type-A person–who wants to do what’s right–supposed to do?

The following questions can help us evaluate our choices of activity, how many we choose, as well as analyze the motivations behind them:  

Am I propelled most days by determination or devotion?

The determined person rarely reads her Bible or prays except on the run. Her calendar is impressively full of good-deed commitments for others, but contentment is illusive.

This woman may know that a quiet time spent with God refreshes and transforms the spirit, but she can’t seem to make it happen.

Do I find myself pressing on (to the point of exhaustion), while rarely pressing in to be strengthened?

Pressing in includes connecting with God throughout the day, especially in the thick of stress, frustration, or anxiety.  One means is to recite scripture verses that bring our focus back to our all-powerful, all-wise God. [1]

Such verses include:

  • “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
  • “Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me” (Psalm 50:15).
  • “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him” (Lamentations 3:25).

God is ever-ready to help—with the choices before us, when to say yes and when to say no, as well as the right motivations behind those choices.

Does people-pleasing supersede God-pleasing in my life?

Author Shauna Niequist speaks for some of us when she asks: “Why am I doing this? What is it in me that keeps things moving so breakneck fast, . . . that sacrifices my own health and happiness so that people who aren’t me will think I’m doing a good job, in some vague, moving-target kind of way?”[2]

I too find my service for others frequently tinged with people-pleasing. Does that mean I should forego such activity until I can purify my intentions?

No, wrote author and pastor, Tim Keller: “If you wait until your motives are pure and unselfish before you do something, you will wait forever.”[3]

BUT! Our heavenly Father offers this glorious hope:

Because we are covered by Jesus’ righteousness, even our imperfect efforts to please God are acceptable. And as we grow in dependence upon Christ, he’ll purify our hearts more and more.[4]

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Father, I know it’s downright foolish of me to strive so hard, especially for all the wrong reasons. I want to be free from people-pleasing, self-gratification of the ego, and pride. Forgive me for giving room to such attitudes in my mind.

Help me to be an eager and compliant participant as you work within me to create a pure heart and make my attitudes new.

In the powerful name of Jesus, AMEN.

(Proverbs 4:23; Psalm 51:10; Romans 12:2)

[1] Psalm 72:12 ESV

[2] Present over Perfect, 58.

[3] The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism

[4] Isaiah 61:10; Titus 2:11-14

Photo credits: Nancy Ruegg (2); http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pixabay.com (TheDigitalArtist); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net.

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Three Ways to Better Health and Greater Joy

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Joy, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on June 1, 2023| 32 Comments »

Recently I’ve been listening to Christian comedians on YouTube while exercising. They help distract me during this most distasteful half-hour of each day.

The best part of exercise: when it’s over.

So far I can recommend the humor of Tim Hawkins, Jim Davis, Kenn Kington, and Ted Cunningham to keep one entertained.

However, be forewarned: it’s impossible to do crunches while laughing.

Here’s a sample of Kenn Kington. Start the video, start crunching, and you’ll see what I mean.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YZ8tAbI5fw

No doubt you’ve heard some of the benefits of laughter that researchers have identified, including:

  • Decreased tension
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Improved immune system
  • Increased feel-good endorphins
  • Renewed energy [1]

Laughter is good medicine, just as God inspired King Solomon to write eons ago (Proverbs 17:22). It also produces healthy servings of joy into our spirits.

But laughter isn’t the only action that produces health benefits and joy. So do gratitude and praise.

According to the Mayo Clinic, gratitude:

  • Decreases depression
  • Lessens worry
  • Improves sleep
  • Enhances immunity
  • Reduces chronic pain [2]

The ability to express gratitude and praise is a gift from God, intended to accomplish much good for mind, body, and spirit.

So what might we give thanks and praise to God for today?

A quick perusal of my gratitude journal provides the following possibilities that anyone can embrace:

  • Watching children on a playground, running, climbing, sliding, and whooping with glee—and finding my own glee expanded
  • Tackling a challenging project and reveling in the moment when it’s finally complete
  • Partaking a delicious meal with family and/or friends, enhanced by caring conversation, shared memories, and of course, laughter!
  • Marveling at the masterpieces of nature: the wings of a butterfly, the camouflage of a deer, the leap-and-grab abilities of a squirrel
  • Delighting in a bargain purchase that God surely provided (James 1:17)

Both of these practices, laughter and gratitude, will take us only so far into health and joy without one all-important element: faith.

When Paul wrote from prison to his dear friends at Philippi, he hoped to be released and visit them soon. His heart’s desire was to contribute further to their spiritual growth and to their joy in the faith (Philippians 1:25), considering its numerous benefits.

Which come first to your mind? See if your thoughts correspond with a few of these blessings:

  • God’s unfailing grace, compassion, and love
  • His inexplicable peace, comforting presence, and absolute strength
  • The wisdom of his Word to guide us through every situation
  • God’s promises that offer hope
  • His help that sometimes manifests itself in a surprising God-incident
  • His encouragement at unexpected moments through unexpected sources
  • The undeserved gift of eternal life yet to come

Researchers have verified that faith in God also provides physical benefits, including:

  • Reduced stress
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Enhanced mental health
  • Improved emotional health
  • Decreased depression [3]

It stands to reason, the stronger our faith in a God–who provides so much–the greater our contentment.

And when enthusiastic laughter, heartfelt gratitude, and praise-charged faith are part of every day, we’ll find ourselves overflowing with a sense of well-being and joy—an overflow that also impacts others.

[1] https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm.

[2] https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/can-expressing-gratitude-improve-health#:~:text=Expressing%20gratitude%20is%20associated%20with,pain%20and%20risk%20of%20disease.

[3]https://www.bethesdagardensloveland.com/blog/the-health-benefits-of-faith#:~:text=The%20health%20benefits%20of%20faith%20have%20been%20a%20hot%20topic,reduced%20dependency%20on%20addictive%20substances and https://relevantmagazine.com/life5/surprising-links-between-faith-and-health/ and https://www.christiantoday.com/article/believing.in.god.is.good.for.your.health/27902.htm.

Photo credits: http://www.rawpixels.net; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pexels.com (Sidney Lima); http://www.canva.com.

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A Little Piece of Heaven on Earth

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Love, God's Presence, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , on May 25, 2023| 55 Comments »

John and me–1964 (?)

The third and last home of my childhood, the one we moved to when I was ten, is of course the one I remember best. With no effort at all I can conjure up the kitchen and imagine Mom at the sink, peeling potatoes for dinner, while I cut up veggies or fruit for a salad.

I can see Dad in the basement, working on his current carpentry project, and my younger brother John puttering with the wood scraps.

Surrounding us all–thanks to the speakers Dad had installed in every room–was the sweet and serene instrumental music of a nightly radio program called “Candlelight and Silver”.

Such memories provide clarity for a statement made by author and pastor Alexander Maclaren:

The memories of those evenings at home (as seen through rose-tinted glasses, I admit) help me understand: dwelling in God’s presence doesn’t mean constant awareness of him, any more than my family was constantly aware of the radio music.

We were occupied with other things and conversing with one another, yet influenced nonetheless by the beautiful and soothing melodies in the background.

But it wasn’t just the music that contributed to those peaceful times. It was the atmosphere of love. Mom and Dad were clearly devoted to one another.

And though disagreements certainly occurred, I don’t remember a single quarrel.

Between them they created a stable, supportive environment in which my brother and I could flourish.

(Had the opposite been true, and their relationship contentious, not even sweet melodies coming from the radio could have dispelled the resulting atmosphere of anger and tension.)

Similarly, our Heavenly Father’s presence is like sweet music because of the atmosphere of love he continually provides. After all:

Think of it: the Most High God of the universe is not just near; he is here. In this moment. With you. With me.

And we have the privilege of knowing him.

But wait! There’s more, and it’s even more incredible: This King of kings actually wants to dwell with us. “I have loved you with an everlasting love,” he declares with compassion. “I have drawn you with unfailing kindness”. [1]

So how do we train ourselves to hear that undercurrent of sweet Song?

We can start with daily scripture-reading and prayer, as well as weaving moments of worship and praise into our routines, so there’s never a day we aren’t in contact with God [2].

And what will be the result? Troubles will be made bearable, joys will be brightened, and a peaceful calm will permeate the atmosphere—even in the midst of busyness.

It’s true: “Dwelling [in the sweet music of God’s constant presence] is a little piece of heaven on earth”—Stephanie Bryant [3].

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

O Sovereign God! Thank you for singing over us your song of love, compassion, and faithfulness and gifting us with a little piece of heaven on earth.

Even when nothing else around us is good, the sweet music of your presence in the midst of deep pain is a good gift indeed [4].

And as we live in the undercurrent of your Song, may we learn to tune our hearts, our minds, our lives, to voice your melodies [5].

In the power of your name we pray, AMEN.

[1] Jeremiah 31:3

[2] See the previous blog post, Ten Ways to Keep Mindful of God.

[3] p. 367, A Moment to Breathe, Denise J. Hughes, ed.

[4] Aliza Lotta, Take Heart, p. 162, Grace P. Cho and Anna E. Rendell, ed.

[5] Douglas Kaine McKelvey, Every Moment Holy, p. 250.

Art & photo credits: Nancy Ruegg; wwwpublicdomainpictures.com (Sabine Sauermaul); http://www.canva.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.flickr (Faye Mozingo); http://www.pxhere.com.

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