Category: Stress

Strong Hope #5 – Scripture Dissection

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Strong Hope #5 - Scripture Dissection
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As I consider today’s material: “Strong Hope,” I’m reminded of a Bible passage in one of my quiet times. Interestingly, a thought struck me as I read that passage. Simply this.

If I were to make a list of all the struggles, issues, sorrows, and difficulties in my life so far –

– and if I were to put a column of dates next to them (similar to what I have in my Bible)

– then, if I were to record a verse or promise God gave me for that particular situation in a third column

– I would have an amazing record of God’s faithfulness in my neediness. In fact, I’d have enough material to publish a book about strong hope.

This is #5 in a series on hope.

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Change Me, Lord! New Hope #4

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Change Me, Lord! New Hope #4
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Have you ever desperately cried out “change me, Lord?” I have.

I vividly remember a time I said this many years ago. Challenges had piled up. Demands were high. Expectations even higher. I was pulled in too many directions. And I felt overwhelmed.

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You Are Included – Hope #3

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You Are Included - Hope #3
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As I write “You Are Included,” I remember a special event several years ago.

I was finishing a book manuscript in a bed and breakfast when I met a lovely couple staying in the next room. In the dining area, they invited me to join them at their table. I learned they were on their honeymoon through a previous, introductory conversation. So, I declined. Still, I felt special to be invited.

The next day, they invited me again! I told them my reservation – “You’re on your honeymoon, and I don’t want to barge in!” They reassured they wanted to visit with me. Suddenly, I had courage to say, “yes.” Subsequently, I found myself delightfully included at their table.

This is #3 in a series on hope. It’s been encouraging exploring hope for two articles. Check them out. (See below.)

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Pinhole Of Hope #2 – Scripture Dissection

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Pinhole Of Hope #2 - Scripture Dissection
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Hope is so important, don’t you agree? Sometimes it seems hope just . . . disappears! Or – you can barely it see through a pinhole of hope. Regardless, just like –

  • Life-saving fluids enter your body through a “pinhole” of an IV needle.
  • The “pinhole” of a telescope, microscope, camera, or binoculars provides a refined, clearer view –

 

– so the “pinhole” of hope gives you a more realistic view of life. This is critical – especially during difficult seasons.

This is #2 in a series on hope. I’m excited about this series. I hope you will be, too.

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A Message Of Hope – #1

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A Message Of Hope - #1
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To be without hope is discouraging – even exhausting. Equally, a message of hope is such welcome news. Perhaps you need that right now.

This is #1 in a series on hope. So, stay tuned!

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Well-Thought, Well-Spoken, Well-Lived

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Well-Thought, Well-Spoken, Well-Lived
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I’m thinking of a specific person. Actually, a remarkable person. As I got to know and interact with them, I realized they are the perfect example of what we discuss today – well-thought, well-spoken, well-lived. Over time, I came to deeply respect this person because they represent a very well-lived life!

Who comes to your mind as you consider today’s content?

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The Power Of Good Ripples – Scripture Dissection

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The Power Of Good Ripples - Scripture Dissection
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The power of good ripples is like tossing a pebble into a quiet pond. First, the entry of the pebble creates a “plunk.” As the water receives the pebble, it leaps up with a splash of welcome.

Then the ripple begins! It’s beautiful to watch from the side. Artful, smooth, concentric circles roll outward. Interestingly, their art continues to “tell” about the pebble. Finally, the ripples reach the edge of the water and fade into the bank. Circle by circle becomes still – and once again, you see your own reflection in the pond canvas.

Thankfully, good ripples still happen in life. First, there’s a start – the plunk. Then, the power of good – ripples outward. Considering the upheaval and confused state of our world, wouldn’t you agree you should adopt good ripples on a personal level?

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The Theme Of Your Life – Scripture Dissection

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The Theme Of Your Life - Scripture Dissection
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What’s the theme of your life? Have you thought about it? Some people target a theme and work toward it for years. Others simply live – and notice a theme forms over time. Interestingly, if you engage some strategy, you can maneuver – and even change – your life theme.

Hope and opportunity are always available to help you move forward. Let’s explore.

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The Doors Of Your Life

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The Doors Of Your Life
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You’ve heard the illustration of standing in front of several doors, having to choose one without knowing what’s behind each. Similarly, doors you choose for your life become your reality. This can be exciting. Contrastingly, some doors bring great sadness. Nevertheless, you discover new things behind doors. And new experiences can provide hope – if you hold God’s hand while you open and close doors of your life.

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Covered By God’s Love

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Covered By God's Love
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OK! Think WINTER! Freezing cold. You feel exposed – at risk. Plus – you’re shivering! Next thing you know, someone offers you a soft, comfortable, big blanket. Plus, it’s an electric blanket, already plugged in – cozy and warm. This word picture shows what it’s like to be covered by God’s love. Particularly in the cold of the world where you are sometimes exposed and at risk.

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