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This week, I get to say – HAPPY NEW YEAR – to you! Of course, it’s also an opportunity for a fresh new start. So, let’s look at some action points for a great start with strong traction this next year.
Category: Worship
Pause At Christmastime – Advent #4
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I remember one Christmas years ago – I almost missed Christmas! That experience was a “wake-up call.” In my busy life, filling roles and carrying out responsibilities – all the Christmas preparations pulled me off track. I asked God to show me what happened and how to avoid it in the future. That’s when I learned how to pause at Christmastime.
And it works! Now, I use a “pause” all through the year.
Do you need to pause a bit more this Christmas?
Grieving At Christmastime – Advent #3
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During a season filled with peace and joy, it’s painful to experience grieving at Christmastime. But that’s what many people do. They celebrate. Simultaneously, they grieve.
There are always losses in life. Sometimes, these losses almost consume the space meant to be filled with peace and joy. Strategically, there are ways to keep these spaces free for healthy processes – even at Christmastime.
Joy At Christmastime – Advent #2
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Many cherished Christmas carols talk about joy. Consider Joy To The World – “Joy to the world, the Lord has come.” Or While By My Sheep – “Joy, joy, joy! (echo) joy, joy, joy.” If you are looking for joy at Christmastime, you are joined by millions of people.
Interestingly, Paul starts every single letter he wrote in the New Testament with wishes of grace and JOY to his readers.
So, how’s your joy as Christmas approaches?
A Mindset Of Gratitude
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It’s Thanksgiving! Time for a “self-check” on gratitude. A mindset of gratitude makes a huge difference, even when things are difficult or painful.
So, if you had a Gratitude Scale that measured how thankful you are, where would you score on a scale 1-10?
Let’s explore “mindset of gratitude.” But first – let’s have some fun with that Gratitude Scale we mentioned.
Live With Courage And Confidence
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Recently, I connected with a dear friend and learned about her struggle with cancer. Not only her courage to face cancer, but the tenacity and grit it takes to go through chemo treatments. On top of that, to deal with side effects. Little sleep, loss of hair, skin so sensitive you can’t comfortably wear a hat or light scarf. Terrible pain. Time off work. Daily responsibilities still demand attention. Without a doubt, it takes courage and confidence to make it through such difficult circumstances.
How I admire this friend. Each day, she rises into new courage as she manages these realities. Plus, she remains confident God will carry her through. At the same time, she is honest and authentic about her sufferings.
So, let’s dive into what it means to live with courage and confidence each day – no matter what your situation.
Let Go. It’ll Be OK – Hope #6
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Someone’s hanging from a high ledge, ready to fall! They’re yelling for help and losing strength. Now, they hold on with only one hand. You know emergency teams will never make it in time. Frantically, you grab a nearby sturdy tarp and enlist five or six strong-looking by-standers to hold tightly on corners and sides – a “make-shift” life-net directly below. Realizing the person is about to fall, yet is filled with fear, you yell, “Let go. It’ll be OK.”
This is #6 in a series on hope.
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.)
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!
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?
