From Pity to Praise

No Sleep

If you didn’t need sleep, what would you do with all the extra time?

I had always had trouble sleeping since I was a child. In my younger days I remember staying awake for 3 days and then sleeping like the dead for 12 hours straight. Now I get about 4-5. hours asleep if I sleep any longer I get up with a headache.

So, no sleep isn’t a challenge for me. I could and do spend reading my Bible and writing.

My husband sleeps all night, so I can’t clean house or cook because it would wake him. He would wake up grouchy and I definitely don’t want that.

Are Their Any Who Understand

The Bible says that “without faith it is impossible to please God”(Hebrew’s 11:6). That’s an incredible statement yet, it is the Bible. Take it for exactly what it says. Think about that for a moment anyone who says they are attempting to following Jesus, it means absolutely nothing, if they lack faith. Without faith, they have no hope – no possibility of pleasing God. Any one who does not please God they are living in vain. This is serious.

Many people do not feel the presence of God or His power in their life. But it’s not about “feeling” it’s about knowing we have the faith that He is with us.

“We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to His purpose” -Romans 8:28

To have faith that God will work out the injustices we have received. To have faith that He will provide for us. To have faith that we can endure severe trials and persecution and that God will deliver us from them.

It all comes down to faith in the soon coming kingdom of God more clearly that we can have peace when it comes.

To say I have struggled with how I will get through these dark times would be an understatement. I don’t have any idea if I’m strong enough to get through it. But I know I have a God who is strong enough to help me through it.

The world is in trouble. Problems are escalating everywhere and there are many who are cut off from God. The return of Jesus is imminent.

In Luke 18:8 Jesus asks the question, “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?”

Think of the implications of this question. Is it possible that their faith could be completely gone from Earth at Jesus’s second coming?

There is so much ignorance of the Bible. Its clear that so many (even the one who call themselves Christians) that do not know the Bible.

A recent t study showed that 60% of Americans can’t name half of the Ten Commandments or the four Gospels of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark. Luke, John).

Many believe that the saying that “God helps those who help themselves “ is in the Bible, in fact it is not. The Bible teaches that God will reward those who work diligently, but it doesn’t stop there. It also says that God will help those who can’t help themselves.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans” – Proverbs 16:3

This is a promise that if we are working hard and doing what is right, God will help us.

Nearly 80% of Americans including people who say they are Christian believe that “God helps those who help themselves is a direct quote from the Bible.

What a shame! What a terrible indictment of the most blessed nation on earth. It is the single greatest reason why is little genuine faith is found.

From Fear To Courage

As human beings, we all experience fear. Fear is a natural emotion that protects us from danger, and helps us avoid risky situations. However, fear can also become a barrier that stops us from achieving our goals and living our dreams. You’ve probably heard the saying “Be fearless,” but it’s about not feeling fear -it’s about finding the courage to face our fears and push through them.

We have all experienced anxiety that causes a mindset where we feel trapped in an endless negative thought pattern. While fear can be an uncomfortable and overwhelming feeling. It can also be an opportunity for growth and transformation. Finding the courage to face our fears and overcome them can lead to major growth in areas we don’t even know we need.

The first step is finding this courage and acknowledging the fear we have, Recognizing that it’s okay to feel afraid and that it is something that everyone experiences in life. At some point, it is needed to identify what we’re afraid of and try to understand the cause of it. Whether is our fear of failure, rejection, or something unknown.

Most fears remain unnoticed until we confront them head-on. Understanding ourselves, and what holds us back is important to discover before starting the journey of healing. Filling the voids we feel with distraction to make fear goes away is never the answer.

Avoiding our fears only limits our growth. It’s only when we have accepted our fears, that we can begin to take action to overcome them. This may involve getting support from friends, family, or even a therapist we can trust. It may take some small steps to gradually confront our fears. It takes courage to even feel like taking the first step, but once you do. But once you do it will be the most beneficial action you can take for your personal health and mental health.

I’ve not always been a person who looks at the positives I have struggled to find courage and hope. But, because I have found courage instead of fear I have begun to have success in facing every fear I’ve faced.

There are huge benefits to overcoming our fears including increased confidence, and improved relationships.

When you focus on the reason why it’s beneficial to overcome your fears, it will motivate you to overcome your fears and pursue your dreams.

Fear can alter our personal life or behavior and being able to find courage in those times of fear can make us more resilient.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it. We may not be able to completely erase our fears, but we can learn to manage them as a source of motivation to move on.

It’s not easy but by confronting our fears and using them as a catalyst for growth, we can develop the mindset to live life to the absolute fullest, despite what we have dealt with or whatever comes our way.

Pet Peeves

Name your top three pet peeves.

My pet peeves are Arrogant people, they have an inflated sense of self-importance and believe they are better than others. They behave in an overbearing manner, make presumptuous claims or assumptions. They undermine others who they think are less knowledgeable or “weaker.”

People who interrupt you all the time. They have a strong desire to control the conversation and lack listening skills. They think what they have to say is more important than what you have to say, and is very disrespectful.

Evil people, lack empathy and moral values, have control issues, they like to have control over people. And use manipulation to get what they want.

My Favorite People

Who are your current most favorite people?

My favorite people are my children and my husband. And the few friends I have. These are my people because I know I can trust them wholeheartedly.

I can trust them to improve my joy when I’m having a hard day, and they support me through challenges along with someone I can share deep meaningful conversations.

Turning Pain Into Wisdom And Strength

At some point in our lives, we realize that a good life sometimes involves a bit of pain, and unfortunately, there are countless types of pain. There is small pain when we leave something behind, and there’s big pain when all our plans fail. There’s the sharp pain when we make mistakes, and the nagging pain when life doesn’t bring the joy we expected.

Yet alongside this, there’s also a gentle tingling that runs through our body when we’re in the perfect moments of life when we achieve something great, and experience joy and laughter. We know the moment won’t last forever, but it will remain forever.

We all feel pain from time to time, and if someone asks us, “What happened?” we will more than likely say we just had a bad day. Only the dead feel no pain, and we can learn how to turn pain into a source of strength and wisdom.

Acknowledging our emotional pain is necessary if we want to heal from it. Emotional pain isn’t shown to the outside observer, but it is more common and harder to treat than a broken bone. Our attempts to hide emotional pain increase the burden it creates.

Nothing in this world “belongs” to us. When we let go of things we once and for all, it suddenly sets us free. However, one of the hardest things in life is learning go let go, whether it’s possessiveness, obsession, anger, love or loss.

Change isn’t easy. We might fight to hold for what’s ours. And wrestle with ourselves to let go. Letting go is healthy for our journey forward. It clears our minds of the past. It isn’t easy to turn our wounds into wisdom and learning to accept them. But, trying to ignore or numb the pain doesn’t work, we need to face it head on. It’s necessary if we want to move forward. Once we accept our wounds, we can start to look for the lessons they have to teach us.

Perspective plays a key role in acceptance. We can focus on ways to be positive instead of negative.

Surrounding yourself with the right influences. There are people you can count on, and some you can’t. We need to weed out those in our lives that may hold you back.

It’s useless to focus all your energy on events that no longer have control over you. Instead of wasting time with negative coping strategies find something that actively gives you a spark.

Holding onto hatred and resentment only poisons you. It keeps you forever trapped in the past, focusing on an element that you’re letting define who you are today. There’s a quote that goes, “When people brings up the past, tell them Jesus already dropped the charges.” Our past is who I used to be, I’m not that person anymore.

Life will eventually knock us hard on our butts, but we can use those times as stepping stones for growth. Constantly trying to avoid hardship and pain will only prove detrimental.

Each experience, each moment that we have is precious. When we to learn how to make the best out of an even the worst circumstances. You may be amazed at the power, wisdom, and strength you gain after maintaining a positive attitude.

Animals

What are your favorite animals?

I like all animals i believe domesticated animals are only aggressive because humans make them that way. Domesticated animals need to be trained and socialized. If that is not done then they become aggressive.

I have a perfect example of this. A few years ago I was delivering a Christmas meal to a man. I was told the dog was aggressive and to call before I delivered it. When I called I specifically asked him to keep his dog in a room or chained as I would be there in a few minutes.

When I arrived his dog came running out of the house before him and attacked me. He nearly tore my hand off. All the while that man just stood there and watched while I struggled to get away.

It ended with a trip to the hospital and a police report. The man paid a hefty fine, and was told to keep his dog locked up. If he would have kept him locked up in the first place this wouldn’t have happened.

I was angry the man not the dog. Which the man obviously hadn’t trained, socialized, or cared what would happen to other people.

In Challenging Situations Run To God

In our greatest needs and facing our most difficult obstacles, we desperately need God. It’s urgent that we turned to him, and not the failing philosophies of man. Every need we have is answered in who God is.

Run to God For Wisdom

We are not God, His thoughts and ways are often beyond us (Isaiah 55:8-9). When we are confused, or desperately need His perspective for decisions or dealing with tough circumstances, we can run to Him for answers.

Solomon. In the Book of Proverbs tells us we should not lean on our own understanding, but that we should submit ourselves to God and allow Him to guide us. The Book of Psalms is a book that deals with everything we could situation we go through in life, and how to gain answers for our struggles.

God spoke through the profit of Jeremiah, “call to me, and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know” ( Jeremiah 33:3). The apostle Paul said we should come to God with all of our requests (Philippians 4:6). And that would certainly include a plea for wisdom. We are encouraged to pray for wisdom and discernment concerning our circumstances in life, James 1:5 specifically encourages us to do this.

When nothing makes sense, or when we struggle to understand to turn to the matchless wisdom of God.

Run to God When Fear Assaults Us

Rather than run in fear or pull inward, I urge you to press forward with God who reaches out His hand and says, “Do not fear, I will help you” (Isaiah 41:13).

When fear assaults us, we need the courage that comes only from His presence. We can run to Him and trust Him (Psalm 56:3-4).

God is our refuge, our strength, and our hiding place until the storms of life passes by (Psalm 27:1, 46:1-3, 57:1).

Jesus advised His disciples concerning fear. He told them He would supply His own supernatural peace, and then He urged them, “not to be afraid” (John 14;27). Even when we face horrendous circumstances, it is God‘s presence and peace that will carry us through.

When fear threatens to overcome us, we must remember the Overcomer is Jesus, the One to bring salvation and peace.

Run to God When Life Seems To Fall Apart

His caring provision for us is based on His sovereign control. When we are faced with struggles and loss and we fail to see something positive that is happening. It is easier to accept God’s divine intervention.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, that is when I really understood that God is in control. My life felt like it was falling apart. I began to wonder if God was real. That is when I began to understand His character. That is when I began trusting his promises and leaning on Him. He is sovereign and knows what He is doing and He does them well.

When we experience pain in life, from a human standpoint, that makes us feel like everything is falling apart it is wise to turn to, lean on, and rest in God.

Nothing takes God by surprise and nothing is out of His control. Every detail of our life, even though we do not understand this side of heaven is designed with His holy purposes for us and His glory in mind. He is sovereign, loving, and good. if we follow Jesus And make God’s purposes ours, He will make us more like Jesus (Romans 8: 28-29). He can use anything to accomplish that, even things that confuse us or brings us pain.

Keep in mind that God is in control and He will help us face our greatest struggles in life. when life seems to crumble, we can run to Him and take comfort that He will help us through every situation in our life.

Run To God When Our Hearts Are Breaking

C.S. Lewis said that God “shouts” to us in our pain. We may not like it when God shouts through a megaphone Even though God may allow deep wounds, he comfort us through it all. David said in Psalm 34:18, the Lord is near the brokenhearted. He heals the brokenhearted and bandages our wounds, but we must first run to Him in our pain.

When life gets hard, when a relationship falls apart, dreams are crushed, or when a diagnosis changes everything. Even in these heartbreaking circumstances, all is well because God can move us in our deep brokenness to heal and help us. God uses His Word to comfort our hearts, and make others to come alongside to help us heal. Paul urge people to encourage one another because there are so many occasions when we need encouragement in this life.

Grief is perhaps one of the biggest emotions that causes us to run to God. Jesus said in the beatitudes, that blessed all those who mourn, for they shall be comforted (Matthew 5:4). in the pain of our shattered hearts, God wants to comfort us. God is a compassionate and comforting Father.

Run To God When Anxious About Finances

Sadly, the world has become a “give me” place. It’s all about possessions and finances, but God is not a holy ATM machine, but that doesn’t mean He is heartless concerning our needs. he cared about our financial needs and when we are distraught and can’t pay our bills. He understands our anxiety when we are in financial hardship. He does not heartlessly turn away.

Rather than stewing about our lack, we must run to God and pray about our needs. we must trust Him to either supply in His own time away, or give us the wisdom about our next step, and perhaps it’s something we’ve not even considered. Either way God is the source. He is the owner of all things, and the provider of every material blessing. Philippians 4:19 says He can meet our needs according to His riches, not ours. I may not have everything I want, but I have everything I need.

God knows how much we need things to survive in life, and He wants us to seek Him. In Matthew. 7:11, Jesus said, if human parents know how to give good gifts to their children, how much more does God in heaven give gifts to those who ask Him. “Asking Him” is key.

When we become anxious about our finances or any lacking resource, we should run to our Provider in prayer.

Run To God To Find Hope

Some circumstances can feel hopeless, when we are overwhelmed by tough trials and are suddenly downcast. We don’t need to despair, these are times to run to God and pray prayer and search the Scriptures for words of hope.

In the Ingle language, hope might include the idea of a doubt “a “hope so” perspective. But that is not the perspective in scripture. Biblical hope isn’t about doubt it includes the concepts of certainty, security, and confidence. Biblical hope is not a feeling, but rather the assurance that God is for us and the promises that His scriptures are true.

In Psalm 33:20-22, David wrote, “we wait and hope for the Lord, He is our help and our shield. May your unfolding love be with us, Lord, even as we put our hope in you.” Hope is linked to trusting God. Hebrews 11:1 tell us that }faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Our hope for eternity with God is secure through Jesus, and that hope and is also an “anchor for our soul” in our day-to-day struggles.

When we feel hopeless, we can run to God and believe that He sees and cares and that He will be our help and our strong defense.

Run To God When Temptations Come

We are all broken in sin, and susceptible to many Temptations from Satan and our weak flesh. Proverbs 4:23 tells us to “Guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from it.” Jesus tells us to stay alive and pray so that we don’t enter into temptation as we mature by reading the Bible. We learned to anticipate Satan’s attacks and avoid temptation.

But when temptation rages, it is crucial to run to our loving, merciful, help-giving Father God. Hebrews 4:15-16 just asked to “draw near to God” to find help when we feel like we might succumb to temptation.

We must run to Father God in prayer, Jesus helps us resist Satan, remember, he was tempted by Satan three times in ways that are symbolic to human temptation. Each time he spoke with the of the Spirit (God’s Word). he gave us a good example. The Holy Spirit not only convict us, He is able to help us when we are tempted. He not only convicts us of our need for salvation concerning sin -He reminds us the evil temptations are harmful and wrong. conviction is a good thing, that we shouldn’t fight.

When 10 patients rage, and we choose to run to God, he will strengthen us, provide a way of escape, and give us victory. He will never think that “we come too often.” He delights to help us.

Run To God To Find Joy

We might lose our joy because we lost the love we once had for God or His Son. When we lose our passion for His will in our lives we lose our joy.

Perhaps we’ve become distracted by things that are not of Him, or life has thrown us a curveball. Regardless the reason, we need to run to God and confess our love and wholehearted allegiance to Him.

We might lose our joy because we become ungrateful. Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 that we are to be thankful and all situations, and thank God for all he has done. we need to run to God with fresh phrases laced with gratitude.

We might lose our joy because of sin, David asked in Psalm 51:12, for God to restore the joy of His salvation. David attempt to cover his sin, it only causes inner torment. But when he asked God to restore his joy and salvation, his forgiveness and cleansing began. I’ve heard “that sin causes our cup of joy to spring a leak.” And that’s never a good thing when we run to God, confess our sin, we can rejoice in His forgiveness.

We cannot live this life victoriously without God. That was never the way it was supposed to work.

Why would we not run to God with our questions, weaknesses, and needs.

The Prosperity Of The Wicked

“They spend their days in prosperity, And suddenly they down to Sheol” -Job 21:13

The Bible is a book of answers, and not a book of an ending puzzles. When Jesus’s disciples, asked why he spoke to the crowd in parables he answered.

“Because it is given unto you know the mystery of the kingdom of heaven, but to then it is not given” -Matthew 13:11

The inability to understand the things of God is not a religious attainment, but a sign of reparation.

There is a conversation that Mark had with his mother in “God’s Not Dead” movie that explains why the evil prosper perfectly. That conversation went like this:

Mark:

You prayed and believed your whole life, never did anything wrong. And here you are. You are the nicest person I know. I am the meanest. You have dementia. My life is perfect. Explain that to me!

Marks Mother:

Sometimes the devil allows people who live a life, free of trouble because he doesn’t want them turning to God. Their sin is like a jail cell, except it is all nice and comfy, and there doesn’t seem to be any reason to leave. The doors wide open. Until one day, time runs out, and the cell door slams shut, and suddenly it’s too late.

The difference between the righteous and the wicked is that the wicked have their rewards now and it will be taken away from them. But the righteous wait for another reward as is yet to come -a reward that will endure into eternity.

The momentary suffering of the righteous in this world is the wages for an eternal life of joy.

The momentary luxury of the evil in this world is the cause of their destruction, the “wages” for their sin. The more wealthy and prosperous the evil, the more they will lose when they face judgment. In other words, the better off they are now in this world the greater their suffering will be upon judgment day. They are increasing their suffering by increasing their wealth.

It is more worthwhile to endure a temporary life of suffering and enjoy an eternity of joy and peace. Enjoying a temporary life of sinful luxury leads to suffering, eternal destruction.

Beach or Mountains

Beach or mountains? Which do you prefer? Why?

It is hard to say because, they both have benefits to your health. Mountains improve lung and heart health, along with providing better metabolism mountains because of higher altitudes it can help the human body metabolizes food causing our bodies to to burn more sugar and build up less fat.

The beach is good for stress management because of the wave, and the ocean breeze. Provides vitamins D which helps your body absorb calcium and phosphate for healthy bones, teeth, and muscle. It can also improve our immune system and helps the thyroid because of the iodine in the waves. Saltwater swimming can help reduce inflammation and speed up healing of skin issues.

Both provide much needed benefits. Maybe the answer is living half the year at the beach and half at the mountains. I have never been to the beach.