Our Daily Bread is The Joy of Jesus Today

Our Daily Bread

Our Prayer; God’s Will

November 30, 2012

Our Daily Bread is hosted by Les Lamborn

READ: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

I pleaded with the Lord three times that [a thorn in the flesh] might depart from me. —2 Corinthians 12:8

The handwritten prayer request was heartbreaking in its seeming impossibility: “Please pray—I have multiple sclerosis, weak muscles, trouble swallowing, increased pain, diminishing sight.” The woman’s body was breaking down, and I could sense despair in her plea for intercession.

But then came the hope—the strength that trumps the physical damage and degradation: “I know our blessed Savior is in full control. His will is of utmost importance to me.”

This person may have needed my prayers, but I needed something she had: unabated confidence in God. She seemed to present a perfect portrait of the truth God taught Paul when he asked for relief from his difficulty—what he called his “thorn in the flesh” (2 Cor. 12:7). His quest for relief turned out to be not just a seeming impossibility; his request was turned down flat by his heavenly Father. Paul’s continual struggle, which was clearly God’s will, was a valuable lesson: Through his weakness, God’s grace could be displayed and God’s strength was “made perfect” (v.9).

As we pour out our hearts to God, let’s be even more concerned with seeking His will than we are with receiving the answer we want. That’s where the grace and the strength come from. —Dave Branon

Dear heavenly Father, I bring to You my petitions,
but I give to You my heart. While I plead for You to
answer my prayers, I also submit to Your will so that
my heart may be strengthened and Your work be done.

We pray not to obtain our will in heaven, but to effect God’s will on earth.

Clarity - Friday, November 30, 2012 | Daily Word

Clarity - Friday, November 30, 2012 | Daily Word

Clarity

THE MIND OF GOD LIVES IN ME—CLEAR AND FULL OF STRENGTH AND WISDOM.

When I look too closely at a problem, I can lose perspective. Caught up in the details, I cannot see the whole picture. Just as one must look past the trees to see the forest, I must look past minor setbacks to appreciate the full picture of my potential.

Centering myself in God, I step back from the situation and trust the spirit of God within me to provide understanding and direction. From this perspective, I see more clearly and respond more confidently.

The mind of God lives in me. It is clear and full of strength and wisdom. With faith in the infinite intelligence of God within, I move forward with clarity and assurance.

I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. —Psalm 32:8

Comfort - Thursday, November 29, 2012 | Daily Word

Comfort - Thursday, November 29, 2012 | Daily Word

Comfort

THE ASSURANCE OF GOD’S LOVE IS MY COMFORT.

When I am feeling distressed, I rest in the assurance of God’s love and I am comforted.

God’s love is constant. It cannot be diminished by anything I have or haven’t done. It cannot be withheld by others or dampened by physical or emotional pain. God’s love is my ready source of comfort.

Releasing outward appearances, I breathe deeply to quiet any concerns. I then move my attention into my heart space. My gentle breathing reveals God’s love radiating from the very center of my being, spreading throughout my body. I pause, relaxing in the assurance of God’s love. I am always and forever God’s beloved child. Comforted, I face whatever challenges are before me.

Let your steadfast love become my comfort according to your promise to your servant.—Psalm 119:76

Listen - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 | Daily Word

Listen - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 | Daily Word

Listen

I AM LISTENING.

In seeking divine guidance, I turn within and consciously listen to the Christ presence within me. Whenever opportunities or challenges occur, I pause … ask … listen … and receive a calm assurance. Although my answers come in various ways, I recognize the still small voice of God. I am aware of growing feelings and intuitive nudges calling for my attention.

When I have the chance to help someone in need, I seek to be an instrument of peace and caring support. Often the greatest gift I can give someone is listening from my heart. I wish to be a channel through which God works, and I open myself to be a loving presence. Prayerfully, I ask and listen for guidance on what to say or do.

All the people would get up early in the morning to listen to him in the temple.—Luke 21:38

Progress - Tuesday, November 27, 2012 | Daily Word

Progress - Tuesday, November 27, 2012 | Daily Word

Progress

PRACTICE MAKES PROGRESS.

Chipping away at an unfinished project or striving to adopt a positive new habit may at times leave me feeling disheartened. I may even want to throw in the towel. To stay encouraged, I remind myself: Practice makes perfect. Or, better yet: Practice makes progress!

Rather than trying to be perfect, I practice to keep moving in the right direction. Every bit of progress is good, even if it falls short of perfection. The affirmation, Practice makes progress, keeps me motivated and gives me the energy boost to keep going.

I continue taking small yet significant steps without stress or discouragement, and I feel a growing sense of accomplishment. Practice really does make great progress!

Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.—1 Timothy 4:15

Let Go, Let God - Monday, November 26, 2012 | Daily Word

Let Go, Let God - Monday, November 26, 2012 | Daily Word

Let Go, Let God

I LET GO AND LET DIVINE LIFE FULFILL ITSELF IN AND THROUGH ME.

The phrase “let go and let God” is more than an effective affirmation. It is a way of life. When problems or challenges arise, I make a conscious decision to see myself in unity with Divine Life, to let go of my attachment to a problem and yield to a spiritual solution. This is when I am truly letting go and letting God.

God lives in me and flows freely through me. God in me is my path to freedom, abundance, peace and harmony. If I become mired in fear, doubt and frustration, I block the flow of God-life. Letting go opens me to the power of inspiration, insight, wisdom and love.

I let go and let God manifest in my life as new adventure, unexpected pleasures and unlimited potential. I live in unity with God.

Let the Lord your God show us where we should go and what we should do.—Jeremiah 42:3

Healing - Sunday, November 25, 2012 | Daily Word

Healing - Sunday, November 25, 2012 | Daily Word

Healing

THE SPIRIT OF GOD RENEWS ME.

Whether I am awake or asleep, my body performs millions of vital functions without my conscious involvement. I may take this for granted until I pause to think how blessed I am to be a creation of God; then I cannot help but be in awe of the Master Creator. God is life, and I am the projection of that life into visibility. The spirit of God enlivens and renews me.

I praise God through my feelings, thoughts and words of gratitude. My whole being—mind, body and spirit—responds positively to praise. Whether I speak silently or aloud, in words or in songs, I bless my entire being with life and vitality through the power of praise and gratitude.

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well.—Psalm 139:14

Harmony - Saturday, November 24, 2012 | Daily Word

Harmony - Saturday, November 24, 2012 | Daily Word

Harmony

I JOIN MY VOICE AND HEART WITH OTHERS.

The real joy of music occurs when voices and instruments come together to create a “beautiful noise.” A drum keeps the beat; a soprano sings a solo; the music includes loud crescendos and silent pauses. Each participant plays an important role, and the piece would be incomplete without them all.

In Spirit, we are all one. There is no disharmony, no separation, nothing to keep us apart. Each of us contributes uniquely to the song of the world.

The song inside of me is one of joy, peace, love and praise. My song is guided by the spirit of God in my heart. As I share my song with others, we join our voices and hearts in loving harmony, and the world is uplifted.

Jumping up, he stood and began to walk, and he entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.—Acts 3:8

Free - Friday, November 23, 2012 | Daily Word

Free - Friday, November 23, 2012 | Daily Word

Free

I FREELY EXPRESS MY DIVINE NATURE.

Beyond the categories of nationality, race or religion, people are more similar than different. We all laugh and cry, we all love. We seek freedom and joy, and we seek to know and connect with the God of our understanding as best we can.

Yet while our oneness connects us, every person lives as an individual expression of the Divine, and we are free to express our divine nature in our own unique way.

When I embrace compassion, I free myself from judgment. As I seek opportunities to serve, I free myself from selfishness. In finding ways to share, I free myself from lack. When I see God within myself, I find God as the essence of all, and I am free to love fully.

There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.—Galatians 3:28

Grateful - Thursday, November 22, 2012 | Daily Word

Grateful - Thursday, November 22, 2012 | Daily Word

Grateful

I BREATHE INTO A STATE OF ALL-ENCOMPASSING GRATITUDE.

As long as I have breath, I have life. As long as I have life, I am grateful.

I draw in deep, calming breaths that spread through my body, enlivening my senses. I breathe in gratitude for all I see, hear, taste, smell and touch. I am grateful for my loved ones, my home and for the myriad blessings in my life.

With my next breath, I dive deeper into gratefulness, breathing in gratitude for my oneness with God. I am grateful for who I am in God—whole, beautiful and irrepressible. With an energizing, amplifying breath, I breathe out any disquiet in my soul.

Poised in an elevated awareness of gratitude, I give thanks for all experiences: the physical and the mystical.

I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart.—Psalm 86:12

Expectation - Wednesday, November 21, 2012 | Daily Word

Expectation - Wednesday, November 21, 2012 | Daily Word

Expectation

I AM CENTERED IN DIVINE LOVE AND FULL OF POSITIVE EXPECTATION.

Some people anticipate family gatherings with joyful expectation; others, with a sense of dread. Expectation is actually a powerful state of mind that can shape our experiences. If I am expecting an unpleasant experience, I may be replaying a painful past. Rather than recreate the same experience, I change my expectation.

The past exists only in memory, so I let it go and begin anew. Regardless of what happens around me, I remain centered in what happens within me. I meet others with divine understanding and love. I am compassionate and kind. I release the need to change others, and I myself am changed. I am a radiating center of divine light, love and peace, full of positive expectation.

There is hope …, says the Lord: your children shall come back to their own country.—Jeremiah 31:17

Creativity - Tuesday, November 20, 2012 | Daily Word

Creativity - Tuesday, November 20, 2012 | Daily Word: "Creativity
I EXPRESS MY DIVINE CREATIVITY!
If I am feeling uncreative, I gently release that notion and graciously accept the many gifts that are inherently mine as a child of God. I am a creative expression of God, and God expresses creatively through me.

Creativity is the ability to make, produce or bring something into existence through my actions or behaviors. While creativity is often associated with arts and music, its breadth has no limits. Whether I mix ingredients for a cake, teach a child, or organize a community, I am expressing my creative nature.

My creations begin with an idea and come into fruition through the activity of my imagination, thoughts and actions. I express my gifts in many ways every day, and I joyfully share what I have created.

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.—1 Corinthians 12:4"

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Inner Peace - Monday, November 19, 2012 | Daily Word

Inner Peace - Monday, November 19, 2012 | Daily Word

Inner Peace

I AM FILLED WITH THE CALM PRESENCE OF GOD.

Activities and gatherings may pack my schedule during the holiday season. Sometimes it can seem overwhelming. Yet in the midst of any busyness, I can find peace and calm within.

In the morning, I experience the peace of a new day dawning. If I feel stress or anxiety coming on, I close my eyes and breathe deeply. I focus on a spiritual idea, such as love, peace or harmony, and repeat it softly in my mind. This practice helps me make an inner connection with the Spirit of Peace and Order, and I open to inner tranquility.

Throughout the day, I turn within to find my center—to find God. As I attend to my tasks and activities, I carry the presence of God with and within me, and I am at peace.

Put things in order … and the God of love and peace will be with you.—2 Corinthians 13:11

Supported - Sunday, November 18, 2012 | Daily Word

Supported - Sunday, November 18, 2012 | Daily Word: "Supported
GOD IS MY RESOURCE AND MY HELP.
I am never without means of support. Information and ideas come to me through authors and experts, people in my community or friends and family members. Yet these are simply outward expressions of the Source of my supply. God within is my Source, and the best way to tap into God is through prayer.

Prayer is my channel to the all-knowing wisdom of God. In prayer, I receive divine ideas that guide me to the help I need. If I have doubts or concerns about my choices or decisions, I turn within in prayer. Prayer focuses my attention on God and I become an open receptor of inspiration. Centered in God, I have unlimited resources and wisdom. Centered in God, I am guided to my good.

You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake lead me and guide me.—Psalm 31:3"

'via Blog this'

Forgive - Saturday, November 17, 2012 | Daily Word

Forgive - Saturday, November 17, 2012 | Daily Word

Forgive

AS I FORGIVE, I CONNECT IN ONENESS WITH THE DIVINE.

Forgiveness may sometimes seem daunting, but it is essential to my spiritual progress. If I hold resentment, blame or unforgiveness in my heart, I feel separated from the Divine. But when I am willing to forgive and let go of anger and guilt, I feel the love of God supporting me in every way.

When I forgive, I am not granting anyone permission to harm me or someone else. I am releasing the energy I have carried about mistakes I and others have made. The past is the past, and I free myself to move forward with compassion, love and kindness toward myself and others.

As I forgive, I change my thoughts, words and actions, re-experiencing my oneness with the Divine.

Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.—Matthew 6:12

Divine Order - Friday, November 16, 2012 | Daily Word

Divine Order - Friday, November 16, 2012 | Daily Word: "Divine Order
I ALLOW DIVINE IDEAS TO MANIFEST INTO FULL EXPRESSION.
When I plant a seed, I imagine the harvest to come. Then, as I gather the harvest, I remember the seed and acknowledge the many stages of orderly growth and change from the time of sowing to the time of reaping.

Divine order underlies creation in all its forms. Whether I plant a garden in my yard or plant seed thoughts in my own mind, I rely on divine order to bring about fruition.

I carefully choose the thoughts I hold, for I know they produce after their kind. I let go of unwanted thoughts that may crowd in, and instead anticipate a bountiful harvest of opportunities to come. I give my garden of ideas time to grow, knowing they will mature into full expression in due time.

The earth produces of itself, first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head.—Mark 4:28"

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Faith - Thursday, November 15, 2012 | Daily Word

Faith - Thursday, November 15, 2012 | Daily Word: "Faith
FAITH IS MY WAY TO WELLNESS.
If a health challenge leaves me fraught with worry, faith is my bridge from despair to hope. Faith assures me of something more than my eyes can see or my mind can conceive. Regardless of appearances, I have faith in the power of God within to heal me. Step by step, thought by thought, I affirm this truth. My body knows how to heal and my healing has already begun.

I place my faith in the God Presence. Being gentle with myself, I wait until I am ready to take the next step in my healing journey. Relief and release carry me forward. Hope grows and worry falls behind. I take a new step in faith, envisioning myself whole and well, and according to my faith, it is done. Faith is my way to wellness.

Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you.”—Matthew 9:29"

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Understanding - Wednesday, November 14, 2012 | Daily Word

Understanding - Wednesday, November 14, 2012 | Daily Word: "Understanding
I OPEN MY MIND AND HEART TO NEW UNDERSTANDING.
Misunderstandings often erupt between people who hold differing convictions. As I grow in spiritual awareness, I recognize that the answer to every dispute requires a deeper understanding of our true nature. Attuned to the presence of God within all people, I realize we all want the same things: security, safety, abundance, wholeness, opportunities, love, respect and peace of mind and heart.

The more clearly I understand my own connection with Spirit, the better I understand the desires and needs of others. Through a deeper awareness of Oneness, I find ways to foster peace within my family, cooperation at work, oneness in my community and harmony in our world.

Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.–Psalm 119:34"

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Guidance - Tuesday, November 13, 2012 | Daily Word

Guidance - Tuesday, November 13, 2012 | Daily Word

Guidance

DIVINE WISDOM LEADS ME TO MY HIGHEST GOOD.

At times I may feel confused or uncertain about a situation in my life. Yet there is always One to whom I may go for counsel and guidance, One who will show me the way. Regardless of how difficult a problem may appear, the presence of God within me is my help at all times.

If I have been trying to solve challenges on my own, now is the time to turn within for answers. I give no power to the confusing situation. Instead, a feeling of peace and certainty fills my heart as I listen to God.

Divine wisdom reveals the choice that is right for me, and my path becomes clear. I confidently turn to God within, and I am assured of divine direction, blessed and protected by the One.

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.—Proverbs 3:6

Joy - Monday, November 12, 2012 | Daily Word

Joy - Monday, November 12, 2012 | Daily Word

Joy

I AM A VESSEL FOR GOD’S JOY.

The joy of God rises up in me like a pure spring of water in the desert. This joy feeds and flourishes all that it touches. As I feel it in my heart, I express it in my words and manner, and those around me are uplifted.

The joy of God lifts me out of any sorrow and reawakens in me happiness, light and love. I offer a humble prayer of gratitude. My joy is a reflection of the kingdom of God, and I am a vessel for God’s joy. Every expression of joy arising in me is evidence of the presence of God in my life.

Joy bubbles up as laughter, enfolds a moment of beauty, and flows out in a sigh of peace. I exude joy from the great abundance that is mine.

You bestow on him blessings forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence.—Psalm 21:6

A Fourfold Salvation by A.W. Pink-Salvation from the Power of Sin

A Fourfold Salvation by A.W. Pink-Salvation from the Power of Sin

The Joy of Jesus (Church Online): Center of My Joy.mp4

The Joy of Jesus (Church Online): Center of My Joy.mp4

Protection - Sunday, November 11, 2012 | Daily Word

Protection - Sunday, November 11, 2012 | Daily Word

Protection

I PUT ON THE ARMOR OF DIVINE LOVE AND WISDOM.

In medieval times, protective armor shielded those in battle from harm. To protect myself from harm, and from fear, pain or anger, I suit up in God’s armor of love and security.

I symbolically slip on the all-­powerful breastplate of divine love and wisdom, attainable through meditation and prayer. I become so aware of God’s love and power that I feel it within me as a part of me. God’s presence fortifies me against anything that does not promote peace, love or harmony.

With God as my protection, I experience a divine defense. Nothing can disturb the peace in my soul. I stand tall trusting the strength and protection of God within. The armor of divine love and wisdom shields me through any challenge.

Put on the whole armor of God.—Ephesians 6:11

Transition - Saturday, November 10, 2012 | Daily Word

Transition - Saturday, November 10, 2012 | Daily Word

Transition

I AM OPEN AND RECEPTIVE TO ALL OF LIFE’S CHANGES.

In many regions, autumn is a time of change and transition. The air becomes cooler, the leaves change color and fall to the ground, and days become shorter.

Just as the seasons change to allow God’s life-giving cycle to do its powerful work, my life changes to allow God’s life-giving presence to do its work in me. Every change is an opportunity to experience new blessings and new joys and to become more spiritually attuned.

Life is activity, movement and growth. I have no interest in resisting change; rather, I have a receptive spirit, an open mind and a willingness to learn.

I give thanks for the transitions—the changes—in my life. I give thanks that my life is filled with wonder and newness.

I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing.—Ezekiel 34:26

Higher Power - Friday, November 09, 2012 | Daily Word

Higher Power - Friday, November 09, 2012 | Daily Word

Higher Power

A HIGHER POWER IS WORKING IN AND THROUGH ME.

Whether I am feeling on top of the world or going through a rough time, I know a Higher Power is supporting and guiding me. My life experiences remind me of the power of God’s love in my life. During tough times, I may wonder if I have the energy to face what is before me. As I release the need to know every outcome, I turn my concerns over to my Higher Power. I have faith that all will work out. Even though I may not yet be able to see the results, I trust in a divine outcome.

When life is going smoothly and opportunities are flourishing, I remember to thank God—the Universe—my Higher Power that is working in and through me at all times, guiding and supporting me in all ways.

Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.—Psalm 147:5

World Peace - Thursday, November 08, 2012 | Daily Word

World Peace - Thursday, November 08, 2012 | Daily Word

World Peace

PEACE IN THE WORLD BEGINS WITH ME.

The journey toward world peace begins with me, right here and right now. As I hold a vision of peace for this generation and the next, I search for ways to contribute to a peaceful world. Everyone, including me, deserves to be accepted and treated with compassion. I consciously treat others with respect and kindness.

As changes occur in my life, I honor my feelings and give myself permission to move through them gently, and I allow others to do the same. When someone I know is angry or upset, I honor their process. If I find myself being judgmental, I modify my thoughts and responses. I am kind, peaceful and loving toward others and myself.

Peace in the world begins with me.

He came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and … to those who were near.—Ephesians 2:17

Grace - Wednesday, November 07, 2012 | Daily Word

Grace - Wednesday, November 07, 2012 | Daily Word: "Grace
THE GRACE OF GOD FILLS MY LIFE WITH GOOD.
God’s grace is always at work in my life, whether I realize it or not. Grace is a gift from God that never ceases, blessing me in countless ways.

I behold the grace of God in the mysteries and intricacies of nature. I experience the grace of God as intuition that guides me in right ways. I feel it as revitalizing strength in mind and body. I rely on God’s grace as my protection in all situations.

The grace of God is always with me and within me. It is my assurance that I am never alone. It is my support in following a divinely directed path.

I give thanks for this divine gift, so freely given, and for the blessings of God’s grace in my life each day.

Each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ‘s gift.—Ephesians 4:7"

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Choice - Tuesday, November 06, 2012 | Daily Word

Choice - Tuesday, November 06, 2012 | Daily Word

Choice

I CHOOSE TO BE INSPIRED BY SPIRIT.

I have choices to make every day. However well-intended others may be in offering advice, I am responsible for my own decisions. I filter information and opinions through my own awareness of divine wisdom.

I choose first to become receptive to Divine Mind. Through prayer and meditation, I am led to a deeper understanding of what is right for me. The inspiration I receive is the foundation for my choices.

As I center my mind and heart on God, the pure light of understanding shines within me. Any confusion is relieved as I consider my choices and follow my inner guidance.

My life unfolds in positive ways as I act from the inspiration of Spirit within.

Like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation … Each builder must choose with care how to build on it.—1 Corinthians 3:10

Enthusiasm - Monday, November 05, 2012 | Daily Word

Enthusiasm - Monday, November 05, 2012 | Daily Word

Enthusiasm

ENTHUSIASM IS THE ATTITUDE I BRING TO ALL I DO.

Whatever is before me to do, whether a mundane task or a new adventure, I am energized knowing it is part of my life’s expression. Every place I go and everything I do is an integral part of the Holy Spirit of Life.

In the simple ritual of washing a dish or sweeping a room, I catch a glimpse of peace and grace flowing through me, and I adopt a new attitude about my chores. If I am learning a new skill or beginning an ambitious project, I sense the wisdom and strength of God within me. I am propelled forward with new energy.

Stretching my capabilities with enthusiasm expands my expression of God. I am unlimited in what I can do through God in me. I am alive, enthusiastic and grateful!

Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.—Romans 12:11