The Joy of Jesus (Church Online): April 2013

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Optimistic - Tuesday, April 30, 2013 | Daily Word

Optimistic

I CARRY ON WITH A SPIRIT OF OPTIMISM.

Why does a seed buried in darkness grow rather than decay and die? Sunlight calls it to greater life, and the seedling springs forth. Why do birds awaken and sing before first light? Their inner spirit responds to the promise of a new dawn.

Optimism is essential to all of life. I am optimistic, for I, too, can feel the warmth of sunlight and the promise of new beginnings. The spirit of God within calls me to expect the best. Even in difficult situations, I am not discouraged. My faith deepens and worry fades as God’s light and love pour through my heart.

A morning bird greets me with its clear and joyous song, and I look forward to the coming day. Enfolded in God’s loving care, I press on with optimism.

Hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts.—Romans 5:5

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Monday, April 29, 2013

New Venture - Monday, April 29, 2013 | Daily Word

New Venture

I SAY YES TO A NEW VENTURE AND SUCCESS SAYS YES TO ME!

Even though a new venture may cause me to feel excitement one moment and apprehension the next, I step into it boldly, fully expecting my good.

This opportunity is an idea whose time has come, so I do not allow the magnitude of the task to overwhelm or intimidate me. I have within me all the wisdom, strength and clarity I need to meet the challenge at hand.

If roadblocks appear, I focus on and celebrate every triumph, even the small ones. I learn from disappointments and remain undeterred by detours—they are merely spiritual stepping-stones.

What I do makes a difference. I am fully equipped to step into my new venture with confidence and resolve.

I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.—Job 42:2

Sunday, April 28, 2013

FaithWriter Dr. James A. Lee - It's all about Jesus

FaithWriters.com-Christian Communication - It's all about Jesus

by Dr.James A. Lee
04/15/13
Free to Share
Author requests article critique

What is the meaning of life? This question has been pondered by the greatest minds on earth. Our governments get lost in war and money so much that it has only created more problems. The core values of life have been overshadowed by the news of the day that is often forgotten the very next day. There are so many people living in poverty and no one seems to care. Jesus cared because He lived in poverty.

The History Channel has taken on the task of depicting the Bible on T.V. We get an opportunity to study such questions as to who was Jesus?

There is much speculation as to who was Jesus, just as there is to the meaning of life? Is it true that the two questions are actually one answer? That Jesus is life, the truth, and the way?

The mystery of God is that Jesus is the meaning of life. Jesus is the truth. He lived and died in such a manner that tells us that He died on the cross for our sins. Jesus is all about love. God is love. We need more love today. God raised Jesus from the dead because of love. Jesus will indeed return with all power and glory. Jesus and God are one. We too can be at one as well, this is what it is all about if we only have the faith of a mustard seed. This is The Joy of Jesus and the meaning of life.

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Imagine - Sunday, April 28, 2013 | Daily Word

Imagine

I USE THE POWER OF IMAGINATION TO CREATE A NEW WORLD OF DISCOVERY AND JOY.

With each brush stroke on a canvas, artists create beauty and form. Through their imagination and skill, they capture what they see in the world and in their mind’s eye. The depictions in their art stir the soul.

My God-given power of imagination opens a world of possibilities to me. By using my imagination, I can turn what seems impossible into the possible. By being resourceful or creative, at work or at home, I can create what I imagine. My imagination allows me to soar beyond appearances, visualize what is possible and bring it into form.

My enthusiasm expands as I apply my imagination. I use my creative power daily to explore new dimensions of living.

Your eyes beheld my unformed substance.—Psalm 139:16

Prosperity - Saturday, April 27, 2013 | Daily Word

Prosperity - Saturday, April 27, 2013 | Daily Word
Prosperity

I LIVE IN AN ABUNDANT UNIVERSE.

Jesus taught a very simple, profound truth: When you give generously and joyfully, you will receive in equal measure. My life is filled with opportunities to give to others, and as I do, the universe blesses me in abundance.

When I smile and say hello to a stranger or open a door for a fellow shopper, I am taking part in life’s flow of giving and receiving. My mind and heart are attuned to the many opportunities I have to give and share. I give generously and appreciate all I receive.

In meditation, I send powerful affirmations of abundance to anyone struggling with thoughts of lack. As I give, I receive, sharing in the abundance that blesses us all.

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap.—Luke 6:38

Friday, April 26, 2013

GOD’S SUBJECTIVE REVELATION

Comfort - Friday, April 26, 2013 | Daily Word

Comfort

GOD’S EVER-PRESENT LOVE IS MY GREATEST COMFORT.

If I feel discouraged or anxious, I seek comfort. Outer distractions may provide temporary relief, but leave me yearning for more. To overcome negativity, I turn within to the presence of God and the truth of divine love. Through prayer, I find what I’ve been seeking—profound, enduring comfort.

As I tune in to God’s love within me, I am comforted. God and I are one. Any sense of separation from God was a false sense. God’s ever-present comfort, peace and joy are always available to me and I am enfolded in God’s love. Attuned to the presence of God, I experience the peace that passes all understanding and my soul is soothed. God is indeed my help in every need.

This is my comfort in my distress, that your promise gives me life.—Psalm 119:50

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Dominion - Thursday, April 25, 2013 | Daily Word

Dominion

I DECLARE MY SPIRITUAL DOMINION.

How do I gain dominion over myself and my life? Does my self-control feel weak or my habits limiting? Dominion, or self-mastery, begins in the way I think and feel. I may believe I cannot change my reactions or that I am at the mercy of some habit that does not contribute to my well-being. But in truth, I can take dominion over my behavior. I can assert my freedom. I can—step by step, thought by thought—change my way of thinking, feeling and responding.

I am a spiritual being, unfettered and free. Unlimited by former thoughts and feelings, I take a new look at myself, a new look at my life, and declare my spiritual dominion.

Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion.—Genesis 1:26

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Freedom - Wednesday, April 24, 2013 | Daily Word

Freedom

IN SPIRIT, I AM LIMITLESS AND FREE.

The clarion call of freedom sounds within my soul, trumpeting the truth that the love of God liberates me from unhappiness, hurt or fear. I bid farewell to any emptiness from the past, and open myself to realizing my heart’s deepest longing and aspiration.

Turning within in prayer, I feel the reassurance of God’s love. The love of God moves in and through me as the power that sets me free. The love of God strengthens my resolve, bolsters my courage and guides my steps. I walk the open road of freedom and release.

I rise up strong and unafraid, ready to claim my freedom and fulfill my destiny as a child of God. The love of God is always with me, urging me onward and upward.

If the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.—John 8:36

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Service - Tuesday, April 23, 2013 | Daily Word

Service

I GIVE IN SERVICE TO OTHERS, AND I AM BLESSED IN RETURN.

The dictionary defines service as “an act of helpful activity.” Service is an action, and it is one of the most fulfilling actions I can take.

Being of service requires thought and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. I can be of service at work as I assist my co-workers on projects, in my community as I volunteer for special events, or with my family as I help with daily tasks. I can be of service to organizations that are meaningful to me or that need my assistance and expertise.

Through service, I set the law of giving and receiving into motion, and I am blessed in return. My “acts of helpful activity” bless me and all those whose lives I touch.

Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.—1 Peter 4:10

Monday, April 22, 2013

Respect - Monday, April 22, 2013 | Daily Word

Respect

GOD BLESS THE EARTH.

I respect my home—this planet filled with life, wonder and beauty. I show my respect by caring for the area in which I live, for supporting causes that protect and preserve life, and for leaving the smallest ecological footprint I can. I set an intention to contribute to the health of the planet before my physical journey is complete.

The bounty and goodness of planet Earth bless me with food, water, shelter and inspiration. Natural wonders ranging from the smallest blossom to the highest mountain move me to tears of joy and gratitude for God’s creation. I am blessed by the earth, and each day I honor it and treat it as holy ground. God bless the earth, for it is indeed good.

The earth brought forth vegetation: plants yielding seed of every kind … And God saw that it was good.—Genesis 1:12

Friday, April 19, 2013

Grace - Friday, April 19, 2013 | Daily Word

Grace

I FEEL THE GRACE OF GOD AS INFINITE LOVE AND ACCEPTANCE.

If during an unfortunate circumstance, I received unexpected help that brought peace and relief, then I have known the grace of God. Grace does not favor one individual over another; it is an unconditional expression of God’s love for all.

Grace does not depend on what I do or do not do; it is always available to me. I am humbled to know I do not have to earn the gift of grace—it is God-given.

I feel the grace of God upon me as love and acceptance. I experience grace when I receive a new insight, or the answer to a difficult challenge, or the right and perfect people appearing in my life just when I need them. I am blessed in countless ways, and I am thankful for God’s grace.

From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.—John 1:16

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Forgive - Thursday, April 18, 2013 | Daily Word

Forgive

THROUGH FORGIVENESS, I RELEASE THE PAST.

My intelligence and intuition are born of a magnificent Creator, and I am always learning and growing. If I believe someone has mistreated me in some way, I may seek to see things differently or invest my trust more wisely. I may discover the freedom of forgiveness.

By forgiving, I not only release others from resentment in my heart; I also release myself. By refusing to hold others hostage to the past, I give myself the gift of inner peace.

As I forgive one person, I may discover other opportunities to forgive. Each act of forgiveness requires strength and courage, but each act sets me free.

Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.—Colossians 3:13

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Protection - Tuesday, April 16, 2013 | Daily Word

Protection

GOD WORKS THROUGH ME TO PROTECT AND BLESS ME.

When I pray for protection, I may pray to be shielded, guarded or kept in safety. I also affirm that I am calm and poised, awake and alert, wise and discerning, for my protection hinges on these attitudes as well.

In whatever situation I find myself, my protection, the protection of others and the protection of property is better assured if I am calm, poised, alert and discerning. As I express these attributes, I make wise choices and use good judgment. I am concentrated and focused. I allow the wisdom and intelligence of God to express through me clearly and decisively.

The power of God works through me. I am blessed and protected.

You will walk on your way securely and your foot will not stumble.—Proverbs 3:23

Monday, April 15, 2013

FaithWriters.com-Christian Communication - It's all about Jesus

FaithWriters.com-Christian Communication - It's all about Jesus

What is the meaning of life? This question has been pondered by the greatest minds on earth. Our governments get lost in war and money so much that it has only created more problems. The core values of life have been overshadowed by the news of the day that are often forgotten the very next day. There are so many people living in poverty and no one seems to care. Jesus cared because He lived in poverty.

The History Channel has taken on the task of depicting the Bible on T.V. We get an opportunity to study such questions as to who was Jesus?

There is much speculation as to who was Jesus, just as there is to the meaning of life? Is it true that the two questions are actually one answer? That Jesus is life, the truth,and the way?

The mystery of God is that Jesus is the meaning of life. Jesus is the true. He lived and died in such a manner that tells us that he died on the cross for our sins. Jesus is all about love. God is love. We need more love today. God raised Jesus from the dead because of love. Jesus will indeed return with all power and glory. Jesus and God are one. We too can be at one as well, this is what it is all about if we only have the faith of a mustard seed. This is The Joy of Jesus and the meaning of life.

Unlimited - Monday, April 15, 2013 | Daily Word

Unlimited

MY GOOD IS UNLIMITED.

I am one with God and heir to God’s infinite good. Therefore, my good is immeasurable.

I am rich with ideas. My mind and heart are open to the wisdom and inspiration of God within. As I act on new thoughts and ideas, my awareness of good increases. In moments of prayer, I open my soul to unlimited good. The riches of the universe present themselves as divine ideas, activities and potential pursuits. I consider each an invitation to access the goodness of God.

I am alive with possibilities! In the unlimited realm of God’s good, all things are possible. I give thanks for all I have and the awareness of all I am.

With the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know … what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe.—Ephesians 1:18, 19

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Courageous Heart - Sunday, April 14, 2013 | Daily Word

Courageous Heart

I MOVE THROUGH LIFE WITH SPIRITUAL METTLE!

The word courage comes from the Latin root word for heart. My heart takes courage when I boldly break through fear, refusing to be stymied by it for one more moment!

I have all the spiritual mettle I need to make whatever changes or decisions are necessary. I have the courage to climb any mountain, however insurmountable it may appear. I am not dismayed by life’s setbacks or derailed by doubt. I rely on my spiritual tools to steady my mind and fuel the faith of my courageous heart.

Right now, I step out with daring and take clear action. I am a courageous conqueror, and victory is already won.

Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.—Joshua 1:9

Saturday, April 13, 2013

Inner Peace - Saturday, April 13, 2013 | Daily Word

Inner Peace

NOTHING CAN DISTURB THE CALM PEACE OF MY SOUL.

I may have read about the peace that passes all understanding, yet wonder, Is that peace possible for me? Regardless of the stresses of my life, can I simply choose peace? The answer is yes, I can.

Nothing can disturb the calm peace of my soul. Outer circumstances have no power to cause me distress unless I allow them that power. I can choose my thoughts. I can claim peace for my soul.

So I choose to dwell on peace, empowerment and love. I choose to see life differently. I breathe in deeply, and turn within for sacred spiritual wisdom and serenity. I experience the peace that passes all understanding.

Whenever I feel challenged by outer turmoil, I turn within and find peace.

Peace be within you.—Psalm 122:8

Friday, April 12, 2013

Faith - Friday, April 12, 2013 | Daily Word

Faith

I BELIEVE ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE.

I am a possibility thinker! I know that with God, I can reach my goals and overcome any challenge. I am not discouraged by the appearance of lack or limitation. At one time in history, no one believed a person could run faster than the four-minute mile. And it was implausible to imagine a man would ever walk on the moon!

In the past, I’ve overcome obstacles, even when I could not see a clear path to success. I’ve met my goals and objectives, because I knew in my heart that I could. When I hold to my faith, hope replaces doubt, and my mind affirms a new dawn. If ever I am in doubt, I re-energize my faith. I know all things work together for good.

When Jesus heard him, he was amazed and said to those who followed him, “Truly I tell you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith.”—Matthew 8:10

FaithWriters.com-Christian Prayers - A Call for Prayer

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Enthusiastic - Thursday, April 11, 2013 | Daily Word

Enthusiastic

I AM ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT LIFE!

I love to watch a robin hop around in the fresh spring grass looking for worms, seeds and other delights. I enjoy seeing squirrels bounce excitedly from tree to tree or a young colt frisking in an open field. These shows of natural enthusiasm remind me of life’s simple joys.

Although I may have more concerns than a robin, squirrel or colt, I can still greet each day with enthusiasm and an eagerness to appreciate life in every way. I begin with a quick prayer of gratitude and open the door to a day filled with good.

I look forward to what each day holds, knowing I am not alone, that God and I are one, and that my joy will only increase. I am enthusiastic about the promise of today.

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.—Hebrews 11:1

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Divine Order - Wednesday, April 10, 2013 | Daily Word

Divine Order

DIVINE ORDER PREVAILS IN MY LIFE, AND I AM GRATEFUL.

When I face challenges, seeking advice from others may sometimes be confusing. Rather than look elsewhere, I remember to trust in divine order. As I enter a sacred time of prayer, divine order prevails. Resistant or rebellious thoughts become quiet, and in the stillness, I open to divine wisdom.

Confusion falls away as I acknowledge God’s infinite intelligence. The mind of God holds a solution to every problem. I am one with Divine Mind. As I become still and receptive, ideas surface and I feel a rush of energy. I prepare to take inspired action.

When I put God first, divine order prevails in my life, and I am grateful.

When a land rebels it has many rulers; but with an intelligent ruler there is lasting order.—Proverbs 28:2