The Joy of Jesus (Church Online): September 2013

Monday, September 30, 2013

Free - Monday, September 30, 2013 | Daily Word

THE KEY TO FREEDOM IS TO PUT GOD FIRST.

Daily life may appear confining at times. I might feel boxed in by deadlines, burdened by health concerns, or weary of relationship issues. Realizing I have a choice, I seek a path to freedom.

In The Golden Key, Emmet Fox noted that the key to restoring peace and harmony is to “stop thinking about the difficulty, whatever it is, and think about God instead.” With this in mind, I turn my thoughts away from my concerns and affirm the truth that God is all there is.

If worrisome thoughts resurface, I replace them with powerful affirmations of God’s loving presence. I regain my freedom by centering my thoughts on God. As I do, my mind quiets, my body relaxes, and I am free.

Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me in a broad place.—Psalm 118:5

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Student of Life - Sunday, September 29, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM ALWAYS LEARNING.

As a student of life, I am always learning. Living is like an endless education, and I learn something new every day. Sometimes circumstances test my mettle. With faith in myself and with the spirit of God in me, I surmount any obstacle and grow from the experience.

I learn by doing. I try what I have not tried before, and I take risks, knowing I may not always succeed. But I will always learn. As I follow my inner guidance, I make progress, building my faith and confidence. 

Every day, I continue to grow in awareness, seeking to learn more about God, myself, and life. I am guided by Spirit and blessed with the answers I seek.

Give instruction to the wise, and they will become wiser still; teach the righteous and they will gain in learning.—Proverbs 9:9

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread -- Color Courage

September 29, 2013


Our Daily Bread is hosted by Les Lamborn

READ: 1 Corinthians 4:10-17

Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. —1 Corinthians 11:1

A radio ad for watches suggests that listeners buy a watch with a bright color band and then wear it with clothes of other colors. When people notice your watch because of its contrasting color, the ad says, “They’ll see that you have ‘color courage.’ And they’ll want to be like you.” Something in us enjoys having others follow our example.

If you do a quick reading of 1 Corinthians 4, you might think the apostle Paul sounds a bit boastful when he says to follow his example of self-sacrifice (v.16). But a closer look at Paul’s words shows why he wrote so confidently. He could ask people to imitate him because he imitated Christ (11:1), the greatest Servant of all.

The persecution he endured and the position he held in the church (4:10-17) all happened because Paul followed Jesus. When he mentioned that even if the Corinthians had 10,000 teachers he would still be their father in the faith (v.15), he was acknowledging that Jesus is the only reason people could trust his teaching.

If we want people to imitate us, we must first imitate our Lord. If we have any reason for people to follow our example—if we have any courage to point others to the Savior—it is because of Him, not us. —Anne Cetas

Joyfully following Jesus the Lord
And trusting His lead every day
Makes us examples that others can see
To follow when trials come their way. —Sper

Others should imitate us only as far as we imitate Christ.

Bible in a year: Isaiah 7-8; Ephesians 2

Friday, September 27, 2013

Healing - Friday, September 27, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM HEALED AND RENEWED.

Today I express my gratitude to God for healing: Thank You for the divine blueprint of wholeness and perfection within me and for my natural state of health, vitality, and strength.

Thank You for Your presence in me, renewing, restoring, and sustaining me. Every organ, cell, and function of my body is being restored to wholeness through the healing power of Divine Life in me.

I behold my true nature as Your child and I see myself as a picture of health—moving, speaking, working, playing, and functioning with ease, confidence, and purpose.

I love and care for my body, for it houses the sacred being I am. I am healed and renewed, and I am grateful.

The Lord, your God, is in your midst … he will renew you in his love.—Zephaniah 3:17

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Forgive - Thursday, September 26, 2013 | Daily Word

ACTING FROM MY DIVINE NATURE, I FORGIVE MISTAKES.

Words uttered thoughtlessly in frustration or anger can be hurtful. If I am on the receiving end of someone’s unkind words, I have the choice to forgive or harbor bitterness. I choose to forgive.

We have all been careless or thoughtless at times. I forgive others as I forgive myself, for words said and unsaid, and I release any resentment.

Moving forward, I consciously choose thoughts and words that affirm and uplift. The thoughts I hold and the words I speak to others are carefully chosen expressions of God’s ever-present love. I commit to living my life as the caring, loving expression of God that I am.

See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble.—Hebrews 12:15

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Guidance - Wednesday, September 25, 2013 | Daily Word

ATTUNED TO DIVINE WISDOM, I KNOW WHAT IS MINE TO DO.

I seek to live my best life and express my highest potential; yet I may not always know how to go about it. In every moment, I have a choice between a variety of actions and attitudes. When I am unsure about what is mine to do, I turn within for divine guidance.

As I withdraw from the noise of my confusion and enter into a state of stillness and peacefulness, I become open and receptive to inner wisdom. In the Silence, my thoughts are illumined and I experience clarity and insight. The spirit of God within gives me the insight and direction I need to follow a positive course of action. I am confident of my next steps to be of true service and to live my most God-inspired life.

O send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill.—Psalm 43:3

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Divine Order - Tuesday, September 24, 2013 | Daily Word

DIVINE ORDER IS AT WORK IN MY LIFE.

We behold divine order when we see a seed sprouting through the soil. Something marvelous has happened on a microlevel. The seed responded to the good soil and grew. The pattern within the seed, the seedling, and the maturing plant was divinely ordered.

I am like the seed that sprouts and grows to become all I can be. Divine order has been unfolding in my life from the day I was born. I see it manifesting when I experience a breakthrough in spiritual understanding, reach a goal, or find myself at the right place at the right time. My bounty is great. My heart is full. All is in divine order.

The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground, and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how.—Mark 4:26-27

Monday, September 23, 2013

Inner Joy - Monday, September 23, 2013 | Daily Word

I LET MY LIGHT SHINE!

Today I choose to live joyfully. My delight in life is inwardly generated, a natural by-product of the living, loving presence of God in me.

As I move through my day, I find ways to express my heart’s contentment. My attitude is positive, upbeat, and enthusiastic. I look for ways to be helpful and encouraging. I am happy, and it shows!

When I have an affirmative attitude, I am keen to notice and appreciate joy in other people. When I let my light shine, I notice the light of others shining back at me. Together we create a joyful space.

As we share optimism, love, and happiness, the circumference of joy expands, and the world is blessed.

You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy.—Psalm 16:11

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Turning Point - Sunday, September 22, 2013 | Daily Word

TODAY IS MY TURNING POINT, AND NOW IS MY MOMENT.

Every moment brings an opportunity to experience life anew. Every day carries the potential for transformation and growth—for adopting a fresh perspective, making a different choice, or taking a new path.

I choose to make today a turning point day. Whether the changes I make are large or small, each one propels my growth. I discover more about myself, how Spirit works in and through me, and how to express my divine nature in meaningful ways.

As I connect with Spirit within, I know I am supported in every way. I step out in faith to experience life more fully. I am confident and excited as I venture into new territory and embrace this turning point in my life.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.—Ecclesiastes 3:1

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Surrender - Saturday, September 21, 2013 | Daily Word

Surrender

SURRENDERING TO SPIRIT, I EXPERIENCE DEEP PEACE AND WELL-BEING.

At times life flows smoothly, and at other times, it may seem like a battle. If I find myself in opposition with those around me or in conflict with myself, I cease the struggle now. I turn the matter—and, indeed, my life—over to the living Spirit of Truth within me.

I begin in quiet contemplation, laying down the defensive armor of strongly held convictions and any weapons of judgment or criticism. This is a conscious act of faith and courage.

I relinquish control and surrender to Spirit. In the Silence, my open heart and mind reap the rewards of God’s living, loving Spirit. As I entrust myself to Infinite Love, I experience deep peace and well-being.

For not in my bow do I trust … But you have saved us from our foes.—Psalm 44:6, 7

Friday, September 20, 2013

World Peace - Friday, September 20, 2013 | Daily Word

IN MIND AND HEART, I HOLD A VISION OF PEACE FOR ALL THE WORLD.

Centuries ago, people gazed at the moon, never imagining humans would someday walk upon it. Yet someone did imagine it, and science and technology were developed to make it happen. Now missions to the moon—and beyond—are commonplace.

I use my imagination to envision peace in our world, where every person is celebrated as a unique expression of the Divine. Every individual is safe and loved. Leaders of every nation value peace, and armies lay down their weapons.

I act from my vision of peace, confident the practices for achieving it will arise from the universal creative process. I do not need to know how the process will unfold; I simply know that peace is possible for all.

Peace, peace, to the far and the near.—Isaiah 57:19

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Prosperity - Thursday, September 19, 2013 | Daily Word

GOD IS MY UNFAILING SOURCE.

God’s world is not a world of lack or limitation. It is a world of plenty. God’s supply is ever-present, an unfailing source of good. Knowing I am one with God, I adopt a consciousness of prosperity. I think and act in prosperous ways.

I view the circumstances of my life not with an expectation of lack or failure, but from the perspective of prosperity and success. I stand steady and sure in the face of uncertainty, confident that divine ideas will assure my prosperity.

I give thanks for the manifestation of every desired blessing, knowing God is my source and every need is fulfilled.

On his law they meditate day and night. They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season … In all that they do, they prosper.—Psalm 1:2, 3

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Seek - Wednesday, September 18, 2013 | Daily Word

GUIDED BY DIVINE WISDOM, I FIND WHAT I SEEK.

In the game of hide-and-seek, children are delighted to find their hiding playmates. It may take many minutes and several searches before all the players are found, but once the last one is discovered, all regroup and start again.

Life is sometimes like a game of hide-and-seek. It may seem that the goals I pursue are hidden from me, just out of reach. Yet in the game of life, I can carefully consider my objectives. Am I only looking to solve perceived problems or aiming for spiritual understanding so I may rise above? Am I seeking to change temporary circumstances or the wisdom to effect lasting change in me? With wisdom and perseverance, I find what I seek and rejoice in every discovery.

The human spirit is the lamp of the Lord, searching every innermost part.—Proverbs 20:27

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Protection - Tuesday, September 17, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM PROTECTED BY A CONSCIOUSNESS OF TRUTH.

Sometimes the world may seem unsafe or dangerous. When conditions are beyond my control, uncertainty can develop into fear. If I am fearful, I have an opportunity to return to Truth.

I affirm these Truth statements: The Universe supports me in every way. God is absolute good and everywhere present. The spirit of God within me is my protection. As I let Truth fill my mind and heart, I am protected.

The spirit of God within is my safeguard in danger, my guide through doubt, and my courage in times of fear. Trusting in the Truth, I am protected. My essential nature is strong and secure. God in me is my protection.

Trust in the Lord, and do good; so you will live in the land, and enjoy security.—Psalm 37:3

Monday, September 16, 2013

Matthew 10 NIV - Jesus Sends Out the Twelve - Jesus - Bible Gateway

Let Go, Let God - Monday, September 16, 2013 | Daily Word

I LET GO OF STRUGGLE, AND LET GOD BE MY INSPIRATION.

When I say “I let go and let God,” what am I releasing, and what am I allowing? I let go of condemnation and allow the unconditional love of God. I release darkness and sorrow and embrace the light and joy of God. I let go of struggle, lack, and limitation and let in the peace, substance, and power of God.

In my time of prayer and meditation, I become as a child listening to a loving parent. I cease telling God what I know and seek only to know God’s presence. I let go of limited understanding and let God within me bring spiritual understanding. As I let go of earthly troubles, my burdens lift and I rejoice in the kingdom of God within me.

Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.—Luke 18:16

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Grace - Sunday, September 15, 2013 | Daily Word

THE GRACE OF GOD MAGNIFIES EVERY GOOD EFFORT.

Grace is the great blessing from the Creator that enhances every good effort I make. Jesus depicted the activity of grace when he said we can begin with faith as small as a mustard seed and still have the power to move mountains.

Whenever I seek answers in prayer, grace reveals what I need to know. I can open my heart with the smallest willingness to forgive, and grace will carry me the rest of the way. As I give thanks for the blessings in my life, grace expands my awareness, and I find more good flowing in and through my life.

When I begin an activity with my heart centered in God, grace assures the results will exceed my expectations. The grace of God magnifies every good work that I do.

On his arrival he greatly helped those who through grace had become believers.—Acts 18:27

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Dance - Saturday, September 14, 2013 | Daily Word

I DANCE TO THE RHYTHM OF MY HEART.

Learning a new dance can be fun and challenging. First, I learn the steps, and then I practice. Through repetition, I fully integrate the technique. While missteps may happen along the way, the time comes when I have to let go, stop thinking about the routine, and allow my body to move with the rhythm of the music.

Similarly, life is a process of learning how to cope with the twists and turns. If I fall down, I get back up and try again. There are no wrong moves, just growth experiences that show me how to move with the pace of the Universe.

Today I am willing to flow with the music of my soul, dance to the rhythm of my heart, and sing with the harmony of love.

Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe!—Psalm 150:4

Friday, September 13, 2013

Reaching for the Prize

Sacred Journey - Friday, September 13, 2013 | Daily Word

LIFE ITSELF IS HOLY GROUND.

Some sites are considered sacred, and people go there to worship and experience an uncommon energy. Many of us dream of making a pilgrimage to a sacred place. Such journeys have a meaningful impact on our lives and help us grow in spiritual understanding.

Yet every spiritual journey begins right where we stand, this very moment. Whether we travel to the far reaches of the earth or sit on a meditation pillow in our living room, the real expedition is a journey inward.

Wherever I go, I abide in the presence of God’s love. I expand my awareness to recognize God in each moment, in each breath, in each person and place, for life itself is holy ground.

Take off the sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.—Acts 7:33

Thursday, September 12, 2013

World Day of Prayer - Thursday, September 12, 2013 | Daily Word

MY POSITIVE THOUGHTS, WORDS, AND ACTIONS CREATE A HEALTHY LIFE—MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT.

The power of Divine Life dwells in me. It is my essential makeup, my true nature. Through the power of affirmative prayer, new ways of life are revealed to me.

As I develop the practice of thinking, speaking, and acting in life-affirming ways, I work with the power of Divine Life rather than against it. I allow health and wholeness—expressions of Divine Life—to manifest in my mind, body, and spirit.

I look for the good, for God, in every experience, expanding my awareness into a consciousness of wholeness. My speech is constructive as I cooperate with the creative process. I act in healthful ways that reflect my embodiment of the Divine. These thoughts, words, and actions create a healthy life.

Be renewed in the spirit of your minds.—Ephesians 4:23

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Inner Peace - Wednesday, September 11, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM OPEN TO THE PEACE OF GOD WITHIN.

The world does not determine whether or not I am at peace. I am willing to let peace begin with me. Inner peace is a state of mind and heart, one I can choose anytime.

I take time right now to center myself in peace. In a moment of silence, I release any concerns and feel my oneness with God. I relax, breathe deeply, and rest quietly. I pray “Peace, be still!” until I feel peace in every fiber of my being.

Beginning my day with a peaceful heart, I become a channel of peace, opening the way for peaceful encounters in the hours ahead. I set the intention to bring awareness to my thoughts, words, and actions throughout the day and to stay centered in peace.

For God is a God not of disorder but of peace. —1 Corinthians 14:33

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Cocreate - Tuesday, September 10, 2013 | Daily Word

Cocreate

I COCREATE WITH GOD.

Lack is an illusion—a pretense that I could somehow be separate from the creative, infinite supply of God in me. If I am facing a challenge or the appearance of lack, I may feel unprepared or unable to handle the situation on my own. In prayerful contemplation, I remember the abiding Presence within me. I am not alone. As I open my heart, I feel the flow of divine creativity spring up within me.

In partnership with the creative power of God, I allow ideas to come forth. Divine ideas reveal the attitudes and actions that will lead me to my highest good. With God, I cocreate peace in place of discord, healing where there is brokenness, and substance instead of lack.

I will live in them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.—2 Corinthians 6:16

Monday, September 9, 2013

Prepared - Monday, September 09, 2013 | Daily Word

Prepared

I AM READY FOR THIS NEW DAY!

I awaken refreshed, renewed, and energized. To begin my morning, I start with prayer, connecting with Source. The ideas I hold in mind and heart help prepare me for the day ahead. I affirm that I am one with God and aligned with divine life, order, peace, and plenty. I am ready for this new day, whatever it may bring.

If I have specific goals in mind, I decide on the first steps to reach them. If I have an upcoming test, I study. If I’ve been assigned a task at work, I prepare by gathering the resources I need. When new opportunities arise, I seize them with confidence.

Preparation is necessary in many facets of life. My heart and mind are open and prepared for every blessing this day holds.

Build up, build up, prepare the way, remove every obstruction from my people’s way.—Isaiah 57:14