The Joy of Jesus (Church Online): November 2013

Saturday, November 30, 2013

Forgive - Saturday, November 30, 2013 | Daily Word

THE PRESENCE OF LOVE IN ME HEALS AND RESTORES MY SOUL.

I know I am only hurting myself when I am unforgiving. Yet even if I want to forgive, I may find it difficult. If I am unsure whether I have the strength to move forward, I bring to mind a simple truth: I am not only human; I am also divine. I can call upon the spirit of God in me for help in releasing the burden of unforgiveness.

The moment I turn to God, Divine Love begins its work supporting me on my journey to freedom and wholeness. As I forgive myself with compassion and understanding and release any feelings of guilt, I am able to extend the same to others. I set myself free and release others to God. I am healed by the power of love in me.

Let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.–1 John 4:7

Friday, November 29, 2013

Goodwill - Friday, November 29, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM A GENEROUS GIVER AND WILLING RECEIVER.

Generosity is encoded in my DNA, for I am one with the greatest Giver of all. God has endowed us with life and all its blessings. One with God, I always have enough to spare and share.

I am a generous giver. I do not give in order to gain attention for myself or to demonstrate how generous I can be. Rather, I am openhanded because I love to give.

I am not only a bountiful giver; I am also a willing receiver. When I receive with gratitude, I play an important role in the circulation of God’s good. I am open, worthy, and receptive to the gifts showered upon me from a generous and abundant Universe.

When you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.—Matthew 6:3-4

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Gratitude - Thursday, November 28, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM GRATEFUL. I AM BLESSED.

As I awake each morning, I express my gratitude. What a powerful way to start the day and a mighty attitude to carry with me as my day unfolds! An attitude of gratitude makes for a more fulfilling journey and an increased awareness of God’s blessings.

If a challenging circumstance arises and I struggle to maintain a grateful heart, I take a moment to adjust my perspective. I pray that my eyes—and my heart—be opened to God’s good. Blessings are present in every circumstance—there is no spot where God is not! Even if it is not readily apparent, a blessing is here for me if I open my eyes to see.

Aware and open to God’s infinite goodness, I enjoy and appreciate every blessing.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise.—Psalm 100:4

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Light - Wednesday, November 27, 2013 | Daily Word

Light - Wednesday, November 27, 2013 | Daily WordTHE LIGHT OF GOD SHINES BRIGHT IN ME.

The light of God illumines my way at all times and through every experience. In the Light, inspiration is revealed. If I experience a time of inner turmoil, I know where to turn—the light of God within me cannot be extinguished by any circumstance.

It is during life’s more difficult times that I experience how good God truly is. I gain understanding. I realize I am not alone. I witness my own transformation. In Spirit, there is no darkness, only light. The window of my soul opens to new awakenings.

As the radiance of God shines through me and my experience, it inspires others. I look to the Divine within to illumine my path as I move through and overcome any challenge.

No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar, but on the lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.—Luke 11:33

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Understanding - Tuesday, November 26, 2013 | Daily Word

Understanding

I OPEN TO SPIRITUAL UNDERSTANDING.

If I face a relationship challenge, I may wonder, Why is this happening? Why do others act as they do? But judging others’ behaviors and motives will not bring me deep understanding. I could ask instead, How can I open my heart? What is mine to do?

I pray for understanding and for intuition to recognize what might be lying beneath the surface. I trust the wisdom and guidance I receive. I open my heart and mind to seeing my loved one from a new perspective. As I listen to their views, empathize with them, and “walk a mile in their shoes,” I am able to more fully understand my loved one—and myself.

Understanding builds a bridge and brings peace to my relationships.

Happy are those who find wisdom, and those who get understanding.—Proverbs 3:13

Monday, November 25, 2013

Inner Peace - Monday, November 25, 2013 | Daily Word

I EMBODY PEACE.

Work deadlines, holiday planning, and family commitments can leave me feeling scattered and fatigued. As festivities approach, I may feel compelled to do more and more, and risk losing my center of peace.

If I feel overwhelmed by demands, I find relief in prayer and meditation. I prepare myself to be present and joyful during every holiday activity, by first coming back to my inner space of tranquility.

Peace is already inside me. As I retreat to a quiet place, I relax my body and soften my mind. In serenity, I embody peace and joy in all I do. Releasing any attachment to how things should be, I let go and enjoy the true meaning of the season: Embracing and expressing God’s peace.

Be still, and know that I am God!—Psalm 46:10

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Flow - Sunday, November 24, 2013 | Daily Word

THE LIFE AND STRENGTH OF SPIRIT FLOW THROUGH ME NOW.

I am relaxed by the gurgle of a peaceful stream and amazed at the thunder of a magnificent waterfall. Water flows around and over obstacles without strain. By not resisting, water finds its natural way to the sea.

Filled with Spirit’s wisdom, I know when to let go peacefully or when to gush with strength. As I center myself in the awareness of Spirit within, I flow easily past any challenges, moving naturally toward an ocean of good.

With gratitude, I affirm the power, peace, and energy of Infinite Spirit flowing through me now, and I am blessed.

He split rocks open in the wilderness, and gave them drink abundantly as from the deep. He made streams come out of the rock, and caused waters to flow down like rivers.—Psalm 78:15-16

Friday, November 22, 2013

Grace - Friday, November 22, 2013 | Daily Word

I LIVE IN THE GRACE OF GOD.

What must I do to earn the love of God? Nothing! God’s love is already mine. No one and nothing can limit or restrict it. I need only open my heart and mind to receive this unconditional love and allow myself to experience God’s grace.

Grace is demonstrated in the beauty of nature, in unexpected good, in feeling my oneness with Spirit. In God’s grace, I am divinely guided, protected, and comforted.

Grace softens my struggles and takes me beyond my self-imposed limitations, filling my mind with divine ideas and my life with serendipity. As I appreciate the activity of God in my life, I learn to trust in its continuing expression, and I soar in God’s grace.

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

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Spiritual Faculties - Thursday, November 21, 2013 | Daily Word

I TRUST IN THE POWER OF GOD WITHIN ME.

In times of challenge, I trust in the spiritual faculties I derive from Divine Mind. I pray affirmatively, focusing on the divine quality I wish to activate. Whatever I feel I need has already been supplied.

Do I need wisdom, faith, love, or will? Do I wish to express understanding or right judgment? These qualities are already mine. I activate my spiritual faculties through the power of my words, and I am able to express them easily.

Whatever the circumstance, I am certain of the life, light, and love of God within me and within all people. Spiritual insight, strength, courage—these are the blessings of a God-centered life.

All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.—1 Corinthians 12:11

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Harmony - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 | Daily Word

I LIVE IN HARMONY WITH GOD’S WILL, AND MY LIFE IS RESTORED.

Nature has many ways to restore balance in our environment. Perhaps a fire clears away brush or a flood brings rich soil up onto the land. Nature is continuously restoring itself to harmony.

God’s will for planet earth is harmony, and God’s will for my life is good. If I focus on the appearance of lack or the experience of loss, my life may feel out of balance. Time in prayer reminds me that God’s good is ever-present.

I accept any imbalance as temporary, open my heart to God’s guidance, and stay alert for the ways the Universe restores balance in my life.

After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.—1 Peter 5:10

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Healing - Tuesday, November 19, 2013 | Daily Word

Healing

THE LIFE OF

GOD INFUSES MY BODY.

Aware that my body responds to my thoughts and feelings, I release any worries I may have about health and healing. Instead, I focus my attention on the life of God within me. There is no disease or imperfection in God. I recognize this truth and celebrate the health and wholeness of my body temple.

I thank my cells for their continuous renewal that provides my organs and tissues with new life. I marvel at the energy of God pulsing through my arteries. I am grateful that every system in my body is working to maintain balance and health.

As I think about the many ways my body—God’s perfect creation—serves me, my heart fills with gratitude.

The spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.—Job 33:4

Monday, November 18, 2013

Free - Monday, November 18, 2013 | Daily Word

Free

FREED

OM IS MINE, AND I CLAIM IT NOW!

I may feel stuck trying to break a habit or change a way of thinking to which I have become accustomed. Yet I can set free any thought or behavior pattern that keeps me from my heart’s desire. With compassion, I willingly release the patterns in me that cause me to feel stuck.

I break free from limiting behavior through the power of God within. I consider what is true about me: I am infused with divine power, strength, and love. I am free to be and do all I have been created for. I choose positive habits and attitudes that support my well-being and bring my talents to the world.

My God-given freedom is intrinsic to who I am. Right now, I claim my freedom, making my life all I want it to be.

As servants of God, live as free people.—1 Peter 2:16

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Comfort - Sunday, November 17, 2013 | Daily Word

GOD IS MY COMFORT AND MY REFUGE.

Life is full of joy and sorrow, but no condition is beyond the comfort of Spirit. Whatever my experience, even before I voice my prayer, the comfort I seek is available to me. I have what I need for any situation—I ask and receive.

No request is too great or too small. Each one invites answers, abundance, and comfort to arise within me. All that I need is available for me to claim in this very moment. Spirit in me is my comforter, inspiration, and guidance to manifest what I need. Gratitude fills my heart as I know my needs are met.

I am sheltered in the loving embrace of the Divine Presence. Peace fills me, heart and soul. God is my comfort and my refuge.

We who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged to seize the hope set before us. —Hebrews 6:18

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Positive Action - Saturday, November 16, 2013 | Daily Word

Positive Action

I AM INSPIRED TO TAKE POSITIVE ACTION.

Although troubling situations in my own community or on the other side of the globe may leave me feeling disheartened, I have the courage, faith, and wisdom to know that I can be part of the solution.

The One Power and Presence of God is more powerful than any circumstance—and that divine power lives in me.

Through prayer and meditation, I discern what is mine to do. Whether it be writing a letter of support, building consensus among a concerned group of people, picking up trash or helping to repair a home, I can effect change by taking action. I set my intention and allow the presence of the Divine to guide my way.

Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.—James 1:22

Friday, November 15, 2013

Joy - Friday, November 15, 2013 | Daily Word

Joy

THE JOY OF SPIRIT!

I spread joy by sharing a positive attitude, a smile, openness, and appreciation for all of life’s blessings. I am blessed in so many ways, and I rejoice with the glow of Spirit.

If others are pessimistic or glum, I do not take on their mood, but rather hold a positive thought for them, knowing “this too shall pass.” Instead of finding fault or complaint, I look for the best in each person.

Goodness abounds as I open my eyes to witness it. The blessings of God I now see in my life fill my mind and heart with joy and thanksgiving. I give of my happiness freely, spreading the good I see and have. With energy and upliftment, I inspire those around me. Joy is contagious!

Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!—Psalm 95:2

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Found - Thursday, November 14, 2013 | Daily Word

THE CHRIST PRESENCE IS ALWAYS IN ME.

One lesson we learn from the Parable of the Lost Sheep is that we will never be abandoned. Just as a shepherd never leaves a lamb who has wandered off, the Christ Presence is always within us.

If I have lost my way, I look within to my divine nature. In the silence of meditation, I relax into my spiritual center, the most sacred part of me. Once reestablished in the Christ Presence, I know where to go and what is mine to do.

What is true for me is true for others. If a loved one is struggling to find their way, I bless them in their search and know they will be guided. Seeking is how we find, and I give thanks that their inner shepherd—their own Christ nature—will lead them home.

When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices.–Luke 15:5

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Prosperity - Wednesday, November 13, 2013 | Daily Word

I OPEN MY MIND TO PLENTY AND RECEIVE WITH GRATITUDE.

If I am experiencing lack of any kind, I may be thinking there is limited supply available to me. Although the abundance of God’s good is as vast as the ocean, I can only carry as much water as my container will hold. If I want to enjoy more, I must enlarge my container—expand my consciousness.

In 2 Corinthians 9:8, it reads, “God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.”

This Truth resonates with me. I open my mind to plenty and receive with gratitude. I share my gifts abundantly, and I am prospered!

All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the prosperity.—Isaiah 54:13

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Pray for Others - Tuesday, November 12, 2013 | Daily Word

I AFFIRM ALL IS WELL WITH YOUR SOUL.

Throughout this day, I pray for others. I enter into this sacred activity with a peaceful heart, knowing the love of God is with each person for whom I pray. I let go of concerns, fears, or expectations and welcome the freedom of releasing outcomes to the Divine. I visualize the highest good occurring and behold vibrant health and well-being for everyone.

I center myself in the quiet of prayer and experience the Silence. My role is to align my thoughts and feelings with divine ideas of wholeness, abundance, goodness, and peace. As I see beyond any appearance of limitation and behold the divine presence in others, I give thanks for answered prayer.

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul.—3 John 1:2

Monday, November 11, 2013

Honor - Monday, November 11, 2013 | Daily Word

I HONOR MY COMMITMENT TO SACRED SERVICE.

Jesus brought a message of supreme importance to the world. He taught about the power of love and about God as our indwelling, loving father. Even though delivering that message cost him his life, Jesus stood by his convictions. His message still lives today in our hearts and minds.

In following the example of our Master Teacher, I desire to live a life of great purpose. I commit to living a God-centered life, and I honor that commitment through sacred service. I serve in joy, sharing my unique gifts and talents in ways that honor God, my family, and all people. I am honored by loving God and blessed by keeping my sacred commitments.

Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.—John 12:26

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Practice - Sunday, November 10, 2013 | Daily Word

I CONVERSE WITH GOD CONTINUALLY.

In a letter in the book The Practice of the Presence of God, Brother Lawrence writes, “There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God. Those only can comprehend it who practice and experience it.”

I am blessed by my continual connection with the Divine. God is with me in every breath, every experience, every prayer. I practice awareness of my constant bond with God in all I do. Through this practice, I experience peace and contentment. I walk through life knowing that the presence of God goes before me, guiding and protecting me. I am blessed as I practice this “sweet and delightful” conversation with God.

Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them.—1 Timothy 4:15

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Divine Order - Saturday, November 09, 2013 | Daily Word

I TRUST IN THE ORDERLY UNFOLDING OF MY LIFE.

If an unsettling experience occurs, I turn inward in search for answers. Calmly and confidently, I become still and focus on my breathing and heartbeat. With each steady breath and orderly heartbeat, I become aware of divine order in me. As I identify this natural expression of order in my body, I recognize that divine order underlies all of life as a solid foundation.

I am in the Oneness and Presence of God. In this loving Presence, I experience peace. I ask for and receive wisdom and understanding. I see the events of my life are unfolding in perfect order. My path and purpose are clear. Divine order manifests in my life with ease and grace.

Everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with thanksgiving.—1 Timothy 4:4