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

Friday, November 8, 2013

Guidance - Friday, November 08, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM GUIDED BY MY INNER LIGHT.

When baby sea turtles hatch from their eggs nested in the sand, they follow the reflection of the moon on the water to find their way to their ocean home. Every living being has an inner compass, and so do I.

I find my compass through the practice of prayer and meditation, which equips me for my spiritual journey. Daily connection with the presence of God guides me to deeper insights. I ask for spiritual light and understanding, and I am guided in every aspect of my life. I receive strength, love, and peace.

As I navigate my inner ocean of wisdom, I find the answers to my questions. Connected to Source, I never lose my way.

In your steadfast love you led the people whom you redeemed; you guided them by your strength to your holy abode.–Exodus 15:13

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Let Go, Let God - Thursday, November 07, 2013 | Daily Word

Let Go, Let God

I WELCOME ABUNDANT GOOD AS I LET GO AND LET GOD.

I am grateful for my tenacity, for it serves me well. Pushing myself to cross the finish line or complete a project on time can help me succeed. However, divine wisdom tells me there is also a time to let go.

Some races are not mine to run. Some projects are better accomplished by slowing down. Some answers come when I wait for inspiration, rather than force a solution. I pray to know what is mine to do—when to push and when to allow.

When I let go, I make room for God. I open myself to divine wisdom, guidance, and ideas—for success, insights, and inner peace. I make way for unlimited good to come through unexpected channels. I welcome abundant good as I let go and let God.

Agree with God, and be at peace; in this way good will come to you.—Job 22:21

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Calmness - Wednesday, November 06, 2013 | Daily Word

Calmness

THROUGH THE CHRIST WITHIN, I FIND MY CALM.

When his frightened disciples awakened Jesus in the middle of a storm, he stilled the sea. As he quieted the waves, he bestowed upon the disciples a feeling of security and assurance.

The presence within Jesus that stilled the storm is the Christ Presence. Centered in my Christ Presence, I, too, find a place of calm despite inner or outer turbulence.

As I turn to the Christ within, I am undaunted by the storms I experience in life. To every tempestuous thought, every fearful report, every disturbing situation, I say, “Peace. Be still,” and watch as it subsides. I find my calm as I attune to the serene presence of the Christ.

He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm.—Mark 4:39

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

At One - Tuesday, November 05, 2013 | Daily Word

At One

I AM AT ONE WITH GOD.

Pain may be part of life, but suffering is optional. We suffer when we believe we are separate from God, when we feel unloved, unprotected, or perceive life as hostile. If I ever feel ruled by such thoughts, I turn to the Truth: There is only One Power and One Presence: God the Good. Anything to the contrary is untrue.

During hard times, I seek God’s presence in me. In the Secret Place of the Most High, I build an internal fortress of Truth that withstands any fear, anxiety, or distress. In the Silence, I take refuge from any struggle or suffering. I abide in comfort, joy, and peace beyond any circumstances of the world. One with God, I am always protected.

Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.”—Psalm 16:1-2

Monday, November 4, 2013

Power - Monday, November 04, 2013 | Daily Word

Power

I EXPRESS MY CREATIVE POWER.

Unity cofounder Charles Fillmore taught that we create our own lives. Our creative power is fueled by the life force moving in and through us, which we direct with our thoughts, words, and actions.

I apply my creative power every time I think and speak. My choices shape my reality. I choose to use my spiritual faculties to create good, attract abundance, and establish peace. I promote peace in the world through my calm thoughts, words of conciliation, and constructive action.

All true power emanates from the love of God within me, and I receive it with humility and gratitude. As I express God’s power in me, I create a better world.

May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!–Psalm 29:11

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Meditation - Sunday, November 03, 2013 | Daily Word

Meditation

IN THE SILENCE, I FEEL MY ONENESS IN SPIRIT.

Relaxing my body and mind, I enter the Silence and consciously connect with God. I turn away from the chatter of the external world and experience inner stillness. I listen with my mind and heart open to divine guidance and feel my oneness in Spirit. I am comforted.

This is a sacred time when my soul is restored, my body is revitalized, and my mind is illumined. I am at peace, inwardly and outwardly.

After this time of divine communion, my heart overflows with gratitude. I am aware of how Spirit is at work in my life. I continue my day’s activities with renewed confidence, strength, and purpose.

Whenever you pray, go into your room … and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.—Matthew 6:6

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Seasons - Saturday, November 02, 2013 | Daily Word

Seasons

I EMBRACE THE PRESENT MOMENT.

I may favor a particular season over others. I might prefer the stillness of winter to the warmth of summer or the freshness of spring to the crispness of autumn. All seasons have their precious qualities. Even if I enjoy one season more than another, I never hurry away the present moment.

This autumn day is a gift from Spirit, and I cherish every minute of it. I am awake and alive as I breathe in this sacred gift.

God is expressing through the turning of the leaves and the chill in the air. God is manifesting through me as I embrace today and appreciate the beauty of Creation.

Rather than dwell on another time, past or future, I revel in the magnificent power of the Holy Presence that is eternally in season.

I will place my dwelling in your midst.—Leviticus 26:11

Friday, November 1, 2013

Our Daily Bread

Loved To Love

November 1, 2013 — by Julie Ackerman Link

Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: Deuteronomy 10:12-22

What does the Lord your God require of you, but . . . to walk in all His ways and to love Him. —Deuteronomy 10:12

Bible in a Year:
Jeremiah 24-26; Titus 2

“A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others.” I saw this quotation, attributed to the Wizard of Oz, on a wall plaque in a gift shop.

The Wizard of Oz may be a good story, but it’s not a reliable source of spiritual information. God said something quite different. According to Him, the greatest commandment is to love—to love Him first and then others (Mark 12:29-31). Scripture says nothing about expecting to be loved in return. In fact, Jesus stated the opposite in His most famous sermon: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven” (Matt. 5:11-12).

When it comes to love, the important thing we need to know is this: All love starts with God (1 John 4:19). As Moses told the Israelites, God delighted in them to love them (Deut. 10:15), and because of that they were to love others, even strangers (v.19). God’s intent is that the people who receive His love will become the conduit of His love to others.

Apart from God—who Himself is love—none of us could truly love or be loved (1 John 4:7-8).

“Love seeketh not her own,” and so

He did not stay as God above,

But chose a manger and a cross

To show that He was Love. —Wilmshurst

He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. —1 John 4:8

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Protection - Thursday, October 31, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM SAFE AND SECURE IN THE LIGHT OF GOD.

When we were children, we may have turned to the adults in our lives for safety and assurance. Trusted parents, grandparents, or teachers who loved and supported us were there to keep us safe and free from harm.

As a child of God, I know I can turn to God for that same assurance. As I walk the path of life, I am never alone. God is with me and within me as my guiding light—a light that never dims or fades.

If ever I feel anxious or worried, I turn within to the light of God and know that I am divinely guided and protected. I move forward in the assurance that the light of God illumines my path and keeps me safe and secure.

Do not fear, greatly beloved, you are safe. Be strong and courageous!—Daniel 10:19

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Responsibility - Wednesday, October 30, 2013 | Daily Word

Responsibility

I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR THE GOOD IN MY LIFE.

I have a responsibility to myself and others to be true to who I am. I am love. I am light. I am generosity. I am power. I am all things good because I am one with God.

At times, I may feel inadequate or burdened by regret. If so, I take responsibility to live from the truth of my birthright. I am made of the love of God. Nothing can prevent me from being true to the presence and power of God in me. I move forward undaunted, with courage and faith.

I set an example for others, as I am upright and sincere in my words and actions. As I let my inner light shine, as I act in love, I show the world my truth and demonstrate the power of accepting responsibility for myself.

The steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting … to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.—Psalm 103:17, 18

Monday, October 28, 2013

Change - Monday, October 28, 2013 | Daily Word

Change

I MOVE THROUGH CHANGE WITH EASE AND GRACE.

Life is alive and in motion. Nothing is stationary. Life is like a river: It may appear glossy and still on the surface, while the undercurrents are in constant motion. Moving with the divine flow of life, I focus on being wholly aware in each experience.

Change sometimes happens gently, like a ripple. At other times, I am navigating my way over a waterfall! Yet when I live my life with God in charge, I am able to adjust to shifting waters with ease and grace.

Through the power of God within me, I have an infinite ability to adapt to the changes in my life. I go with the flow and easily allow God to express through me. I am able to thrive through every kind of change.

I will not fail you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous.—Joshua 1:5-6

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Garden of Prayer - Sunday, October 27, 2013 | Daily Word

Garden of Prayer

EVERY PRAYER CONNECTS ME TO THE DIVINE WITHIN.

Gardens can be as unruly as a field of wildflowers or as ordered as a bed of neatly planted flowers and shrubs. Prayer, like a garden, can be loose and free, or formal and structured. Some prayers are shouts of joy, while others are cries for comfort. We sometimes dance when we pray; other times we simply breathe and enter the Silence.

There is no wrong way to pray. Like the fragrance of a rose, every prayer awakens me to God’s good. Every prayer opens my heart.

Entering my prayer garden, I affirm the indwelling presence of Spirit and the divine qualities God has established in me. I am joy. I am love. I am at one with the One, and for this, I offer a prayer of thanksgiving.

Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.—Colossians 4:2

Saturday, October 26, 2013

God - Saturday, October 26, 2013 | Daily Word

God

THERE IS ONLY ONE PRESENCE AND ONE POWER IN THE UNIVERSE—GOD THE GOOD.

I am comforted knowing that God—Creative Energy—is everywhere present as love, peace, joy, and wholeness. Most of all, I am grateful that God is my help in every need. No matter what I am experiencing, or how troubled I may be feeling, God is with me—not only available to me but is my very being.

God loves, protects, and guides me in every moment. I need only turn within to ask and be willing to receive. The simple awareness of God’s presence opens the way for God’s unfolding good in my life.

Thank you, God, for creating and sustaining me, for being the presence of love and light in the world and in me.

So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.—1 John 4:16

Friday, October 25, 2013

Communication - Friday, October 25, 2013 | Daily Word

Communication

I COMMUNICATE WITH LOVE AND CLARITY.

I can communicate with others in many different ways: through my words and gestures or by writing, texting, or speaking. Communication connects us.

I ask myself: When I communicate, am I open and friendly? Or am I harsh or brash? Am I clear or vague? Do I make eye contact or look away? Am I positive and agreeable or critical and hurried? I consider how I communicate and mindfully direct my attitude.

Every interaction with another is an opportunity for a blessing. I choose to communicate from the love of God in my heart. I choose to be friendly and cooperative, open to others’ ideas, and share my own ideas with love and clarity. I am welcoming and warm as I express the love of God that I am.

My words declare the uprightness of my heart, and what my lips know they speak sincerely.—Job 33:3

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Our Daily Bread

Re-Creation

October 24, 2013 — by Marvin Williams

Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:12-21

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. —2 Corinthians 5:17

Bible in a Year:
Jeremiah 3-5; 1 Timothy 4

Chris Simpson’s life used to be consumed by hate. After he and his wife lost their first child, he was confused and angry. He directed that anger toward various ethnic groups and covered his body with hate-filled tattoos.

After listening to his son mimic his hatred, though, Simpson knew he needed to change. He watched a Christian movie about courage and began attending church. One month later he was baptized as a follower of Jesus Christ. Simpson is now a new person and is leaving the hate behind him, which includes the painful and expensive process of having his tattoos removed.

The apostle Paul knew something about this kind of deep transformation. He hated Jesus and persecuted His followers (Acts 22:4-5; 1 Cor. 15:9). But a personal encounter and spiritual union with Christ (Acts 9:1-20) changed all of that, causing him to reevaluate his life in light of what Jesus accomplished on the cross. This union with Christ made Paul a new person. The old order of sin, death, and selfishness was gone and a new beginning, a new covenant, a new perspective and way of living had come.

Following Jesus is not turning over a new leaf; it is beginning a new life under a new Master.

For Further Thought 

What is the evidence that my union with Christ

has transformed my old humanity? Are there

indicators that I am not the me I used to be?

Being in Christ is not rehabilitation, it’s re-creation.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Dynamic - Wednesday, October 23, 2013 | Daily Word

I AM A DYNAMIC BEING, FULL OF LIFE!

I may take for granted that I will rise in the morning and function throughout the day, go to work or to school, and accomplish the tasks before me. However, I know in every endeavor, I am powered by divine life.

I am blessed with the ability to read or hear these words and understand their meanings. I am blessed with the capacity to think, plan, visualize, share, and comprehend ideas. How wonderful my mind is!

I am blessed with a body that circulates energy and nutrition without conscious direction. Designed for renewal, healing, and maintaining my natural state of wholeness, I am wondrously made!

I am grateful for my vibrant body and active mind. I am a dynamic being, full of life!

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.—Luke 2:40