The Joy of Jesus (Church Online)

Saturday, June 7, 2014

Restore - Saturday, June 07, 2014 | Daily Word

QUIET MOMENTS OF CONTEMPLATION RESTORE MY SOUL.

As I read Daily Word, I enter into a time of contemplation. I pause from the activities of the day, quiet my thoughts, and focus on these ideas. My breathing slows and my body relaxes.

This sacred time is like a peaceful valley nestled between rugged mountain peaks—a pause for renewal and rest. For these few moments, I set aside the demands of the day. I am at peace and at ease.

If I long for greater simplicity in my life, I begin by making room for times of quiet contemplation. I carve out moments in my daily routine and make a commitment to spend them in communion with Spirit. This simple act reaps bountiful rewards. I find restoration and peace.

He leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.—Psalm 23:2-3

Friday, June 6, 2014

Dynamic Living - Friday, June 06, 2014 | Daily Word

MY LIFE MAKES A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD.

Each of us is given many gifts. As we discover them, we must put them into action. Jesus lived a dynamic and inspiring life. Through his works we know of his many gifts. We, too, are known by the dynamic expression of our spiritual gifts.

I choose to share the gift of unconditional love. With a smile, a word of encouragement, or a helping hand, I create a ripple of love.

I choose to share the gift of divine wisdom. As I respond to others with compassion and forgiveness, tense situations are transformed into opportunities for growth.

I give of my time and talents and take every opportunity to make a positive difference in the world. My God-given gifts empower me to lead a dynamic life.

For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead.—James 2:26

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Forgive - Thursday, June 05, 2014 | Daily Word

I FORGIVE AND MAKE A FRESH START.

Mountain climbing with a heavy pack is difficult and burdensome, especially if the pack is full of unnecessary items. That’s how it feels when I carry the weight of resentment or anger with me day after day. Yet through the practice of forgiveness, I am able to let these burdens go.

In prayer, I release to God all grudges, resentment, and unforgiving thoughts I may have held against others. I ask for relief and willingly let go of any sorrows from the past so I am open to the blessings of today.

Through forgiveness, I free myself to enjoy life fully. My load is lightened and my burden is lifted. Today is a new day, a time to make a fresh start, a day filled with unlimited good.

If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.—Matthew 6:14

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Young at Heart - Wednesday, June 04, 2014 | Daily Word

I AM FEARLESS ABOUT MY BRIGHT FUTURE.

No matter the date on my birth certificate, I am ageless! My life is renewed with every breath, with every new moment. I do not allow my biological age to define or restrict me. In Spirit, I am unlimited and fully capable of great achievements no matter when I was born.

I gently relinquish any fears I may have about the aging process. I do not lament natural changes taking place in my body. I remain young at heart by maintaining a positive attitude, which inspires me to think, act, and appear youthful. I am free to live a joyful, graceful, and continually refreshed life, for at any age, in Spirit, I am ageless!

The righteous flourish like the palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord ... In old age they still produce fruit.—Psalm 92:12-14

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Wisdom - Tuesday, June 03, 2014 | Daily Word

Wisdom - Tuesday, June 03, 2014 | Daily

Wisdom

I SEE THE WORLD CLEARLY FROM MY HEART AND SOUL.

Wisdom is more than intellectual discernment or logic; it comes from the heart and soul. With wisdom, I look beyond appearances and perceive the divine potential inherent within every circumstance and every person, including myself.

Through my prayer practice, I develop and strengthen my ability to make wise choices. I connect with Source and open my heart and mind to possibilities I did not recognize before. A daily connection with my divine nature helps me listen deeply, see clearly, choose wisely, and advance joyfully. From within the sweet silence of prayer, new possibilities arise and my capacity for wise discernment grows.

You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.—Psalm 51:6

Monday, June 2, 2014

Path - Monday, June 02, 2014 | Daily Word

I AM AN ADVENTUROUS, FAITH-FILLED, COURAGEOUS EXPLORER.

Unity poet James Dillet Freeman wrote, “Life is a road that winds among the hills of time. With every turn in the road, an old view vanishes, a new view appears. Life is a pilgrimage, a passage through eternity, a journey ...”

Sometimes my path is smooth. Other times I may stumble over obstacles or tire from the climb. No matter how steep or winding the course, I follow the path before me. I know that through every twist and turn of life, God is with and within me as my light and guide. Each day calls me to journey with God in confidence and to grow in spiritual understanding.

I am an adventurous, faith-filled, courageous explorer with a fresh new day on the horizon.

You show me the path of life.—Psalm 16:11

Sunday, June 1, 2014

Thrive - Sunday, June 01, 2014 | Daily Word

Thrive

I THRIVE FROM THE INSIDE OUT!

Just as wild flowers bloom and flourish on a rocky mountainside, my life can thrive in less-than-ideal conditions. It is not outer but inner conditions that determine my health and well-being.

At the center of me is God—the very wellspring of life, the source of all good, all love, all life, and all joy. I am most at peace when I stop struggling to change outer conditions and turn within.

As I attune to the harmonious vibration of Divine Love, I feel utmost joy. I experience complete satisfaction as I am filled with the enormity of Infinite Spirit. I am restored and uplifted. Within me is all the wisdom I need to make loving, life-affirming choices. Within me is all I need to thrive!

To get wisdom is to love oneself; to keep understanding is to prosper.—Proverbs 19:8

Saturday, May 31, 2014

Togetherness - Saturday, May 31, 2014 | Daily Word

AS LOVE IS GIVEN, LOVE IS RECEIVED.

We are social beings, and our lives are enriched when we come together to live and work, play and celebrate, worship and share.

I recognize and appreciate the people in my life, and I let them know it. I am quick to offer a helping hand. When I am with others, I give them my full attention. I am present and available. I listen and share.

If I have lost touch with a friend or loved one, I reach out and let them know they are on my heart and in my thoughts.

It never fails—when love is given, love is returned in untold ways. I love and appreciate the many people who bless my life.

They spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people.–Acts 2:46, 47

Friday, May 30, 2014

Gratitude - Friday, May 30, 2014 | Daily Word

I AM GRATEFUL FOR ALL!

Even when circumstances are not what I hoped for, I find an aspect for which to be grateful. Even when my outer world changes, I am grateful for the unchanging spirit of God in me.

Spirit gives me life. I draw on perfect life with every breath. Spirit provides me love. I am loved unconditionally and I share that love with others. Spirit provides me peace. I liberate myself from burdensome thoughts and struggles as I reconnect with inner stillness.

I am thankful for all that Spirit provides. Although outer conditions shift and change, I remain centered in gratitude for the divine gifts that are mine.

Thank you, God, for everything!

Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us give thanks.—Hebrews 12:28

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Christ - Thursday, May 29, 2014 | Daily Word

THE CHRIST IN ME GUIDES MY WAY.

The Christ within is my wisdom and guidance. It is constantly available to me. Yet, in the midst of a stressful day, when tension or worry chatters loudly in my mind, I may not hear the wisdom of the Christ.

Like glancing at a clock to check the time, I pause throughout the day to check within. I take a breath and notice how my body feels. If I am anxious, I breathe gently and allow any tense muscles to soften. I observe my thoughts. Any turbulence in my mind subsides as I affirm: The Christ in me guides my way. I feel my mind clearing, and divine wisdom and understanding are revealed.

I follow the guidance of my inner Christ to create peace, to move confidently forward, and to enjoy life. Whether the way is familiar or unknown, the Christ in me guides my way.

The Spirit of God dwells in you.—Romans 8:9

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Inspiration - Wednesday, May 28, 2014 | Daily Word

DIVINELY INSPIRED, I CREATE A WONDERFUL LIFE.

I cherish my capacity to receive inspiration from Spirit, to create and use the power of my thoughts, words, and actions to manifest my good in the world.

At the center of my being is an all-knowing guide. This divine source contains the ideas and answers I need to create a wonderful life. My job is to design that life and call on the wisdom of divine guidance to create it in the physical world.

Through prayer, I ask Spirit to show me the way. I listen carefully and discern what is mine to do. I trust my intuition and realize I am here to live in happiness and joy. I deserve to be inspired by Spirit. I deserve to have a beautiful life.

O you who dwell in the gardens, my companions are listening for your voice; let me hear it.—Song of Solomon 8:13

Inspiration - Wednesday, May 28, 2014 | Daily Word

DIVINELY INSPIRED, I CREATE A WONDERFUL LIFE.

I cherish my capacity to receive inspiration from Spirit, to create and use the power of my thoughts, words, and actions to manifest my good in the world.

O you who dwell in the gardens, my companions are listening for your voice; let me hear it.—Song of Solomon 8:13

Comfort - Tuesday, May 27, 2014 | Daily Word

THROUGH UNDERSTANDING, I AM COMFORTED.

If I am bewildered or distressed by the challenges I face, I turn within in heart and mind for divine understanding. From my human perspective, life may at times appear unjust; but from a divine perspective, every experience has a higher meaning.

Difficult situations are like the trips and falls of childhood—even through occasional tears, I learned and improved. As I look back now, I realize that these challenges were my greatest teachers.

I am comforted and strengthened as my understanding deepens. I stand strong through times of doubt and keep my consciousness open to the larger truth.

My mind and heart are at peace as I trust in the eternal goodness of God and the unfolding wonder of life.

O comfort my people, says your God.—Isaiah 40:1

Monday, May 26, 2014

Remember - Monday, May 26, 2014 | Daily Word

WITH GRATITUDE, I REMEMBER MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS WHO HAVE SERVED.

In prayer today, I send heartfelt gratitude to veterans who lost their lives in service to this country. I affirm peace and well-being for those still serving and pray that their families sense the all-encompassing love and comfort of Spirit.

In Truth, we are one—eternally united in God. Every gesture of faith and deed of courage affects us all. Every demonstration of loyalty, act of service, and expression of kindness imprints itself on the whole of humanity.

I give thanks for all who have served, all who are serving, and all who will serve a greater good in our world. Nothing that is of God—of good—is ever lost, wasted, or forgotten.

We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord.—Romans 14:7-8

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Inner Peace - Sunday, May 25, 2014 | Daily Word

IN THIS MOMENT, THERE IS ONLY GOD, ONLY PEACE.

Peace alone is real. As I meditate on this affirmation, I shift my vision from the external world and enter into conscious oneness with God. Abiding in the Presence, I remember that no persons, challenges, or situations can disturb my peace-filled soul.

As a center of peace, I am able to meet the pressures and tensions of the outer world with grace and ease. Even in tumultuous circumstances, I turn to the Christ within and maintain my calm.

In this moment, there is only God, only peace. No matter what events take place in the world or in my life, I am a steady center of spiritual strength for all those whose lives meet mine.

Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace—in peace because they trust in you.—Isaiah 26:3

Friday, May 23, 2014

Faith - Friday, May 23, 2014 | Daily Word

Faith

MY FAITH IS STRONG AND ACTIVE.

My faith is a vital, vibrant part of my spiritual life. Through faith, I know that I am whole and well, no matter the situation. Through faith, I recognize my life overflowing with God’s good and blessed with prosperity.

Faith implies action to boldly step forward, move on, or stand strong, regardless of the challenge. If my faith wavers, I turn within in prayer. A brief reconnection with God brings me the assurance I need to continue on.

I energize my faith through prayer and meditation, staying centered in the Power that is always with me, directing my steps. My faith is steady and strong.

By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.—Hebrews 11:3

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Donnie McClurkin (Lyrics) Stand

Love - Thursday, May 22, 2014 | Daily Word

LOVE IS MY SACRED CONNECTION TO ALL.

Just as the sun has the power to warm the soil and vitalize a seed, Divine Love has the power to transform my life for the good. Each day I journey within to experience the simple gift of Love in me.

As I close my eyes and allow my mind to become still, I slowly follow my breath into my sacred heart center. My attention turns to the presence of Divine Love. In this presence, I am grounded, calm, and at peace. I am at one with the Divine.

Restored by time in the Silence, I return to my daily activities. I am filled with peace and love, which I express through loving-kindness. Love is how I express my sacred connection with others. I am in harmony with all who cross my path today.

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.—John 15:9

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Good - Wednesday, May 21, 2014 | Daily Word

MY BLESSINGS MULTIPLY AS I FOCUS ON THE GOOD IN MY LIFE.

In Genesis, God called all of creation good. Good is everywhere present. We can compare the good in all to the power of electricity. Electricity existed before humans discovered it, just as my good exists before I have manifested it. Good exists whether we perceive it or not. Through awareness, imagination, and faith, we behold the potential for good and bring it forth in our lives.

Like flipping a switch to turn on the lights, I turn my attention to everything good. As I focus on my blessings, they multiply. I turn on the light of Spirit in me and see my good increase.

The greatest gifts of life are mine to claim, and I am open to receive them. As I focus on my good, it continually expands.

God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance.—2 Corinthians 9:8

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Harmony - Tuesday, May 20, 2014 | Daily Word

Harmony

ATTUNED TO SPIRIT, I EXPERIENCE HARMONY.

My body is an expression of the pure substance of Spirit. My mind is the channel through which Spirit’s revitalizing energies flow into my physical being.

I keep my mind in harmony with Truth by dismissing any thoughts of lack or limitation. I nurture a realization of wholeness and well-being in my consciousness. I affirm: I am beautiful, loving, and healthy. I am joyful, peaceful, and whole.

When I attune to Spirit, I become a clear channel for the harmonizing and restoring power of Divine Love. Every cell of my body vibrates with this magnificent force. Spirit’s power flows easily and naturally throughout my being, keeping me in perfect balance.

O Lord, by these things people live, and in all these is the life of my spirit. Oh, restore me to health and make me live!—Isaiah 38:16

Monday, May 19, 2014

Home - Monday, May 19, 2014 | Daily Word

DIVINE LOVE EAGERLY WELCOMES ME HOME.

In the parable of the Prodigal Son, Jesus told of a wayward son’s reunion with his father. The son had left home as a restless youth and frivolously spent his inheritance. When he returned to ask forgiveness, his father welcomed him home with great joy and celebration.

Like the young man in the story, I may have turned my attention away from God. But no matter how far I may have strayed, Divine Love always welcomes me home.

Through prayer, I reconnect with the presence of God. I feel the warm, comforting, unconditional love of my Creator. The riches of the kingdom are mine, and I am grateful. I am home, and I am at peace.

Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.—John 14:23

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Life - Sunday, May 18, 2014 | Daily Word

I AM A CREATION OF GOD. MY LIFE IS GOD’S EXPRESSION.

The familiar creation story in Genesis says that God created the first human by breathing life into a lump of clay. As symbolized in that sacred story, I connect with my divine nature through my breath.

Anytime I begin to pray, I take a deep breath and contemplate the power of Life infilling me. As I exhale, I relax into peace. This cycle continues with every breath, as I feel the energy of God moving in and through me. I affirm: I am a creation of God. My life is God in expression.

I give thanks for the divine breath that gives me life, strength, and sustenance, allowing me to be a beautiful expression of God in the world.

The Lord God … breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living being.–Genesis 2:7