The Joy of Jesus (Church Online)

Friday, December 21, 2012

Go Within - Friday, December 21, 2012 | Daily Word

Go Within

ANYTIME IS A GOOD TIME TO GO WITHIN.

Jesus did not limit prayer to a specific time or place, and neither do I. Any time, day or night, I go within and pray. As the sun rises each morning and I awake, I go within to align with Spirit. I set an intention for myself around the qualities I am willing to embody—peace and harmony, gratitude and joy, compassion and kindness.

During the day, I may step aside from my routine to once again go within for reflection or guidance. Just a few moments of connection with God centers me.

As the sun sets and I prepare for sleep, I turn within once more simply to enjoy the peace and quiet and to reflect upon my day with gratitude. God is with me always, and anytime is a good time to pray.

During those days he went out to the mountain to pray; and he spent the night in prayer to God.—Luke 6:12

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Thursday, December 20, 2012

As a Child - Thursday, December 20, 2012 | Daily Word

As a Child

WITH THE FAITH OF A CHILD, I OPEN MY MIND AND HEART TO THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

For a child living in a cold climate, the first snowfall is a gift of wonder. Christmas lights sparkling against a snowy backdrop create a storybook scene. But whether children live in a cold region or the tropics, they are fully open to the joy of the season, free of worries, and filled with expectations of good.

When I set aside my concerns, I become like a child. I open to the wonder of God’s kingdom. My faith anticipates only good and I easily discover it. Even when my days are filled with responsibilities, I can take a moment to feel grateful for all God has provided. I am God’s child, and with the faith of a child, I delight in the wonder of God’s kingdom.

Let the little children come to me … for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.—Luke 18:16

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Christian Standard | Archive for Sunday School Lesson

Let Go, Let God - Wednesday, December 19, 2012 | Daily Word

Let Go, Let God

INFINITE GOOD FLOWS FREELY THROUGH MY LIFE.

Blessings flow freely through an open channel but are impeded by a constricted channel. When I hold tightly to fear, anxiety, anger or a specific outcome, I restrict the free flow of the Divine in my life.

In order to let go and let God, I must first consider what I am holding tightly in my mind and heart. Once I recognize it, I gently release it through prayer. When I am ready to let go, what I no longer need falls easily away.

I let go of the belief that something is missing in my life, and I accept my good. I let go of any thoughts of limits or restrictions and allow the power of God to expand my experience of abundance, heal my wounds, and manifest an even more perfect outcome than I could have imagined.

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.—Proverbs 4:23

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Traditions - Tuesday, December 18, 2012 | Daily Word

Traditions

I AM GRATEFUL FOR THE TRADITIONS I HOLD DEAR.

One way we connect closely with one another is through our traditions. This is especially true during the holiday season as families carry out the beloved traditions that bind them together.

I celebrate traditions that mean something to me. Whether it is giving gifts, enjoying Christmas dinner with friends and family, attending church services, or volunteering to help others in need—I take pleasure in the traditions I hold dear.

I also embrace new traditions, opening myself to new people and experiences. I am thankful for activities that are purposeful and that connect me with others in a meaningful way. Each connection is a blessing, as it brings us closer together.

All who believed were together and had all things in common.—Acts 2:44

Monday, December 17, 2012

Forgive - Monday, December 17, 2012 | Daily Word

Forgive

I CHOOSE FORGIVENESS, AND I AM FREE.

Forgiveness is a choice. It is not something that happens to me, but something that happens through me. In choosing to forgive, I allow love and understanding to permeate my heart and mind. Any confusion, criticism or resentment dissolves, and I experience peace that transforms me—body, mind and soul.

Forgiveness is a gift I give myself. It is a powerful gift of freedom. Through it, I reclaim control over my thoughts, feelings and reactions. Forgiveness brings satisfying experiences, true happiness, radiant health and right relationships.

I can choose to forgive, regardless of what has transpired. I am free to be peaceful instead of anxious, loving instead of angry. The choice is mine, and I choose to forgive.

Forgive, and you will be forgiven.—Luke 6:37