The Joy of Jesus (Church Online)

Friday, July 19, 2013

Behind the closed doors of The Vatican

Environment - Friday, July 19, 2013 | Daily Word

Environment

MY INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT IS DIVINE LOVE.

Prairie plants adapt to survive the challenges of their sun-baked, windy world. They grow deep root systems to anchor themselves against fierce winds and to tap into a water source. When fire sweeps across the prairie, only the most deeply rooted plants survive.

Like the prairie plants, I depend on deep roots to support me in challenging times. When the winds of change are raging, my faith keeps me grounded. I turn to gratitude, inspiring words and music, and quiet contemplation to reconnect with the stabilizing Divine Power within me. My internal environment is Divine Love. Regardless of outer conditions, I am grounded and stand strong.

Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.—Matthew 13:8

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Let Go, Let God - Thursday, July 18, 2013 | Daily Word

I TRUST THE WISDOM OF GOD TO LEAD ME IN RIGHT WAYS.

Stewing over a challenging situation can cause me unnecessary worry and concern. I may fill my mind with worst-case scenarios and “what ifs” until I wear myself out. Overthinking a problem can often expend more energy than simply letting go and trusting God.

Instead of forcing solutions, I turn to God within. Taking a deep breath, I relax my mind and body. I say a simple “Thank You.” I give thanks that there is a higher power at work in my life, guiding me in right ways, and helping me achieve my goals. I give thanks that I am a partner with God in every experience. I relax, let go, and trust Divine Wisdom to bless and guide me.

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.—Philippians 4:6

Creating a New Life in Christ

Our Daily Bread -- Creating Your Life

July 18, 2013


Our Daily Bread is hosted by Les Lamborn

READ: Mark 10:35-45

Whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. —Mark 10:44

The advice that I read in a self-help book sounded good: Do only what you’re great at because that’s when you’ll feel most fulfilled. The author was trying to help readers create the kind of life they wanted. I don’t know about you, but if I did only what I was great at, I wouldn't accomplish much!

In Mark 10, we read about two disciples, James and John, who had some plans for the kind of life they wanted for themselves someday. They asked to be at Jesus’ right and left hand in His kingdom (v.37). The other 10 disciples were “greatly displeased” with them for asking (v.41). (Possibly because that was the kind of position they wanted for themselves!)

But Jesus used the opportunity to teach His followers about another kind of life—one of serving others. He said, “Whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all” (vv.43-44). It appears that service for others is God’s design for us.

Even Jesus, the Son of God, “did not come to be served, but to serve” (v.45). As we look at Christ’s example and depend on the Holy Spirit’s help, we too can be servants and will create a fulfilling life. —Anne Cetas

I admit, Lord, that my eyes do get focused on
myself. But I really do want to live from a
heart of love for You. Teach me to be a servant
and to look for my fulfillment in You.

Great occasions for serving God come seldom, but little ones surround us daily.

Bible in a year: Psalms 20-22; Acts 21:1-1

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Free - Wednesday, July 17, 2013 | Daily Word

Free

I AM FREE TO LIVE AS GOD CREATED ME.

I answer the call to be my best self. God created me to be free and to enjoy the fullness of life—to learn, grow, and evolve into my divine potential.

I achieve freedom by living my life with intention. I free my mind of self-limiting beliefs and replace them with affirmative, confidence-building thoughts that are congruent with my true nature. I practice healthy nutrition and exercise, taking care of my body and mind. I am a good steward of my home, belongings, and finances. I respect others and am thankful for relationships that enrich my life and help me grow.

My quiet time each day offers me the opportunity to consciously align myself with my divine blueprint—the Christ in me—and enjoy the fullness and freedom of well-being.

For freedom Christ has set us free.—Galatians 5:1

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Caregiver - Tuesday, July 16, 2013 | Daily Word

Caregiver

THROUGH GRACE, WE ARE STRENGTHENED.

At times, caregivers may feel their strength wane. Myrtle Fillmore, cofounder of Unity, offers these words of encouragement: “When we do our best and continue to look to God … divine law works out our problems and we have more grace and glory than we had anticipated.”

As a caregiver to those I love, I look to God as my source of strength. I receive God’s grace and feel the energy of Infinite Love. I trust all is resolved in accordance with divine principle, and I am filled with deep peace.

Through grace, my mind is soothed and I gain a new perspective. I see beyond limitations and envision the highest potential in others. When they, too, see their potential, they feel renewed hope and healing power.

Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.—Acts 6:8

Monday, July 15, 2013

Divine Connection - Monday, July 15, 2013 | Daily Word

Divine Connection

I AM ONE WITH DIVINE LOVE.

Technological communication requires equipment to be in good working order, an adequate power supply, and a clear connection. One connection that does not depend on technology is my connection with the Divine. Any time I open my heart and focus my thoughts on pure love, I make a divine connection.

Nothing on the outside can block my contact with Divine Love. I clear the way within me by letting go of the belief that I am separate from the perfect Love that created me. I release separating thoughts of anger, resentment, or pain. Allowing Love—the essence of my being—to fill me, breath by breath, I feel the completeness of connection. I am one with Divine Love. I am at peace.

The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone.—John 8:29