Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Part One: Practical keys for the New Year

One Scripture I have found comfort in is "Can the clay say to the Potter, 'What are you doing?'" (Isaiah. 45:9). There have been so many times that I have said to God "What are you doing?" Though I do not understand His ways, I do still believe I will see the "goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." (Psalm 27:13).

If you think you are at this same place in life do not count yourself alone. You have many a brother and sister in this same place and it is the cause for chaos, tension, irritability, and much discomfort. Does that ring any bells? You might not even realize it is happening to you. A loved one might mention your mood swings or your unpleasing remarks toward them. If they love you they will approach you in love without defending themselves in the process. Let us pray for our love ones!

I have created some guidelines to implement in my life. Today I want to share those with you. Believe me I have not mastered these techniques. However, I am in the process and I am punching through to the other side.

Are you ready? Here it goes:

Proverbs 17:22
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones

Nehemiah 8:10
Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."


1. Laugh and the world will laugh with you. Laugh at yourself, laugh at your circumstances, laugh at your mistakes, and the Joy of the Lord will give you strength.

Matthew 6:14
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.


2. Practice Forgiveness. Forgive others and most of all forgive yourself. The Lord has forgiven you and saved you from yourself and your sin. If you are struggling in this area find a friend who will pray with you and not judge you.

Ephesians 2:10
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."


3. Give yourself to others. Make cookies for a neighbor, volunteer for meals on wheels, etc. Seek the Lord and He will give a place where you can give of yourself to others! Good works are evidence of grace operating in your life.

Mathew 22:37
Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

Isaiah 40:3
A voice is calling, Clear [sweep] the way for the LORD in the wilderness; Make smooth in the desert a highway for our God


4. Get organized and prioritize your time and your life. Priority in life should be first God, spouse, immediate family (living with you), job, and recreation. Create an atmosphere of peace by getting rid of unnecessary things. This helps create space and a cleaner and more orderly environment. Also, a cleaner environment can help prevent illness and foster good physical health. On a more spiritual level, an orderly environment can create room for positive thoughts that can turn into Godly actions. A cluttered environment contributes to stress and can be the cause of illnesses such as hypertension, asthma, depression and anxious. We can do without the latter.

Okay, okay. I began with these four points and next week I will continue the process to a healthier New Year by covering three more. Meanwhile, keep the faith. Work it like a muscle and allow the Holy Spirit the passage way to your heart.

Love to all, dianne

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