3 Simple Ways to Submit to Authority Like Jesus

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Sep 16, 2019

The “A” word: Authority

Ahh, we welcome and embrace the word “authority”, Team, in the context of “taking or take” and “walk in”, yes? Rightfully so! What an awesome privilege and honor we have to exercise the authority given to us by faith in Jesus Christ (Luke 9:1-2, Luke 10:19).

But hold on. There’s another side to authority that causes many followers of Christ to cringe, resist, and “feel some type of way”.

It’s when the “A” word meets the “S” word – Submit.

What emotional, non-verbal response did reading the word “submit” invoke in you? Did your spirit throw confetti and leap for joy? Was there a slight squirm, or an eye roll?

It’s amazing how each and every one of us on Team Jesus is given the command (play call) to submit to authority, and every one of us has at some point tried to wiggle out of doing so. God expects us all, regardless of gender, title, or status to submit ourselves to Him (1 Peter 5:6), to our supervisors and government (Romans 13), and even to graciously submit to each other (Ephesians 5:21).

But for many of us, when it comes to authority – it’s better to receive than give. We enjoy reaping the benefits when others submit to us, but when the humility ball is in our hands, we quickly toss it away.

Mike? I Wanna Be Like Jesus!

Let’s be reminded of the examples of our Coach, Jesus Christ. As our savior and teacher, Jesus practiced what he preached. He was the first partaker of humility, acting under the sole authority of our heavenly Father, in all that He said or did.

Submitting to authority, practicing humility, and dying to pride is a tall order for some of us. And, many times we don’t realize when we’re showing dishonor rather than honoring authority. But we aren’t left without actionable, practical examples in the Word of God, our playbook, to guide us in wisdom and good judgment regarding authority.

Think of these examples from Jesus’ life:

1. Don’t take your title or position too seriously.

Jesus is Savior, Divine, the Risen King, Creator… Not one thing came into existence without Him (John 1:3). He is the embodiment of “Us” in “Let us make man.” (Genesis 1:26) Yet, his every move was to glorify His Father in Heaven. Jesus was not confused by the association of authority, His place in the God-head, and knowing how to humble and honor the Supreme authority – God the Father.

He never got “pumped up” with pride that He was the Savior of the whole world, that He was the one who had to be crucified – not the Father or the Holy Spirit. Jesus never used his suffering as justification to ‘buck’ authority.

How often do we feel we have legitimate reasons to refuse to submit to authority?

So, don’t fight against authority when you feel you’ve contributed just as much as the other person. When we work as “unto the Lord” as Jesus did for the Father (Colossians 3:23-24), the credit and reward will also come from the Lord, which is far better than any accolade or acknowledgment of man.

2. Don’t put your name on someone else’s vision or idea.

Did you know that we submit to authority by giving credit where credit is due? The will of my Father. Notice how Jesus made it perfectly clear that He came to do the will of His Father who sent Him (John 6:38). The humility and submission of Jesus never allowed Him to shine the light on Himself, but always to glorify Father God – the One in authority.

Teammate, are you passing someone else’s vision off as your own? Do you manipulate the work of others to shine the light on yourself?

When we submit to the authority of those over us, God will exalt us in due season with our own vision. Just be sure, Team, that when He does, we give all glory to God, none for ourselves.

3. Know when to question, how to question, and when to do what you’re told.

Jesus gives us the example of his complete submission to God in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46). There, He petitions God, “If it is possible”, to avoid the crucifixion and separation from the Father. The example here is HOW to ask questions of those in authority.

First, notice Jesus asks – not tells God what to do. Jesus does not attack God’s thought process or solution, but remains in a posture of “not my will, but yours”.

How do you handle those in authority with competing interests or strategies?

Second, Jesus accepts the Father’s decision. After receiving the final answer and peace from the Father, Jesus rises up and falls in line with God’s plan.

When exercising honor to those in authority, we have to know when we’ve done enough asking, suggesting, crying, or made enough recommendations contrary to the original marching order – and just get it done!

In our walk with Christ, God also asks us to do things that will cause us pain, suffering, and sacrifice. It is not our job to critique God or consider Him mean and unjust. God did not ask our opinion or permission for Him to be God, nor for Him to be the righteous judge.

But, trust that He will never leave us nor forsake us, and the hard tasks will not be faced alone. God helps us through every opportunity to give Him glory – both painful and pleasant.

So, what’s the play call?

Here’s to submission to authority that’s easier to manage, and do so with grace and honor. Our Coach has lead us by word and example. Let’s get it done!

Plant-Forward Thinking: What Does a Plant-Based Diet Look Like?

By

Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD

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Sep 13, 2019

And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.

On the third day of creation, God made every flavorful fruit, vegetable, and plant imaginable. Every color of the rainbow, every unique flavor and texture conceivable – and it was good.

In fact, only a few scriptures later He proclaims, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.”

We have scientists and researchers looking for keys to health and longevity, but I think God stated it pretty clearly. Plants.

Plant-Forward Thinking for Better Health

plant based It’s true that we don’t live in the Garden of Eden. Maybe the soil that used to grow crops may not be as nutrient-rich as it once was. But, if we are seriously wondering about the next step to take to nourish our bodies, I think it is pretty evident.

And, it protects our God created earth, too. The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee states:

“A dietary pattern that is higher in plant-based foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, and lower in animal-based foods is more health promoting and is associated with lesser environmental impact.”

Chances are you grew up in a home where you were told to ‘eat your vegetables’ – maybe even required to eat them before you left the table. Sadly, scare tactics and reprimands haven’t helped us eat more vegetables. In fact, less than 10% of adults eat the recommended 5 servings of vegetables each day.

But, it’s exciting to see in the last few years that a plant-forward diet is gaining media attention and popularity, an awakening if you will.

Does a Plant-Based Diet Mean Plants Only?

Instead of serving some boring vegetables on your plate, chefs, restaurants, recipe developers and foodies are inspiring us with a fresh take on veggies. Instead of leading with the idea that plants are nutritious, (yep, already know that!) they are telling us they can be absolutely delicious!

So, what does a plant-forward diet look like? Does it mean no more meat? Does it restrict you from enjoying a grilled steak for dinner OR some broiled salmon on your salad OR scrambling some eggs for breakfast?

On the contrary, it doesn’t restrict or limit you. It’s not really a diet. Instead, it’s a new way of looking at how we are composing our plate, what we are putting in our basket, and what we are reaching for when our stomach begins to grumble. It doesn’t make any foods ‘off limits’ and instead emphasizes the very thing God highlighted in the garden – plants.

Interestingly, a meta-analysis in the Journal of Epidemiology shows that 10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and premature death by about 30%! As was discussed in this article,

“The researchers believe that it is not just about the powerful effects of specific nutrients (Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin A, etc.), but instead, the ‘complex network of nutrients’ within varieties of fruits and vegetables. Vitamin supplements just cannot duplicate the synergistic power of real plants!”

How Can I Think Plant-Forward?

Why are 90% of us having difficulty getting even 5 daily servings of vegetables? Often because making a change to eat plant-forward brings questions about the actual execution. And to be honest, sometimes there is conflict (or potential conflict) from family members who aren’t on board.

Even if your spouse isn’t thrilled about the idea of ‘meatless Monday’, you can still begin to implement this approach in your meals. While there are no hard and fast rules, these are some tips to help you think plant-forward:

Make a vegetable or veggie dish the star at the dinner table. Many of us think we don’t like veggies very much because we remember boring, dull, limp and unattractive dishes sitting in a bowl at dinner. While there is nothing wrong with some steamed broccoli with butter and salt, or some carrot sticks with dip, there are aromatic and flavorful veggie recipes just waiting for you to try. And, don’t equate flavorful with complicated. These Parmesan Carrot Fries have a robust flavor with only 4 ingredients. And, this Loaded Mashed Cauliflower gets compliments every time I make it but doesn’t require any fancy skills or special ingredients.
Load up 75% of your plate with plants. Ideally, cover 50% with colorful, non-starchy veggies and 25% of your plate with starchy vegetables or whole grains. This concept can be followed when eating out, in, at a neighbor’s or a potluck. This method is one of the easiest ways to create balanced meals no matter where you’re eating so that you are nourished, energized and satisfied.
Create your meal plan with a veggie dish first, then decide a meat ‘side’ (or opt for a plant-protein). Many individuals enjoy eating meat, poultry, fish, and seafood. All of these protein foods are rich in nutrients and don’t necessarily need to be eliminated. But, a plant-forward approach means giving veggies actual thought in the planning process instead of just filling in at the meal. Have you ever asked yourself, ‘What veggies am I craving this week?’ Did you see a recipe posted on social media or made on a cooking program that looked appetizing? Even if only for a few days of your meal plan, try planning the veggies first.
Try a new or unfamiliar vegetable. Have you ever roasted delicata squash? Can you ever recall cooking bok choy? Did your friend tell you about the amazing beets she added to a salad the other day? Whether you are browsing the produce department or scanning the farmer’s market, look for something that gets you curious. One of the best ways to get excited about eating more plants is to mix curiosity with anticipation.

Plant-forward eating isn’t about going and buying vegan entrees and products at the grocery store. It’s about appreciating and enjoying the food God created from the very beginning. Eating those foods more often will naturally reduce your intake of highly-processed foods and those that are inflammatory.

So, what’s the play call?

To be honest, we don’t need another label. Labels simply cause restrictive thoughts and snobby groups that isolate themselves, deeming their way to be the ‘right’ way to eat. Enough of that. Let’s pull from Truth the wisdom to nourish our body and let’s live based on our convictions, not anyone else’s.

How can you begin thinking and eating more plant-forward? First, get rid of the lies that you don’t like veggies or that they are boring Then, go explore the flavorful creation just waiting to be noticed.

More Recipes

plant based recipes — Lentil Marinara with Zucchini Noodles

3 Truths About the Revelation of Jesus: The Gateway to Manifestation

By

Liz Guya

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Sep 11, 2019

The Revelation of Jesus Drives Action

Every time we encounter God’s Word, we must listen with the intent to take action. The Bible declares we should be doers of the word and not hearers only (James 1:22). Revelation requires action after it has been received.

God wants us to live as the Bible says. It is when you act on the revelation you have received that physical manifestation of the Word takes place.

However, without revelation, it is hard to release into manifestation what the Word says into our lives.

Remember these things about revelation…

1. Revelation is first personal, then corporate.

This means that many can hear of a certain truth that is a revelation to another. But you can’t rely on another person’s revelation, unless it becomes your own, in your heart, established by the Spirit in your heart.

There’s a difference between personal revelation and corporate revelation. Personal revelation is what is revealed to you personally in your heart, from the Word of God. Corporate revelation is revelation that people believe on a massive scale, for example, salvation.

Many Christians believe that Jesus died on the cross for their sins. That becomes corporate revelation, where we all believe in our hearts a certain truth about the Word of God – think unity of the faith (Ephesians 4:13).

Things like healing, faith, or giving honor due to God must first involve personal revelation. When we come to God, we must first believe that He exists and that He rewards them that (personally) seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Eventually, God grows us from personal revelation to corporate revelation. He starts with individual believers who are in different seasons of their walk with Christ. Some develop fast, some slow – depending on cooperation, willingness, and other factors.

The gifts Jesus gave to the body of Christ in Ephesians 4:11 lead us to corporate unity and equip us for ministry in the faith.

2. Revelation is our guide.

When you receive a revelation of something, you don’t wait to be told to do it or to be led to give. For example, a child growing up needs to be guided to do homework, bathe, play, and eat.

But, as an adult with understanding, we don’t need to be guided and told repeatedly to do what we know is right. Understanding guides us.

When you understand the revelation of what God has for you and what you are to do, you apply it no matter where you are. This does not mean that the Holy Spirit stops being your guide. In fact, the Holy Spirit is the One giving or revealing to you the revelation that you walk in.

Revelation is the Holy Spirit breathing life to the Word in your heart.

The Word alone is not enough. We need the Holy Spirit to give life to it.

“..the letter Killeth but the Spirit gives life.” 2 Corinthians 3:6

The Spirit came to reveal all of Jesus, who is the Word (John 1:1).

3. Revelation is not our interpretation.

Since revelation is a product of the Holy Spirit, we can rest assured that revelation is always truth. Where there is an absence of truth, if what has been “revealed” does not align with the Word of God, we are to throw it completely away.

Let’s lay our personal interpretations and perceptions on the altar before the Lord as a sacrifice, and submit our hearing totally to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This way, we can accurately hear what the Spirit is saying to us personally and to the church corporately (Revelation 2:29).

So, what’s the play call?

Team, let us seek out the Word and trust the Holy Spirit to breath life into the Word in our hearts and make it a reality. Let us seek out the revelation of Jesus in the Word and allow God to bring His will into manifestation in our lives. Amen!

Emmy Winner Patricia Heaton Stars in New CBS Comedy, Carol’s Second Act

By

Editorial Staff

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Sep 10, 2019

CAROL’S SECOND ACT is Funny First

Emmy Award winner Patricia Heaton stars in CAROL’S SECOND ACT, a comedy about a woman who embarks on a unique second act after raising her children, getting divorced and retiring from teaching: pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor.

On Carol Kenney’s first day at work, she’s prepped with an abundance of life experience, people skills, talent and enthusiasm, advantages the chief resident and other newly minted interns don’t have – or immediately appreciate. Carol’s first-year partners on rounds are Lexie, who’s very nervous due to the pressure on her to succeed as the first in her family to go to college, and Daniel, a 2018 Harvard Medical School grad who’s already published in the New England Journal of Medicine…twice. Carol will need to win over their chief resident, Dr. Maya Jacobs, an all-business disciplinarian who doesn’t care for Carol’s chatty, outgoing nature. Fortunately, Carol has a couple of friendly faces at the hospital, including Dr. Frost, the accomplished senior attending physician who finds her charming, and her bubbly daughter, Jenny, a successful pharma sales rep who catches the eye of Carol’s fellow doctors.

At age 50, Carol is a medical intern who must sink or swim with peers who are half her age, and it’s her enthusiasm, perspective, and yes, even her age, that may be exactly what will make her second act a great success.

Series premieres Thursday, Sept. 26 (9:30-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

5 Weird Ways “Consequence” Is a Good Friend

By

Kim Brightness

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Sep 10, 2019

Our Day One Friend, Consequence

I was a hater.

There was a time when I could never hear the word consequence and think happy thoughts. No ice cream and bubble gum good times at the State Fair. No rainbows and cotton candy while skipping through tulips.

Nope, for most of us, we give the word consequence a bad wrap. We figuratively wrap the word neatly in gloom and doom, then sprinkle it with the best of the worst calamity.

If we can be honest, we’ve all lived through the consequences of bad choices, disobedience, and have lived to tell AND laugh about it. We took it patiently, and it didn’t kill us (1 Peter 2:20). Yet, the shade remains.

Is This How We Treat Our Friends?

Why would we do a friend like Consequence like that?

Now, if that question throws you for a loop, “Consequence…a friend?” – maybe it’s time to shift your perceptions and see the value a healthy relationship with consequences can bring your life.

How do we do that?

Just as friendship is about giving and receiving – we must be honest and open to receive the positive work consequences have to offer.

So, Team, no more ‘hating’ when we hear the word consequences. We can all learn to embrace the positive characteristics of consequences, and the truth of how to apply them to our lives.

Because just like a good friend…

1. Consequences don’t control us.
Consequences never go first. They’re not out to get you. They don’t ask to be here – they are summoned, called, invoked after being produced by some other action, condition, or choice. This is actually good news, why? Because it puts us in control of consequences, and not the other way around. With foreknowledge, we are not helpless victims of consequences. If the reality of a certain consequence causes you anxiety or pain – guess what – you are not sentenced to that prison without first being handed the warden’s keys!

2. Consequences encourage you to think before you act.
What would my life, your life, the world be like if we really thought about our words and actions before we said or did them? I’m of the mindset that people, in general, don’t like pain, embarrassment, loss, etc. So, how is it that we make such thoughtless decisions, and then are mad at the who?….the Consequences! Sound decisions after prayerful contemplation are key to a life with less misery and hardship (Proverbs 3:6). Thinking before you act is also a loving gesture – any time you can save yourself or others pain and heartache – that’s Love!

3. Consequences grow you up.
Team, we can’t stay on milk forever. At some point in life, we have to grow up and learn what, where, how, when to act AND why! It’s called putting away childish things (1 Corinthians 13:11). There’s a part of God’s plan for each of our lives that reads: “The older you get, the more responsibility you’ll have, and a greater expectation that you’ll make sound, mature decisions.” Pain, hardship, embarrassment, loss all have a special way of getting our attention and growing us up – for our own good.

4. Consequences deter dangerous repeat behavior.
Have you ever looked at your past bad behavior and asked yourself, “Was I a glutton for punishment?” I have. Human nature is a trip. No matter how educated, well-put-together we seem – our sinful nature, gone unchecked, will have us repeating the same bad behavior again and again. Thank God for consequences (and mercy)! How can we get to the blessings of 12^th grade, and be a blessing to others we meet in 12^th grade, if we’re stuck in Kindergarten asking for “one more chance”? Consequences help put an end to our harmful cycles so we can begin to live on purpose.

5. Consequences are Excuse Assassins!
If excuses are monuments of nothingness, consequences are the wrecking balls that destroy those monuments. When we’ve been made aware of the consequences, our “excuse card” immediately expires, and we are ejected from the blame game! Knowing the consequences, we are now empowered to manage our own outcomes. Being able to live an excuse-free life, one where responsibilities are fully owned, mistakes are learned, and you emerge a better person – this is the fulfillment of God’s growth plan for our lives.

Does this change your perception of consequences, or foster a friendlier relationship with the concept? We hope so.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Embrace your consequences, and grow patiently through every learned lesson. Here’s to better choices, behaviors, and the abundant life available to Team Jesus as we all mature!

Your Daily Gift: 4 Ways The Breath of Life is More Than Just Oxygen

By

Team Jesus

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Sep 9, 2019

Inhale, Exhale

Have you ever watched a baby sleep? As their bodies surrender to stillness, a gentle sense of calm and peacefulness is reflected in their bodies and sometimes on their faces. That simple act of rest is a reminder for me about the power of God’s gift, the breath of life.

The breath has power and there’s a rhythm and a flow to it. As a wellness professional and yoga instructor, I talk about the breath a lot and most of what I’ve learned about breathing has come from the word of God and confirmed through science. I believe that the breath unlocks the door to spiritual awareness, and God starts this process in the womb.

Did you know that mothers breathe for their babies while they are in the womb? During their time in the womb, babies practice breathing while their lungs are being developed in preparation for birth. That moment when all those in the room wait in anticipation for those strong lungs to let out a loud cry to indicate… LIFE!

From that point forward, we embody the gift. Second by second, moment by moment we inhale and exhale consciously and unconsciously. But, the breath is more than just the flow of oxygen; it is the vehicle by which God provides us with the following:

HIS PRESENCE

When God formed man from the dust in Genesis 2:7, God breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul. We move and live with a daily reminder of God’s presence every time we take a breath. His presence flows through us, giving life to our body, soul, and spirit. On a deeper level through prayer and meditation, we are able to not only cherish the gift of God’s breath on a physical level, but we are able to feel and sense His presence on a spiritual level as well. In John 4:24, we are reminded that God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. As God’s greatest creation, we are built for spiritual worship and that type of worship starts with a spiritual awareness found in reverence of the breath.

HIS POWER

The breath, like all of God’s gifts, is full of power. In Proverbs 18:21, we are reminded that death and life are in the power of the tongue. Words riding along the flow of your breath holds power and with the gift of free will, we can choose how that power will be directed in our lives based on what we speak. When God spoke “let there be light”, there was light. That same power to speak life resides within us when our breath carries words from a place grounded in faith.

CHANGE

Created in God’s likeness, we possess power through God our Father and power can bring about change. In our physical bodies, we were created with systems that allow us to receive and to release. Our respiratory system is designed to take in oxygen and to release carbon dioxide. Our human design is divine indeed! We are change agents here on earth equipped with the ability to receive something and to change it into something useful for others.

Did you know that our moods and attitudes are reflected through our breathing? Your breath may be short and choppy when you are anxious or upset. Or, maybe your breath is shallow when you’re sad. When we are more physically and spiritually aware of how we breathe, especially during difficult situations, we have the power to shift. We can change our perspective and sometimes our mood and attitudes in that very moment through conscious breathing.

CONNECTION

As a child in the mother’s womb, the breath is a mysterious and divine connector to our Creator and to the universe. As God’s earthly creation gives us oxygen, we receive it, transform it and offer our gift of carbon dioxide to the earth. In Genesis 1:26, God granted man dominion over the earth and that responsibility includes care and connection. God created us with connection in mind and the breath is a constant reminder of that connection. The connection is life and is life-giving to others.

Consider how you’ve been breathing lately and take a moment to try this spiritual breathing exercise. As you breathe in slowly through the nose, consciously envision you breathing in God’s presence and exhaling doubt. Slowly inhale the power of your breath to carry your prayers to feet of Jesus. Consciously exhale fear – the image of it and the energy of it. Slowly inhale your God-given ability to change or shift your perspective or feelings and exhale worry. Slowly inhale your ability and desire to connect with God the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, earth, and others, and exhale isolation.

Remember, breathing is needed to live, and how you live is rooted in how you breathe through life.

Sherrell Moore-Tucker is a Wellness Professional, Writer, and Registered Yoga Instructor with the National Yoga Alliance and Holy Yoga Ministries. Sherrell provides wellness services which tend to a person’s spiritual, mental, and physical well-being while providing accessible tools for managing stress. Join the movement and learn more about how to “Breathe in, Stress Out” at www.sherrellmooretucker.com.

7 Ways to Choose A Life of Gratitude Over Fear

By

Tamsyn Cornelius

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Sep 6, 2019

Gratitude is a Habit

Life is hard and we can easily get bogged down in all the negative situations that pervade our lives each day. However, the Bible teaches us to live from a place of thanksgiving, despite our circumstances. How do we successfully choose gratitude when we daily face challenges, negative media, and secular mindsets that are contrary to our biblical training?

We need to actively take our thoughts captive and choose a positive mindset over fear. When we operate from a place of thanksgiving and positivity, we give the enemy very little room to get us down. Not only is thanksgiving an instant mood lifter, but it is also God’s will for our lives.

The Bible says, “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Gratitude is a Weapon Against Negativity

I have lived in Cape Town, South Africa all my life. Besides being a beautiful and diverse nation, crime seems to be at an all-time high in many provinces around the country.

Daily we are bombarded with negative and shocking news reports that can easily overwhelm and stir up a spirit of fear. However, as a child of God, I am constantly reminded to choose hope, life, and thanksgiving despite the negative news reports.

Gratitude needs to start in the mind and heart first. When we face trials or disappointments, we need to take a step back and assess the situation from Heaven’s perspective. God is always good, so how does His goodness fit into the picture and impact the negative circumstances we are facing right now?

Grow Your Seeds of Gratitude

Make a point of seeking out God’s goodness in your own situations today and give Him thanks before you allow any negative emotions to set in.

It was Zig Ziglar who said,

“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.”

Living from a grateful heart is the daily decision to appreciate all that life has to offer and to live out of a place of hope over fear. Yes, things do not always go our way. Yes, we may face insurmountable obstacles in life. But, the reality is that we serve a good and faithful God who promises to be there with us and assist us through the storms of life. When we choose to turn our affections to Him, we, in turn, choose hope, expectation, joy and so much more.

Gratitude Keeps On Giving

Did you know that there are many benefits to adopting gratitude as a way of life? As you begin to take on a mindset of thanksgiving, you may start to curb negative thoughts, eliminate anxiety and even diminish depression.

In fact, according to the Greater Good Science Center, preliminary research suggests that grateful people may have better sleep, healthier hearts, and fewer aches and pains than their less grateful counterparts.

In Philippians, it reads, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Through thanksgiving and a grateful heart, we can begin to experience the peace of God through any situation.

Gratitude also has ripple effects and can influence the people you interact with each day. One simple act of gratitude from one person to another can instantly change moods, mend relationships and encourage a chain reaction of thanksgiving in others.

So, what’s the play call?

What practical steps can you take to develop an attitude of gratitude each day?

Be mindful. Take negative thoughts captive as soon as they enter your mind. Do not give the enemy room to engage you with harmful or destructive thoughts that can impact your life or stir up fear.
Appreciate the simple things. There is always something to be grateful for – whether it is food on the table, flowers in bloom or a roof over your head. Look for the silver lining in every situation, no matter how small, and start to develop a deeper sense of gratitude for the simple things in life.
Thank God every morning. Create a habit of praying and thanking God each morning for your many blessings. Commit your day to Him and start it on a positive note. Soon enough, you may begin to look for more things to be grateful for.
Create a gratitude journal. Choose to write down those things that you are most grateful for in a dedicated gratitude journal. It may start out simple, but over time, you may begin to see a pattern of the immense goodness of God in your life. When you are feeling down, whip out your journal as a reminder of His faithfulness.
Engage in good acts to others. Choosing to help others, especially those less fortunate than ourselves, often leaves one with a greater sense of gratitude for our own circumstances. Get involved in your local church’s outreach programs or support a charity in your area. Make it a family event and support a community initiative, with your time and resources. Doing good may help you develop your own sense of thanksgiving for all that the Lord provides.
Express thanks to others. Make a point of thanking others for their role or contribution in your life. Write a note to that inspirational teacher or pastor who encouraged you through a difficult season. The more we learn to express gratitude, the more we give others the freedom to do the same.
Choose faith over fear. Walk closely with the Father and follow His guidance. He is a great comforter, leader, provider, and peacemaker. The Bible says that He has good plans for those who love Him and follow His commands. Allow Him to help you walk in faith today, despite your surroundings.

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend,” ― Melody Beattie

A Peace You Can Feel in 4 Simple Steps

By

Brandi Hawthorne

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Sep 5, 2019

Peace, be still in my heart.

There have been moments in my life where I could feel the presence of peace. Sometimes, I sensed it when worry was suddenly replaced with calm. Sometimes, I feel enveloped in it like a coat. And, other times, it’s like fresh oxygen and I breathe much easier.

Yesterday, I felt it again. I was sitting in my car (as I often do to milk whatever kid-free time I’m returning home from) and I felt calm, then joy. Things have been working out in ways I couldn’t have planned, and I know that it’s God fulfilling His Word in my life.

As I began to bask in God’s presence, I realized that what I was feeling was similar to how I felt when my oldest daughter had a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. And I wondered, how many other women struggle to feel at peace.

I’d like to share with you my story and 4 things I believe prepared me for sweet encounters with peace:

1. Expect God to help you transition.

Sometimes, us women-folk can agonize about a not-so-ideal situation like nobody’s business. We wrap guilt and shame and worry around our necks like a cloak, all while complaining that it’s too hot. The energy we put into fighting what has to happen (e.g. for me, returning back to the workplace) is time we could spend ironing out the details.

My husband and I recently agreed that it would be best for me to go back to work. I didn’t love the idea, but I knew that it was necessary. So, I accepted that we needed additional income and began putting my energy into finding a job I would enjoy, and a daycare I could trust. I believed God would help me transition from 16-months as a stay-at-home-mom to going back to work. And, now that I realize the amount of debt we can eliminate with my salary (and I found a daycare that I love!), I’m ecstatic to return to work.

I couldn’t have predicted that outcome a few weeks ago. But, you don’t have to see the 2^nd floor to take the 1^st step.

2. Trust God to work it out in your favor.

Determination and persistence are your best friends. When I chose a car seat, I wanted one that I thought was safe (and cute!). My husband wanted one that was safe (and cheap!).

Do you see our dilemma? Did I whine when he flat out vetoed the car seat I had (secretly) fallen in love with? Yes, I did. But, then I said, “Girl, hush all that whining and search the ends of the earth (Amazon & Google) until you find one that you both feel good about.” Did it take more time and effort? Sure. But, now she’s riding in a car seat that’s beautiful, safe and affordable.

Some of your situations will be as trivial as the search for a car seat, and some will be more serious – but the lesson still applies. Ever heard of the persistent widow? (Luke 18:1-8)

When you know that God’s got your back, in every area of your life, why give up after a few empty tries? Keep praying. Keep walking forward.

3. Listen with your heart.

I picked out my daughter’s daycare months ago, so when I was offered a job, I went in just to do a run-through, meet her teachers, etc. Quite a few things were not to my liking, but I was running out of time; most places had year-long waiting lists, and I had already told my husband the price, so anything higher was going to cause him to raise a few eyebrows. What am I going to do?

So, I met up with my BFFs – Persistence and Determination, and that day I called 5 daycares and found 2 that had open spots. Of course, the one I loved was the most expensive. Fix it, Jesus! So, I prayed the prayer of my life and called my husband. He told me to keep looking, LOL! The one I loved had another location nearby and something (God) told me to call and check the prices.

Not only did they have an open space, but they were also incredibly sweet, within walking distance from my new job and $80 cheaper! This isn’t luck, Team. This is called being a part of the royal family. And, royalty always gets all the perks! You just have to know how to listen.

4. Pray before, during, and after.

Staying prayed up will keep you from being stressed and pressed when trouble comes. For almost a decade, I prayed for my children to be cultured. My husband relocated us to Guam when my daughter was 2. And, my baby girl was born there and now we all have Chamorro, Filipino, and Asian aunties, uncles, and cousins all over the world.

My husband and I debated between spending money to come home for the holidays (which was very expensive) or travel the surrounding area for half the price. We wanted to seize the opportunity to travel on the other side of the world, but we also missed our families back in the States. Yes, we agonized over it.

Meanwhile, Guam had a 5K race every weekend, and one morning around midnight I decided I was going to run. I’m not a runner, ok? But, I just felt like I should go. Usually, I don’t stick around to see the winners get their medals or for the raffle drawing at the end, but this time I stayed until the grand prize drawing, which was 2 roundtrip tickets to anywhere United Airlines flew.

Guess what? Yes, I won!

That was the longest ride home ever! My husband couldn’t believe it. And, because I won, we were able to spend 7 days in Hong Kong and visit our families in the States a year later…right as my grandmother was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. We spent almost 2 months with her before she passed away.

What if we had come home sooner and then couldn’t afford to return again when she became ill? What if I hadn’t been forced to resign from a job I loathed, hadn’t trusted God to supply me with not one, but TWO higher-paying jobs and didn’t have enough money to vacation in South Carolina for 2 months? What if I ignored the nudge to sign up for a 5K that night?

Prayer changes things.

So, what’s the play call?

“Worry about nothing, pray about everything.”

That worry scripture isn’t just something people say because they don’t want to hear you whine or because they’re just happy-go-lucky people.

There is power in our words and when we’re whining, we’re (usually) speaking the opposite of what we really want. “It’ll never work.” “I won’t get it.”

Those words (seeds) may get you some sympathy points or feed your sorrow, but they don’t produce the results you actually want. We have to take everything to God in prayer, and be ready to go when the Holy Spirit says something crazy like, “I know it’s midnight, but go ahead and sign up for that 5K that starts 5 hours from now.” Say what, Holy Spirit?

But, look how beautifully it all worked out. Prayer isn’t just an emergency hotline. It will set you up to win peace in ways unimaginable. Let’s expect God to be God and we’ll see Him do the unthinkable in our lives.

3 Problems with ‘Adulting’ When God Says ‘Come as a Child’

By

Alecia M. White

-

Sep 4, 2019

Come as a child, grown Christians.

I recall, some years ago, my electricity being turned off. I’d made an arrangement for an extension, but when the bill came due, I didn’t have the money to cover it.

I remember getting home from work one evening and walking into a dark apartment. It was almost 7:00 pm. I had planned to get home a little earlier, but I worked at a childcare center and we had a late pick-up after our six o’clock closing time. My cell phone served as my night light and all I could do was get ready for bed.

The next morning, as I got prepared for work, I searched my closet for something that didn’t need ironing. I went to work as usual and clocked in… then out as usual. On this day, my daddy called me. Well, hold on, my daddy called every day, but this day he asked questions.

After I answered and we said our “hellos”, he asked, “Are all your bills paid?” My daddy always seemed to know what was going on even if I hadn’t told him, hence his straight-forward questioning.

As I answered with a “no”, he waited for details. I let him know that my power was off, and his exact response was, “Man! Why didn’t you tell me?”

See, my daddy wasn’t upset that I couldn’t pay my bill on my own that month, he was upset that I didn’t go to him for help. He then said, “It costs me more to fix it after the fact than if you had just told me in the first place.”

Why didn’t I just ask my dad for the money? Y’all know why. Because I was trying to “adult”. I was supposed to be able to do it on my own… so I thought. Well, I was wrong.

Why Hide From God What He Already Knows?

See, so often, we treat God the way I treated my daddy. We don’t tell Him, with the hope that we can fix it ourselves. The problem is, sort of like my dad, God already knows what’s going on.

Many times, He waits for us to come to Him, but there are always times when He asks us for details. And well, you know the rest, you may as well just tell Him at this point. Uh huh… ’cause, He already knows.

From what I have experienced with God, His reaction is much like my dad’s, in that, He is more concerned with why I didn’t just turn to Him first. Like that electricity bill, “it costs more to fix it after the fact…” God just wants you to trust Him to do it when the problem first arises. I’m sure you’ve noticed that when you try handling stuff yourself, it gets blown way out of proportion. Our mess-ups lead us further away from Him than we anticipated and we find ourselves in a power outage.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Please understand that God knows the magnitude of your issues before you take them on. Here are a few things to recall before you decide to “adult” and keep matters in your own hands instead of God’s:

God never asked you to fight for yourself – let God fight for you. Why waste your energy on a battle that He already said He’d handle? “For the Lord, your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.” Deuteronomy 20:4
God never called you your own shepherd – He wants to take care of you. Yeah, He does and it’s because you belong to Him. “Wherefore, if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Matthew 6:30
God doesn’t make His children earn provision – He will give you the help you need. No matter what it is, trust Him with your problems, your issues, even your successes. “For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” Isaiah 41:13

I know we set ourselves up sometimes. We really believe we can handle stuff on our own. But this time, please, let God foot the bill.

Good Math: The Real Secret to Forgive Seventy Times Seven

By

Kim Brightness

-

Sep 3, 2019

Be Forgiving and Multiply.

When I was a kid, one of my favorite non-toy toys was my Mom’s handheld counter. I don’t know if I liked the clicking noise, how that noise aggravated others lol, or if I simply enjoyed the anticipation of seeing the next number appear.

Maybe it was the thrill of victory to see how fast I could reach 1000, or maybe it was the agony of defeat. See, oftentimes, my thumb got tired and threw up the white flag by pressing the reset button, spiraling the numbers all the way back to 0000.

Back then, I could think of one really good reason to avoid that reset button and start the count all over again – when keeping count of forgiving somebody 490 times, as Jesus said.

Jesus did say that, right?
But, is that what He meant?

How Much Wrong is Forgivable?

Have you been feverishly counting the number of times someone offends you, ready to cut them off at 491? “Sorry, your forgiveness card has expired.”

When reading Matthew 18:21-22 KJV, it’s easy for our child-like minds to wonder, “Umm, Jesus, do you think we could lower the cap on forgiveness a little bit?” Or, perhaps, “Jesus, how do I keep track of 490 wrongs?”

Team, it’s time for us all to stop approaching forgiveness like a child and put away childish things (1 Corinthians 13:11).

There’s a way for mature followers of Christ to intentionally honor Jesus’ play call for forgiveness, without the need for mechanical counters or tally sheets.

How?

**It’s Not the Wrongs that Count**

Sorry, Team. We’ve been approaching 490 the “wrong” way – by counting the “wrong” things. What’s the “right” way to approach this notion of 490?

One of the devil’s oldest tricks in the book is to keep us stuck, distracted, and unproductive by using our past hurts. Unforgiveness in the dark corners of our heart festers like mold. It breeds bitterness that infects our purpose, our gifts, and renders our anointing ineffective because we’re so broken.

But, here’s the secret to 490. Whenever the enemy presents the pain, the anger, the trauma of offense caused by someone in your life – do the right thing and forgive them – again, and again, and again, and…

Because I can guarantee you – the enemy won’t stop at 1.

Don’t believe me? You’ll be minding your own business and what they did will surface in your spirit out of nowhere – “I forgive you” #1. Years will pass and you’ll meet someone who reminds you of that person who hurt you – “I forgive you” #184. You’ve experienced heartache so deep that you have recurring dreams about what they said to you – “I forgive you” #227, #228, #229!

Get the picture?

With every thought, tantrum, or trigger – Jesus encourages us to do it one more time, forgive!

And, God understands that all of His children are different.

Depending on your thought life and your willingness to forgive, it may take telling your heart 490 times, “Forgive them.” Perhaps in the 50’s, your forgiveness is kicking and screaming. By the 100’s, you’ve stopped plotting revenge, but it still hurts. And, by the 300’s or 400’s? No, the offense is no more pleasant than Day 1. But, there’s a peace that surpasses your understanding. A simple reminder that you have forgiven him or her is all it takes. Whatever your forgiveness journey looks like, God, who is Alpha and Omega, is with you from beginning to end.

So, what’s the play call?

Use God’s good math and count the “right” thing to do, not the “wrong” that has been done. Hand over the counter to God and direct the ledger towards yourself, not the one who hurt you.

Has God ever tallied the number of times He’s had to forgive us? Is any one of us walking around in jeopardy of being separated from God “if we mess up one more time”? God forbid.

Likewise, we are not called to count and ration our forgiveness. But, in the same manner in which God forgives us – numerous times and for much greater offenses – we forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32).

The “A” word: Authority

Mike? I Wanna Be Like Jesus!

1. Don’t take your title or position too seriously.

2. Don’t put your name on someone else’s vision or idea.

3. Know when to question, how to question, and when to do what you’re told.

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Peace, be still in my heart.

1. Expect God to help you transition.

2. Trust God to work it out in your favor.

3. Listen with your heart.

4. Pray before, during, and after.

Come as a child, grown Christians.

Why Hide From God What He Already Knows?

Be Forgiving and Multiply.

How Much Wrong is Forgivable?

It’s Not the Wrongs that Count

Get the picture?

How will you use “good math” to forgive yourself and others?

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**It’s Not the Wrongs that Count**