Category: Peace of mind

"Are we there yet?"

That's the wail of every child stuck in the back seat on a long drive.

Our grown-up laments over the course of this past year often carried that same whiny tone and for the same reason. This "trip" feels endless and the "scenery" isn't that interesting.

If this were a game we could howl "They keep changing the rules!"

Trouble is, it wasn't–and isn't–a game. This is real life and real people. Real pain. Real loss.

And still, we're trapped in this "thing" that just keeps rolling along for what seems like forever.

One fact stands firm

Whatever is–or isn't–going on, this day is the only day you and I have to live in. This moment. This second.

The past is behind us and can't be replayed. The future, as always, remains unknown until we are living it. Today is all we have.

Some of us are muddling through a really hard time. For others it's disturbing that life feels so beyond our control. Some endured so much pain and so many losses we want to give up. Life is just too hard.

Yet in the middle of all this we still have choices.

Shall we curl up in a corner of the room and cry? Or wallow in the muck of what's wrong and scream out our rage? Lots of us just grit our teeth and put up with whatever comes.

The better choice is to take stock of what we have left and rejoice that we have come this far.

You and I are still here, but not because we're smarter than everyone else. We are alive and breathing, by the goodness of God. In any and every situation, that alone should cause us to rejoice and be thankful.

Discover meaning in the mess

Here's what I've found. When I'm feeling dry and dusty, it's useless to try and dredge up joy from inside. Faking it sounds, well, fakey.

Someone we used to know loved to say, "You gotta put the good stuff in if you wanna get the good stuff out."

There's no better "good stuff" than what we find in the Bible. The truths it contains are as essential to our souls and our spirits as pure water is to our bodies.

That's because no matter how shaky life may feel to us, the truth of the Bible stands strong and constant. That's why people all over the world make time to read and study these timeless words.

Don't look for the "right way" to do it. Just figure out what works for you. Some people wake up before their families because they like the quiet time and no interruptions. Others prefer to close their days with time in the Bible. Choose print or read the Word on a screen. Or download one of the many available Bible apps so you always have it with you.

The power is not in the how and when and where we read the Bible. The power is in how the Holy Spirit works through these truths and changes us from the inside out.

Store up the "Good Stuff"

Think of it as something like a bank account. Depositing Bible truths and promises in our minds gives us something to draw out when we're feeling overwhelmed.

It's easy to underline verses that speak to our hearts and then to mull them over later. The blank pages at the back of the Bible prove a handy place to jot down notes so you can find favorite verses easily.

Then when we run dry we can easily go back to those marked verses. Here are some of mine, all NIV.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

"Let not your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me … Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:1, 27

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us … Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 5:8; 8:1-2

The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11

Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. Psalm 34:4

The Bible revives our tired hearts

Verses like these reset our internal guidance systems and wash away our anxieties. They refresh our hearts, like a splash of cool water on a hot day.

Life is a journey, they say, and we get bored. We get weary. When we lose our way, we know where to turn for guidance.

And when we know where we're going and who is watching over us, keeping us safe, we can get through this "road trip" with joy.

Still growing,

Lenore

Find strength for your journey

April 15, 2021
Ahead of us lies the great unknown. Another 365 days of … what?

Sometimes the steady stream of What-ifs seems like too much, doesn't it? We want to hunker down and wait for it to blow over.

Our friend "Jim" found out dogs can feel that way, too.

During his growing-up years he loved to roam the California hills. One blue-sky Saturday he set off to go exploring. His faithful sidekick "Marley" tagged along at his heels.

As they came over one hill Jim heard a high-pitched, unfamiliar drone. Marley heard it, too.

The usually fearless German Shepherd crouched on the grass and refused to budge. No amount of coaxing or scolding could get him moving.

At last Jim gave up. The teenager picked up Marley and staggered over the next hill, where the noise barely registered.

Only then would Marley resume walking on his own.

You and I may wish we could do what Marley did

If only we could refuse to budge.

We can't, of course, because we have responsibilities and people who need us. Need us to be strong, even when we're quaking with fear inside.

We survived 2020. Yay! But here we are, still living under restrictions, wearing masks and washing our hands. Still wondering what comes next–and when.

Frankly, we are tired of this routine. We want to get past it and go on.

And fear lurks everywhere because we don't know what comes next.

But here's the thing: We never did. Neither did countless generations before us.

Like them, we must take one step at a time, one day at a time, fully aware we cannot make it on our own.

Like them, we're never left to get through all this on our own strength:

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, for I myself will help you,' declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel." Isaiah 41:13-14

Surprises along the way are guaranteed

We know by experience we won't like some of them. No matter. We need to keep walking if we're to get through our days.

This calls for courage–and where do we get a dose of that?

For starters, look back to one dark night outside Bethlehem.

The shepherds out on the hills outside Bethlehem were just living their usual lives, watching out for their sheep. Then one night, suddenly angels filled the skies, singing praises to God. The glory of the Lord shone around them and lit up the darkness with dazzling light.

The shepherds fell to their knees. Fearful. What could it mean?

The angel's words to those humble men apply just as much to you and me today:

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today . . . a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."   (from Luke 2)

Fear and apprehension can turn to laughter, even in the night

Once they heard and saw the angels the shepherds were filled with joy and rushed off to Bethlehem to see for themselves the Baby in the manger. They abandoned their sheep because their desire to see the Baby Jesus crowded out every other thought.

What if you and I had the same single-minded yearning to see and know Jesus?

Would it change the way we look at our lives and what we consider important? Would we leave fear behind?

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."  John 14:27

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Where is the darkness in your life?

Every one of us has some sort of "darkness"–difficulty and struggle–in our life. We know by experience that times of calm usually don't last, that danger lurks just off the scene.

Life is uncertain. All it takes is one false step. One drunk driver. One bad report from the doctor and our life could turn from happy to sad in an instant.

So then how shall we cope with the uncertainty of being alive?

The same as all the Christians who went before us, living one day after another, trusting God every step of the way.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Let's leave the shadows behind

Because we know the Source of joy, we can live fearlessly. Joyously.

The Bible tells us how.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

We can't know what lies ahead, but we can know God is faithful and His promises are true

Marley had an owner who loved him enough to carry him past what troubled him.

We have so much more. We have Almighty God, our loving Father, who promises to never leave us alone and to strengthen us and carry us through whatever comes.

It is enough.

Count on it and be at peace,

Lenore

Take your pick: Will you live scared? Or will you live at peace?

December 30, 2020
What are we to do when every day's news breaks our hearts?

We can play "Let's Pretend" while the sun shines. But when we wake with a start at 2 a.m. the familiar chorus of inner taunts and fear kicks in.

What then?

First, let's plug into reality and consider it well. Every media outlet operates by a universal slogan of the news business: "If it bleeds, it leads." Pay attention next time and you'll see that's true. What's good and uplifting is usually one or two minutes pieced in at the end

Second, yes, we can find a lot to worry about, a lot to disagree with. No matter which "side" we're on. Even when we struggle to keep an open mind.

But here's what matters most. The Lord of heaven and earth, the Creator of everything seen and unseen, has not turned his back on us. He watches over us.

How can we be sure? He tells us in His written word, the Bible.

My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip–he who watches over you will not slumber. Psalm 121:3-4

It's time to equip ourselves so we don't lose heart

It's not a stockpile of guns we need, but a storehouse of promises. Words from the Word.

Words that lift us up rather than weigh us down.

Over the past few years I've discovered anew how much it helps to arm ourselves with Truth. I don't know why this verse particularly speaks to my anxious heart, but I've probably repeated it to myself a thousand times:

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 NIV

Over and over, day and night, driving in my car or doing chores–or in the middle of the night–that verse quieted my heart and my fears.

The value of Scripture vs. repeating affirmations, mantras and power statements

Talking heads on TV and "name" authors tell us we need to cultivate the habit of regularly repeating positive statements like this to ourselves: "I am strong. I am brave. I will be fine, etc."

It may help. A little.

What helps more is to turn the eyes of our hearts to God's Word and know it has power.

Here's 2 Timothy 3:16 ESV:

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.

Whether we spend hours in deep Bible study or only manage moments here and there, God's Spirit works through Scripture and changes us.

Living by the news trains us in fear.

Living by the Truth trains us in righteousness.

It reminds us who we are in Christ: God's righteous people, set right with God not because of what we do or think but because of what Jesus Christ accomplished on our behalf.

What helps most is to focus on power beyond our own

First and most importantly, if we believe in Jesus Christ as true God and the Savior from sin:

We needn't fear God is just waiting for us to slip up so He can lower the boom on us.

We needn't view our problems as punishment.

We have eternal life. Now.

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 ESV

If we depend on our "higher consciousness" or our "good thoughts" for strength, we'll stay mired in the swamp of fear that pervades our national thinking right now.

If we take God at His word, we can live free.

God hasn't abandoned the United States of America

His hand of blessing and mercy has been on this nation from the beginning. How else could this "Grand Experiment" have survived?

Our Founding Fathers were great men, yes, but they were ordinary human beings. Almost without exception they were Christians and trusted God. For example, George Washington said:

"You do well to learn our arts and ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. These will make you a greater and happier people than you are."

What's needed most is individuals who quietly speak reassurance and faith

Giving in to fear won't make us or anyone around us calmer.

It won't do one iota to make America a stronger nation.

However the upcoming elections turn out, whoever wins, whether final results cause us to applaud or weep, God will not turn away from us or from the United States. Life will go on.

By God's grace–and mercy–we will survive.

[Jesus said] "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Matthew 10:29-30 NIV

So let's leave fear behind. May we who believe in God be known as the people who speak courage and peace into fear.

Trusting, too,

Lenore
Let’s stay grounded and choose courage instead of fear

September 23, 2020
It's hard not to feel the heaviness, isn't it?

For months we've chafed under quarantine restrictions this Covid-19 pandemic pushed upon us.

We live by new rules, trying to protect against exposure to this frightening, ever-changing virus. We long for someone who can lay out what will come next, but it seems no one can.

Not even the multitude of Experts.

Once we thought that was a lot to deal with

Now many U.S. cities have become war zones. We've watched newscasts that showed the tragedy of human pain and resentment and lost dreams that boiled up and spewed out violence in so many cities. Perhaps we've witnessed it firsthand.

For many people the bigger crisis is worry over money–or lack of same. Jobs that may or may not be there when "all this" is over. And what about schools? Sports programs?

Some mourn the death or continuing isolation of one dearly loved.

What to do? Where to go with all this pain? Take it to our Best Friend.

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 ESV

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew ll:28-29 NIV

This touches us all

It hardly matters where we live. Fear wafts through the air we breathe and sleeps with us each night.

Our best antidote is to focus on who we are in Jesus. Remember what he said?

Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. John 14:1 ESV

Read those first two words again: LET not.

Jesus is telling us we have a choice. Don't fancy up the guest room in your mind to make room for fear. It cannot stay unless you allow it entrance.

One who came through the worst of times

Viktor Frankl spent 1942-1945 as a prisoner in four Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz. All his family died in those camps, including his pregnant wife.

Despair lurked everywhere, waiting for an opening. After awhile he decided yes, he lost everything, but the Nazis would never, could never get the last word because he still controlled his mind. In later years Frankl wrote this:

"Everything can be taken from a [person] but one thing: the last of the human freedoms–to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way."

That quote comes from page 86 of his best-known book Man's Search for Meaning. When Dr. Frankl died in 1997, that book already had sold over ten million copies. It's still in print and has been translated into many languages.

How shall we live in this time of crisis?

Here we are in what seems one of the worst of times, but like Viktor Frankl, we are free to choose how we will respond.

Will we live by faith

Or will we live by fear?

In every situation and every time, how we answer that question will shape the rest of our life.

To live by faith in this crisis time does not mean we ignore all the guidelines and blithely assume God will watch over us anyhow.

Rather, we love and trust our gracious and merciful Lord and we treat other people as we want them to treat us. We follow Government guidelines because the Bible tells us to. (Remember Romans 13:1?)

We live by faith, knowing and believing that God is still in control, even when it seems everything is falling apart.

But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." My times are in your hand.  Psalm 31:14-15a ESV

What are we to do with fear that still follows us around?

Post a guard at the door of your mind and shut out fear with the Truth.

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 ESV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

Human wisdom says that's too simple. Faith says that's how it works, even when progress seems slow.

Two steps forward and one step back is still one step forward. And so we grow.

Anytime fear seems to be winning call on the One who calmed the seas and ask him to still the storm in your heart.

And be patient with yourself. It takes time to lay down new track on the pathways of your mind.

Still learning,

Lenore
Choose faith and life instead of fear

June 4, 2020
Sometimes a look back helps us take courage for today, especially when it reminds us that God watches over us, too. Here's one to lift your spirits.

On a cold winter morning, January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 took off from LaGuardia Airport.

Almost immediately the plane hit a large flock of geese, which disabled both engines. Pilots and everyone watching knew they had only minutes to find a place to land.

Only one possibility existed, the frigid Hudson River.

Every watcher agreed the crew and all 155 passengers would surely die, either inside the sinking plane, or by drowning or hypothermia. Rescuers simply could not reach them in time.

Yet every person on the plane made it out and lived.

Reporters breathlessly recounted what they called "the miracle on the Hudson." The name stuck.

Survivors never doubted the truth of that catchy slogan. No "expert" could explain what kept that plane afloat long enough for the rescue.

The same two loving, powerful hands hold us

Rex Babin's cartoon in The Sacramento Bee illustrates a great truth for every believer.

The eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27

The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:8

Day after day our Heavenly Father watches over us–and our loved ones–with the same tender care depicted in this cartoon.

By faith we know that's true.

On good days it's easier to feel the warmth of his smile and His love for us.

But when the bottom drops out of our world

We may forget and take our eyes off Jesus when trouble comes.

These are extraordinary times. It's as if we've been dropped into this Covid-19 pandemic and we're wondering how we got here. We want to gather with those we love and hug them close, but we're not supposed to leave our homes.

"Social distancing" leaves us without the human closeness that helps reassure us.

Instead we have tragedy and fear and scary numbers, over and over and over. And we can't help wondering, will our family members survive? Will we?

What will happen afterward–and what will life look like then?

No one can say and we quake within, wondering. But our loving Father says,

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:1

Our call is to keep trusting, whatever comes.

Counter fear with Truth

It helps to take time reading God's written word, the Bible, and plant his truths in our minds and hearts.

Repeating verses aloud can help us get through whatever comes. Remembering them when we wake with a racing heart helps quiet our anxiety.

You probably have your own favorites. Here are some of mine, all NIV unless noted.

Cast all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11

You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3 NKJV

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Our loving Father holds each of us safe and secure. And because of Jesus, he looks at us with love.

Yes, that goes beyond our human understanding–and it's meant to, for He is Almighty God and we are only human.

Today and every day, may you know His peace.

Lenore

Verse Concepts

The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.

– See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/God,-Faithfulness-Of#sthash.mZBd0t36.dpuf

Lamentations 3:22-23

Verse Concepts

The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.

– See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/God,-Faithfulness-Of#sthash.mZBd0t36.dpL

How every day of our lives is our own “miracle on the Hudson”

April 17, 2020
Here we are, with 2020 bearing down on us. The end of another decade. What will we do with it?

I've loved Christmas since I was a little girl singing and "saying my piece" for the Christmas program. I love the wreaths and the lights and all the happy frenzy.

Touching hearts and connecting. Remembering. Missing loved ones no longer with us.

One minute it's laughter and hugs, the next it's tears. In this season all our emotions are right there at the surface.

Very soon we'll pack away the tenderness and the trappings of Christmas and get back to the business of life.

Boxing up the tree and tangibles may make us sad, but that's all surface stuff. What we'll miss even more is setting aside our tender feelings and our willingness to be softer, more giving of ourselves and our time.

Why bother with Christmas lights and decorations?

We never know how our Christmas gestures and traditions may touch someone's heart.

Every year I think of another time, another place, when someone's Christmas star was just what I needed.

At the time we knew we'd be moving on, but for a few years we had no clue where my husband's job would take us. To me it felt like waiting for the other shoe to drop.

(Did I mention I'm not so good at waiting?)

Each December 1st someone on a far distant hill would put up a lighted Christmas star so large I could see it clearly as I turned off the freeway and headed the mile or so toward home.

Almost every time the sight of it would bring me to tears. Tears of gladness that despite all the commercial hoopla someone, somewhere, still cared about the Christ Child and the star that brought the shepherds running to Bethlehem.

Tears of doubt and self-pity, too, I confess. I wanted to know what came next and I also knew I couldn't, so at last I'd ask God to give me patience and peace as we waited.

Somehow, by the time I reached home seeing that star would calm my heart. Most of all, it reminded me that Jesus Christ was born to bring us peace.

Even me.

Even in the midst of not knowing.

Truth is, none of us ever knows what comes next

Our lives can be turned upside down in an instant. Most of us have lived it at some time.

All it takes is a letter. A phone call. An unexpected–or expected–diagnosis or a test result we didn't want to hear.

You've heard that saying, "Life is fragile. Handle with care."

The better maxim for us Christians would be, "Life is fragile, but we're safe in God's loving hands."

Our times are in his hands, remember? (Psalm 31:15.)

We can count on the One who knows the future

Let's not pack away our joy along with the "Christmas stuff."

Yes, we live in turbulent times and life may seem discouraging and dismal at times. Still, by this time most of us have figured out that we find what we look for.

Let's look for what's good instead of being on alert for what's wrong.

Let's remember who we are–and more importantly, who God is.

A verse to post on our mental bulletin boards and live by every day

There's a reason why this Bible verse has been treasured for centuries:

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you." Jeremiah 29:11-12 NIV

How about taking those words seriously as we start each new day?

I can't think of a better way to keep the joy and peace of Christmas in our hearts 24/7, can you?

Trusting along with you,

Lenore

What if we took God at his word, every day of every year?

December 29, 2019
Here's a quote that's familiar to most of us:

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of incredulity, … "

–A Tale of Two Cities – Charles Dickens

That sounds a lot like our time, don't you think?

Add in daily reports of hatred, killings and accusations.

Overseas. In cities all across the land. In our state. Our city.

Maybe even next door.

We worry over our lives, too. There's that funny-looking mole. The cough that won't go away. Dizzy spells that hit out of nowhere. Rumors of cutbacks at work. The ongoing problems of one of our children.

Small wonder we're jolted out of sleep with hearts pounding and a trembling case of the "What ifs."

What do we do with our fears?

Whatever our temperament, there's only antidote that works. One that lasts.

It's remembering Whose we are. If we believe in Jesus as our Savior, it means we are the beloved children of the Everlasting God.

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he (Jesus) gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 ESV

Children of the same God who said in Isaiah 41:10:

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. NIV

So we give our fears to the Lord and simply trust.

Again.

And again.

As often as necessary.

That's what Dr. Kent Brantly did when stricken with Ebola during the outbreak in Africa several years ago

Brantly served with Samaritan's Purse in Liberia. It might seem a person who gives their life to serve God and people in hard circumstances might have the right to scream, "But I'm serving you, Lord! This is not fair!"

Not Brantly. He was flown to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, treated and recovered. Upon his release, Dr. Brantly described how he felt after being diagnosed:

"As I lay in my bed in Liberia for the following nine days, getting sicker and weaker each day, I prayed that God would help me to be faithful even in my illness, and I prayed that in my life or in my death, He would be glorified . . . "

Clearly, Kent Brantly never doubted God's love for him.

Neither did David, who wrote most of the Psalms. He often faced dangers on all sides, yet he wrote:

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.   Psalm 4:8 NIV

Let faith drive out fear

Kent Brantly and the psalmist David were heroes of faith, but also human beings who knew the taste of fear. So do you and I.

I've learned there is no better ammunition for fighting fear than talking to our Heavenly Father and reading The Bible.

This is the time to underline verses that speak to your heart and reassure you. Say them aloud and pray to understand what they mean. Make notes in the margins of your Bible or write the date you realized particular verses "fit" you.

Don't let it stop there. Speak them to yourself whenever fears bedevil you. Or in the middle of the night when you can't get back to sleep.

When we fasten our attention on Scripture God's peace will displace fear.

Here are a few of my favorite verses:

The LORD is my light and my salvation–whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life–of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 NIV

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.–Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV)

(Jesus said) "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. –John 14:27 (NIV)

For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. —2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)

By the way, this isn't something reserved for 3 a.m. jitters. Trust me, these verses can soothe our spirits any hour of the day.

All it takes is not LETTING our hearts be troubled, because we know Who's really in charge and we know Whose we are.

Still learning and growing, too,

Lenore

How can we stay upbeat in a downbeat world?

November 6, 2019
Have you ever wanted to scream because you were so busy you felt your life was out of control and this time you might snap?

Me, too.

I've learned it has nothing to do with our age, or whether we're married or single, with children or none. Nor does it matter if we work for a salary or are a full-time homemaker.

It's all about being over-committed.

Usually by our own choice.

One author, Christine Carter, labels it "the busy-ness trap."

Three words packed with meaning

We feel squeezed and squashed. We look through our lists for what to cut, but hardly make a dent. We are needed . . . everywhere. By everyone.

That's why it's so difficult to carve out pieces of our days for ourselves.

Yet our inner wail persists: I need some time marked "me." And if we don't take it–or make it–we become as dry as the Sahara.

Then we'll drudge through our days without heart, without joy–even when we're with the people we love most.

I know that desert territory. How about you?

But isn't taking time for ourselves self-centered?

It feels shallow and selfish to say "No" to someone we care about or to refuse a worthwhile cause. Especially for Christians.

After all, Jesus told us that love means sharing. Serving others. Giving ourselves away. Putting others ahead of ourselves. Besides, if we've walked with Him for very long we know we can get through anything because He strengthens us.

So we pray and try harder. We push ourselves to the max, and give our all. Our bodies pump out adrenaline that enables us to meet the challenge and get through it.

To get through a crisis is one thing. By definition, a crisis has a beginning and an ending point.

Some of us choose to live in crisis mode 24/7. For years on end.

Over time we'll pay the price in our mental and physical health

You probably know someone who is proud of being a multi-tasker. People like that often announce they're over-committed and may feel a sense of pride in their ability to cope.

One friend, "Elle," managed to hold it together as long as she kept to her packed schedule. Everyone who knew her said, "She's amazing!"

Then one morning Elle couldn't get out of bed and landed in the hospital. Test results were inconclusive so her long-time doctor wanted to keep her for observation. Elle promptly fell asleep–and stayed asleep until the next morning.

She woke up hungry and realized she couldn't remember the last time she cared whether or not she ate a meal.

Or anything else, for that matter.

Coming back to life

"When I left the hospital it was as if I hadn't noticed before how bright the sky was and how green the grass," Elle said. "I heard the birds singing in my yard, as if for the first time. Something had to change."

I realized I was trying too hard to be all things to all people. I wanted to be a good mom and a good friend. I tried to be a good employee and do well in my career. And I wanted to be involved at my church.

"Every one of those is a good, worthwhile goal," Elle said, "so I agonized over how to change and set priorities.

"But now I knew I needed to take care of myself, too, or I would fail on all fronts."

That's Priority A

Elle finally faced the inescapable truth: None of us can do it all, all the time.

But we can pick and choose among the non-essentials. It's the only way to feel in charge of our lives.

It's the only way to take care of our bodies and our minds and be there for our loved ones.

Some worthwhile activities may need to go on the "Later" pile.

Antidote to the busy-ness trap

Author Christine Carter's big tip is to give ourselves frequent recesses.

Take a break after every 60 to 90 minutes of work

Schedule regular time with family and friends

Allow yourself time alone to read a book or take a nap

Time to think and feel and pray

Time to just be–and not feel guilty about it

Find what joys your heart, my friend, whether it's stopping for coffee or watching a sunset.

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. —3 John 1:2 (ESV)

Still working on it,

Lenore
Caught in the “busy-ness trap?” Here’s how to escape

August 28, 2019
When we give a gift to a loved one we want to hear, "Oh, it's just what I wanted!"

But sometimes they tear off the wrapping and we get an unenthusiastic, "Oh. That's nice. Thanks."

Polite words like that puncture our shiny red balloon.

So we think, Next year I'll try harder. I'll spend more money. I'll pay more attention. I'll . . .

Blame it on our society's skewed opinion of what counts

Merchandisers of everything from chia pets to chocolate diamonds do a great job of convincing us we need their stuff.

Their message, sometimes subtle, sometimes in-your-face, is always the same:

"You need this! And the more you pay for it, the more they'll like what you give them!"

Not true!

Thinking adults understand the gifts that matter most come from the spirit, not the store.

Gifts from the spirit often arrive in plain brown wrappers. No brass bands. No cheering crowds.

They sit quietly in the corner, not making a fuss. They're just there.

Confused? Here's what I mean.

Anything we can hold in our hands starts losing its appeal soon after we get it. The best gifts, the lasting gifts, are those that make us smile even years after we receive them.

Gifts like love. Security. Faith.

(Yes, I know we can't give our loved ones faith in Jesus. But we can quietly live our faith and communicate what makes us tick.)

Love

Most of us probably grew up knowing our parents loved us, even if they never said the words. (Mine didn't.) We took it for granted that love would endure through every circumstance of life, no matter what.

The steady beat of love ran through our days like a heartbeat that sustains life.

Even though life wasn't perfect and our parents made mistakes, we were blessed, whether we recognized it or not.

Married or single, if that's what your children possess, you give lasting gifts every day.

Security

It never crossed my mind that my parents could divorce. I mean, they were married.

If you say, "Times were different then," you're right.

What hasn't changed is that youngsters who feel that kind of constancy at home are more able to concentrate on school and friends.

Call it being there, a synonym for love. That security frees them up to be kids.

Whether you're married or raising your children alone, if they can live without fear that you might leave, you're blessing them every day.

Faith

My husband and I both grew up in Christian homes and took faith for granted. At the time we married we didn't fully understand what a blessing it was that we agreed on the important issues of life.

We've lived in a number of places. With each move we immediately searched out a church that proclaimed Jesus as Savior and was true to what the Bible teaches. Only then did our hearts feel at home. After that we could settle in to our new community.

By now I know for sure there's no better foundation for building a strong marriage and a strong family than being united in faith and interacting with other Christians.

If your children are growing up–or grew up–knowing Jesus as their Savior and Friend, you're giving them what will last into eternity.

This means if you are stumped and money is tight this Christmas, relax

Remind yourself what you give–or gave–your children. Your spouse. Your parents. If you feel you come up short in some areas, remember, where there's life, there's still time.

Speak love right now. Write each one a note and tell them what they mean to you.

Retell favorite times from the past. List ways they enrich your life and help you, now or in the past. Tell them what you love about them–and be specific.

I promise you they'll hang onto that note. (Wouldn't you?)

The best gift of all

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believe in him shall not perish but have eternal life. –John 3:16

(Jesus said)"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."–John 14:27

Jesus and the peace he gives. These are the real--the best, the lasting--gifts of Christmas.

Peace,

Lenore

Gifts that last way beyond Christmas

December 12, 2018
Maybe you're wondering what the color beige has to do with anything.

So did I the first time I heard that description. Our engaging conference speaker–sorry, can't remember her name–had us laughing. And sometimes squirming.

According to my scribbled notes, here's the gist of what she said:

"My friends, I'm here to say, 'Please don't go through life as a Beige Lady! Or a Beige Man!'

"Now don't get me wrong, most Beige Ladies and Men are wonderful people.

"They often work behind the scenes and they're very agreeable, so everyone likes them. What they don't do is speak up when there's a difference of opinion. You see, Beige Ladies–and Beige Men–don't like to make waves.

"What's wrong with being agreeable?

"Not a thing. The problem is, Beige Individuals, as nice and willing and dedicated as they may be, seldom change the world.

"That's a waste. Jesus told us to be salt and light, to 'season' the world we live in, and shine His light in the darkness around us.

"Salt inevitably affects the flavor of a food and even one lighted match sheds light into a dark place.

"God put us here to make a difference, right where we are

"Not by being loud or strident, but by being strong and at the same time, being winsome and considerate. At home, in our marriage and family. Out there, in our church and community.

"Jesus told us to be true to what we believe. But be forewarned, this may cost us, especially if we differ from prevailing opinion.

"That can make it feel safer to be a Beige Lady or a Beige Man and keep our mouths shut, just smile and blend in with the crowd. Yet God put us here to live out out Christ's purpose for us.

"Remember Ephesians 2:10? This verse says it all:

'For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.' –ESV

"My friends, God did not create us to be 'Beige People!' Like Queen Esther in the Bible, you and I were born for such a time as this. To change our world, to be salt, to be light. Now, let's get going!"

Immediately, the entire room was clapping and cheering. From then on, at every break people discussed what she said.

The hard stuff came at home, wondering how could I "change the world?"

Our speaker told us to start where we are and I set out to do that, nibbling off bits and pieces. One big discovery was the difference it makes to start my days right. How to do it?

First thing in the morning, decide to be cheerful, even when life feels like one tough, dreary slog. Better yet, repeat this verse out loud:
This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.                                         –Psalm 118:24 -NKJV

Ignore the lousy mood(s) of people around you. Choose to respond with love and kindness instead of anger.
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.    –Proverbs 15:1 -NIV

Pray for wisdom and strength beyond what you feel at the moment.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.    –Isaiah 41:10 -NIV

Whether it's cultivating a happy home or daring to speak up when we feel outnumbered, our ever-present Helper is at our side.
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.  –Romans 8:26 -NIV

Expect to be changed–little by little–for the better.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.   –Galatians 5:22 -NIV

What matters most is what we live out

Most of us know by now that words are cheap and actions carry way more weight with both children and adults.

The most effective way to influence our world is not by impressing people. Rather, it's about following Christ's example. Always, we rely on Him for strength and courage.

Meanwhile, we keep our eyes open for ways we can season the world around us with love and hope and faith.

This is not a slam on the color beige

As our speaker said, you and I were created to be more and do more than simply be nice and blend in.

Maybe that's easier than we think. We're mistaken if we think it's about our own strength and our own noteworthy accomplishments.

Rather, it's all about Jesus. He's the never-fail, always-with-us Light and power source and He changes us from the inside out. (Will we fail sometimes? Of course, because we're human. But in Jesus we're forgiven and free to start over.)

The bottom line for you and me as Christians: We can stop struggling to measure up and just relax in Jesus' love and grace.

Our part is to go about our daily lives and let His light shine through us. The rest is up to Him.

Rejoicing, too,

Lenore
Don’t get stuck in being a “Beige Lady”–or a “Beige Man”

September 19, 2018