Well-Being from the Word: March 2012

Saturday, 31 March 2012

Good Times!

“Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I will say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4, The Bible (King James Version)

Life doesn’t always have to be so glum and you don’t always have to feel blue.

There are so many little things that are there to make us smile and so many things to do.

A sense of adventure or a new interest can fuel our pursuit and ignite some imagination.

Cherishing moments to laugh, share and love can brighten any situation.

This scripture reminds us that we should rejoice always which can direct the day ahead.

Take time out to lay aside the worries of life and do something for someone else instead.

Have good times! Rejoice and laugh to add value to your overall sense of well-being.

Who knows what you will discover as you take life by the hand or even do some sight-seeing...

Friday, 30 March 2012

Taking some time out

“Better is a handful of quietness than two hands full of toil and a striving after wind.” Ecclesiastes 4:6, The Bible (English Standard Version)

It’s easy to push ourselves to the limit, working every hour that God sends.

We sign-up for over-time, we don’t take our breaks – then work and personal life blends...

We overlook the boundaries that we ran past and become more stressed instead.

Rather than being full of energy, laughter and life, all we want is to sleep in bed.

This scripture reminds us that having quietness can be the centre of taking time out.

We can find peace, clarity and hope while giving us space to remove any doubt.

Who told you that you have to work every hour, striving and chasing after the air?

You are also made to rest, love and live; look after your body, do take care.

Thursday, 29 March 2012

Starting Over

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Sometimes life presents us with opportunities so that we can re-align.

Maybe it’s our dream, maybe it’s our career – maybe we are waiting for a sign.

Things also happen so that we learn and decide to move on.

We should open our eyes and do all that we can before the chance is gone.

This scripture reminds us that anyone who accepts Christ can forget about old things.

The new way of seeing life can cause us to experience the joy it brings.

Starting over can be good for our minds because we have a chance to renew.

We can explore new possibilities and hopes with more choice of what we can do.

Wednesday, 28 March 2012

How to restore your joy

“Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and uphold me with a willing spirit.” Psalm 51:12, The Bible (Amplified Version)

Depression and feeling very low can cause our minds to break down.

Instead of smiling and taking life as it comes, we complain, moan and frown.

Every word we say becomes infected with all our problems and every negative thing.

We fail to see the blessings we do have; and then complain about our lack of bling-bling...

This scripture reminds us that real joy needs to be restored from God above.

Through His promises He will restore our joy and fill us with his love.

When our joy is restored, then our mind-set shifts and then our perspectives change.

To be happy, don’t worry and instead let’s allow our mindsets to be rearranged.

Tuesday, 27 March 2012

How to help anxiety leave!

“Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” Proverbs 12:25, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Carrying heaviness in our hearts and worrying all the time impacts our well-being.

Speaking and sharing positive words with others is essential and freeing.

We can all make a contribution to help each other feel better.

We encourage others with a smile, a hug or even a very touching and kind letter.

This scripture reminds us that the words we say can help anxiety to leave.

When we receive an encouraging word – it makes a difference and helps us to believe.

The day can seem brighter and not so bad if we help each other along the way.

It doesn’t take much to say “Good Morning” or to wish someone a very nice day.

Monday, 26 March 2012

Maintaining your balance

“So refuse to worry, and keep your body healthy...” Ecclesiastes 11:10, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Looking after ourselves should be a priority that we should all take.

Being conscious of maintaining our well being, should be a promise for us to make.

Working every hour that is available – can offer us a premature end.

Refuse for worry and refuse to stress yourself out; take time to rest and to mend.

This scripture reminds us that that we should refuse to worry.

Let’s maintain a manageable pace and not work ourselves up into a stressful flurry.

God wants us to look after our bodies and to keep ourselves well.

Choose to take time out – maybe go for a relaxing walk or book a break at a spa hotel...

Sunday, 25 March 2012

Say something good!

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Today, it seems easy to be able to talk without thinking about it first of all.

We are ready to cast our opinions before knowing the facts; causing others to feel small.

Everyone has a choice to decide on what they say before it becomes too late.

People have hearts, feelings and dreams – not everything has to become a debate.

This scripture reminds us to avoid using abusive words which can cause hurt or pain.

Instead in everything we say, let it be positive and encouraging – for others to retain.

The words we speak can have impact - causing others to elevate or deflate.

So let us remember how our words will land, speak the truth with love and not with hate.

Saturday, 24 March 2012

Your Insurance Policy

“But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:19, The Bible (King James Version)

In these apparent tough economical times, giving to others doesn’t seem to make sense!

Credit card balances soar, as people spend more; while handling problems that feel tense.

We try to figure out how to get rich quick or to sell whatever we can.

Is there an answer to these testing times that can help every woman and man?

This scripture reminds us that no matter what, God will supply what you need.

If you believe that God will help you, your expectations he will exceed.

If you see someone who needs your help, don’t turn away when you have it there.

Your insurance policy doesn’t expire – so feel confident and show that you care.

Friday, 23 March 2012

We all have gourmet food to share...

“Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor.” Proverbs 22:9, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Being poor, does not always mean that you have no money to spend.

We can be poor or lack in areas of our time, self-esteem, belief...is there an end?

We may think that only focusing on ourselves is the best thing to do.

But there are people who are going through bad times – not knowing if they will make it through.

This scripture reminds us that we should be generous because we feed someone else.

Whether they are hungry, sad, or lacking in faith – we should not leave them alone on a shelf.

Give someone a call, send them a message, talk with them or cook a nice meal.

We are all human and we all need feeding; we all desire to have value and to feel.

Thursday, 22 March 2012

How to give recession a slap in the face!

“But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 1 John 3:17, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Demonstrating God’s love is simple – we can give to others who are genuinely in need.

When people’s basic needs are met, a seed of hope and peace will grow indeed.

Something very special is activated when we give a helping hand.

Showing some compassion will go a long way and this is something others will understand.

This scripture reminds us that we have the power to create some balance for others.

Using what we have to help, can create bonds that are closer than sisters or brothers.

Do the opposite to the negative messages and don’t abnormally cling to all that you possess!

We can all give recession a slap in the face; the more we give the more we get blessed!

Wednesday, 21 March 2012

Follow Your Heart

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7, The Bible (English Standard Version)

It is not always easy to follow what is in your heart to do.

People may say that “you are crazy” and this may discourage you.

Whether you are pursuing a dream or desiring to give, do so with all your heart.

Giving completely of yourself takes character and faith – be brave and make a start!

This scripture reminds us that the foundation of our decisions begins deep inside.

When we decide to give, do so freely and cheerfully – you have nothing to hide.

God (and others) will see the light that shines from you as you give with a smile.

Follow your heart to give to others – regardless of your circumstance or trial.

Tuesday, 20 March 2012

The only recession proof investment is to give to others

“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.” Luke 6: 38, The Bible (New Living Translation Version)

Giving is a timeless investment that will surpass any generation or age.

Giving is released from us to help another, so that they can progress to another stage.

Giving can unearth deep compassion for others and help to make dreams come true.

If someone didn’t help us at some point in our lives, what would we really do?

This scripture reminds us to give – without deceitfully expecting something in return.

When what you give comes back to you, it may surpass what you have been able to earn.

The act of giving allows God (and us) the space to ignite much needed changes.

Always give from your heart and God will surely bless these types of exchanges.

Monday, 19 March 2012

“Help me! Help you! Help Everybody!” Cuba Gooding Jr in Jerry Macguire (1996)

“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Helping others has a way of releasing something special in the air.

People feel valued, people smile more and people feel more willing to give and share.

Our well-being can find a balance of feeling complete and feeling whole.

Everybody on this earth was designed to feel important; we all fulfil this role.

This scripture reminds us that we should not forget to do good to others.

Sharing what we have to help someone else can create bonds as close as brothers.

Sisterly bonds are also created from sharing life lessons, love and peace.

God smiles when he sees this type of activity – may it continue and never cease.

Sunday, 18 March 2012

There is room for more than one brand of toilet roll...

“A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.”

Proverbs 18:16, The Bible (Amplified Version)

The next time that you go shopping, take a moment to admire an aisle.

You will find many different brands of the same thing that span for a mile!

From lipstick to cookies, drinks, pet food, tissues and toilet roll...

There is room for everyone’s choice – evidence that each dreamer has achieved their goal.

This scripture reminds us no matter how small, there is room for the gift you possess.

It is up to you to recognise it and reach for the stars – nothing more and nothing less.

As you begin to step out in faith, the gifts that you have will start to attract attention.

Have no doubt that in due time your gifts will be received with full comprehension.

Saturday, 17 March 2012

Get Going!

“We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.” John 9:4, The Bible (New Living Translation)

I once read that “Procrastination is the thief of time.”

Excuses and disbelief can hijack our dreams – which is not good or fine.

We all have assigned tasks, dreams and purposes to do

and this is the key to unlocking the real me and the real you.

This scripture reminds us that we should do the things that is in our hearts to do

because there will come a time when your life will be taken from you.

When it says to "act quickly" it means that we should get going and take action!

Write down your dream, draft out your "next steps" and watch yourself swell in satisfaction.

Friday, 16 March 2012

Your Strongest Link

“For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:37, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Dreams. We all have them – we dream of doing what is in our hearts to do.

You get by. You overlook opportunities. You do things that just do not suit you.

You were made to fit a very particular piece in the world, which only you can achieve.

But most of us get discouraged or don’t feel valued enough; we just don’t believe!

This scripture reminds us, that our strongest link is not available in the store.

God is waiting right there to “hook you up” and to inspire you and much more...

In fear, people may tell you that you can’t have your dream – it’s just not real.

But nothing is impossible! Go get your dream, draw from the inner strength you feel.

Thursday, 15 March 2012

You are Spectacular!

“Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvellous—how well I know it.” Psalm 139:14, The Bible (New Living Translation)

In the past, many may have told you that you are no good.

If you could change the impact of these hurtful words then I’m sure that you would.

Your self-esteem can have an impact on the way that you view who you are.

Your well-being can suffer and being able to feel your true value may seem so far.

This scripture reminds us that we are all made in a unique way.

If we know this and understand this, then we should declare it today!

The purpose and detail that you contain has been specifically designed.

Nobody else can be exactly like you because you are one of a kind.

Wednesday, 14 March 2012

What Doctors cannot prescribe...

“A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17: 22, The Bible (Amplified Version)

Having a happy heart can mean having a deep sense of value and peace of mind.

Cheerful and positive thoughts have the power to leave your worries far behind.

Broken hearts that have not healed and holding on to past pains;

can cause our lives to become brittle – allowing our problems to continuously reign.

This scripture reminds us that a balanced well-being can begin with a happy heart;

ensuring that our troubles are replaced and that each day is a fresh start.

What can you do or say today to bring someone else joy?

A happy heart begins with me, you and every man, woman, girl and boy.

Tuesday, 13 March 2012

Say positive things to yourself and to others

“It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” Matthew 15: 11, The Bible (English Standard Version)

There are many negative things that are happening in the world today.

The media presents an angle of top stories which impacts what we say.

“There’s a recession!” “There are no jobs and there is no hope!”

We walk around in fear and we question how we are going to cope.

This scripture reminds us that we should take care about what we say.

Our words have positive and negative power that can change the direction of our day.

Pause before you speak and choose to speak positive words that bring life.

It can be too easy to be negative; together we can combat fear and strife.

Monday, 12 March 2012

Through Christ, you can do anything you put your mind to!

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

Philippians 4:13, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Demands for our time and energy arrive from every direction;

and it seems that we must always being under some else’s subjection.

The mind and the body become tired and all we want to do is to sleep!

We would rather watch TV to distract us than to think about anything deep.

This scripture reminds us that we can do all things if we lean on Jesus Christ.

We can achieve our dreams – without others having to pay the price.

Think positively to yourself and say that you are more than able!

Align your thoughts and re-assess your dreams by laying them out on the table.

Sunday, 11 March 2012

How to deal with anxiety

“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.” Philippians 4:6, The Bible (Amplified Version)

Worrying about things all the time can cause anxiety and stress.

When in reality what our minds and bodies need is to experience calm and rest.

Dealing with life, relationships and work can cause us to feel weary and faint.

We try to figure out what to do; then we feel depressed because we are not a (perfect) saint.

This scripture reminds us that the way to deal with anything is to refuse to fret!

Our default response should be to pray, give thanks and every worry we should forget.

When someone tells you not to worry, it can be easier said than done.

But God has provided a way for us to release our worries to Jesus his son.

Saturday, 10 March 2012

Offload

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”

1 Peter 5:7, The Bible (New Living Translation)

The state of our minds can have an impact on our well-being.

Anxieties and worries can take over and all we feel like doing is screaming.

There is storage for everything these days, but where do our worries go?

We try to talk about them or we hide them away in our hearts for nobody else to know.

This scripture reminds us that there is a place where we can pack our worries away.

This facility has no charge and is available to us 24 hours each day.

God’s capacity is far greater than any counsellor or psychologist on earth,

Offload your cares and let him wash them away like pebbles in the sea’s surf.

Friday, 9 March 2012

Having Perfect Peace

^“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!”

Isaiah 26: 3, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Our lives demand so much that sometimes we cannot have any peace of mind.

In the midst of our busy lives, real peace can be hard to find.

We fill our minds with thoughts about so many other things.

And we forget to filter out the thoughts that make our hearts hurt and sting.

This scripture reminds us that perfect peace is available to me and you,

if we transfer our trust to God, our Heavenly Father who is faithful and true.

Trusting in God that we cannot see may at first feel odd or funny.

However God’s standard of peace cannot be bought with our credit cards or money.

Thursday, 8 March 2012

Don't Worry

“Therefore do not worry and be anxious, saying, What are we going to have to eat? or, What are we going to have to drink? or, What are we going to have to wear?

Matthew 6:31 The Bible (Amplified Version)

The cares of this world can sometimes cause all of us to worry.

Expectations and realisations can overwhelm us in a hurry.

We try to “keep up expectations” instead of understanding ways to be free.

With feelings of anxiety, we may ask, “Why is all this pressure placed on me?”

This scripture reminds us how to have a less pressurised life.

Don’t allow day to day needs to cause worry and strife.

Take one day at a time and ask God for your daily needs.

Keep things in perspective and focus on doing good deeds.

Wednesday, 7 March 2012

Think about good things

"Finally, brothers (and sisters), whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Philippians 4:8, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Daily distractions can pull us away from the time that we need.

Instead we worry and hurry and run around with speed.

With all this hurrying around, when do we make the time...

...to focus on ourselves and to have a clear mind?

This scripture reminds us to think about things that are true;

and to think on things that are excellent and lovely for you.

If we focus on good things that will give us clarity and space,

then sure enough, there will be a genuine smile on your face.

Monday, 5 March 2012

Declare that you have a "sound" (and stable) mind

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

2 Timothy 1:7, The Bible (21st Century King James Version)

These days, maintaining a clear head can be so hard;
it’s easy for us to simply disregard...

...the best ways for us to stay calm and clear

instead of running around in anxiety and fear.

This scripture suggests that God has not given us fear,

but of power and love which we should hold dear.

If you say out loud – “I have a sound mind!”

Then this promise of well-being will not be far behind.