Well-Being from the Word: May 2012

Thursday, 31 May 2012

Heads or Tails?

“If you listen to these commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today, and if you carefully obey them, the LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always be on top and never at the bottom.” Deuteronomy 28:13, The Bible (New Living Translation Version)

There are ways to get to the top; some ways are honest while others are bad.

People will do whatever it takes to get what they want – even if it means to make others sad.

The pressures of this life means that most people want to gain some kind of success.

We want the esteem, we want to be noticed as we fault all of our excess.

This scripture reminds us that there is a way to get to the top.

God already has a strategy in place that will not waiver, hurt others or ever stop.

If we observe his guidelines about how to conduct our lives each day,

He’ll position us as the head and not as the tail - which one are you today?

Wednesday, 30 May 2012

You are a diamond in the making!

“My dear child, don't shrug off God's discipline, but don't be crushed by it either. It's the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects.” Hebrews 12:6, The Bible (The Message Version)

Going through tough times can feel as if the situation will never end.

We cry, we fight, we worry and during the process we may not care who we offend.

Opinions from all around contribute to our confusion instead of finding a way through.

We want instant relief and an instant answer, but this wish never comes true.

This scripture reminds us that when these times come, we should face them head on.

God allows us to go through a refinement process because He wants us to be strong.

The burden may feel heavy, but you won’t be crushed - just keep pressing ahead.

You are a diamond in the making or would you rather be fake stone instead?

Tuesday, 29 May 2012

How much are you worth? (It’s more than you think)

“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.” John 3:16, The Bible (The Message Version)

There are systems in this world that try to measure how much we are worth.

From hourly wages or buying certain brands to lists that state the richest people on earth.

Some of us measure our worth by titles, status or what value we bring to the table.

While others of us question if we are worth anything at all - this makes us unstable.

This scripture reminds us that God saw our worth light years ahead.

He discussed it with himself and agreed that He would give up his only son instead.

The value that is placed on each of our lives cannot be measured in silver or gold.

Your worth in God’s eyes is unlimited and founded on love that will always unfold.

Monday, 28 May 2012

Would you do anything for love?

“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and made whole.” Isaiah 53:5, The Bible (The Amplified Version)

These days the word love is used in so many different ways – whether for good or bad.

For some, we experience pleasure and joy, for others is can make us bitter and sad.

When people say that they love you, would they really do ANYTHING for you?

Deep down do you know someone that you would literally give your life for or to?

This scripture reminds us that Jesus Christ willingly stood in our place.

Yes you are right – nobody asked him to, but yet he did it so that we could have grace.

So the next time that you think that nobody cares about what you do or who you are;

remind yourself that Jesus died for you AND for love – would you go that far?

Friday, 25 May 2012

Happy Face!

“A cheerful heart brings a smile to your face; a sad heart makes it hard to get through the day.” Proverbs 15:13, The Bible (The Message Version)

It seems that when the weather is sunny, then people seem to smile much more.

When the weather turns sour by the hour, we go back to our sad faces like before.

Walking around being sad and down all the time, changes the “feel” of the places that we go.

Being sad all the time impacts others around you – much more than you realise or know.

This scripture reminds us that choosing to be cheerful brings a smile on your face.

Even if your surroundings are dark or sad, your presence can bring sunshine to any place.

We can be of good cheer, by accepting that we can only control what we do and say.

Don’t waste your time trying to change others; God will sort them out one day...

Smile and put on your happy face!

Thursday, 24 May 2012

The really important things in life

“For life is more than food, and the body [more] than clothes.” Luke 12:23, The Bible (Amplified Version)

Certain industries and people of influence may say that you have to live a certain way.

But trying to keep up with these illusions of perfection can cause stress and dismay.

Having nice things, eating well and looking great are not the only things to do.

Looking after yourself and taking one day at a time is much better for me and you.

This scripture reminds us that there is more to life than the things we possess.

It’s more than eating fancy foods and it’s more than the way that we dress.

Living a balanced life, savouring special moments and serving others with a smile;

can fill us up with more than what we need as we to continue to go the extra mile.

Wednesday, 23 May 2012

False Evidence Appearing Real

“So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” Deuteronomy 31: 6, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Sometimes the things that we do not want to do are the things that we must face.

Our egos cloud our judgement and then our excuses come to take their place.

We talk ourselves out of knowing the truth or doing something brave.

Instead we gloss it over or cover it up and keep ourselves in an emotional or mental cave.

This scripture reminds us that we should be strong, courageous and don’t be afraid.

False Evidence Appearing Real will leave us feeling insecure and betrayed.

Go ahead and bite the bullet! Go ahead and let truthful answers set you free.

God is with us in those moments when we follow our hearts and the truth we will see.

Tuesday, 22 May 2012

The Worry-Free Life

“And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried.” Luke 12:29, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Stopping yourself from worrying, can be easier said than done.

Struggling, wishing, hoping and wondering can be stressful, not fun.

Trying to work it all out and to get advice can seem like the best thing to do.

People try to help with their good intentions as an attempt to help you.

This scripture reminds us that we should not worry about day to day things.

It only brings stress, induces sickness and causes pain which stings.

God is there as the ultimate provider, so live life as stress-free as you can.

His intentions are for you to be balanced and blessed; that has always been His plan.

Monday, 21 May 2012

SECURITY CODE = J.O.Y.

“But let all those who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice; let them ever sing and shout for joy, because You make a covering over them and defend them; let those also who love Your name be joyful in You and be in high spirits.” Psalm 5:11, The Bible (Amplified Version)

It can be hard to find trustworthy protection in a world that likes to break the rules.

Sometimes innocent people get caught up in the action that is executed by fools.

It can be hard to find things to be joyful about when life can sometimes be in a rage.

Troubles and challenges are a part of life – no matter your status, background or age.

This scripture reminds us that we can be joyful knowing deep down that God is there.

In times of trouble and challenge He will defend us and the problem He will bear.

In exchange, all we can choose to do is to love Him and to live life joyfully each day.

Be joyful – you are protected! God’s security system will keep troubles at-bay!

Friday, 18 May 2012

The Oldest Gem in the World

“No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies.” Job 28:18, The Bible (King James Version)

Rubies, Diamonds and Sapphires are all precious gems that we love to keep.

But what use are they when our problems and worries stop us from getting some sleep?

It can be hard to think clearly when there are so many apparent answers around.

“Go left! Go right! Do this! No, don’t do that!” These words can continue to resound.

This scripture reminds us that the gem of wisdom and the world’s riches, cannot compare.

Having the ability to have some balanced insight makes way for clarity and better care.

All the advice in the world may not be able to help you in the instance that you need.

But with God on stand-by, He waits for you to exercise wisdom to deal with your every plead.

Thursday, 17 May 2012

God the ultimate Guru

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9, The Bible (King James Version)

Sometimes we like to think that we know it all and that our wisdom is the best.

At times our composure flies away when we experience pressure or a test.

We ask friends, family and neighbours and we read advice from glossy magazines too.

We search all over the place for answers, trying to understand what is false or true.

This scripture reminds us that God is loaded with knowledge and ways that are higher.

He is there - ready and waiting to guide us as we continue to aspire.

His wisdom and knowledge is available for us if we ask him what to do.

Not only is He the ultimate Guru, but He is a wonderful Father and Friend too.

Wednesday, 16 May 2012

God’s got it!

“And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.” Matthew 8:26, The Bible (English Standard Version)

Sometimes circumstances and situations appear and it takes a while to realise.

They can come in a blatant way or at other times they appear as a surprise.

It can be challenging to have faith when things seem to look and feel so bad.

Sometimes we wish that we didn’t have to go through stuff that can make us feel sad.

This scripture reminds us that no matter how hard it may seem God is always there.

It can be hard to see how things will turn out, but God does really care.

So the next time that your life seems to overwhelm you, remember that you are not alone.

Have faith and know that God has got it; he’ll make a way and protect you from the unknown.

Tuesday, 15 May 2012

The Storm-Stealer

“He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.” Psalm 107: 29, The Bible (King James Version)

Storms and strong waves of problems can wash-up on our shores.

We try to avoid the problems – we may drink too much or shop in too many stores...

We try to find a way to distract ourselves and we begin to worry.

We want to forget, but our problems do not disappear in a hurry.

This scripture reminds us that God can make any storm calm no matter what it may be.

He can make the problems of waves in our lives to be still so that we can clearly see.

God can steal away each of our storms so that all that is left is peace.

Through hard times, stay calm and be mindful and your storm will soon cease.

Friday, 11 May 2012

The Ultimate SAT-NAV

“Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.” Proverbs 3:5-6, The Bible (The Message Version)

Navigating through this life can be painful, hopeful and exciting.

We seek opportunities, take part in adventures and meet people who are inviting.

Sometimes going down a certain path can lead us off track.

When we pause to evaluate, we release that we have to go left, right or turn back.

This scripture reminds us that we have a navigator that we can trust.

God can direct us to and through our purpose or dreams which at times may adjust.

Don’t give yourself headaches trying to work it all out, just listen and move ahead.

God never runs out of power, stalls or bleeps, so why not trust his direction instead?

Thursday, 10 May 2012

See your vision before it arrives

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1, The Bible (King James Version)

Seeing something that you dream of achieving or doing can be hard to do.

Distractions get in the way and your faith may sway, but this doesn’t mean it can’t come true.

Forming a vision of where you want to be is important - so write it down.

One day you will be able to exchange your sacrifices for a smile instead of a frown.

This scripture reminds us that having faith is all the evidence that you need.

Your faith is the foundation for what you hope for which is very important indeed!

Your vision or dream may not be tangible now, but it will become real if you try.

Make your goals clear, mix courage and hope and get prepared to fly!

Go after your dream!

Wednesday, 9 May 2012

Don’t give up hope!

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12, The Bible, (English Standard Version)

We all have secret adventures and dreams that we want to achieve.

It’s up to us to follow them, act on them and invite others along who believe.

Fears, doubts and deferred hope cause our hearts to become sick.

We deny ourselves and we pretend that our dreams no longer make us tick.

This scripture reminds us that we should follow the hope that is in our heart.

Inside of deferring what we hope to do or achieve, our hope should not be set apart.

Fulfilling our deepest dreams brings life and allows us to enjoy life as it goes by.

Your dreams are worth much more than your fears, so why not give them a try!

Tuesday, 8 May 2012

Smile!

“Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God - soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.” Psalm 42:5, The Bible (The Message Version)

Life can bring all sorts of pressures that can cause us to cry, worry or fall.

It’s not easy to resist worrying or to follow our heart’s call.

Feeling down and wearing a frown, can seem like the norm.

We can choose to take the world onto our shoulders or we can push through the storm.

This scripture reminds us that we should not take on worries or cry the blues.

We can surrender our troubles, stress and worries to God if we choose.

To forget our worries, we can choose to praise and fill ourselves with joy.

Put a smile on your face, surround yourself with good company and simply enjoy!

Monday, 7 May 2012

Having Hope Helps!

“So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD!” Psalm 31:24, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Being strong and courageous to do something new takes guts and vision.

Not everyone will agree with where you want to go or to agree with your decision.

Sometimes stepping outside of your comfort zone is what it takes to win.

If you do not decide to do something, then throw your dreams in the bin.

This scripture reminds us that depositing hope in God gives us strength.

Depending on him when times get tough can extend our dreams and give them length.

Hope placed in God’s ability means that by the end, special things will be achieved.

Executing dreams, begin with hope and because in our dreams we believed!

Friday, 4 May 2012

Dream BIG!

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”Jeremiah 29:11, The Bible (New Living Translation)

Many of our hopes and dreams get washed out with the rain.

We try to get them back but sometimes we lose them again.

People of influence in our lives can either support us or use fear to shut dreams down.

Deep inside we wish that we could follow our heart and wear a smile instead of a frown.

This scripture reminds us that God has BIG plans for you and for I.

If his plans were the height of the heavens, then they would be that high.

If we believe God, then we should dream BIG and expect good things and more.

Smile! You have a hope and a future and BIG blessings in store.

Thursday, 3 May 2012

Peace Rules Here!

“And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” Colossians 3:15, The Bible (New Living Translation)

There are so many influences and things that can dominate us all;

sometimes it’s a certain political angle or people who can cause us to rise or fall.

We allow things to rule our hearts, sometimes without thinking it through.

Then worry may move in and take over as we battle between what is false or true.

This scripture reminds us that we should allow peace to move in and stay.

Having the peace that Christ offers can carry and lead us each day.

As we choose to be mindful of others, we should be thankful as we live our lives too.

Today let our actions prove that “peace rules here” and that peace shines through you.

Wednesday, 2 May 2012

God’s reward system

“If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.”Job 36:11, The Bible (King James Version)

Creating pleasures and prosperities can be gained if we plan and work hard.

Sometimes we get rewarded too – a nice surprise can catch us off guard!

Most companies also have a system where our loyalties can build a record or track.

From time to time, they send us “special offers” to give us something back.

This scripture reminds us that God will fill our days with prosperity and pleasure.

His reward system is like no other – the highest form of any treasure.

If we choose to obey his guidelines and to serve him – our lives will change.

Living a life of blessing will be a lifestyle and it will feel good, not strange.

Thanks God for your reward system.