Looking Forward in Faith

Looking Forward in Faith

by | Dec 31, 2024 | Courage, Faith, Joy, Prayer

Christmas Joy

I flipped to the first page of my 2024 notebook and read these words.

  • Pray Bold
  • Live Bold
  • Dream Bold!

Hmmm did I do that? In some ways, yes. In other ways, a definite no.

Have you been there? Start with grand plans yet seldom look back to make sure you’re accomplishing that goal or dream.

Then I read the lyrics to the song Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns, another reminder. It inspires me to have the kind of faith that steps out of the boat, stepping out of my comfort zone.

I am tempted to spend my time looking back or just looking within. I am tempted to dwell on past mistakes, missed opportunities or unmet goals. However, I need only lift my eyes to the faithfulness of God.

No other name

How do we do that? Jesus. That is the name by which we conquer. The very name of Jesus lifts us to mountain heights. It brings joy. It rescues. The name of Jesus carries power and brings salvation.

Jesus. Say it often. Claim the power it brings.

God is faithful. He can take care of our past that brought pain, disappointment or sorrow. He can turn it into a life of peace, fulfillment and joy.

Peace in His presence

I encourage you to look forward in faith. To seek His presence and find peace.

I encourage you today to step out in faith. Jesus holds his hand out to take you to the next adventure with Him.

I think I’m going to keep those same words for 2025. Their meaning remains true as much today as the beginning of 2024.

  • Pray Bold
  • Live Bold
  • Dream Bold!

A prayer of encouragement

I pray that you will, too.

I pray that in 2025, we will live intentionally. That we would love well, smile big and laugh more. I pray we will see beauty and seek God’s presence in everything. I pray we will take courage, do what we love and live our life to the full. That we would use our life and words to inspire others to experience a life of joy — a life that comes through faith in Christ. And finally, I hope and pray that we will seek adventure and experience all God has to offer in 2025.

“These things I have spoken to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full,” (John 15:11 ESV).

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Laughter is Good Medicine

Laughter is Good Medicine

by | Mar 16, 2022 | Joy

I wrote “Laugh every day” as one of my new year’s resolutions. Yep, right up there with lose 15 pounds and write an encouraging note to someone every week. Crazy to think that I need to remind myself to laugh. But with my tendency to stress and worry, it fit.

Sitting in my favorite chair with a cup of tea in hand, I researched Bible verses about laughter during my morning devotion. A quick Google search also informed me of the health benefits of laughter. What did I learn? I need to stop taking myself so seriously and laugh more.

Sometimes that’s easier said than done. After the loss of a loved one, holidays often are downright depressing. I try to stay upbeat but they can just get me down. I miss what I no longer have. I grieve for my boys because they’ve missed the influence of their dad. Seeing others enjoy holidays with ALL their family can sometimes lead to a downward spiral.

Have you been there? Are you in a season of disappointment and pain? Are you sleepless from worry? Does grief have a grip on you? Maybe you’ve lost your joy, and laughter is a rare occurrence in your life.

My late husband loved to laugh. I mean, a good belly laugh most of the time. He teased, he laughed, he smiled. He loved being with people and laughing with people. I, on the other hand, have resorted to reminding myself – in writing – to laugh.

Oh but it’s good to laugh. Research says that not only is laughter a result of comic relief, but it provides stress relief, among other health benefits. It’s good for us spiritually, emotionally and physically. While high stress levels disrupt our sleep – making us too revved up to sleep – laughter can bust up that stress and bolster us into getting a better nights’ sleep.

Proverbs 17: 22 agrees. “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” This “medicine” is free and available anywhere, anytime and to anyone.

Funny thing is, now every laugh reminds me of the promise I made to myself. And that brings joy to my soul.

What makes you smile? Write it down; keep it close to your heart.

Live. Breathe. Enjoy the day and be thankful for God-given moments to laugh and de-stress. Give it a try.  Allow yourself moments of joy and laughter.

Restore the joy in your life and renew your mind . . . And laugh.

___________________________

 

Job 8:21

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter

and your lips with shouts of joy.

 

Psalm 126:2-3

Our mouths were filled with laughter,

our tongues with songs of joy.

Then it was said among the nations,

“The Lord has done great things for them.”

The Lord has done great things for us,

and we are filled with joy.

 

Luke 6:21

Blessed are you who hunger now,

for you will be satisfied.

Blessed are you who weep now,

for you will laugh.

 

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