Let's De-Stress

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-24T15:00:00.005-06:00

ACTIONS OR EMOTIONS

2011-12-04T22:00:00.007-06:00

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus . . . "
Colossians 3:17

HERE WE ARE AGAIN. Another Christmas season, and, of course, another stressful season.

Let's be practical. Is it our actions or our emotions that cause the most stress during the Christmas season?

Yes, we tend to devote increased energies at home, work, and with various organizations for Christmas festivities. For the most part, these actions excite us and create only minimal stress.

On the other hand, we spend extensive and unnecessary energies dealing with our emotions. Stressing over people, places, and things that are frivolous and far-fetched goes against the de-stressing grain.

Unreasonable expectations have a way of producing stress in a matter of minutes. Once we allow our giving-and-receiving to become overly materialistic, before we realize it, stresses are on the rise.

Stress-survivors have discovered something--not necessarily new--that's quite effective in combating holiday stress.

Celebrating with these words from COLOSSIANS 3:17. . . "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus . . . " not only makes our Christmases brighter, but also makes our stresses lighter.

This Christmas, whether it's our actions or emotions, let's be mindful to "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" as we embrace our holiday preparations and celebrations. Let's reduce seasonal stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

DISCIPLINE

2011-11-13T18:00:00.006-06:00

"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid,
but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
2 Timothy 1:7, NIV

Discipline? . . . In these times? With these stresses?

Like most public perception, stress-survivors feel that discipline can be difficult--quite difficult. Yet, a continuous cycle of whatever-will-be-will-be, leads to continuous stress.

Because discipline contributes to various aspects of less-stressful lifestyles, it's imperative that we make every effort to execute it.

One essential fact in dealing with discipline is that DISCIPLINE IS AN EVERYDAY THING. We can't expect to up and usher in discipline only during durations of stress.

Stress-survivors realize the more we perform discipline, the more perfected we become; thereby reducing lots and lots of stress.

Without discipline, we're apt to invite unnecessary stresses that possibly could be avoided. More often than not, we're caught in the middle of, or millimeters away from, full-blown stresses; all because of lack of discipline.

Stress-survivors are learning to implement definite courtesies to avoid stress caused from chaos and confusion. We realize the magnitude of premeditated actions and reactions, and accelerated disciplines.

We stress-survivors have no doubt that "Discipline" can make a tremendous difference in the way we handle stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

A DISCERNING SPIRIT

2011-11-06T15:00:00.018-06:00

NOTE: Please pardon our absence for the past few weeks. Circumstances summoned elsewhere.

Quite often, stress-survivors share a most unique testimony: The more we experience life, the more unbelievable it becomes.

Things we wouldn't have ever imagined . . . people we wouldn't have ever suspected . . . troubles we wouldn't have touched with a ten-foot pole, have somehow bewitched our lives and sent us straight into a stressful mode.

While stresses of any kind are rarely welcomed, there's no stress more damaging than those unexpected ones. These are the ones that stress the heart, mind, and soul.

Searching ourselves--and all else--with a great many why-comes and why-me, stress-survivors unanimously agree that it's wise to develop a discerning spirit.

A discerning, or wise, spirit can largely affect the direction, the degree, and the damage of most stresses.

Harboring a discerning spirit, stress-survivors learn to sidestep senseless stress and to carefully consider the stresses that unexpectedly bombard our lives.

If there's ever a time when stress-survivors desperately need discernment, the time is NOW.

Please, be encouraged: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." ~ James 1:5

Peace I leave with you . . .

MEMORIES

2011-09-25T12:00:00.024-05:00

"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report;if there be any virture, and if there be any praise, think on these things." ~Philippians 4:8, KJV

Yep . . . we've all got "Memories." Pleasant ones. Unpleasant ones.

As much as we love revisiting pleasant memories, it's amazing how unpleasant ones can affect us. Unpleasant memories conjure more stresses than we would image.

What, for the sake of stress, do we do with hurtful and heartbreaking memories that keep us irritated, sad, and depressed?

A while back, we were advised to write our woeful memories on paper, tie the paper with string and attach it to balloons, letting those balloons carry all our stressful memories away.

Stress-survivors nowadays feel the need to banish our bad memories in a more effective way. What we reccommend to end the concentration of bad memories is to crowd them out--by creating new ones. Good ones.

In our quest to eliminate stress, we must be willing to constantly separate the good from the bad. That's why it's important to treasure sweet memories and toss away stressful ones.

Not sure how to end stressful memories and make sweet ones all over again?

For starters, we begin by thinking good thoughts; doing good deeds; sharing good company; and of course, trusting the goodness of God.

When stress-survivors have contributed all we're capable of, we relinquish our stand and rely on God for renewed and right relationships--bigger and better opportunities--liberal and lasting peace--and an abundance of precious memories.

Peace I leave with you . . .

REMEMBERING

2011-09-11T12:38:00.012-05:00

REMEMBERING

THE LIVES

LOST LOVED ONES.

SEPTEMBER 11

FOR WHATEVER REASON

2011-08-28T17:00:00.007-05:00

"The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: . . ."
Deuteronomy 29:29a

Things happen for a reason.

Yes, stress-survivors agree that there are no coincidences.

Whether we are aware of definite reasons or not, we believe reasons exist for everything that happens.

As much as stress-survivors hold firm to this belief, when unfortunate circumstances come our way, it is still stressful.

Because we desire to handle stress constructively--without falling apart at the onset of every incident--we approach whatever betides us with as much faith and fortitude as we can muster.

Sure, things do happen. . . things we like . . . things we don't like. But for whatever reason these things do or do not happen, stress-survivors believe there's always a contributing cause.

As for why things happen when, where, and how they do, we don't dare claim to know how to fit pieces to stressful puzzles. That's why we delight in knowing that the secret things belong to God, for He knows all.

However clueless or uncomfortable our lack of reasons may be, and with whatever stresses may arise, stress-survivors continue trusting in God for guidance, protection, answers, inspiration, and HIS PEACE that surpasses all our understanding.

Peace I leave with you . . .

LEGACY OF LOVE

2011-08-21T17:00:00.020-05:00

". . . With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

Matthew 19:26

In her recent bestseller, fiction novelist, Adriana Trigiani, wrote: "I have not had the true love I had hoped for in my life, and now, I wonder if it is even possible."

It is no surprise the majority of stress-survivors have entertained similar words--or thoughts. Sad to say, rocky relationships is as close as many of us have come to sharing true love.

Our legacy of love--or lack thereof--can contribute to the greatest degree of stress in the history of stresses.

Thinking our love life would fall in line with our most intimate and deepest dreams, but instead, struggling to keep dying "infatuations" alive, stress-survivors encounter major disappointments and pain.

There are some who insist the legacy of love is overrated, and deduce their lives to the irony that "Love is a Luxury few of us can afford."

Although few stress-survivors can claim never having stressed over love, we cling to the belief that love--true love--is a gift from God.

Because stress-survivors believe that Love's Legacy originates with God, we remain confident that, of ourselves, true love may seem impossible, but with God a legacy of love is indeed possible.

Peace I leave with you . . .

GREAT CHAMPIONS

2011-08-14T17:04:00.001-05:00

* After our last Let's De-Stress Newsletter, a fellow stress-survivor shared this concern: "You always speak to my heart, however, what happens when every move I make FORWARD, looking back keeps hitting me in the FACE?" . . . ~Puzzled M.

This Newsletter is a follow-up to that concern.

"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize?

So run, that ye may obtain." ~ 1 Corinthians 9:24

TO BE SURE, moving forward--in spite of past obstacles--requires tremendous strength and courage.

For the sake of familiarity, let's consider the game of football--particularly unforgettable champions. In the world of football, champions are esteemed for their ability to persevere to the goal line--to make that grand touchdown.

Strangely enough, football champions and stress-survivors have a lot in common--both must be fearless and forthright.

With every offense they face, great champions continue to maneuver their way. When tackled by hard-hitting and body-slamming blows, champions strategically weave in . . . out . . . and all around to find a victorious path.

However clever the offense becomes, great champions are determined to beat the obstacles. If they err, they keep on running; If they fall down, they get back up--and keep on running. Whatever action that puts them closer to that goal, they do it.

But here's the thing: Great champions prepare to be the best at their game. They think positively. . . Strategize profoundly. . . . proceed professionally . . . And practice, practice, practice. Even when unsure of how a particular play will result, all-around winners charge ahead anyhow. They continuously play to win.

As stress-survivors, we are not always certain of each solution as we move forward in the game of life, but with die-hard determination, we continue running toward our goal.

Like that of great football champions, stress-survivors strength, confidence, and sheer determination insures success upon success, and inspires us to win the war against stress. Touchdown!

Peace I leave with you . . .

P.S. Please feel free to keep those comments/questions coming.

LOOKING BACK

2011-08-07T17:00:00.014-05:00

"But his (Lot's) wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt."
~Genesis 19:26 ~ (Italics mine)

Question . . .
What would we do differently if we had the chance to do it over again?

Could--or would--we orchestrate our affairs less stressful the second time around?

Maybe. Maybe not. Point is, looking back at misfortunes and mistakes has proven to be quite stressful. What we left behind--voluntarily or involuntarily--can affect us in all sorts of negative ways.

Stress-survivors have faced many adversities back there. We know what it's like to be mistreated; to be misunderstood; to spend sleepless nights on pillows wet with tears. Oh, yes, we've partaken of the past.

But despite our heartaches, worries, and regrets, what's done is done. And all the looking back in the world won't erase that.

If we insist on looking back and brooding over what has or has not happened, we, like Lot's wife, can be faced with dire consequences--definite stresses.

Which is why stress-survivors contend that the time woefully devoted to looking back could be wisely dedicated to looking forward; finding ways to reinvent, restore, and reduce a whole lot of stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

WHICH WAY IS UP?

2011-07-24T19:00:00.024-05:00

"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths." ~ Psalm 25:4

Remember Richard Pryor in the movie, Which Way Is Up?

On his "way up," Pryor's lifestyle clearly revealed how conniving, cheating, and disregard for others, created confusion and stress. ... Not only for himself--but for all involved.

Seeking our way up can be exhausting and stressful . . . especially if we're not seeking the right way. When we seek in wrong places or with wrong people or wrong principles, we open ourselves to numerous stresses.

At one time or another, stress-survivors have questioned "Which way is up?" Regardless of which side of the fence we've roamed--victim or villain--we've witnessed the outcome of erroneous actions.

Countless experiences have convinced us that the way up does not call for taintedness, but instead requires honesty, decency, and respect.

As evident with actor Pryor, unscrupulous behavior may boost egos and may even satisfy for a spell, but it ultimately fails to render a successful way up.

In our quest to be better individuals and to acquire better health, wealth and happiness--believing that God's way is the number one "way up"--stress-survivors seek directions from Him.

Peace I leave with you . . .

BOUNCING BACK

2011-07-17T18:00:00.008-05:00

"Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;"

2 Corinthians 4:9

Ever noticed how perils and persecution complicate things?

Amazing, huh?

The interruption of things we've known and grown accustomed to doing--or having--or being--can obviously create stress.

Sure, stress-survivors have to contend with this, too. But we're determined to not be disillusioned or destroyed by the likes of stress. We are resolved to "bouncing back" . . . again and again.

Although the concept of Bouncing Back is not a new one, it's nonetheless challenging. . .and, in many instances, quite stressful. Truth is, it requires a great deal of faith, as well as fearlessness.

As most survivors have discovered, We never know what we can do, until we try.

When cast down and bounced all around, we don't have to quiver and quit. Stress-survivors choose to persevere by embracing our God-given ability for BOUNCING BACK.

Peace I leave with you . . .

REMAIN SILENT

2011-06-26T13:30:00.018-05:00

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
. . . a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;"
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7b

You have the right to remain silent; anything you say can be used against you . . .

So says the law.

Just as these words are serious warnings to criminals concerning unlawful behavior, they equally apply to stress and stressful behavior.

Whether currently in a stressful situation or not, surely we've all witnessed how battling back and forth--in whatever form or fashion--can lead to mega stresses.

Though it's not always easy, stress survivors see the difference that remaining silent can make. When we anticipate chaos and confusion with family, friends, or foes, it is our inalienable right to remain silent.

Often, peace prevails in the midst of silence. As stress-survivors, we understand why more and more of us seek our own peaceful sanctuay. And because we're so diligent in pursuing peace, we'd do well to exercise our rights.

Not only do we have the right to remain silent, but even more impressive we have the right to avoid stress by whatever means necessary.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

2011-06-19T01:00:00.008-05:00

A Single Red Rose

Adorned with black and gray,

Dedicated to all Fathers

Wishing them HAPPY FATHER'S DAY.

HAPPY EASTER!

2011-04-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

FALLING

2011-04-10T20:00:00.006-05:00

"In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." ~ John16:33 ~

Oh my . . . Oh no . . . They fell!

Long time ago, Jack and Jill had a great fall. And the story of those two stopped there.

Last week, Dancing With The Stars contestants, Kirstie Alley and her partner Maksim, had just begun their dance routine when they fell to the floor.

But they didn't stop there. The couple quickly regained their poise and displayed an unforgettable example of falling and gracefully getting back up.

If anyone can identity with the stress of falling, stress-survivors can.

Oh, yes, we do fall. Sometimes hard. Most times unexpectedly. And each unfortunate incident brings about mega-anxiety and stress.

Falling, time after time, has taught stress-survivors to focus not so much on the fall, but much more so on what we to do after the fall.

When stress-survivors fall down, we get up . . . and look up . . . and pray up.

Make no mistake, overcoming can be challenging; but with God's grace, we can overcome every obstacle and every fall; then move on and live life to the fullest.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY ENDINGS

2011-04-03T19:27:00.010-05:00

According to the advice of our elders, "All is well that ends well."

Many experts insist "There's a rainbow at the end of the storm."

In other words, we can count on happy endings. Except . . . ...

"ALL" doesn't always end well; and rainbows sometimes never appear.

No doubt, each not-ending-well experience involves frustration and stress. ...

Many stress-survivors have resolved to personal pursuits for happy endings.We seek to create rainbows of our own and to color our lives bright and beautiful by doing something we love.

For all the stressful things that life demand we do--whether we want to or not--to have a special something that we love is a welcomed relief for stress.

A friend of a friend once shared that he spent every day, doing something he loved. He swore that that was the key to his peace and happiness. ... .

Think about it. Are we doing something we love EVERY DAY to enhance our Happiness? .... .... .

Peace I leave with you . . .

PROVING A POINT

2011-03-27T15:30:00.016-05:00

"For whatosever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." ~ 1 John 5:4 ~

Thinking along the lines as the rest of the world, we often encounter issues where we feel it necessary to prove a point.

It is absolutely unbelievable the things some of us will do while trying to prove points, or justify actions.

Although people can definitely provoke us at times, stress-survivors cannot expect to behave in worldly ways and not end up in a world of trouble.

When we fail to consider what's really involved in proving our point and all the energies and emotions attached, we overlook the obvious initiation of stress.

Setting the stage for point-proving creates an atmosphere for stress. No matter how insignificant our proof may seem, there's always a risk for stress.

The best way that we stress-suvivors have dealt with the burden of proof is "Let Go and Let God." No fretting...No fussing...No stressing. Just faith in God.

Stress-survivors believe all that needs to be known can, and will, be manifested by God. It is with this faith that we keep still and allow God to reveal all things.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THE POWER OF LOVE

2011-02-13T17:30:00.000-06:00

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking,

it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts,

always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

PEACE

2011-02-06T17:53:00.012-06:00

The Lord bless you, and keep you;

The Lord make His face shine on you,

and be gracious to you;

The Lord lift up His countenance on you,

and give you peace.

Numbers 6:24-26

WALK BY FAITH

2011-01-30T21:45:00.018-06:00

"For we walk by faith, not by sight."
II Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)

WHO IS willing to walk by faith?
WHAT IS it like to walk by faith?
WHEN IS it time to walk by faith?
WHERE IS it the right place to walk by faith?
WHY IS it that stress-survivors walk by faith?

After we've tried repeatedly to walk away from stress and discovered that whatever direction we turn, we're confronted with stress, we eventually come to the conclusion that we cannot continue to walk stressful paths.

Therefore, stress-survivors have decided to walk by faith.

Walking by faith is doing what God says do, when He says do it, and how He says do it. This we do, not selectively for certain situations, but in all things and at all times.

Sure, there are instances when it seems like our faith walk is not effective and that we continue stepping in the same old ruts. But let's not be discouraged by the way things may seem.

We'd do well to remember the old adage "Looks can be deceiving." They really can--especially when walking by faith. Just because we see--or don't see--something this minute doesn't mean we will or won't see it the next minute.

And it "ain't" Abracadabra!

When we trust in the Lord with our whole heart and lean not to our own understanding, we take issues from our feeble hands (the natural) and place them in God's powerful hands (the supernatural).

Knowing that God sees, hears, and understands everything in this world, we leave our stresses to Him. In the meantime, we keep trusting . . . keep believing . . . and keep walking by faith.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE

2011-01-23T19:00:00.014-06:00

". . . a catastrophe you cannot foresee will suddenly come upon you."
Isaiah 47:11b, NKJV

Ask any stress-surviors and we will testify how quickly things can change.

No doubt, we've all had experiences when everything was going so good, and without the slightest warning--in the twinkling of an eye--things changed.
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Sound familiar?
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It might be personal or professional, and even sometimes spiritual, but catastrophes can come upon us so quickly, that we're more than "knocked off our feet," we're left out on a limb, wondering what to do.
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Now here's the big question: Is there a way to make ourselves immune to the stresses that so suddenly attack us?

Hardly. . . But there is hope. Stress-survivors have learned how to look for hope in whatever, or whoever, upsets us.

What we recommend to endure times of sudden stresses is to keep our eyes stayed on the Lord. We offer God's promise in Isaiah 26:3, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee:"

Stress-survivors cling to that promise like birds clinging to a single life-saving branch. We've tried it and we know it's true.

But don't take our word, try God yourselves and see won't He, in the twinkling of an eye, do just what He said.

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Peace I leave with you . . .

WAIT ON THE LORD

2011-01-16T15:00:00.006-06:00

Have you not known?

Have you not heard?

The everlasting God, the Lord,

The Creator of the ends of the earth,

Neither faints nor is weary.

His understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the weak,

And to those who have no might

He increases strength.

Even the youths shall faint and be weary,

And the young men shall utterly fall,

But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;

They shall mount upwith wings like eagles,

They shall run and not be weary,

They shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:28-31 (NKJV)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2010-12-31T20:27:00.006-06:00

WISHING YOU

GOD'S BEST BLESSINGS

FOR A HOLY AND A HAPPY

NEW YEAR.

SOMETHING NEW

2010-12-26T14:00:00.033-06:00

"Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed,

Because His compassions fail not.

They are new every morning;"

~ Lamentations 3:22-23

ONE of the most talked-about things during Christmas is our "New" stuff. People love to show and tell of their gifts received at Christmas.

While the majority of us are bubbling with joy over all sorts of gifts, there are those who're burdened with sadness and stresses because they didn't receive something "new."

Many feel embarrassed, unfortunate, and even unloved, when they see the excitement of those whose families and friends have showered them with all sorts of tangible things.

Feeling left-out and alone can cause accelerated stress and strain.
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It matters not how old or experienced we've grown, or how often we've dealt with the absence of other's affections. If we have not accepted the gift of God's great love, we'll stress-out every time.

Stress-survivors delight in the realization that God gives us good and perfect gifts every single day--not only on Christmas day, but all the days before and after.

Scripture teaches us that the Lord's mercies never cease coming to us; they are "NEW" every day.

We can rejoice and be happy, any and every day, because God's great mercies provide us with "SOMETHING NEW" to show-and-tell to all the world.

Peace I leave with you . . .

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-24T15:30:00.003-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

FROM

LET'S DE-STRESS!

WAITING

2010-12-12T13:00:00.004-06:00

"Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart. . ."

Psalm 27:14

WAITING? NOW THERE'S AN UNPOPULAR WORD.

Nevertheless, it characterizes our Christmases. Quite often around Christmastime, there are things we want so badly that we believe we just can't wait for them.

Remember the anticipation of waiting for Christmas day?

Whether waiting for Christmas day, waiting for payday, waiting for healing, waiting for restoration, waiting for true love, or even waiting for tomorrow, when impatience builds up within us, it automatically increases our stress.

What is it about waiting that causes us so much stress? Why is it so hard for us to settle our minds and emotions and patiently wait?

While waiting, in any form--at any time--is unwelcomed and uncomfortable, it's a part of life. And after a few times around the block and back, no one has to tell us the negative affects from impatient waiting.

Stress-survivors unanimously agree that patience is a virtue; and this virtue is not easily or comfortably achieved. Matter of fact, one of the hardest lessons to be learned on the road to becoming a successful survivor is learning how to wait.

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As with all things Good and Perfect, the art of learning to wait is wrapped-up in the Word of God.

Greater than any gift from anyone's tree, God's word gives us power and courage to stand--and withstand--all things, at all times, in all places.

Peace I leave with you . . .

TIS' THE SEASON

2010-12-05T17:00:00.008-06:00

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. . . " ~ Colossians 3:17

TIS' THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY! AND STRESSED!

Well, now, is it our actions or our desires that stress us most during the Christmas season?

Yes, we tend to devote increased physical energies at home, at work, and with various organizations on Christmas festivities. For the most part, this excites us and creates only minimal stress.

On the other hand, we spend extensive and unnecessary energies on our emotions. Wishing, hoping, and stressing over people, places, and things, that are far-fetched and frivolous, goes against our de-stressing grain.

Unreasonable expectations have a way of producing stress in a matter of minutes. Once we allow giving-and-receiving to become gravely materialistic, before we realize it, our stresses are on the rise.

Stress-survivors have discovered something--and it's not necessarily a secret--that's highly effective in combating holiday stress.

Celebrating with the words from COLOSSIANS 3:17, "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. . . " not only makes our Christmases brighter, but also makes our stresses lighter.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THAT CHRISTMAS FEELING

2010-11-28T01:00:00.001-06:00

"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee . . . "

ISAIAH 26:3

IT'S IN THE AIR . . . HERE . . . THERE . . . AND EVERYWHERE! . . . . That Christmas Feeling.

Every year this time, we (meaning most of us) find ourselves experiencing a most exhilarating feeling.

We're planning and preparing and shopping and sharing good times, good foods, good music, good movies, and God knows what else. Laughing and loving abounds.

And up, pops stress.

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HOW do we enjoy this special time of year without being bombarded with stresses? WHAT can we do to cut out senseless tension, and to cut down on absolutely unavoidable strain?

Stress-survivors believe, in either case, that Jesus makes the difference—THE BIG DIFFERENCE. Whether we voluntarily acknowledge Him or not, the presence of the Lord spreads an undeniable feeling of peace and goodwill.
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When we spend time with the Lord daily and seek His will, we attain a most gratifying peace. Now, this awesome feeling that Jesus provides, at Christmas or any other time, requires great commitment from us.

Stress-survivors will be the first to testify that in the same manner we yield ourselves to mega Christmas cheer, we must be willing, likewise, to surrender our hearts and minds to the essence of Jesus Christ.
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As we do that, we will be surprised at how tension and stress seem to ease away, and how love, joy, and peace compliment our lives; giving "that Christmas feeling" all through the year.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2010-11-25T01:00:00.008-06:00

O Give thanks unto the LORD,

for He is good:

for His mercy endureth for ever.

Psalm 107:1

...

THE VERY BEST

2010-11-21T14:30:00.044-06:00

"O taste and see that the Lord is good:

blessed is the man that trusteth in Him."

Psalm 34:8

IT'S TRUE . . . Most of us want the best of everything. Whatever season or situation, we want the very best.

We want the best houses, the best cars, the best clothes, the best jobs, the best families, the best friends, the best foods, and even the best health.

Be not deceived when it comes to matters of the heart, not just do we want the best, We absolutely need the best. And just as there are things money can't buy, surely, there are things man cannot supply.

For all the issues that aggravate the stress-survivors' heart and mind, we need the best de-stress we can find. No doubt, God is the best heart-fixer and mind-regulator during stressful times.

Whatever betides us--be it little stresses, big stresses, or those straggling in between--God is the best stress-reliever we can expect to discover.

Realizing that matters of the heart include the spiritual and delude the physical, stress-survivors are careful to seek The Grandest De-stressor of them all.

When we're discouraged . . . distressed . . . depressed . . . or needing a super-spiritual fix, in the words of the late gospel recording artist, Frank Williams, "If Jesus Can't Fix it, Nobody Can."

PEACE I LEAVE WITH YOU . . .

MIND RENEWAL

2010-11-14T14:01:00.021-06:00

EVER CONSIDERED how significant affiliations require renewals?

Sure enough, personal and professional memberships, licenses, registrations, enrollments, and several others are renewed at regular intervals. Things like time, energy, actions and appetites are renewed or restarted each day.

Many areas of our lives are bound by renewals. And by "bound" we indeed understand that it is mandatory, regardless of personal or popular opinion.

Wouldn't it seem so that if the vital issues surrounding us call for regular renewal, that our minds would definitely require the same? Because our minds contribute significantly to our total being, it seems only natural that we seek mind renewal.

As stress-survivors, we sooner or later discover that renewing the mind has a profound affect on reducing stress. It may sound elementary but as we renew our mind, we refresh our thinking--which, in most cases, creates new possibilities and solutions to de-stress.

When we transform our negative attitudes and actions into positive and productive ones, BY CONSISTENTLY RENEWING OUR MIND, we experience that which the Bible describes as "Peace that passes all understanding."

Peace I leave with you . . .

ALL THINGS

2010-10-17T01:00:00.006-05:00

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
~ Philippians 4:13 ~

How many times have we uttered the words of this Scripture?

No doubt, when considering this verse, we've noticed that the words sound real "Christian" and cute.

How many times--when greatly stressed or depressed--have we had to honestly embrace and believe these words because they were all we had to cling to?

There comes a time in each stress-survivors' life when we're afforded an opportunity to put what we profess into action. We've learned that surviving stress never depends on what "I can do." Our de-stress success is definitely "through Christ."

Surely we can recall times when faced with impossible situations, and had it not been for the strength from Christ, we never could, or would, have made it.

As stress-survivors, we confess that Philippians 4:13 is not just some sweet-sounding words. And it's not just some Scripture we've heard or read. We've walked in the reality of these words, and we know every word is true.

There are so many, many things that we, of ourselves, cannot do. But Christ strengthens us to do ALL THINGS . . . in ways we could have never imagined.

Peace I leave with you . . .

DESIRES

2010-10-10T01:00:00.002-05:00

Delight yourself in the Lord;

and He will give you

the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord;

trust in Him;

and He will do this.

Psalm 37:4-5 (NIV)

MAGNIFICENT OBSESSION

2010-09-26T01:00:00.008-05:00

I am the vine, ye are the branches.

He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit;

for without me ye can do nothing.

~ John 15:5, KJV ~

"Magnificent" to stress-survivors may be altogether different than to others.

.
What impresses us as extraordinary and exceptional may not even faze some folk--especially if they've never been stranded on a stressful path.

In the 1954 classic, "Magnificent Obsession," party-hardy, Bob Merrick, is to blame for Joyce Hudson husband's death; and then for her tragic blindness.

As stressful as his situation started out, there was sweet peace in the end. In spite of Bob Merrick's many reckless choices, he surprisingly turned his life around.

After he met a man who shared a powerful testimony about "connecting to the power source ," it became a "Magnificent Obsession" to Merrick to do--and to be--everything possible to to achieve this connection.

As stress survivors, once we have stressed until we literally feel ill, we come to a point where we're willing to surrender to a power much greater than ourselves. And we too determine to do whatever it takes to obtain this power.

JESUS reminds us (John 15:5) that HE is our Power Source. And it matters not who we are, what we've done, or where we've come from, we--like the determined Bob Merrick--must develop a Magnificent Obsession with Jesus and seek His Ultimate Power Source.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THE BIG PICTURE

2010-09-18T20:00:00.000-05:00

" Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,

and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;"

2 Corinthians 10:5 (KJV)

ALL PICTURES are not created equally . . . and some people wonder why?

There are times when stress-survivors wonder why certain people prosper and others don't--Why some will accomplish big dreams and others won't.

There are times when some stand on the side-lines of life and watch, while others parade by with banners of success. Why have some captured "The Big Picture" and others have not?

When in the midst of these thoughts, first, we must examine ourselves. We must determine if our lives are disciplined by God's Word, or if undisciplined lives are adding to our stresses.

When we allow every little doubt and disappointment to cause us stress, we forfeit a part of our big picture. Envy, jealousy and gossip are all apart of the small picture. And as long as we focus on small stuff, we can't entertain anything bigger.

We can stress out 'til Dooms Day, but if we don't take our thoughts captive to the Word of God, we limit ourselves to less-than "The Big Picture."

Indeed this takes practice and prayer, and it may not always appear to benefit us, but every thought and deed we align to the obedience of Christ puts us closer to our "BIG PICTURE."

Peace I leave with you . . .

A NEW SEASON

2010-09-12T01:00:00.000-05:00

TO EVERY THING

there is a season,

and a time to every purpose

under the heaven:

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Praise God For A New Season!

THE WINNERS' CIRCLE

2010-09-05T01:00:00.007-05:00

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;

and all these things shall be added unto you."

~ Matthew 6:33 ~

Almost everyone, everywhere, loves being a winner--stress-survivors included.

.
As children, back in the 50's and 60's, we had something we called a winner's sucker. These suckers were favorites among us kids because, as the name implies, they were winners. Sometimes.

When we bought a sucker, unwrapped it, and pulled out a little white strip of paper that had "Winner" written on it, we'd win a free sucker.

We spent nickel after nickel, trying to be a winner. And when we didn't win--even back then--we'd become aggravated and upset.

Since then we've moved on and matured, of course, we're still holding on to that winners' mentality.

Who among us does not stress over winning? Winning affection in private; winning praise in public; winning recognition on the job; even winning consumer "rewards."

.
Fortunately, we've been exposed to a much bigger and better winners' circle. In this particular winners' circle there's no stressing over whether or not we're going to win. WE ARE GUARANTEED TO WIN.

GOD guarantees when we seek HIS WORD and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, "ALL" things will be added unto us (See Matthew 6:33).

Please understand, with this win, as with our winners' suckers, there's a part for us to play. We must seek God's way--first. We must conform to His will in doing and being right. Then, for certain, we'll be in THE WINNERS' CIRCLE.

Peace I leave with you . . .

WRESTLING WITH THE ENEMY

2010-08-29T01:00:00.002-05:00

"For we wrestle not

against flesh and blood,

but against principalities,

against powers,

against the rulers

of the darkness

of this world,

against

spiritual wickedness

in high places."

~ Ephesians 6:12 ~

.......

Wrestling has been a part of our lives for a long, long time. From childhood to adults, we've been exposed to the ways of wrestling.

Whether mentally or physically, most stress-survivors are indeed familiar when it comes to "wrestling with the enemy."

Even when we carefully steer clear of drama and discord, we can still get caught in silly situations that lead to stress. In many instances, before we even realize what's happening, we're smack-dab-in-the-middle of a wrestling match.

Many of us admit to wrestling in physical altercations with others; tossing and turning night after night with emotional issues; and, surely, battling in our own mind.

When wrestling with the enemy in whatever form or fashion, stress-survivors must realize that our wrestling is in vain. And that it's time to stop it. How?

First, we do as James 4:7 suggests: We submit ourselves to God. This is so essential, because it is God's supernatural power that causes our wrestling to cease.

Secondly, also according to James: We resist the devil, and he will flee. Yes, we turn away from the enemy. Instead of wrestling--and stressing--with our enemies, we pray them away.

BUT, to ensure victory, we must take up permanent residence with God. For God has ALL power to defeat ALL our enemies.

Peace I leave with you . . .

AFTER AWHILE

2010-08-22T01:00:00.000-05:00

"Trusting in the Lord," they say, "will pay off after awhile."

And we Christians say we agree.

But what happens when "after awhile" lingers on and on--for days? And weeks? And months? And even years?

What happens when we've "Kept a good spirit" and "Prayed both night and day" and "Cried our pillows wet with tears" and "Tied a knot in the end of our rope and held on" . . . yet, we're stressing, waiting on "after awhile?"

Few can identify with such situations, as stress-survivors can. Whether we've been there--done that or dealing with despair right now, we know the terrible stresses that results when the Lord doesn't come through when we want Him to.

Caught up in a web of endless stress, we tend to think all sorts of things. And as most stress-survivors can testify, our feeble minds don't amount to much when our lives are topsy-turvy with stress.

Once we've tortured our brain over and over again, we realize that we can't come up with a doable solution. So what do we do?

We must learn how to keep trusting in the Lord . . . Anyhow.

If we intend to wade through the deep waters of disappointment and despair--and not drown, WE MUST KEEP TRUSTING IN THE LORD.

Peace I leave with you . . .

SPINNING OUR WHEELS

2010-08-15T01:00:00.020-05:00

"God is my strength and power: and He maketh my way perfect.

2 Samuel 22:33 KJV

At the present time, would we say that our lives are, "Just Great," "A Little Shaky," "Headed Down Hill," or "Completely out of Control?"

We all can agree that we are prone to agitation, when our lives take an unexpected turn and veer from the path of peace and productivity.

More often than not, stress characterizes our lives as we witness things around us spiral out of control. Whether it's a personal or professional matter, when we're burdened by negative and nonsense situations--we stress.

Regardless of what we attempt to do or how diligently we to do it, we seem to be defeated. Absolutely powerless. Eventually, we believe that we're just going around and around in circles, spinning our wheels and never getting anywhere.

In her extraordinary book, "Commanding Your Morning," Cindy Trimm shares, "You must realize that the Word of God has the power to realign anything that is misaligned, especially faulty mind-sets, belief systems, ideologies, traditions, and doctrines of deception that lie and exalt themselves above the will of God for your life."

Until we embrace the essence of what Cindy shares, we won't witness lasting change.

Until we align our hearts and minds with the Word of God, we can't receive the power we need to stop spinning the wheels that govern our stressful lives.

Peace I leave with you . . .

IMITATION OF LIFE

2010-08-08T00:00:00.026-05:00

". . . I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it

more abundantly."

John 10:10 KJV

In Tyler Perry's hit movie, "The Family That Preys," to her best friend Alice Evans, filthy-rich Charlotte Cartwright poses a sassy--but serious--question: "Are you living or just existing?"

Do we dare ask ourselves this kind of question? Stress-survivors, more so than any other class of people, are often guilty of routinely "existing."

Because we become so boggled in stress and anxiety and drama, we tend to forget that life can be peaceful . . . That life does possess rich rewards.

Let's think for a moment: Why do so many of us resign to stressful and meaningless lifestyles? Does it make any sense to continually struggle and stress with less-than God's best?

Struggling and striving for whatever the reason may be, undoubtedly, elevates our stress.

Jesus reminds us that real life--abundant life--comes from Him. It is His presence in our lives that makes the difference between imitation of life and abundant living.

Apart from Jesus, we cannot obtain true increase and/or peace. And until we embrace His awesome Being and accept the abundance He came to give, it is impossible to leave all our imitations behind.

Peace I leave with you . . .

DANCING WITH THE "SCARS"

2010-05-30T00:00:00.004-05:00

"Then David danced before the Lord with all his might;"

2 Samuel 6:14

DANCING, most commonly, consists of strategic movements and maneuver's that require fun-filled energies and efforts.

Quite often stress-survivors find themselves doing a different kind of dance--one that demands even more energies and accomplished steps. Bombarded with irritations and aggravations, we can't cope with our normal selves because of so much stress.

Beaten and bruised by families, friends, and foes, stress-survivors have come to realize that in order to escape from our stressfulness, we must learn how to "Dance with the scars."

Granted, it takes immense courage, confidence, and strength. And if we intend to move successfully from our stresses toward peace and productivity, our ultimate armour is the presence of God.

It is with God's guidance that we learn to move at the right time, to maneuver our steps in the right way, and to manage our mind and emotions to gracefully dance with the scars.

That's why when dancing through the endeavors of life, it's absolutely imperative to remain steadfast in the Lord.

In spite of who or what has inflicted our mental, physical or emotional hurts and heartaches, and as impossible as dancing with these scars may seem, we, who have repeatedly battled the war with stress, yet believe that With God all things are possible.

Shall we dance?

Peace I leave with you . . .

DECISIONS. . . DECISIONS. . . DECISIONS

2010-05-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

"In all thy ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."
Proverb 3:6 (KJV)
-

THINK of the many decisions we make daily. What time to get up; what to wear; what to eat; what work to do during the day; what movie to watch at night . . . and the list goes on and on. Decisions . . . Decisions . . . Decisions.

No doubt, decisions play a huge part in stress-survivors' lives. Regardless of who we are and/or where we are, we're constantly concerned with making decisions.

Studies show that on an average, we make about three hundred decisions a day. Among those three hundred, some are family-related; some are money-related; some are job-related. Some involve worldly possessions and some are indeed personal.

Whatever category decisions may arise, stress-survivors strive to decipher the good ones from the bad ones. Even on our best days, when trying to utilize our best ways, we discover that decisions can create enormous stress.

SO. . . how do we get to the place where we can stress less and actually experience peace in the midst of our most daring decisions?

PROVERB 3:6 encourages us to acknowledge God and allow Him to give us directions on how and what to do. Simply stated, we ask Him and see what He says about our situations.
-
Here again, that's easier said than done. Fact is, when we determine to pray and to rely on the Spirit of God to guide us, we soon discover that "Peace that surpasses all understanding" and clearly gain new insights and instructions for making decisions.
-
Perhaps the greatest challenge in crossing over from a hectic to a hallowed life of decisions is making up our mind. One thing for certain, once we decide to walk in the words of the Proverb, and we taste and see how to be stress-free, we'll be glad we did.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2010-05-08T22:00:00.007-05:00

"A MOTHER"

Who could endure nine long months

of waiting

and wondering

and wishing
and praying
for a healthy newborn?
. . . Only a mother.

Who could trample the floor
for countless days and nights
caring for a helpless child,
then, lovingly cast a kiss
on that same little innocent face?
. . . Only a mother.

Who could cook and clean,
walk around the neighborhood,

run errands,
and talk on the phone,
with a spoiled brat hanging on her hip?
. . . Only a mother.

Who could calm the storms
that rage the heart and the home
when little ones mature into big ones
and leave the love nest,
causing all that was once near and dear
to drift into a whole new meaning of despair?
. . . Only a mother.

Who could love through the best of times

and through the worst of times;

through thick and thin;

through heartache and pain;

through sunshine and rain?

. . . ONLY A MOTHER.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

SWEET SENSATIONS

2010-05-02T01:00:00.010-05:00

Looking for solutions to escape personal and professional stresses?

Wanting a way to release the stress and strain of demanding lifestyles?

Ever considered a Sabbatical?

After numerous ups and downs and negative turn arounds, stress-survivors welcome a refreshing break. We long to "lay our burdens down" and simply relax . . . No issues. No cares or concerns. Just sweet sensations.

Even though sabbaticals are generally associated with getaways for long periods of time, they don't necessarily have to be. Since it's our own personal sabbatical, we say what, we say when, and we say how long.

Yeah . . . yeah . . . yeah . . . money is tight, right? And we must be mindful of our spending. Truth is, if most of us wait until we can comfortably afford our sabbatical, we may be waiting forever.

So what do we do?

Be creative! Think of unique ways to pursue something fulfilling and fun. Solicit a friend or dare to venture alone.

Whether we choose an hour, an afternoon, a weekend, or hopefully a whole week, let's pursue something (as long as it's not unhealthy or unholy) that promotes relaxation and restoration for deeply stressed souls.

All in favor of a sensational sabbatical say "AYE!"

Peace I leave with you . . .

LET US PRAY

2010-04-25T01:00:00.002-05:00

Don't worry about anything;
Instead, pray about everything.

Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all he has done.

Then you will experience God's Peace,
which exceeds anything we can understand.

His peace will guard your hearts and minds
as you live in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

FOOLISHNESS

2010-03-07T01:00:00.004-06:00

Forsake foolishness and live, And go in the way of understanding.
~ Proverbs 9:6, NKJV

Believe it or not, there’s an often overlooked stress for many of us that results from FOOLISHNESS.

Foolishness?

Yes, things that are absolutely out of order—unnecessary—uncouth—and of no benefit to ourselves or anyone else. Foolishness can be associated with any action or reaction that results in physical, mental, or emotional impairment or pain leading to stress.

Foolishness creeps in when we embrace people, places, or things that are detrimental to our well-being. This could involve health, wealth, family, finances, or friends.

While we can—most times—pinpoint the folly of others, we fall short in recognizing our own. Come to think of it, we stand accused of camouflaging the foolish things we inflict upon ourselves.

No doubt, even as adults, we are enticed by life’s frivolous feats. But successful stress-survivors must be mindful of the thin line between “simply having fun” and “doing something foolish.”

Ultimately, we reap what we sow. And though it’s quite common, it’s not always a case of what we’ve said or done to others. The silly things we do to ourselves can eventually haunt us and cause deep and emotional stresses.

Say, for instance, a person with diabetes gobbles from a table filled with sugary-Sweet cakes and pies. That’s silly! And if saying so offends us—knowing it’s bad for our health—then that’s even sillier.

As long as we allow destructive attitudes and actions to cause us stress, we can’t become wholehearted stress-survivors.

Let’s face it . . . some things aren’t worth stressing over—especially when it relates to foolishness.

Peace I leave with you . . .

FEAR NOT

2010-02-28T01:00:00.007-06:00

"Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy . . . "
Luke 2:10

Have we considered our present economy and how it has countless people filled with fear? Have we stopped to think of all the stresses we're facing as a result of these fears?

In addition to our constant worry, we're plagued with strained relationships, less-than-best health, alienation of religious affections, declining self-confidence, and the list goes on and on.

Even though we live in the real world with chaos and confusion and are often confronted with fears of all kind, we cannot allow fear to dominate our lives.

It makes no difference if fear is brewing all around us. As victorious stress-survivors, we hold to the belief that "With God All Things are Possible." And we dare not be destroyed by fear.

Regardless of who says what, we live and have our being under the auspices of God. Not a single one of us exist of our own volition. By the same token, we -- of ourselves -- are no match for our stressful fears.

Since our lives are not preserved by our own attemps, we must embrace "the Source" for conquering fear.

God is in control of all things, and He is not riddled by our multitude of fears. He can conquer any fear, anytime, anywhere, and with anyone.

The Good Tidings? WE'RE STILL STANDING. WE'RE STILL BREATHING. WE'RE STILL WALKING AND TALKING. WE 'RE STILL LAUGHING AND PLAYING . . . AND WE'RE STILL BLESSED BY THE GRACE OF GOD.

Fear not, for behold, in the midst of all things BAD, it's always something GOOD to be grateful for.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THERE IS A PLACE!

2010-02-21T00:00:00.002-06:00

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress;. . ."
Psalm 91:1-2

Do we get sick and tired of worrying?

Don't we wish for a place to go and get away from worries and stress?

Surely there has to be somewhere that we can go to escape from so many stressful routines. Fortunately, some of us have found a place of serenity. But the majority of us have not.

Remember the blockbuster movie, LION KING? What's the one thing about the movie that quickly comes to mind?

HAKUNA MATATA!

For those who were really off into the Lion King, it didn't take long to grasp the meaning of the movie's most talked-about title. HAKUNA MATATA is a Swahili phrase that's translated as "No Worries."

Can we imagine . . . a place of no worries? Isn't that exactly what we want?

More and more each day, stress--survivors are seeking HAKUNA MATATA -- that secret place of peace. Psalm 91 reveals "the secret" to the secret place where we can go and get relief from all worries and stress.

GOD IS the Master of all stress-reduction. In His presence we can have peace in the midst of any kind of distress.

HAKUNA MATATA? Indeed, there is a place . . . in the secret place of GOD.

Peace I leave with you . . .

Valentine Wishes

2010-02-14T00:12:00.001-06:00

JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID . . .

2010-02-07T01:00:00.000-06:00

"WHOEVER DRINKS OF THIS WATER

WILL THIRST AGAIN,

BUT WHOEVER DRINKS OF THE WATER

THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM

WILL NEVER THIRST.

BUT THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM

WILL BECOME IN HIM A FOUNTAIN OF WATER

SPRINGING UP INTO EVERLASTING LIFE."

JOHN 4:13-14 (NKJV)

Peace I leave with you . . .

WHO TO TELL

2010-01-31T01:00:00.001-06:00

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
~ Psalm 46:1 (KJV) ~

The 1970's well-known television comedian, FLIP WILSON, constantly boasted about a personal friend that he called "Killer."

Although this friend was never visible to anyone, Flip's devotion to him was so strong that it caused others to believe in and respect him.

Whoever or whatever caused trouble or concern, Flip quickly proclaimed that he was going to "tell Killer." This man was highly confident that Killer would come to his rescue and make his stressors behave.

In our troublesome situations, who do we turn to? Who is it that we place complete confidence in when stresses mount-up and threaten our lives? Who do we trust to tell our trials and tribulations to?

Sadly, many of our stresses are elevated when those we put our trust in betray us. In all honesty, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons, daughters, husbands, wives, and best friends don't always live up to our expectations.

Surely, that's why so many stress-survivors put absolute confidence in JESUS. We choose to "tell Jesus" all of our troubles. Having someone to tell our troubles to, someone who genuinely cares, helps to ease stress and anxieties.

The sacred Hymn from composer Elisha Albright Hoffman says it like this:

I must tell Jesus all of my trials;

I cannot bear these burdens alone;

In my distress He kindly will help me;

He ever loves and cares for His own.

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!

I cannot bear these burdens alone;

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!

Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.

We, moreso than Flip Wilson, believe that in each and every circumstance, Jesus will come to our rescue.

Peace I leave with you . . .

PRAYER FOR HAITI

2010-01-24T01:00:00.002-06:00

"Hear my prayer, O Lord,

And let my cry come to You.

Do not hide Your face from me

in the day of my trouble;

Incline Your ear to me;

In the day that I call,

answer me speedily."

Psalm 102:1-2 NKJV

ISAIAH 40:4-5

2010-01-17T01:00:00.010-06:00

"Every valley shall be exalted

and every mountain and hill brought low;

The crooked places

shall be made straight,
And the rough places smooth;
The glory of the Lord
shall be revealed,
and all flesh shall see it together;

For the mouth of the Lord has spoken."

Isaiah 40:4-5 NKJV

ONE WISH

2010-01-10T01:00:00.002-06:00

"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health,
even as thy soul prospereth."
~ III John 1:2 ~

"BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR." Isn't that how the old saying goes?

Imagine, if you will, that each New Year guaranteed us one wish. Okay, what would our wish be?

No doubt, our wishes would include houses, cars, clothes, wealth and good health (and a few wishes for the opposite sex).

Try to imagine how many wishes would involve spiritual aspects? How many of our minds would soar beyond the tangibles and dwell on the true riches given by God?

Most stress-survivors have come to the realization that it's not nearly enough to be careful what we wish for, as it is to be prayerful with our wishes.

Presently, prosperity claims the highest sought-after stats than any single thing. Everyone is striving for more this and more that. Whether it's for sufficient or selfish reasons, we constantly want more. More. . .More. . .More!

John shares that we experience true prosperity as our souls prosper. In other words, prosperity blooms from the inside...out. Having a collection of worldly goods on the outside, but void of goodness on the inside is not what prosperity is about.

True prosperity is a lot like true love: Everyone that claims it doesn't necessarily possess it; and no one gains it by simply chasing wild and wacky schemes. True prosperity is acquired by those whose hearts are prepared to receive it.

Go ahead . . .make a wish . . .be prayerful what you wish for . . . and trust God to grant that extra-special something.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THE GOOD LIFE

2010-01-03T01:00:00.006-06:00

"I am the way, the truth, and the life . . ."
~ John 14:6 ~

"IT HAS TO BE MORE TO LIFE THAN THIS. . ."

These words ring anybody's bell? Ever recall mumbling and grumbling something similar--especially during stressful times?

A new year has just dawned and, by all means, we should be revved up and ready to leap into an exciting year.

Sad to say, many of us are so stressed-out and nerved-up and worn-down that we neither have the energy nor the inclination to start again.

Then there are those whose's hearts and minds have become so clouded and confused from worry and stress that even if we attempt to embrace a prosperous new year, we can't be certain of which way to proceed.

Sure, we're surrounded by suggestions galore for obtaining wealth--health-- and happiness, so much so that we're leery as to whom to believe.

As stress-survivors, we have no desire for foolishness. We'd like to bypass all the gibberish and nonsense and go straight to the truth--the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

So what do we do?

Jesus reveals the absolute way to obtain "the good life." The abundant life. He assures, HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE...

To all who are willing to accept, Jesus extends His open-invitation, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. . ."

HALLELUJAH. . .It's a new year! And it's time we decide what matters most for newness of life this year. God makes "all things new" and we can behold His newness if we choose to.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

2009-12-31T23:59:00.001-06:00

"Behold, I will do

a new thing,

Now it shall spring forth..."

Isaiah 43:19 KJV

TELL GOD "THANK-YOU"

2009-12-27T01:00:00.000-06:00

"Then the shepherds returned,

glorifying and praising God

for all the things

that they had heard and seen. . ."

Luke 2:20 KJV

CHRISTMAS 2009

2009-12-24T01:00:00.001-06:00

"Glory to God

in the highest,

And on earth peace, goodwill

toward men!"

Luke 2:14 KJV

THE PRINCE OF PEACE

2009-12-20T00:17:00.011-06:00

I have come that they may have life,
and that they may have it more abundantly.

~ John 10:10 ~

If we've done any Christmas shopping this year, we can readily agree that things are indeed expensive. Even the so-called sale items are creating havoc on our tight budgets.

Many of us have made major cut-backs on gift-giving and have had to make do with what we can afford or possibly create.

Changes to long-held holiday traditions--in whatever form or fashion--creates unbelievable stress. No doubt, holiday shopping can stress even the best of us. And if our priorities aren't aligned properly, we suffer needless stress.

Sure, gift-giving has been a huge tradition throughout Christmases past and present, but the true essence of Christmas centers on JESUS.

When born as a baby on that first Christmas, Jesus brought abundant life to us all . . . including peace that surpasses all understanding.

One can buy, buy, buy with all the money in America, but one cannot buy peace. True peace cannot be bought or borrowed. TRUE PEACE CAN ONLY COME FROM THE PRINCE OF PEACE.

God has given us all the greatest gift of all. . .Jesus. Our abundance for all things at Christmastime and any time thereafter rest securely in the arms of the Prince of Peace.

Peace I leave with you . . .

WHAT WE BELIEVE

2009-12-06T02:00:00.001-06:00

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see
the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
~Psalm 27:13~

IT'S BEGINNING to look a lot like Christmas . . .

Could it be that it looks and feels like Christmas because of what we believe?

Each year this time, wherever we are and whatever we are doing-- despite our stresses--we anticipate having a joyous Christmas season. We believe in "Merry Christmas," no matter who says what.

Isn't it awesome how we believe in the tradition of Christmas? Whether it's adoration for the merry season or the Majestic Savior, we harbor a deep-and-abiding belief.

This same fortified faith should dominate stress as well. True stress-survivors realize that what we believe sets the stage for what we'll receive.

Just consider how we conduct our lives and condition our hearts at Christmastime. Imagine dedicating identical energies and efforts to reducing stress.

When oppressed with stress, we can easily loose heart if we don't have a strong belief in a strong Being. When we insist on believing God for His best and refuse to waddle in senseless stress, we maintain that peace and joy in our hearts sought by so many at Christmas.

During the holiday season and all through the year, if we expect our hearts and minds to be filled with "heavenly peace," it's essential to examine what we believe.

Peace I leave with you . . .

WAITING ON THE LORD

2009-11-29T01:00:00.000-06:00

Have you not known?

Have you not heard?

The everlasting God, the Lord,
The Creator of the ends
of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is
unsearchable.

He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might
He increases strength.

Even the youths shall faint
and be weary,
And the young men
shall utterly fall,

But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up
with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:28-31 (NKJV)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2009-11-26T00:00:00.003-06:00

OH, Give Thanks To The LORD

For He is Good!

For His Mercy

Endures Forever.

GIVING THANKS

2009-11-22T01:00:00.004-06:00

The LORD

Has Done

Great Things

For Us,

And We are Glad.

Psalm 126:3

THE INVITATION

2009-11-15T01:00:00.014-06:00

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" ~Matthew 11:28-30~

OH, THE EXCITEMENT OF INVITATIONS!

Down through the years, we've opened invitations for this and invitations for that. Some interested us, and some didn't.

IMAGINE--in the midst of prolonged stress--opening an invitation from Jesus . . . just for us.

When caught up in a web of stresses, the ultimate invite can lighten cares and concerns and brighten our outlook on life.

Regardless of what some may say, those who have witnessed anointed invitations can bodly attest to the wonder it works when battling stress.

And guess what? Jesus extends this invitation to us all!

Peace I leave with you . . .

K-I-S-S-I-N-G

2009-11-08T01:00:00.006-06:00

IF WE'VE STRUGGLED with stress over-and-over and back-to-back for extended periods of time, we eventually reach a point where we literally become stressed out.

Then one day we wake up to the fact that we are sick and tired of stress. We simply cannot stress anymore. As if by "Divine" strength, we make a conscious decision that we are K-I-S-S-I-N-G stress goodbye.

GOOD RIDDANCE!

Like the Late Great Gospel Singer, Frank Williams, We come to the conclusion that if "Jesus Can't Fix It, Nobody can!" And with every beat of our heart, we vow to lay our stresses at Jesus' feet, and to trust Him for the outcome.

It's rarely an easy decision to make. But as we sing our K-I-S-S-I-N-G song, surprisingly, we begin to feel a long-forgotten peace. Even if our issues still exist, our mind is at peace.

Once we make up our mind to kiss stress goodbye, we must be careful not to create any stress during the K-I-S-S-I-N-G process.

There's not a list of instructions to fret over. We need not make this harder than it has to be. The most easiest and effective way to kiss stress goodbye is just do it!

Let's kiss worry goodbye . . . kiss irritations and aggravations goodbye . . . kiss can't eat and can't sleep goodbye. . . and kiss grouchy goodbye.

There are no ifs or ands or buts about it; We can do it, if we set our mind to it!

Peace I leave with you . . .

WORD POWER

2009-11-01T01:00:00.000-05:00

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue..."
Proverbs 18:21 KJV

Have there been days when someone spoke the very words we needed to hear?

Can we recall times and places, and people who eased our stressed mind simply by what they said? As some folk often say, their words were a soothing balm to our bleeding heart.

Certainly, we can remember not-so-pleasant times when someone's ill and offensive words left us sad and stressed.

Be not deceived, words are extremely powerful. They can heal and they can hurt. Words can be priceless and they can be plentiful . . . and most of all, they can be pure-thee-painful.

Proverbs, the Bible's book on life, teaches that death and life hinges on the tongue. Plain and simple, kind and caring words can enhance and give life new meaning--whereas harsh and unkind words destroy the joy of life and almost always create deadly stresses.

The words in Colossians 4:6 admonishes that our speech "always be with grace..." See, One never knows the effect words might have on deeply-troubled souls who desperately need life-changing words to push stress straight from the heart.

Peace I leave with you . . .

LACK OF KNOWLEDGE

2009-10-25T01:00:00.000-05:00

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge . . .
Hosea 4:6 (NKJV)

Gathered at a Class Reunion, a male classmate confided to a female classmate, "Back when we were in school, I had a crush on you."

Although the female already knew about this, she acted surprised.

Seriously "rapping" to her, he said, "If I had known then what I know now, Sweetie, I could have made you my girl."

Get the point?

Far too many of us live with similar if-I-had-known sentiments. Lack of knowledge is indeed a serious cause of stress. What we don't know can haunt us indefinitely, and ultimately, escalate our stresses.

People can claim "what we don't know won't hurt us" as much as they please, but it is not true. A great percentage of all our stresses stem from something we didn't know. Unexpected surprises have a way of stressing us in the twinkling of an eye.

Remember that old saying "Knowledge is key?" It's absolutely true! We need knowledge to have . . . to be . . . and to do all things . . . especially if we intend to reduce stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

PRETEND

2009-10-18T00:32:00.019-05:00

"I don't pretend." Ever heard anyone say that? Have we ever said that?

While pretending is often discouraged, it's proven to provide benefits and blessings.

Pretending is highly recommended for reducing stress.

In her timeless classic, "The Little Princess," Frances Hodgson Burnett's delightful Litte Sara was thrust into an unfortunate situation.

Instead of dwelling on how her life had dwindled from riches to rags, Sara took another approach. In the midst of her terrible circumstances, she pretended.

Realizing everything--and so much more-- that she'd pretended had mysteriously manifested before her eyes, The Little Princess happily declared, "I never pretended this good before!"

We, too, might be surprised what "good" pretending will do. Even if what we pretend never surfaces for us, we'll benefit from de-stressing our mind.

"I can't!" Some folk insist. "I just can't pretend."

Ma'am? Sir? With all due respect, there are times when it pays to pretend. Sometimes we are so pressed and depressed, struggling through stresses, that we're grateful for an opportunity to pretend.

One primary effort linked to our pretending is simply to "believe." See, that's the whole idea; hoping and believing. Don't stress over the fact that it's pretense. Relax and release those stresses.

It may sound a little silly, but seriously, pretending has its advantages. Let's think of it as a prelude to prayer. After all, If we can CONCEIVE IT, we can RECEIVE IT!

Peace I leave with you . . .

FAITH

2009-10-11T01:00:00.000-05:00

Now faith

is the substance

of things hoped for,

the evidence of

things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)

Peace I leave with you . . .

SEASONS

2009-10-04T01:00:00.001-05:00

And let us not be weary in well doing:
for in due season we shall reap,
if we faint not.

Galatians 6:9 (KJV)

TAKE YOUR TIME

2009-09-27T15:16:00.000-05:00

AT THE VERY TIP of the Aegean Sea, lies an interesting Greek island known as IKARIA (ICARIA).

In addition to Ikaria's legendary beauty and clean mountain air and therapeutic hot springs, there's an authentic old world charm that surrounds the island and its people.

Studies reveal that Ikaria's people live much longer and more peaceful lives than we Americans. One of the most noted rarities of the Ikarians is their take on time.

It has been reported that the Ikarian people attribute no regard to time. They don't even use clocks. That's right, NO CLOCKS.

Quite often, one of the most complicated things involving our daily stresses is clock watching. Our efforts to "track time" and "be on time" and "utilize more time" steady increase our stresses.

The time-conscious thing contributes to many of our stresses by keeping us in a constant rush. And if there's one thing stress-survivors should never do, it's rushing. "Thou shall not rush" is definitely a top De-stress commandment.

We are not suggesting that we all load up our trucks and move to Ikaria, nor are we hinting to forfeit our time-related responsibilities. The intended purpose is to simply slow our pace--TAKE OUR TIME.

Take time to enjoy some of the joys of life. . .

Take time to savor the beauty of each new dawn.

Take time to admire the glory of the moon and the stars.

Take time to appreciate the sacrifices of friends and loved ones.

Take time to tell God thank-you for blessings large and small.

As we dedicate more time to the so-called little things in life, we'll begin to experience not only beauty and joy, but also the benefits of less stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

PROMISES

2009-09-20T01:00:00.002-05:00

For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen,
to the glory of God through us.

2 Corinthians 1:20 (NKJV)

People make promises all the time and then fail to follow through.

It's sad but it's true. We sink easily into the nitty-gritty of stressfulness depending on the promises of unfaithful family and friends.

Let's not try and kid ourselves. Every promise is not created equal; Every person does not honor his/her word.

Bouncing from one stress to another, many of us learned the hard way whose promises we could depend on.

The words recorded in 2 Corinthians 1:20 assure us that God's promises are "YES" and "AMEN." They are absolutely real.

Those steadfast, immovable, always abounding promises of God are the stress-survivors ultimate life line.

We can depend on God. If He has promised "it" -- whatever it is -- we need not worry; we need not stress. We hold on just a little while longer to that "YES" and "AMEN."

Peace I leave with you . . .

HE WHO HELPS

2009-09-13T01:00:00.001-05:00

I will lift up my eyes to the hills-

From whence comes my help.

My help comes from the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth.

He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.

Behold, He who keeps Israel
Shall neither slumber nor sleep.

The LORD is your keeper;
The LORD is your shade at your right hand.

The sun shall not strike you by day,
Nor the moon by night.

The LORD shall preserve you from all evil;
He shall preserve your soul.

The LORD shall preserve your going out
and your coming in
From this time forth,
and even forevermore.

Psalm 121, NKJV

Peace I leave with you . . .

DON'T COMPLAIN

2009-09-06T01:00:00.002-05:00

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've had some good days, and we've had some hills to climb.

We've had some weary days and some sleepless nights.

Yet, when we look around and we think things over,

all of our good days outweighs our bad days, so we won't complain.

How many of us honestly don't complain?

Come on, shame the devil and tell the truth.
Whether for justifiable causes or petty-anny reasons,

fretting and complaining only makes stress worse.

When we choose to complain,

the thoughts and energies invested on our pity-parties

could just as powerfully be applied to our confidences.

Whether it's sickness, loneliness, debt, lack of money,

or caught-up in some other hard place of despair,

God knows every one of our stresses.

Though sometimes the clouds hang low,

and we can hardly see the road,

Just keep trusting and believing

until God comes and dries all our tears away

and turns our midnights into days.

Peace I leave with you . . .

ONE MORE

2009-08-30T01:00:00.000-05:00

Then Gideon said to God, "Do not be angry with me. Let me make just one more request.

Allow me one more test with the fleece. This time make the fleece dry and the ground

covered with dew." ~Judges 6:39

From way back when to this present moment, the more some things changed, the more some remained the same.

Take, for instance, the concept of "One More." Who is it that doesn't believe in the reality of One More?

Throughout life, we've embraced the lifestyle of expecting one more chance-one more time-one more day-one more hour-one more minute-one more this and one more that.

Why, then, should we be surprised when one more stress surfaces in our lives?

Whoever we are and wherever we are, more often than not, stress surrounds us. It matters not whether we're minding our own affairs, meddling in someone else's, or merrily rolling along, stress affects us all.

Where do we run? Where do we hide?

Sadly, we can't run and we can't hide from stresses of this world. When troubled by the thought or the onset of one more stress, we determine to do as Gideon did.

We go to God in prayer and ask Him for what we want.

Peace I leave with you . . .

STEP OUT ON FAITH

2009-08-23T01:00:00.000-05:00

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart;

and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him,

and he shall direct thy paths.

Do not be wise in your own eyes;

Fear the Lord

and depart from evil.

~ Proverbs 3:5-7 ~

Peace I leave with you . . .

DEAD HORSES

2009-08-16T01:00:00.002-05:00

IT SOUNDS SO FUNNY to hear people say we're "Beating a dead horse to death."

Though none are guilty of actually beating horses, we stand accused of taking things to the extreme.

For instance . . . Our personal problems.

Notice how some survivors insist on explaining unfortunate incidents a thousand times. Over and over again.

Harping on negative people-places-and things elevates stress and stress-related issues.

Many times we dwell on the negative, even though it increases our stress. We fail to realize that the more we speak of ill situations, the more we think of them; and the more we think of them, the more we subject ourselves to stress.

Remaining in a negative rut keeps our stresses out of control.

If we are to reduce the ravages of stressful living, it's important to stop rehashing and rehearsing unfavorable stuff.

We may have to condition our mind to do this. That's okay. Go ahead and do whatever needs to be done. Read, write, pray, sing, dance, walk, run, ride . . . just find a way to stop needlessly repeating stresses.

Let's learn to eliminate the negative and accentuate the positive.

Peace I leave with you . . .

AROUND AND AROUND AND AROUND

2009-08-09T01:00:00.004-05:00

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

~ Proverbs 3:5-6

Who was it that first said, "Life is like a merry-go-round?"

We, who've witnessed different stages of life and watched situations go up-and-down, and around-and-around, are inclined to agree.

Let's recall a particular time when we were going in circles. Remember how it stressed us to be stuck in those cycles of going around and around and never gaining or retaining a thing?

Life's ups and downs can tremendously aggravate our stresses. Not only are we thrown for unexpected loops, but we're sometimes faced with issues spinning completely out of control.

Rest assured, in any phase of life, the more around-and-around-and-around we go, the more up-up-and-away our stress will be?

What choices do we have?

What do we do when life's merry-go-round causes us stress?

Proverbs 3 offers the ultimate solution to "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart. . ." As we experience mega-stresses over going around and around in circles, let's remember to trust God.

Peace I leave with you . . .

IMAGINATION

2009-08-02T01:49:00.006-05:00

CAN WE safely say that we all, in one situation or another, have leaned to our imagination?

That, "Yes," we mistook something for real that really wasn't?

Many of us have perceived or believed things that have caused lots of stress solely because of imagination.

From seeing illusions, to feeling anxiety, to thinking terrible thoughts--our imagination revealed one thing, but we discovered another.

We might as well admit it, because we know it's true. We've been in situations similar to what The Temptations once sang, "It was just my 'magination, running away with me."

Imagination, itself, is not a bad thing. The power of positive imagination goes far beyond amazing. It's when we indulge ourselves to the point of creating stresses that causes us issues.

No doubt, we'll always be imagining. But we can minimize stresses from fogged imaginations by remembering these simple steps.

1) See things as they really are
2) Handle emotions with care
3) Consider the whole picture
4) Be receptive to the truth
5) Proceed with caution

Throughout life, even the best-of- the-best will experience some sort of jacked-up imagination. Before the stresses begin, let's be prepared to distinguish fact from fiction.

Peace I leave with you . . .

BLESS YOU!

2009-07-26T01:00:00.011-05:00

The LORD bless you
and keep you;

The LORD make
His face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;

The LORD turn
His face toward you
and give you peace.

~ Numbers 6:22-26 (NIV)

Peace I leave with you . . .

LIGHT OF THE WORLD

2009-07-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

MATTHEW 5:14-16

YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.

A city on a hill cannot be hidden.
Neither do people light a lamp and
put it under a bowl.

Instead they put it on its stand,
and it gives light to everyone in the house.

In the same way,
let your light shine before men,
that they may see your good deeds
and praise your Father in heaven.

Peace I leave with you . . .

WHY ME?

2009-07-12T03:00:00.002-05:00

"CAST YOUR BURDEN ON THE LORD . . . AND HE SHALL SUSTAIN YOU . . ." ~Psalm 55:22~

IS IT IMAGINED or is it indeed real that almost everywhere we go and everyone we see, all are dealing with some sort of stress?

If it's not one thing, it's another!

What did we do--or not do--to become so surrounded by adversity? Why is this senseless stress and all this mess making our lives miserable?

Why are we forever troubled and stressed over issues with the wrong people around us? AND why are we even moreso affected by the "supposedly" right people in our lives? How can we expect to overcome so much stress?

Weary and disgusted, we stagger from day to day, singing the same ole' song, "Why me?"

The "Why Me" syndrome has befriended the best of us. And we cannot seem to understand the "ifs," "ands," or "buts," about any of it. All we know for certain is that life has dumped it's dirt on us and we're constantly trying to dig ourselves from deep-down under.

The suggestion from Psalm 55 sheds some light amid our dark situations and stresses. Sure, casting our burden on the Lord is easier said than done. But, if we sincerely believe in God's grace and mercy, we're compelled to trust His Word and do as It says.

Times may be hard, but as those seasoned-survivors often say, "God is still on the throne. He sits high and looks low, and He never misses a thing." If we intend to be successful stress-survivors . . . God is our answer.

Peace I leave with you . . .

BELIEVE IT!

2009-06-28T01:00:00.015-05:00

". . . For death is the destiny of every man." ~ Ecclesiastes 7:2 ~

"MICHAEL JACKSON JUST DIED . . . " A voice shouted through the phone line. "I can't believe it!"

A few minutes later the words - Hey everyone, Michael Jackson just died - scrolled across the cell phone screen.

All throughout the evening and well into the night, many stressed in awe and disbelief because one of America's biggest entertainment icons had encountered death.

Somehow during the sorrow and stress of Michael's death, one person did say, "It's hard to believe, but it proves that no one is exempt from death."

Death is not, and has rarely ever been, a pleasant subject. Although inevitable, it always seems to be so unfortunate. It produces stresses of the greatest kind.

God's Word in Ecclesiastes affirms that death comes to us all. Contrary to Michael Jackson's multi-million dollar hit, "Beat It," there's no way to beat death.

So be encouraged, everyone . . . everywhere. Stop stressing, stop sorrowing, and ultimately believe that death comes to claim us all.

Extending prayer and peace to Michael Jackson's family, friends, and fans.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

2009-06-21T01:00:00.002-05:00

A

SPECIAL

PRAYER

FOR

FATHERS

GOD, bless all the fathers in the world.
Guide them to be good role models
and loving to all their children.

Help them to be a father like You are.
Give them grace and patience
to handle situations in a loving way.

Amen.

HAPPY FATHERS' DAY !!!

HAPPY JUNETEENTH

2009-06-19T01:00:00.000-05:00

Oh, give thanks
to
the
Lord,
for He is good!

For
His mercy
endures
forever.

~Psalm 118:29~

Let's Celebrate Juneteenth
in the spirit of thanksgiving!

BACK WHEN

2009-06-14T01:00:00.005-05:00

REMEMBER BACK WHEN a glass of ice-cold tea worked wonders for our stressed mind and body? Remember how we'd grab a tall glass and plunk in some ice and pour up that homemade tea?

AAAAHHH!!! That good cold stuff could soothe almost anything that ailed us?

Back then, our stresses didn't nearly compare with what we're confronted with nowadays. Sure, we had issues, but we also had scruples.

Back when iced-tea was tops, there were morals, and values, and decency, and respect, and kindness and love. People could overcome stress because they could count on one another.

No one struggled alone. Even in a time of barely-enough, people found a way to bear each other's burdens . . . And to share a tall glass of tea.

In times like these, when we're plagued with so much stress, iced-tea alone may not make even the slightest difference in the stresses we face.

But there's one thing for certain, people helping people can definitely reduce a whole lot of stresses.

Peace I leave with you . . .

The 23RD PSALM

2009-06-07T03:00:00.005-05:00

THE LORD is my shepard; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for Thou art with me;
Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me
in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil;
my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy
shall follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
for ever.

Peace I leave with you . . .

MAKING A MOVE

2009-05-31T01:00:00.000-05:00

Every now and then, there comes a time when we find ourselves sitting in the middle of a really stressful dilemma.

No matter how hard we try, we're baffled with what to do and how to do it.

Our lives become more and more stressed while trying to decide which move to make.

There's this notable story about these men who visited a museum and saw a painting of a chess game. The painting depicted a player whose king was trapped. The painting was called "Checkmate."

Checkmate is a term that implies the situation is hopeless; there's no other options - the game is over. In other words, there are NO MORE MOVES!

One of the gentlemen looking at the Checkmate painting was an International Chess Champion. And he became quite captivated by it. "I'm bothered by this painting," he said to his friend. "I want to study it for awhile."

After some time, the Chess Champion spoke again, "We have to find the person who painted this. There is something wrong with this painting."

When the friend finally asked what was wrong, the Chess Champion replied, "The painting is titled 'Checkmate,' but in this painting, the king still has one more move!"

"The king still has one more move!"

JESUS - our LORD and KING - is King of Kings, and He's never slack on making a move. When we're stressed because we've exhausted all our moves, we can look to the Lord and be assured that KING JESUS always has one more move.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY

2009-05-24T00:11:00.010-05:00

The Star Spangled Banner

~ Francis Scott Key ~

O! Say can you see
by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed
at the twilight's last gleaming.

Whose broad stripes and bright stars
through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watch'd,
were so gallantly streaming?

And the Rockets' red glare,
the Bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night
that our Flag was still there;

O! Say, does that star-spangled Banner
yet wave,
O'er the Land of the free,
and the home of the brave?

SO PRETTY!

2009-05-17T01:48:00.018-05:00

There's an undeniable obsession in the world today that's, oddly enough, known as "Pretty."

People from all walks of life--young and old--are in pursuit of all things pretty. They strive for what's pleasing to the eyes and compete for special attention.

Call it what we want, but pretty has become a huge stress. Everyone wants to be a part of the pretty phenomenon. We fuss in front of mirrors, and change and rearrange fashions, and shop till we drop, trying to harness a certain appearance.

So, why aren't we successful? Why can't we seem to manifest the essence of pretty? What is the secret formula for prettiness?

First of all, regardless of how much time and money and stress we spend at the malls, true beauty cannot be bought in packages. Pretty isn't acquired by way of extravagant clothes, remarkable hair, fancy nails, or perfect "10" physiques.

Likewise, pretty can't be duplicated from our favorite images - on or off the screen - nor can it borrowed from highly reputable sources.

Remember the old saying, "Pretty is as pretty does?" It's so true! Pretty is a unique quality that originates on the inside . . . then radiates outward. It's authentic. Unparalleled. And that's what makes it absolutely incredible.

Stop stressing over the pretty problem and start searching the soul, ensuring that the right qualities are there.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

WHO CAN FIND
A VIRTUOUS WOMAN?

FOR HER PRICE IS
FAR ABOVE RUBIES...

STRENGTH AND HONOUR
ARE HER CLOTHING;

AND SHE SHALL REJOICE
IN TIME TO COME.

SHE OPENETH HER MOUTH WITH WISDOM;
AND IN HER TONGUE IS THE LAW OF KINDNESS.

SHE LOOKETH WELL TO THE WAYS OF HER HOUSEHOLD,
AND EATETH NOT THE BREAD OF IDLENESS.

HER CHILDREN ARISE UP, AND CALL HER BLESSED;
HER HUSBAND ALSO, AND HE PRAISETH HER.

MANY DAUGHTERS HAVE DONE VIRTUOUSLY,
BUT THOU EXCELLEST THEM ALL.

FAVOUR IS DECEITFUL, AND BEAUTY IS VAIN:
BUT A WOMAN THAT FEARETH THE LORD,
SHE SHALL BE PRAISED. . .