Today's Daily Word - Life

		I love life--fully and completely! My love for life is not dependent upon my circumstances. Whether I'm excited to be beginning a new adventure or content with everything as it is, I love life. Even if I have a concern about something or someone, I know that God is present, leading, supporting, and carrying us through. I am conscious of the order and balance throughout life--the obstacles and the opportunities, the extraordinary and the ordinary. I appreciate life and all expressions of it. Being fully present in each moment, I am grounded in the presence of God within me. I experience joy in knowing that the activity of God is working on my behalf at all times. Making the most of each moment, I love life fully and completely, and I thank God for the experience of it all. "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."--Proverbs 4:23 Inspired by this message? Share you reflections with me! Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

When God, When?

When God, When?

by Joyce Meyer

We all want good things to happen in our lives, but too often we want
it now...not later. When it doesn't happen that way, we are tempted to
ask, "When, God, when?" Most of us need to grow in the area of trusting
God instead of focusing on the "when" question. If you're missing joy
and peace, you're not trusting God. If your mind feels worn out all the
time, you're not trusting God. The tendency to want to know about
everything that's going on can be detrimental to your Christian walk.
Sometimes knowing everything can be uncomfortable and can even hurt you.
I spent a large part of my life being impatient, frustrated and
disappointed because there were things I didn't know. God had to teach
me to leave things alone and quit feeling that I needed to know
everything. I finally learned to trust the One who knows all things and
accept that some questions may never be answered. We prove that we trust
God when we refuse to worry.

God wants us to live by discernment-revelation knowledge, not head
knowledge. It's difficult to exercise discernment if you're always
trying to figure out everything. But when you're willing to say, "God, I
can't figure this out, so I'm going to trust You to give me revelation
that will set me free," then you can be comfortable in spite of not
knowing. Trusting God often requires not knowing how God is going to
accomplish what needs to be done and not knowing when He will do it. We
often say God is never late, but generally He isn't early either. Why?
Because He uses times of waiting to stretch our faith in Him and to
bring about change and growth in our lives.

The Parable of the Black Belt

The following story, called "The Parable of the Black Belt," is excerpted from Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies, by James C. Collins and Jerry I. Porras.

Picture a martial artist kneeling before the master sensei in a ceremony to receive a hard-earned black belt. After years of relentless training, the student has finallyreached a pinnacle of achievement in the discipline.

"Before granting the belt, you must pass one more test," says the sensei.

"I am ready," responds the student, expecting perhaps one final round of sparring.

"You must answer the essential question: What is the true meaning of the black belt?"

"The end of my journey," says the student. "A well-deserved reward for all my hard work."

The sensei waits for more. Clearly, he is not satisfied. Finally, the sensei speaks. "You are not yet ready for the black belt. Return in one year."

A year later, the student kneels again in front of the sensei.

"What is the true meaning of the black belt?" asks the sensei.

"A symbol of distinction and the highest achievement in our art," says the student.

The sensei says nothing for many minutes, waiting. Clearly, he is not satisfied. Finally, he speaks. "You are still not ready for the black belt. Return in one year."

A year later, the student kneels once again in front of the sensei. And again the sensei asks: "What is the true meaning of the black belt?"

"The black belt represents the beginning -- the start of a never-ending journey of discipline, work, and the pursuit of an ever-higher standard," says the student.

"Yes. You are now ready to receive the black belt and begin your work."

Today's Daily Word - Breakthrough

		I am one with God. When rays of sunlight break through the clouds on a gloomy day, it is a welcome reminder that the sun is always shining--whether I see it or not. At times, I may feel a bit gloomy. I may have allowed myself to become so caught up in the busyness of my life that I do not see the good that is always there. When I take a break from worry and frustration, I become aware of my blessings. And like a bright ray of sunlight on a cloudy day, I break through to the truth of my oneness with God. My breakthrough may come in reading Scripture, listening to inspirational music, a sudden insight, or an unexpected solution to a problem. Always, I return to the understanding that God is with me and all is well. "The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple."--Psalm 119:130 Inspired by this message? Please share your reflections with me! Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Word - Free

		Today's Daily Word - Thursday, November 13, 2008 Free I am an expression of unlimited potential in a world of infinite possibilities! When a butterfly emerges from its chrysalis, it leaves its past, and all that would keep it from being free, behind. No longer bound to earth, the butterfly is a new creation, a creature of flight. I, too, am able to break free by leaving negative thoughts and unhealthy habits behind. I am free to use my imagination and skills, strength and determination to experience life to its fullest. Seeking divine guidance, I give my attention to the highest and best ideas, divine ideas. I am inspired to make changes in my thinking and way of living that will allow me to express my true Christ nature. Like the butterfly, I leave the things that no longer serve me behind and explore a world of infinite possibilities. "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death."--Romans 8:2 Inspired by this message? Share your reflections with me... Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Word - Guidance

		Receptive to the guidance of Spirit, I move forward with confidence. God's guidance is a welcome gift in my life. Instead of becoming frustrated with people and situations, I feel reassured and gain confidence knowing that Spirit is always present and guiding me. There are often broader, deeper answers to my questions than I may at first comprehend. In prayer and meditation, I detach from needs, expectations, and any desire to react to what appears to be happening around me. This allows new information, additional support, and defining solutions to come forward. My world opens wide to possibilities, resources, and answers. Inner peace, abundance, health, and love multiply and expand. Receptive to the guidance of Spirit, I move forward with confidence. "This is God, our God forever and ever. He will be our guide forever."--Psalm 48:14 Inspired by this message? Share your reflections with me... Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Living and Loving Life Part 1

Wine tasting, great weather, great friends...we truely had a ball that night!


Featured: Mia & Mychal McDonald, Jill, Ben, and James.

Today's Daily Word - Prosperity

		Today's Daily Word - Monday, November 10, 2008 Prosperity With a thankful heart, I anticipate and accept God's abundance. Abundance is everywhere. Golden stalks of wheat have emerged from tiny grains planted in a field. A surging, powerful ocean wave has developed from the convergence of countless drops of water. An overflowing continuation of goodness has resulted from a single, random act of kindness. I not only observe prosperity, but I also participate in its flow. With God as my source, I am blessed with guidance, resources, and opportunity. I nurture and share these blessings, helping to create new forms of abundance. I pass along good. With a joyful heart, I contribute to prosperity. With a thankful heart, I anticipate and accept God's abundance. "I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever."--Psalm 86:12 Inspired by this message? Share your reflections with me! Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Word - Comfort

Today's Daily Word - Friday, November 7, 2008

Comfort

The indwelling spirit of God loves and supports me always.

God is my strength, my guide, my all. God is the promise that when life's situations and events become difficult, transformation and recovery are possible. I am comforted as I pray and release my life into God's care.

When I think of others who may need comfort and strength in order to respond to life in attentive and effective ways, I affirm that God is life within them expressing as them. All good is possible. And as I meditate on the good, I hold thoughts of comfort and strength for each person.

The promise is not that there will be an absolute absence of difficulty, but that the indwelling spirit of God loves and supports us in each moment. Comforted by this awareness, I give thanks for life ongoing.

"This is my comfort in my distress, that your promise gives me life."--Psalm 119:50

Inspired by this message? Share your reflections with me!

Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Words - My Choice

Today's Daily Word - Tuesday, November 4, 2008

My Choice




With divine insight and understanding, I make wise choices.


My choices affect the life I am creating. Yet how can I know which is the right perspective or the wisest decision?


God is the one true source of help whenever I need guidance. To be fully receptive to God's direction, I step away from the day's activities to a quiet place where I can listen for the still small voice within.


In prayer, I allow any distracting chatter inside my head to subside. I open my heart and mind to divine wisdom and receive the answers I seek. Knowing that God is my guide, I meet all situations with confidence.


I have divine insight and understanding, and I give expression to them as I go about my day. I have all I could ever need to make wise choices and take right actions.

"My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding."--Psalm 49:3

Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Inspired by this message? Tell me why!

___________________

Other words for today....Election Day, Vote, Vote, and Vote!!!

I don't think I will sleep tonight waiting on the word that Barack Obama is President of these United States of America! He will be the first African American and the most qualified candidate. History is being made and I was there, an active participant! Encouraging others, speaking on behalf of the campaign online, in text, on the phone with friends, family and associates. Today is so important and I hope and pray that all people who can make a difference with their vote will.

The verdict will soon come and I will be patiently waiting! =)

Today's Daily Word - Courage

Today's Daily Word - Monday, November 3, 2008 Courage Strong and courageous, I discover new skills and strengths. Whether this is a day of experiencing consistency or disruption, I apply new ideas and methods for resolution and achievement. I have the intelligence and energy to accomplish my heart's desires. And the desires of my heart are inspired by Spirit. Demonstrating my beliefs and values, I have the courage to live my dreams. Releasing myself from conformity, I turn my unique thoughts into words and actions. I confidently step out into new, unfamiliar territory. With divine guidance, I take my right path. I am courageous while trying something new--perhaps a new perspective, a new procedure, or even a new relationship. Assured and unruffled by the boldness of my actions, I dare to be innovative. Day after day, I discover new skills and strengths that enrich all my experiences. "Be strong and of good courage. Do not be afraid or dismayed."--1 Chronicles 22:13 Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Words - Divine Order

		Today's Daily Word - Sunday, November 2, 2008 Divine Order My life is unfolding in orderly ways. Anytime I face a situation that seems out of sync with the natural order of things, I know what to do. I pause and reflect on God's presence within me and around me. I then take a moment to retreat in thought to a favorite spot where I have enjoyed warm sunlight, a gentle breeze, or a flowing fountain. In this contemplative moment, I am immersed in the natural order of life. God is the one source of order in the world and in my life, and remembering this lifts my spirits. Conscious of this truth, I rise above any concern about outcomes. As I relax, breathe easier, and maintain a positive outlook, my life unfolds in orderly ways. "I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I will do, and I will not forsake them."--Isaiah 42:16 Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Words - Pray for Others

		Today's Daily Word - Saturday, November 1, 2008 Pray for Others I am a trusting child of God, affirming wholeness and strength for my loved ones. When some children were brought to Jesus for prayer, His disciples spoke sternly to the adults who brought them. Jesus immediately reminded everyone present that the kingdom of heaven belongs to everyone--especially children, who have unquestioning faith in God. When I pray with trust, I have faith that I will receive my blessings and I am ready to joyously accept them. I realize that all people have been created by God and are deserving of all good. Praying from a faith deep within me, I trust God to surround, heal, and protect my loved ones and me. Affirming wholeness, abundance, strength, and peace for all, I release any concerns into God's care. With a growing spiritual awareness, I am grateful that we are all so blessed. Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Word - Guidance

		Today's Daily Word - Wednesday, October 29, 2008 Guidance God's loving spirit guides me in making right choices and taking right actions. Life is full of opportunities for me to make choices. Some of the choices I make seem trivial, while others come in the form of life-altering decisions. I take whatever needs a decision, large or small, into prayer. I feel God's loving presence blessing me and surrounding me as I contemplate the options. Knowing that God is present within me in every moment, I know that divine guidance is always available to me. With my mind steadily focused on God's guidance, I make the absolutely best decision possible and then act upon it. Right actions require right thinking, and right thinking occurs when I turn to God in prayer. My actions are guided by God's loving spirit, now and always. "He will teach them the way that they should choose."--Psalm 25:12 Search past Daily Word messages by date, topic or keyword. Visit the archive. Get the perfect companion to dailyword.com, the print edition of Daily Word. Subscribe to Daily Word magazine. Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Students perform a Rap about the Election

Today's Daily Words - Inner Peace

		Today's Daily Words - Monday, October 27, 2008 Inner Peace Giving expression to the peace of God within me, I am calm and serene. When the fall winds blow, they scoop up leaves, swirl them around in a frenzy, and then, just as quickly, release the leaves to let them drift back to the ground one by one. I may feel at times that I am caught up in such a whirlwind, either emotionally or physically, as circumstances around me seem to become a blur of activity. As I turn within in prayer, I strengthen and retain my sense of well-being. Quiet moments in prayer bring me back to an awareness of the peace that is always at the core of my being. Tapping into the peace of God within me, I am completely relaxed and at ease. Like the leaves that flutter softly back to earth after the wind has ceased, I am at peace. Taking my peaceful nature back to my day, I am calm and serene in all circumstances. "Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure."--Psalm 16:9 Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you'll find prayerful support with Silent Unity. Visit Silent Unity online today or call 1-800-NOW-PRAY (669-7729). Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Today's Daily Word - Aware

		Today's Daily Word - Sunday, October 26, 2008 AWARE Spirit within has given me life and is renewing me with life. Once when Jesus was attempting to explain a spiritual truth, His disciples complained because the teaching was difficult. They were looking at it through a filter of limited thinking. He was teaching them about spiritual insight that was beyond what they were comprehending in the physical world. It was a message of "spirit and life." Whenever life seems difficult and there is a need for healing, I affirm: Spirit within has given me life and is renewing me with life. Having affirmed wholeness, I sit in the silence continuing to be aware that Spirit is healing and strengthening me. Guided by Spirit, I honor and take care of my physical body. I always know, however, that Spirit within is my true source of wholeness. In this awareness, I am at peace. "It is the spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life."--John 6:63 Inspired by this message? Search past Daily Word messages by date, topic or keyword. Visit the archive. Get the perfect companion to dailyword.com, the print edition of Daily Word. Subscribe to Daily Word magazine. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you'll find prayerful support with Silent Unity. Visit Silent Unity online today or call 1-800-NOW-PRAY (669-7729). Copyright © 2008 Daily Word.

Microwave Mentality!

If you don't know it as the microwave mentality...you know it as those of us who can't/won't or just don't want to wait for delayed gratification also known as the lack of patience. I call it the microwave mentality because my generation grew up with everything at their fingertips and for later generations, it's even worse! The microwave can provide a "meal" in 2 minutes, but the same meal from scratch could take more than 2 hours, yet taste so much better and is healthier too.

I have been victim to this mentality, I think we all have, but especially those in my generation. And unfortunately, it's getting the best of me right now. It's hard to wait! Especially when you think you're ready. You have loving and encouraging people around you who agree, but the things you need, just don't come as quickly as you'd hoped or expected. I have been expecting my good to come because I've "said" I'll be/do different, so my life should change....right now! And in some great ways, I have not only said it, but I am living it. I am doing differently. Obviously, not living it long enough I guess, or thoroughly enough - I will wait on the Lord. Daily, I have to check my mental. When I'm not getting my way, I get in my way. Saying negative things to myself, about myself and then...I have to pull myself from a deeper place than I was before I started get down on me.

My goal, to keep positive, no matter what! It's all okay, because I'm okay. God is working on me and I feel it, though He's not moving at my pace - I will get over it. I'm slowing learning how to slow down, however the older I get, the harder it seems to enjoy and appreciate life for what it is..Today. Tomorrow will work itself out as long as I'm doing my part today.

Patience and delayed gratification will be true virtues for me once God finishes the current work he's doing...then He'll be on to my next growth area. Ha, life is so interesting...

Until...

My Life Starts TODAY!!

No more looking backwards. No more dwelling on yesterdays hardships and wrongs. What's the point?!? It won't get me where I dream of going. Speaking of dreams...Lord knows I've got lots of them!

In past, I've had great success of making my dreams come true. Why should this point of my life be any different? It shouldn't! I've just got to make it happen. I'd like to thank God for blessing me the kind of people who push me to be better. They don't allow me to settle for mediocrity and those who are ever encouraging me, even though I don't like their tactics...their hearts are pure. I am damn lucky! Righting my wrongs will happen through my future actions, not from me dwelling in yesterday...No more apologizing..ESPECIALLY if I've done so already. I am letting go, and letting GOD! I will live with confidence and purpose.

"On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you." -- John 14:20

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I think I'm getting the hang of this blogging thing! And I just might like it =)

Below is a collage of my husband and I. Just posting it so I'll have some kind of picture up. Just wait until I get better @ this! =)

Off to finish my homework now....

UNTIL...