Volume 15 Post/Email 4 – Be Joyful Always
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
When we are continually mindful of God's presence and are continually in communion with him, we will always be joyful and give thanks!
Some circumstances are challenging, difficult and even complicated; most are pleasant and welcomed; but all can be handled with prayer and should be reasons for joy and gratitude.
The more we learn the habit of giving thanks, the more we develop a joyful attitude and spirit.
Reflection: Will we always be joyful this week?
Volume 15 Post/Email 3 – My Own Vineyard
In the beginning of the love story of Song of Songs is a metaphorical statement by the woman that describes the lives of perhaps every one of us at times. Chapter 1:6 states, "My mother's sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards." So Brian, what's the big deal? The woman helped her uncles - what's the problem?!
Well, the woman continues, "my own vineyard I have neglected."
When we take care of the vineyards of others to the neglect of our own life and wellbeing, we are unbalanced. We can love our mother; our uncles; our family and friends. But we also must love ourselves and tend to our own needs and individual responsibilities. To neglect ourselves because we overextend ourselves and overexpend our energy and time is to the detriment of all. When our own vineyard is well cared for and nurtured, we are then in the best position to ably serve others.
Reflection: While investing in others, what are you doing to invest in yourself?
Volume 15 Post/Email 2 – Weary and Burdened
Stress and problems in life can lead to becoming weary and burdened.
Jesus' message to the crowd in Matthew 11:28-30 is this: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Reflection: Is any matter pulling me away from Jesus? Am I trying to deal with any person or situation without Jesus and remaining harnessed with Him?
If so, the solution is evident ... 1. Return to Jesus! 2. Learn more from Jesus! 3. Remain yoked with Jesus!
-Brian
Volume 15 Post/Email 1 – It Is Time
There can be times in our lives where we are unsure what to do. However, regardless of season or circumstance, there is a decision for which we should never hesitate or waiver.
Hosea 10:12 directs, "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers righteousness on you."
IT IS ALWAYS TIME TO SEEK THE LORD!
We can desire to be showered with blessings of rain for harvest, but yet neglect to put first matters first. We can dismiss our responsibility and need to plow and prepare the ground! We can overlook our need to sow the seeds. We can fail to cultivate our spiritual ground; spiritual garden; spiritual life.
The Lord promises to shower those who seek him with his righteousness.
We worry about whether we have enough money; whether it is time to change jobs; whether it is time to change diets; whether our family is making the best decision; what we might do to aid a friend.
All of these concerns can be legitimate. And the best way we can live with wisdom regarding these earthly matters is to have a healthy and growing spiritual life! Our greatest daily decision is our faith in the Lord and focus on the Lord. When we worship the Lord, praying to and praising him, and seeking his will and guidance, we will be blessed by him and a blessing to others.
Reflection: What time is it in your life?