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A Day 5 Praise
Philippians 2:11 And every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Have you given much thought to how you start your day? Do you simply start off running? Or do you have a relaxed start and begin with time for prayer and praise?
Recently, my love of sleep means that I get started later than what is ideal. I have big plans for getting up earlier and doing more before the day is truly started. The one thing that is now a part of just about every morning is my prayer and praise time.
A little more than a year ago, I decided that I had to add more prayer in my life and I have actually made a new habit. It didn't necessarily come easily. There are some mornings when opening my eyes is extremely hard. However, I can claim success. Having made this progress, I know I can pray and praise my way to more change.
My diet and exercise plan are the next to be transformed again. I've done it before and I will do it again. Since I love sleep, I'll have to make some other adjustments to my plan to get my sleep and my early start. My prayer and praise transformation let me know this too can change. Another reason for Praise!
Have you given much thought to how you start your day? Do you simply start off running? Or do you have a relaxed start and begin with time for prayer and praise?
Recently, my love of sleep means that I get started later than what is ideal. I have big plans for getting up earlier and doing more before the day is truly started. The one thing that is now a part of just about every morning is my prayer and praise time.
A little more than a year ago, I decided that I had to add more prayer in my life and I have actually made a new habit. It didn't necessarily come easily. There are some mornings when opening my eyes is extremely hard. However, I can claim success. Having made this progress, I know I can pray and praise my way to more change.
My diet and exercise plan are the next to be transformed again. I've done it before and I will do it again. Since I love sleep, I'll have to make some other adjustments to my plan to get my sleep and my early start. My prayer and praise transformation let me know this too can change. Another reason for Praise!
Averting a Day 6 Crisis
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Somehow, I managed to get almost to Christmas without doing any shopping. It wasn't really my plan. I just got caught up in a ton of other things. The problem with me getting caught up is that exercise wasn't on the top of the list of things I was doing. I did manage to eat relatively well, but I probably could have been doing that better as well.
Most to the time, I was pretty calm about the whole thing. Not that I'm say that my calmness was good. There should have been a sense of urgency a little earlier. Let me be clear, urgency is not necessarily panic. Avoiding panic is very important. However, I need to make sure that I am on course to reach my goals. To realign myself, I had to refocus.
In these time, I need to create the picture of the result and my arrival at that point in a manner that supports my continued growth and development. While I haven't perfected my approach, it is better and I am taking steps every day to reach all of my goals. At the moment, my gift getting and giving along with my exercising need my attention. I'm making progress and thinking and seeing such things working out well.
7 Days of Reflection
Luke 2:10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
Focusing mind, body and spirit may not always prove easy. We are called to step out on faith and to what the Lord directs us to do. We are to prepare for each move with our focus on Christ. While the unknown is ahead of us, we must remember that we have received the good news and the God is always with us.
Of course, this is truly easy to say. Sometimes, it is hard to do. To move us from our own doubt and uncertainty, we need to reflect on the blessings we have received to date and remind ourselves how we have been victorious in similar situations. "Resting on the Lord," is an act that requires effort and practice.
As we reflect during the time our strength will be renewed and we will be better prepared for the challenge ahead of us. Imagine for a moment, how Mary and Joseph stepped into uncertainty for the most tremendous gift for the world. We, like them, may not be able to see far ahead. And just like the Mary and Joseph, we know that God will never leave nor forsake us.
Focusing mind, body and spirit may not always prove easy. We are called to step out on faith and to what the Lord directs us to do. We are to prepare for each move with our focus on Christ. While the unknown is ahead of us, we must remember that we have received the good news and the God is always with us.
Of course, this is truly easy to say. Sometimes, it is hard to do. To move us from our own doubt and uncertainty, we need to reflect on the blessings we have received to date and remind ourselves how we have been victorious in similar situations. "Resting on the Lord," is an act that requires effort and practice.
As we reflect during the time our strength will be renewed and we will be better prepared for the challenge ahead of us. Imagine for a moment, how Mary and Joseph stepped into uncertainty for the most tremendous gift for the world. We, like them, may not be able to see far ahead. And just like the Mary and Joseph, we know that God will never leave nor forsake us.
8 Days of Christmas Connections
Luke 2:16-17 ~ 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.
I feel as if I spend a ton of time networking. It is mostly for professional reasons. I connect with one person then the next to help me make progress in with my career and for me to help others with theirs. It actually almost natural for me...on most days. I like talking to people. Learning from them and making further connections is usually fun too.
I had never thought about my connections with my Christian community in the same way. However, maybe I should. I may not be passing business cards in the same manner, but I do get valuable information from my Christian sisters and brothers and I share that information with others.
While there were probably no formal business cards involved, the message of the birth of Christ was shared through word-of-mouth connections. Keeping this great news to quite couldn't be done. It had to be shared then and now. We need to make sure we are doing our part and sharing the good news. Christ came to the world to give us abundant life and eternal life. Great news for all and too good not to share with our Christmas connections!
I feel as if I spend a ton of time networking. It is mostly for professional reasons. I connect with one person then the next to help me make progress in with my career and for me to help others with theirs. It actually almost natural for me...on most days. I like talking to people. Learning from them and making further connections is usually fun too.
I had never thought about my connections with my Christian community in the same way. However, maybe I should. I may not be passing business cards in the same manner, but I do get valuable information from my Christian sisters and brothers and I share that information with others.
While there were probably no formal business cards involved, the message of the birth of Christ was shared through word-of-mouth connections. Keeping this great news to quite couldn't be done. It had to be shared then and now. We need to make sure we are doing our part and sharing the good news. Christ came to the world to give us abundant life and eternal life. Great news for all and too good not to share with our Christmas connections!9 Days of Christmas Love
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
The crowds, the crazy traffic even in the parking lot, the extra long to-do lists are making my head spin. Not really, I haven't participated in the shopping craziness just yet. The thought of getting out there reminds me that there is way too much craziness out there. All the commotion can make me forget what I'm really supposed to be doing and what all of this is about.
God sent Jesus to us to love us supremely. In turn we need to love ourselves and each other. This is a serious calling. That should motivate us to act. While demonstrating love doesn't have to look like a present, I guess I'll get myself out in the crowd to buy a couple of things that are small trinkets to display my love for others. I will love all those along the way who hurriedly go about there business and cross my path.
The crowds, the crazy traffic even in the parking lot, the extra long to-do lists are making my head spin. Not really, I haven't participated in the shopping craziness just yet. The thought of getting out there reminds me that there is way too much craziness out there. All the commotion can make me forget what I'm really supposed to be doing and what all of this is about.
God sent Jesus to us to love us supremely. In turn we need to love ourselves and each other. This is a serious calling. That should motivate us to act. While demonstrating love doesn't have to look like a present, I guess I'll get myself out in the crowd to buy a couple of things that are small trinkets to display my love for others. I will love all those along the way who hurriedly go about there business and cross my path.
A 10 Day Christmas Countdown
Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
The days are getting shorter. It feels like there are fewer hours in the day when in reality it is only the day light hours that are shorter. Somehow, this little change makes sleeping easier and getting this done a little bit harder. Focusing on the goal in this holiday season can be a tougher than expected. There are so many things to do that take up so much time and yet there list of things still undone seems so very long.
The goal of Divine Health should never be far from what we do every day, but somehow it is. We have so many option all around us that will take us off the path. However, we can still make it to our goal because we are never going it alone...even when it feels like we are all by ourselves.
God came into the world and lives forever to save us and support us each and every day. Whether the goal can be easily seen or it seems so far off, God is near. We can make it to that end with the help of the Lord and our focus on the Cross.
The days are getting shorter. It feels like there are fewer hours in the day when in reality it is only the day light hours that are shorter. Somehow, this little change makes sleeping easier and getting this done a little bit harder. Focusing on the goal in this holiday season can be a tougher than expected. There are so many things to do that take up so much time and yet there list of things still undone seems so very long.
The goal of Divine Health should never be far from what we do every day, but somehow it is. We have so many option all around us that will take us off the path. However, we can still make it to our goal because we are never going it alone...even when it feels like we are all by ourselves. God came into the world and lives forever to save us and support us each and every day. Whether the goal can be easily seen or it seems so far off, God is near. We can make it to that end with the help of the Lord and our focus on the Cross.
11 Days of Christmas
Matthew 1:23 "They shall call his name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."
When you're getting close to the end of a challenge, there are moments when you have to show your determination and commitment to make it to the end. There have been so many moments when I've felt like simply giving in and just forgetting about sticking to my plan. There have been other times, when I look back, that I haven't held on to the course as closely as I should have.
I've found that the way to keep on track and make the future better than the past is to remember that God is with us. God is always with us. When I get out of my own way and focus on the goal and know that I have more power than I know because of the Lord, it makes the challenge seem doable. Of course, I should never forget that Luke 18:27 Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”
Even with this knowledge there will be days and moments that I need to force myself to remember that I know that this is true. It may not be easy. But with God with me, I can make it.
When you're getting close to the end of a challenge, there are moments when you have to show your determination and commitment to make it to the end. There have been so many moments when I've felt like simply giving in and just forgetting about sticking to my plan. There have been other times, when I look back, that I haven't held on to the course as closely as I should have.
I've found that the way to keep on track and make the future better than the past is to remember that God is with us. God is always with us. When I get out of my own way and focus on the goal and know that I have more power than I know because of the Lord, it makes the challenge seem doable. Of course, I should never forget that Luke 18:27 Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”
Even with this knowledge there will be days and moments that I need to force myself to remember that I know that this is true. It may not be easy. But with God with me, I can make it.
The 12 Days To Get The Christmas Story Straight
Luke 2:10-11 ~ 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Apparently, there is confusion, discussion and disagreement about the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas." The first important point is that it starts on Christmas and moves forward for twelve days. It ends on January 6th in celebration of Epiphany. Those of us who are not Catholic may have never celebrated this holiday that is to commemorate the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi or as we commonly refer to them, the Kings. As for the Kings, the bible doesn't even mention 3 kings. The bible does mention 3 gifts in Luke 2:11 which is where the reference to 3 kings.
Now, back to our little popular song. There is some dispute as to the claim of its origin. Many believe that the words are symbols representing Godly references. Check out this link for more detail. I like this story and know that what the devil meant for evil, God will use for good. (Genesis 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. (KJV))
I don't know about you, but I think is a good opportunity for us to celebrate and remember all the story.
Apparently, there is confusion, discussion and disagreement about the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas." The first important point is that it starts on Christmas and moves forward for twelve days. It ends on January 6th in celebration of Epiphany. Those of us who are not Catholic may have never celebrated this holiday that is to commemorate the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi or as we commonly refer to them, the Kings. As for the Kings, the bible doesn't even mention 3 kings. The bible does mention 3 gifts in Luke 2:11 which is where the reference to 3 kings.
Now, back to our little popular song. There is some dispute as to the claim of its origin. Many believe that the words are symbols representing Godly references. Check out this link for more detail. I like this story and know that what the devil meant for evil, God will use for good. (Genesis 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. (KJV))
I don't know about you, but I think is a good opportunity for us to celebrate and remember all the story.
Dancing for 13 Days Until Christmas
Ecclesiastes 3:4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance
I spent my evening at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at NY City Center. To witness the talent, the ease of movement and the joy that these well-toned bodies displayed is just incredible. I my mind, I think I can do what they do. In reality, I know I can't do most of it.
To be able to make such difficult dancing seem easy requires a serious amount of work. I've been in dance class before and my développé typically resulted in my leg extension that angled slightly down. Lifting my leg to heights were I could see it in my peripheral vision never happened and was only a dream. Flying through the air is really pure fantasy...for me. Just look a this picture! This is a split in mid-air. Check out all the definition on his body. All of that just doesn't happen after a little nap. There was some serious work going on in the appropriate time. Now, it is the time to perform and none in the audience were left disappointed.
While I don't have professional aspirations, I am considering going back to a dance class. I love the movement and the ability to improve my body in so many ways, especially my flexibility and balance. Until then, I will appreciate the professionals. If you're in New York, I highly recommend attending. It is over on January 1st. Get you tickets today! They do have
Being in ready for the task ahead of us is so important. We have to put the work in when it is time to do so and we will be ready when it is time execute. It is clear that there were many hours of working out to craft the smooth muscle in their bodies and to enable them to perform as they did.
Today, as we continue to get ready for Christmas, remember it is our time to prepare and we will be ready when the day comes to celebrate!
I spent my evening at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at NY City Center. To witness the talent, the ease of movement and the joy that these well-toned bodies displayed is just incredible. I my mind, I think I can do what they do. In reality, I know I can't do most of it.
To be able to make such difficult dancing seem easy requires a serious amount of work. I've been in dance class before and my développé typically resulted in my leg extension that angled slightly down. Lifting my leg to heights were I could see it in my peripheral vision never happened and was only a dream. Flying through the air is really pure fantasy...for me. Just look a this picture! This is a split in mid-air. Check out all the definition on his body. All of that just doesn't happen after a little nap. There was some serious work going on in the appropriate time. Now, it is the time to perform and none in the audience were left disappointed. While I don't have professional aspirations, I am considering going back to a dance class. I love the movement and the ability to improve my body in so many ways, especially my flexibility and balance. Until then, I will appreciate the professionals. If you're in New York, I highly recommend attending. It is over on January 1st. Get you tickets today! They do have
Being in ready for the task ahead of us is so important. We have to put the work in when it is time to do so and we will be ready when it is time execute. It is clear that there were many hours of working out to craft the smooth muscle in their bodies and to enable them to perform as they did.
Today, as we continue to get ready for Christmas, remember it is our time to prepare and we will be ready when the day comes to celebrate!
14 Days to Christmas Light
John 8: 12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
It is two weeks until Christmas! For those of us getting ready to celebrate in a big way, we don't have much time to get ready. If you're like me, you probably have a ton to do. I just pulled out my first Christmas decorations yesterday. Actually, even those only doing a little still only have 14 days.
The wonderful part of Christmas is that we take a moment to stop and recognize that in a moment the Christ child was born and the light of the world came for each and everyone of us. During this time, meditating on the Word will help us refocus as we prepare for the new year of challenges ahead of us.
We don't need to wait to make some positive changes. Making small steps today can lead to bigger steps tomorrow. I've been doing a good job on cutting do
wn on my sugar intake. My real focus is to be conscious about every bit I put in my mouth. I happen to love second helpings and to adjust, I've been getting less the first time. This is part of my effort to retrain my brain.
When families sit around their Christmas trees, faith, family and fitness should all be kept in mind. Celebrating the birth of our Savior should be a wonderful experience that empowers us to be even better than we were before. While we should indulge in some of the best of everything, we should maintain control and not forget what healthy goals we have. Christmas Fitness is a commitment to mind, body and soul...and there only 14 days until the celebration begins.
It is two weeks until Christmas! For those of us getting ready to celebrate in a big way, we don't have much time to get ready. If you're like me, you probably have a ton to do. I just pulled out my first Christmas decorations yesterday. Actually, even those only doing a little still only have 14 days.
The wonderful part of Christmas is that we take a moment to stop and recognize that in a moment the Christ child was born and the light of the world came for each and everyone of us. During this time, meditating on the Word will help us refocus as we prepare for the new year of challenges ahead of us.
We don't need to wait to make some positive changes. Making small steps today can lead to bigger steps tomorrow. I've been doing a good job on cutting do
wn on my sugar intake. My real focus is to be conscious about every bit I put in my mouth. I happen to love second helpings and to adjust, I've been getting less the first time. This is part of my effort to retrain my brain. When families sit around their Christmas trees, faith, family and fitness should all be kept in mind. Celebrating the birth of our Savior should be a wonderful experience that empowers us to be even better than we were before. While we should indulge in some of the best of everything, we should maintain control and not forget what healthy goals we have. Christmas Fitness is a commitment to mind, body and soul...and there only 14 days until the celebration begins.