Christians Unite!

[VioletButterfly]

I'm reading and embracing the 34th Psalm tonight. It is so comforting and encouraging. Peace and grace be with everyone.

 

[Changing4Best]

I'm doing a Bible Study called "JAMES" by N. T. Wright. Needless to say it is about the book of James. I am having some great realizations about a couple of people who are mad at me, and who have been vocal about it in one way or another. In one case I apologized and in the other I am ignoring the nasty comments as best as I can, hoping that the study will get through to the person and she will stop making her nagging and carping statements. So, I am working on "taming my tongue" in other words! It is not easy. Please pray that I succeed in continuing to keep my mouth shut, when/ if the other person continues to make her snide comments. I am asking, because the last time I got annoyed enough to make a snide comment back at someone who was making snide comments in general, but aimed at me, things did not go well (of course). I know now that replying in any way to snide comments is best not done at all.

 

[Lionheart]

I have a Men's Devotional Bible that my father bought me Christmas of 1993 that I am going to take a closer look at. I hope that I can strengthen my relationship with the Lord, .....prayers are welcome.

 

[VioletButterfly]

I shared Philippians 4:4-6 the other night on another forum as it was on my heart, then life happened. It was in going back to this verse and with the support of some in that village that I find myself in a better mindset and heart-set right now.

It always amazes me that when I seek light, light finds me. I hope you all have a blessed weekend. VB

 

[Justmehere]

The real Christmas story - I can deal with that. It’s a mix of joy, pain, awe, faith and light in the dark.

I could easily do without the spastic happy-happy-yay-all-the-things consumerist explosion that is the MONTH of December in the US. It’s everywhere.

I could use prayer navigating this month. I broke down at church in the bathroom today. I get that it’s a celebration, and that’s good. It’s a season with a lot of pain for me too.

 

[Changing4Best]

I understand. I hate the consumerism too, especially since I have so little money to spend. Then too, I miss my late husband during all holidays. Those were the days he had off from work (he was a workaholic, so there were not a lot of other days we spent together). So, yes, this season can be depressing to so many of us for so many reasons, each our own reason. Praying for you, @Justmehere

 

[VioletButterfly]

I'm seeking today... I've been reading through James, 1 Peter, and 1 John. I've found so many blessing, including roadmaps, constructive instruction, reassurance, blessings, forgiveness, and love.

With God there is no darkness. This concept really struck me. How many times have I only needed a tiny bit of light to keep from making horrific and final decisions? How many times have I been stumbling blindly toward reckless death and His light stopped it? Many. How many times have a stumbled and harmed others? I'm forgiven. Despite all that has befallen me and the price I've paid and am paying, and through all of my mistakes, His light has sustained me and urges me to go on.

I'm praying to be more grateful for all that I have been given, both good and bad because through suffering I am blessed.

 

[Changing4Best]

I have several bad habits I'd love to be rid of. Just sayin'

 

[VioletButterfly]

Spending time in the Psalms again today. Psalm 129 tells me that even though I may have been mistreated, the perpetrators will not be allowed to ruin my entire life. Psalm 139 tells me that God knows everything about me and my life and who I was before I took my first breath. It tells me that I am safe with Him.

Hoping you have a blessed day and that Grace covers you on your journeys. VB

 

[Changing4Best]

Psalm 139 is my favorite Psalm!

 

[VioletButterfly]

Still reading the Psalms. Today it's the 86th Psalm. I find so much comfort and reassurance here. So much hope and understanding.

I think I need to find a family of believers here in my local community. Praying that I can walk in faith and find the courage to move forward in doing so.

Blessings to you for a wonderful day ahead. :)

 

[Lionheart]

I am having a bit of a crisis in the faith department so, .....

I wanted to ask, "How do I strengthen my faith? How do I improve my relationship with God?"

I know that bad things sometimes happen to good people, so I wonder what the purpose of faith even is, ya know? Why should I have faith in a God who is going to allow bad things to happen to me?

All I know is that, when I replace the name "God" with love, or the name, "Jesus" with love, it is easier for me to believe. I believe that true, unconditional Love is an extraordinarily powerful force in the universe, regardless of bad things happening to people.

So, If I can have faith in that, why do I have trouble with the concept of a loving, all-powerful, God? Why is my faith so weak? What am I doing wrong?

Thanks,
Lionheart