Christians Unite!

[VioletButterfly]

How do we practice being humble? Does it involve more than just not boasting?

@HealingInProcess - I looked up "humble" and didn't really care for the definition and synonyms I found as there were self-effacing with a negative or weak connotation when I think it takes great strength to give thanks and glory to God for all that we accomplish or are given. See what you think. Not being prideful might be a better fit in terms of what I think you're looking for? For me, it's about intention and gratitude in all that we are able to do and receive. All that we can do is powered by God and all that we do is for God's glory if we're in this mindset. So, if this is the case, real "pride" in the negative sense isn't a part of the equation. For example, one can be proud of an accomplishment and not be prideful. Who do we give thanks to when we accomplish a), b), c)? Who do we give thanks to when we are able to buy a nice home or that we have food on the table? The list can go on and on.... Gratitude and giving thanks to the One who provided for you.

I hope that makes sense; it's a bit of a ramble. What do you think?

 

[VioletButterfly]

Today's entry highlights worry and being anxious, as in don't do it. Instead, we are to trust and have faith that God will provide, and turn it all over to Him. That is certainly difficult and not my strong suit, but in the past month or so with all that I have on me, I'm learning to let go of some of it. It does make me feel better. I've watched myself writhing in anxiety and fear for years and it certainly hasn't helped me cope any better, so I'm trying it "His" way for now and trusting, walking in faith. I love the support verses included in today's entry: Luke 12:22-31. If you are worrying, this is certainly the one to read and maybe pull into your heart. :) VB

 

[HealingInProcess]

@HealingInProcess - I looked up "humble" and didn't really care for the definition and synonyms I found as there were self-effacing with a negative or weak connotation when I think it takes great strength to give thanks and glory to God for all that we accomplish or are given. See what you think. Not being prideful might be a better fit in terms of what I think you're looking for? For me, it's about intention and gratitude in all that we are able to do and receive. All that we can do is powered by God and all that we do is for God's glory if we're in this mindset. So, if this is the case, real "pride" in the negative sense isn't a part of the equation. For example, one can be proud of an accomplishment and not be prideful. Who do we give thanks to when we accomplish a), b), c)? Who do we give thanks to when we are able to buy a nice home or that we have food on the table? The list can go on and on.... Gratitude and giving thanks to the One who provided for you.

I hope that makes sense; it's a bit of a ramble. What do you think?

I like your thoughts on this. I think it's knowing that all good things come from God and that we do not have anything that is our own, but we are to be stewards of the things that are put in our possession, be they material blessings or natural or spiritual gifts. Humility is founded in truth, we do not achieve of our own merits or strength, but of those things the Lord has given to us. To think that we excel because of our own merits is to believe a lie, although of course we add our own labors to the things the Lord has blessed us with.

 

[VioletButterfly]

Rereading yesterday's entry and Luke 12:22-31, then reading today's entry about Jesus transforming and washing away the darkness. This faith walk is difficult sometimes, especially when life feels like it's off the tracks. So, well, I'm keeping my face toward the sun, praying and do what I can do today to support myself, letting Jesus take the wheel in all other regards while I seek, listen and console.

 

[VioletButterfly]

Reread Luke 12:22-30 again. I'm thinking it might be a good idea for me to look at that daily as an encouragement to not worry.

Today's entry is about walking in the light of God's love, seeing others through this lense, and letting God's love-light shine outward through us. What's that old song....."This Little Light of Mine" Ha, I love Youtube! Enjoy. :)

 

[HealingInProcess]

Worries can weigh us down so it's helpful to think of those things that are going welland remember all the times the Lord has helped us in the past.

 

[Changing4Best]

@Changing4Best - Hmmm, I usually go with NIV or AMP, but the KJV is more lyrical in this instance and kind of makes more sense to me. What are your thoughts? Also, how are you liking your dual-churching? My home church has a lot of classes and groups but is very large so I'm thinking of finding a smaller church and then going to classes/groups there as well once I get situated.

I like the one that says "so I will not cause pain" best (Or words to that affect). To me, it covers a lot more ground. One can cause pain to oneself, but really, the way I see it, it is most important not to cause pain to others. That is a form of love. To treat people in such a way that one does not hurt them in any way!

My 2 church journey is a bit overwhelming at times because I work 5 weekdays and then go to church both days of the weekend. I know that I will either have to take off a few days from work here and there or skip church (one or the other) some weekends.

I do feel a sense of recovery of what I once had, only I was not working then. It is a hard thing to do, to attend 2 churches. Eventually I think I may slow down the on the times I go to one of the churches, though I must admit that both of them have been very good to me. It will be a hard choice when I do!

 

[HealingInProcess]

I like the one that says "so I will not cause pain" best (Or words to that affect). To me, it covers a lot more ground. One can cause pain to oneself, but really, the way I see it, it is most important not to cause pain to others. That is a form of love. To treat people in such a way that one does not hurt them in any way!

My 2 church journey is a bit overwhelming at times because I work 5 weekdays and then go to church both days of the weekend. I know that I will either have to take off a few days from work here and there or skip church (one or the other) some weekends.

I do feel a sense of recovery of what I once had, only I was not working then. It is a hard thing to do, to attend 2 churches. Eventually I think I may slow down the on the times I go to one of the churches, though I must admit that both of them have been very good to me. It will be a hard choice when I do!

I'm glad you are blessed with two good options.

 

[HealingInProcess]

Anyone have any prayers that they like to use regularly?

 

[VioletButterfly]

The Lord's Prayer and the Serenity Prayer are the two I most often go to. I also like the 23rd Psalm.

 

[VioletButterfly]

Continuing to read my devotional and pulling myself back from the edge. I like these shared suggestions: Proverbs 31:25 and Proverbs 16:9.

I also caught an episode of a local program where experiencing joy in the midst of life's storms was being discussed. It was really awesome, just what I needed - right?! The hosts shared 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 which gave me pause, but made sense after listening to discussion. Joy is a choice.

 

[HealingInProcess]

Continuing to read my devotional and pulling myself back from the edge. I like these shared suggestions: Proverbs 31:25 and Proverbs 16:9.

I also caught an episode of a local program where experiencing joy in the midst of life's storms was being discussed. It was really awesome, just what I needed - right?! The hosts shared 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 which gave me pause, but made sense after listening to discussion. Joy is a choice.

I'm glad to hear you're staying in the word VB. I like your comment that joy is a choice. I agree that it is although what "joy" is I think can change. I would not say joy is necessarily a feeling but a perspective rooted in thankfulness and hope.