Often we miss opportunities to capture the reality of the beauty that surrounds us because we are too caught up in our busyness. It takes a conscious effort to take notice of the little miracles and unlimited beauty that unfolds all around us.
Whether you live in a city, suburb or in the country, we are part of a collection of beauty. Embrace the kaleidoscope of color that is found in a field of flowers or the silent whistle of leaves on a tree. Take notice of the backdrop under the night lite sky or a chiseled, sculpture of an architectural work of art in the heart of the city. Observe the colorful personalities that make up the tapestry of a community or region. Listen to the city rhythms of sirens, horns, or loud conversations. Gaze upon the choreography of weaving traffic.
When we embrace our natural environments and even our own circumstances, we release tension, resistance and stress. We can transform how we see our world. In the midst of chaos, it can be a place of acceptance and harmony.
It’s realizing that although we can’t change every area of annoyance and distraction in our lives, we can learn to perceive the discomfort through a different lens. We might be contained within our boundaries but understanding that things will eventually change because life is constantly evolving and shifting.
Grounding yourself in peace is a life skill that only comes by a relationship with the Lord.
There is also healing that takes place when we don’t build up a resistance to it. Whether in solitude or a bustling crowd of people, we can find our center which surrounds us in peace and tranquility. Just by taking a moment to pause, we can capture our lives in motion instead of a selfie.
There is beauty in living in the moment. If you blink, you’ll miss it.
Scripture Readings:
But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. Psalm 131:2
The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble. Prov 19:21
I saw a man who had no family, no son or brother. He always worked hard but was never satisfied with what he had. He never asked himself, “For whom am I working so hard? Why don’t I let myself enjoy life?” This also is very sad and useless. Eccl 4:8 (NCV)
Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. Psalm 20:7
Do you wonder if trust, faith or belief means the same thing?
Although they sound the same or at least very similar, these words are not the same. However, they are part of the same family, per say, and weaved together in various ways.
TRUST
A reliance on the integrity, veracity or reliability of a person or thing.
Something committed to one’s care for use or safekeeping.
The state or position of one who has received an important charge.
Confident expectation; hope
In commerce, credit
To rely upon; to commit to the care of another
The property or thing held in trust as in relation subsisting between the holder and the property so held.
A combination of business firms formed to control productions or prices of some commodity.
In the world, people rely on the trust of their spouse, friends, doctors, teachers and other people in their communities. They depend on their opinions, advice, judgments, criticism, and perspectives. They depend on their status, position and intellect.
For the most part, they are self-reliant and value the ideas and opinions of others. Some people may even listen to the instruction or opinion of others before following their own minds.
The problem with trusting others is that they may not always use wisdom and could lean you towards the wrong decision. You may not have clarity on the right answer or correct decision to make (depending on the situation).
When making sound decisions, you should have a peace within which can easily be found through the Holy Spirit. When you put your trust in Him, you will eventually experience change. At times, you will wait endlessly for divine guidance with no answers in sight, but you must remain diligent despite the circumstances. There may be a lesson to be learned while waiting for direction.
Idolatry is another issue that arises by trusting in material things. Money, houses, fame, and fortune are all forms of idolatry. You may even be addicted to your cell phone or the internet. Whatever you put before God, will become a form of idolatry.
As a person strives for more, they become dissatisfied with their life. They begin to compare and judge others. The birth of greed, jealousy, envy, and depression cradles the mind and soul as they continue to pursue fleshy passions or possessions.
The Lord is the only source of real and complete satisfaction. When people fail you or objects become old, lost, stolen or broken, Jesus is the one and only who satisfies and quenches your thirst in a dry, parched world.
FAITH
Belief without evidence.
Confident trust
Belief in God; the Bible
A specific religion
Anything given adherence or credence to a man’s political faith
Allegiance
In the Bible, it states, “Faith is the evidence hoped for the evidence of things not seen. Heb 11:1
In this culture, it seems foolish to believe in something that you cannot see. Have you ever heard the popular saying, “Seeing is believing?” This statement reinforces the belief of the natural realm or physical world while dismissing the reality of the spiritual one.
It’s not easy to believe in something you cannot see but everyone does it every day whether they realize it or not. The act of breathing is a form of faith. This simple yet necessary activity gives us life each and every day. Not one of us has ever seen oxygen but we know it exists.
The closest we ever got to see it is in the middle of winter when a puff of smoke comes out of your mouth or nostrils. The Lord also provides similar ways to reveal himself to us if we acknowledge His presence.
Another example is music. No one has ever seen music yet it exists. Although we hear it, we will never be able to see or touch it. Just like the Father, the Lord speaks to us within our spirit but we must be still enough to listen to the whisper of God.
BELIEF
1 The acceptance of something as true or actual
2. That which is believed true, as a creed
3. Religious faith
4. Confidence, trust
5. An opinion
The mere definition of belief opens up a Pandora’s box because there are so many belief systems in this world. So many opinions and perspectives of different cultures, ethnicities, races, religions, and regions. This aids in the chaos and confusion because everyone has their own opinions and what they feel is believed to be true.
The Lord loves us so much that He has given us freedom of choice. He does not force us, manipulate us or persuade us to believe in Him. He allows us free reign to seek Him or reject him.
Independence is a beautiful thing. However, when we depend solely on ourselves and the world system, it leads us to misery, deception, confusion, and frustration.
If you allowed a child, complete freedom to do what they wanted, they would self-destruct. They would probably eat all the candy, cookies or ice cream they wanted. Plus, they would watch TV or play video games all day and night and leave a mess in their rooms as well as the whole house.
Well, we are no different. We would choose all the pleasures of this world and ignore the consequences of our actions.
The Lord has defined certain principles and guidelines to abide by for our good. This is not to hurt us but to protect us. The Lord is a loving Father who guides us along life’s journey. There is a multitude of promises that align with the Lord’s instructions waiting for us. He is not waiting for the first chance we mess up so he can punish us if we do something wrong. He is full of compassion, grace, and mercy. However, you must be willing to cleanse your heart of all sin (repent) and walk as an example of Christ. The Lord has many gifts and treasures to enjoy on this earth as well as in heaven.
The Lord asks that you trust Him, walk in faith and believe in Him at all times. Commit to His ways for His love endures forever.
Prayer
Lord, Thank you for being a loving Father. I honor and worship you in spirit and in truth. Help me to walk in your ways. When I mess up, let me be quick to correct my mistakes. I pray that you will give me a measure of faith that will shift all obstacles blocking my path. I rebuke all fear, self-doubt, addictions, temptation, anxiety or depression. Help me to trust in you alone. Reveal yourself to me in new ways and may I receive a fresh revelation. I believe your promises and I stand on your word in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
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Bible Reference
For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may clearly be seen, that they have been done of God. John 3:20-21
Do you feel you’re constantly fighting some type of resistance or negative energy? There are so many things in this world that lead us to a pessimistic attitude, mood, or mindset. We don’t have to search hard to find it. Our relationships are affected by external influences and internal anxieties due to the pressures of life.
How does a Christian walk in the light despite all the challenges and obstacles that obstruct their path or blind their vision? The best strategy is to forge straight ahead regardless of the distractions.
When we take our eyes off the problems, we gain the strength and focus needed to accomplish the tasks the Lord has for us to do. In the Bible, Peter had to keep his eyes on Jesus. When he lost his faith, Peter began to sink. By looking straight ahead at Jesus, he was able to walk on the water.
We have unlimited potential and abilities when we walk with Jesus. When we tap into His power, we have the authority to walk over serpents and scorpions and not be harmed. Luke 10:19
When we continue to magnify our problems and experiences, it tends to fuel the flames. However, when we shift our focus and walk on a higher spiritual plane, we eliminate the negative emotions that overtake our minds and emotions and robs us of our peace. Elevating our thoughts provides a sense of motivation, hope, and encouragement. Of course, we shouldn’t ignore the realities we face, but we should not give it more power than the abundant power of God.
We must develop a thick skin and decree boldness in words and deeds. To become an example of Christ, we must fight spiritual warfare daily by speaking the Word of God over every battle and by confronting demonic forces in the natural and spiritual world.
We cannot walk in the power of Christ if we are consumed by worldly problems and issues. First, we must learn to handle our own spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical well-being before we can assist and aid our brothers and sisters. It’s not an act of selfishness. It’s an act of selflessness. We must first put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others.
The Lord will equip us with everything we need on the journey. We have walked through dry deserts, deep valleys and rough terrain yet we have been developed and trained up in this spiritual boot camp.
There are seven spheres of influence that the Lord is calling his people to. Christ-centered ambassadors have a specific assignment for this new season. We have been waiting in discomfort and in all types of situations to understand what the Lord is calling his people to do. The Body of Christ, each member, must walk in obedience after Holy instructions. We should lead in authority according to God’s will, plans, and purposes. It’s God’s agenda. Let’s be about His business.
We are called to pull down strongholds and demonic forces upon the earth. The Lord provides the skills, gifts, and abilities to complete every assignment. There’s no college degree required when the Lord anoints you for his work, however, you must study yourself to be approved by reading His word daily. There is always value in education but sometimes life lessons are the best teacher.
Let the Lord lead you into the sphere of influence He has designed especially for you! Take a look at the 7 spheres of influence below and take note of what your internal spiritual compass speaks to you. Think outside of the norm. It doesn’t have to be a traditional field or area; however, this is a great starting point to explore.
Grab a copy of “Seven Spheres of Influence” EmpowerConnect e-Zine newsletter which focuses on leadership and creating a legacy for the next generation. This guide is for the person seeking purpose, an entrepreneur or leader who wants to gain impact or a personal brand who desires more influence. Download your copy here!
Government: Do you have strong leadership abilities?
Media: Do you have strong communication skills or a platform of influence?
Business: Do you have negotiation skills? Are you skilled in delegating?
Family: Do you have a heart for family and intimacy?
Religion: Do you have a heart for the lost, hurt, or sick?
Education: Do you have a strong desire to teach, motivate, or edify others?
Arts: Do you have unique creative abilities or skills?
Five-Fold Ministry of Leadership.
Also, keep in mind of the Five-Fold Ministry. What area do you feel led to? Pray for the Lord to guide you. He will fulfill every promise. Trust and believe.
Apostle
Prophet
Evangelist
Pastor
Teacher
Bible References
Luke 10:19
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
I Corinth 12:7-21
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kind of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
14 For the body is not one member, but many.
15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
I Corinth 12:28-31
28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
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