The Language of Friendship


“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24


As we build relationships, even from early childhood, we find that issues that draw us together are not always because of personality appeal. For a Christian, the hand of God is placing one another into positions that will further His plan for each life and how that plan will bring glory to Him, not just someone we can enjoy because of comfort or convenience. We learn as time progresses that a true friend will always be loyal and will “SUPPORT YOUR STRENGTHS AND SHORE UP YOUR WEAKNESS.”

A true friend will be willing to care with kindness, even in difficult places, without feeling burdened by unusual challenges. Sometimes friendships extend outside the “family” connection as brothers and sisters in Christ because one “outside the family circle” needs to be drawn and welcome into those everlasting ties.  Expand your meditation time with how you can add a friend to your family.

True Christianity

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 19:19

 


In today’s world with changing values and priorities, we have forgotten the exhortation to be wholly dedicated to a PERSON, God Almighty through the life of our Lord Jesus Christ and The Holy Spirit to guide us.

We substitute a system of works, performances, planning events, duties, and deeds believing we are fully surrendered to the Lord.  Let’s remove our second best, return to our First Love, and learn His heart so we may walk in True Christianity.

The Flow of Living Water

“In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” John 7:37-38

Today we are discussing how we dam up the flow of living water in our lives and the truths that break the dam and set us free.

So, join in the conversation as we break loose the flow of living water. 

Christian Psychology

“The wisdom of the prudent (sensible) is to understand his way but the folly (foolishness) of fools is deceit.” Proverbs 14:8

 

Christianity has cracked the door open to ways of the world becoming acceptable in the life of the Church, and we don’t even recognize the tangle web that has been woven into our thinking.

Rather than accepting the fact that we are called to lay down our lives for others in service and caring from a heart of sacrificial love, we protect ourselves from having to bear one another’s pain. We don’t know how to help others  carry the load that plague the soul and spirit. We are great on helping in the physical needs and we are thankful for that blessing. However, we are body, soul, and spirit. All three parts need to be growing and healthy.

Heavenly wisdom give us understanding in tearing down our walls of defense, as we allow the Spirit to make  the heart  of Christ real in our lives.

 

The Promises of General Rewards

“Each on will receive his own reward according to his own labor” 1 Cor. 3:8.

 

 

In 1 Corinthians chapter three, Paul tells us that we will all receive rewards according to our own labor. This chapter goes on to warn us to take heed how we build on the foundation of Christ for in that Day when we stand before Jesus face to face, our work will be tried by fire.

Today we are breaking down the general rewards mentioned in scripture.

So join in the conversation as we discuss the promises of general rewards

Modern Psychology

 

“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4

 

Modern psychology is the perfect substitute for God playing in our lives with our own intellect and reasoning. There are many different facets that mar our thinking, and some are so “reasonable” the modern-day church accepts and even endorses them.

The church family – The Body of Christ is the only source of light in the darkness of human reasoning and logic.

One positive note is that even with self-consciousness within weak or carnal Christians there are “pockets” of believers that are standing strong, growing, and ministering to others who are in need. For others.

Some are just too busy to get involved with helping someone with their entrapment of worldly values.

Some are too ignorant of God’s word and unable to assist in helping to set free people in bondage.

Some want to help but don’t know-how and fear keep them silent.

Some are being a witness to the Life of Christ within us – Where are you in this line-up?

The Crown of Life

“Blessed is the man that endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them that love Him” James 1:12

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue their conversation about the five crowns mentioned in scripture. These crowns are known to be rewards that some will receive when they stand before the Lord at the judgment seat of Christ where all believers will receive praise from the Lord.

The crown of life is mentioned in James 1:12 which tells us the prerequisites for receiving this crown.
So join in the conversation as we examine the Crown of Life.

Psychology

 

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

 

What is a simple definition of secular Psychology? A study of the natural, our natures, how they function, and how to fix what is wrong.  Sounds like a good idea except they want to solve all our problems with man’s solutions. The thought of seeking the God of Creation according to them is not rational or reasonable. Why, because we are smarter and have done away with those superstitions and myths about God. We are our own god and can make those decisions for ourselves, man can fix man. (no he can’t)

Grab pencil and paper to jot down a few ideas that are keeping us in turmoil and trauma in how modern psychology has crept into our church lives.  Know the facts as history describes and then see the pattern that leads us down the path of failure.  Do Christians have another option and can we mix secular psychology with a Biblical worldview? The answers may surprise you.

Spiritual Greatness

 

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

 

One of the beliefs we entertain and promote is the religious lie that to be spiritual and useful in our walk with the Lord as believers, we must be spiritual giants. The greater the gifts, the more powerful the preaching and teaching, and the more popular and well-known our own ministry qualifies us as Christians living with a 4-star approval rating. RUBBISH!

Our Bible is filled with calling our attention to daily dying to self, decreasing in the importance of “MY” ministry, being willing to suffer, and allowing Christ and His character to take center stage in every aspect of our lives.

Settle back in quietly waiting on the Lord for His mind as we look at how God is shaping us into His image through ways that differ from the popular belief that “Bigger is always Better.”

The Impartial Judge

Romans 2:14: “The day will surely come when at God”s command Jesus Christ will judge the secret lives of everyone, their inmost thoughts and motives, this is all part of God’s great plan which I proclaim.”

 

 

God in His mercy has made provisions for us to escape His perfect justice through Jesus Christ paying our penalty and anyone who accepts His perfect plan  will never know condemnation.
He does not play favorites but offers His mercy in longsuffering that leads us to repent of our wrongs, as we are all guilty according to the mind of God, Ruler of All.
Today, we cover a wide range of Truth,diving into the depths of His forgiveness and hopefully, open our eyes to see where we try to escape wrath by our own ways and means, creating our own standard for justice and failing miserably.  Be ready to stand before The Impartial Judge and hear “Well Done, Welcome Home.”

The Word is Enough

 

Isaiah 30:15: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength.”

The closing portion of that verse says BUT YOU WOULD NOT. Why would anyone want to reject that counsel? As believers we want a secure relationship with Almighty God and enjoy all the blessings He provides for His family.

When we read this counsel from the Bible but will not apply, we lack understanding or simply do not believe it is our final authority. We then turn onto a detour that takes down a winding road to destruction.

Let’s get grounded in the sufficiency of scripture as it was written to and for us.

Commanded to Judge

“And I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment that you may approve things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” Phil. 1:9-11.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon continue to discuss the controversial topic of judging. Philippians 1:9-11 describes why judgment is important in our daily lives and how it brings glory to God. When we understand the right definition of judgment and practice judgment according to scripture, we will know better why we are commanded to judge.

Everlasting Truth

 

“And this is eternal life, that they may KNOW You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” JOHN 17:3

To know everlasting Truth you need to know who and what is Truth, according to the author of Truth. Many today know about the God of Truth without having a personal and intimate relationship with Him. Facts are great but they will never hold up in difficult days without having the life of Truth in our hearts and minds.
John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

Without the Word as our constant companion, we will remain in infanthood for growth.
Be a part of our discussion today regarding the divine desire that has been given to all of us to hide His Word in our hearts, that we might not live a sinful life.

A Lifestyle of Discernment

“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men” 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie Ratzlaff and Sharon Hoskins discuss the scriptures which give instructions that require discernment. If we continue to read in 1 Thessalonians 5:15-23, we discover many more discerning instructions such as; follow that which is good, don’t render evil for evil, rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, give thanks in everything, do not despise prophesying, do not quench the Spirit, and prove all things. These commands describe a lifestyle of discernment that will benefit our whole spirit, soul, and body to be preserved blameless to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many times in life we are making decisions before we are filtering it through God’s word. Other times we let our emotions get the best of us and we speak before we think. Join in this conversation that challenges our spiritual growth and apply the practical ways we can begin to live a lifestyle of discernment.

Sufficient Truths of Scripture

 

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

 

The definition of “sufficiency” is adequate to do the purpose intended or to meet a need. 2 Peter defines this as “seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.”
The scripture is the best book for offering guaranteed promises filled with hope, but they also instruct us with rules of accountability. In world culture we find resistant to authority that demands any control where we want our “freedoms.” Many look at the scripture as being deficient or inadequate. Therefore, they ignore the Bible as being a guide they want to trust.
Let’s do a “fact check” in affirming the Bible is not just an extra accessory to aid our model of living with philosophy and methodology; it is the REAL DEAL

Judge Unto Righteousness

“For if we judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world” 1 Corinthians 11:31-32.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the demand we hear from the world, not to judge; however, we find scriptures that command us to judge. So, how are we misappropriating the truth of scripture and misusing the term judge? Join the discussion to discover the different definitions of the word judge, ways to distinguish it in context, and the command we are given to judge unto righteousness.

To Judge or Not to Judge

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged: and with what measure of mete, it shall be measured to you again” Matthew 7:1-2.

 

 

This week on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the scriptural definition of the word judge. Matthew 7:1-2 tells us not to judge; however, Philippians 1:9 says, “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that you may approve things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ.”
It seems that some places of scripture tell us not to judge while other scripture commands us to judge. This is not a contradiction of scripture as some may think. Today we will dive into what is being overlooked in these verses.
So join in the conversation to uncover the answer to the perplexing question; To Judge or Not to Judge!

Building a Biblical Worldview

 

“A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good, and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Luke 6:45

As we establish a Biblical Worldview there are principles we use to decide what builds us up and what can tear us down in knowing the mind of God. Many folks are greatly influence by what others think and so we gather our information from unreliable sources.
Proverbs 18:4 “A person’s words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.” They bring healing but many fail to build a biblical worldview because they are unskilled in the word of God.
WORDS MATTER as they reveal what is in our hearts.
Allowing the mind to trust in its own understanding opens the door of deception which can lead in paths the Lord Jesus never said to walk. Scripture must be our final authority; they are the only words we can trust.
God’s word is full of living power and is a guaranteed guide in building a biblical worldview.

Pathway to Hell

“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.” Romans 1:20

 

 

God has not left us in ignorance as to the consequences that await us for having live our way and not His.  Ours may offer earthly pleasures for a season but the dangers are horrifying beyond our understanding.

Let’s enter the courtroom of our final appearance before the Judge, Jesus Christ, and ask the Spirit to open our eyes to His Word revealing a life separated from God and His Son, Jesus Christ, The Pathway to Hell.

 

Culture Influences Beliefs

 

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage” Galatians 5:1

 

The word entangled intrigues me as it means to become twisted together or caught up in a trap, a snare, jumble, muddled.  In our world, this may include anything from a spider web, fishing nets, traffic jams, or even relationships involving different worldviews. We have been given by Jesus Christ liberty and freedom to stand fast in how we live, but we find ourselves entrapped is missing this freedom and failing to show what others need to see.

Our world has enticed us to accept their values and in doing so we have walked into the trap of entanglement and not being aware that we are trying to live in two different worlds. We struggle to understand ourselves in this dilemma and wonder why there is confusion and looking for escape methods.

Let’s check out a simple definition of a worldview and then unravel the entangle blending that sets us up for contentions, struggles, failing to give our children a solid foundation, and living in this maze of compromise, not aware of our choices.  Cultural priorities, education, acceptance of differences in life focus, and why that bothers us so much will be highlights for today.

Grasping God’s Grace

“The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” 1 Timothy 13-14

 

 

In every letter Paul wrote in the New Testament, he begins with a salutation of grace and peace to you. He was given the ministry of the gospel of grace to the gentiles; that grace is extended to all; God shows no personal favoritism to any man woman boy or girl.
The scriptures say that it is by grace we are saved through faith and that not of yourself, it is a gift of God. This gift of grace seems to be a mystery that most Christians struggle with understanding or even having perspective of today.
So join in the conversation as we explore the abundant blessing that comes with grasping God’s grace.

 

Pause for the Cause

 

“You are God’s building…Jesus Christ is the foundation…take heed how you build on it…you are the temple of God and the Spirit of God dwells in you” 1 Corinthians 3:9-16.

Knowing that we are God’s temple and Jesus is our foundation on which all things in our life are built, to take heed means that we are watchful, careful, and prayerful in what we allow to be added to our character development.
Sometimes the good of life can rob us of the best life which comes through the valley of suffering, the fire of trials, and the pain of difficulties.
So as we grow, build, mature; take heed to pause for the cause of prayer, for the cause of growth, for the cause of Christ, to be a wise master builder according to the grace of God.

The Gospel of God’s Grace

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was
God” John 1:1

 

 

This one statement, John let us know who wrote the greatest book ever written. The
Word was in the beginning, the Word was with God and the Word was God. This leaves
no question for our minds to wonder who is responsible for the Word of God, the Bible,
written for our eyes to read.
In this information age, it is becoming more difficult to discern what Truth is as opposed
to what is just a truth, depending on your point of view.
See how GRACE gives us all that we need for our travels here in this life. We are called
to know the Truth and that is by knowing the AUTHOR of the Truth.
Travel with us back in time to see how knowing the Person known as TRUTH
establishes a life of purpose from the Gospel of Grace.

A Seasoned Saint

 

“Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is neither fit for the land nor for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” Luke 14:34:35

Salt is beneficial to everyone; whether for preservation, for healing, or for flavor, salt can be used to benefit all people.
However, in using the analogy of salt in a way that illustrates how we, as believers, present ourselves to others around us, we can determine if we are flavorful, healing, or preserving others with our words and attitudes.
Salt will lose its flavor after it has been used so everyone needs a fresh measure of salt that comes from the Holy Spirit as we keep our center at the cross.
Much the way a pan is seasoned in the oven, a saint will find that through the trials of life, joy is found in the fire, producing a seasoned saint.

Put On the New

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” 2 Cor. 5:17

 

 

Learning to walk as new creatures in Christ is a process; the old things have truly passed away. But, out of habit, we can grab up those old things and wear them as a robe even though they are really not our true identity.

So we invite you to join in the conversations as we uncover practical ways to put off the old and put on the new.  

 

Seek the Lord

 

“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while he is near” Isaiah 55:6.

 

Current culture has created a “hurry-up” society that must have everything right now, so we live in a panic pace which causes health issues, emotional overload, poor choices and a deterioration of life. 

Christian culture has adopted this same lifestyle and waiting on the Lord becomes a tedious task rather than tranquility and trust. So, we get busy attempting to solve problems right now and fix culture before it falls apart. 

We were never called to fix culture or solve sin; Jesus made the way at the cross and said “it is finished”. We can find all the answers with tranquility and growth at the cross.

Today, we are called to build each other up and continue to grow in Christ as Hebrews 5:12-14 exhorts. “Solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” Hebrews 5:14

Promote Spiritual Growth

“For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age” Hebrews 5:13-14

 

 

These verses make a clear comparison of how we feed spiritually in much the same way we do physically. Babies can’t digest solid food and babes in Christ struggle spiritually to digest the more advanced teachings from scripture.

Today we discuss how we should desire the pure milk of the word, yes; but we should also desire to move on from the elementary things to more solid foods so that we can grow into maturity.

So join in the conversation as we examine ways to Promote Spiritual Growth.

Wheat and Tares

 

“First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn” Matthew 13:30

 

Jesus is using the example of the wheat and tares to describe how believers and unbelievers will be rooted side by side; serving, singing, and even teaching.

Many times we are spiritually unaware of the invasion that is going on around us. We get comfortable with the programs, traditions, activities, and routines of Christianity.

Today we are encouraging believers to examine their hearts, evaluate their surroundings, and pray for discernment to confidently grow among the tares.

Mentoring the Next Generation

“Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works” Titus 2:13-14.

 

 

Easter is a time that the world celebrates spring with egg-laying bunnies as mascots. But, for the Christian, this is a time that we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, so many have re-named it Resurrection Sunday.
Today we are discussing how the blessed hope of eternal life was given to us by the finished work of the Cross; where Jesus died and rose again, can be passed to every generation.
So, join in the conversation as we discuss the foundation of Mentoring the Next Generation.

Garbage Removal

 

2 Corinthians 15-16 “For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ (which ascends) to God, (discernible both) among those who ae being saved and among those who ae perishing, to the latter one an aroma from death to death (a fatal, offensive odor), but to the other an aroma from life to life (a vital) fragrance, living and fresh” – Amplified Bible

 

A sweet pure smell can awaken your senses, draw you to another person or aromatic surroundings. A sweet smell with just one pollutant can be a real “turn-off” in wanting to be near that smell. Sometimes the pollutant may be even good for your health, such as garlic, but it will not produce a sweet blending of aromas. 

There are many ways to offer up pleasing aromas through joy, peace, sacrifice, knowledge and prayer. How do we prepare our minds & thoughts, our personalities, to release the drawing power of the love of Christ? Today, let’s ponder the practical ways to be a sweet fragrance, ridding all the worthless values called garbage.  

  

Time in the Shepherd’s Field

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul” Psalm 23:1-3.

 

 

The little shepherd boy, David, wrote this Psalm and he grew to be a man after God’s own heart. The many quiet nights alone gazing up at the stars and the many days, walking through the pastures tending to the sheep, were spent talking to the Lord and listening to what He said. David’s relationship with the Lord was built in the shepherd’s field.
The same is true for us; our relationship with the Father is built in the quiet alone time with Him. That is when He prepares us for the lions, bears, and giants we will face throughout our day and life.
So join in the conversation as we discuss the many benefits of spending time in the shepherd’s field.

Identifying the Root Problem

 

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” 1 Cor. 3:16.

Do we know that we are the temple of God as 1 Cor. 3:16 so rightly asks? It seems that there’s a lot of wishy-washy living in the Christian society today. What causes our wishy-washy living?
Matthew 7:24 says that a wise man, who hears God’s word and does what His word says, is like a man who builds his house on a rock. But a foolish man will hear God’s word but not do what it says, and he is like a man who builds his house on the sand.
The root problem for wishy-washy living is found in the foundation. Jesus Christ is the Rock that we build on; solid, unwavering, and secure, so we will not be tossed to and fro by every wind that blows our way.

Psalm 23

“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” Psalm 23:1-3.

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes, He leads, He restores, prepares, and anoints! Here, in Psalm 23, David makes a comparison of the Lord’s care for him, to the way that he himself cares for his father’s sheep.

This time of quiet aloneness in the shepherd’s field prepares David for the future he doesn’t know is coming. He will face a giant and run for his life among many other obstacles that David encounters as king.

We too can be prepared for the unknowns that we will face, if we will find a quiet Shepherd’s field to be alone with God; a place where we can listen and be still, waiting for His voice.

So, we invite you to join in the conversation, as we examine how Jesus, the Great Shepherd, cares for us in Psalm 23.

The Old to Young

The older women admonish the young women to love, be discreet, to be chaste, good, obedient, home-makers that the word of God may not be blasphemed – Titus 2.

There’s a trend in the culture to do away with the old, do away with history, do away with the old-fashioned ways of living. So, if we do away with anything that makes us “feel” bad then we can “feel” good and the world will be a better place, which is a total lie. Rewriting history does not change history; it only causes us to repeat the same mistakes that our ancestors made.

With this trend, the Christians have rejected the mentoring established in Titus 2. Instead of the younger clinging to the older for encouragement in the faith, they are pushing them out of the church and out of their lives for the more trending ways of living. Some churches have decided to have 2 services; a traditional for the older, and a contemporary for the younger, separating them even further from each other.

The older are being impacted by the rejection, resolving to keep their wisdom quiet in order to avoid strife; resulting in the younger being more influenced by the trends of the world. We could easily insert today’s Christian into Galatians 3:1, Oh foolish Christian! Who has bewitched you that you should not obey the truth?

So, today, we encourage the old to encourage the young, and the young to embrace the old as we stand together in Christ.

Alone with God

“O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water” Psalm 63:1

 

 

The hustle and bustle of everyday living can rob us of the best that God has to offer His children. We like to multi-task everything, trying to accomplish the most of our day. So, we add our time with God as a chore on our “to-do” list.

But throughout scripture, we are told to be still before the Lord and wait patiently on Him alone. Jesus even said in Matthew 6:6, when you pray, go into your room, shut the door, and pray in secret to Your Father.

Today we are looking at some examples of people who found strength in quiet aloneness.

So join in the conversation as we discover the greatness of being Alone with God.

The Root of Anger

“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you…be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” Eph. 4:31-32

 

Everyone has basic needs, but when they are not met, and then anger and hurt often ensue. Over the course of time, unmet needs are stored in a part of the brain that remembers the negativity in life that triggers anger.

Along with needs, people are entitled to basic rights, but when those rights are violated then hurt and anger is the emotional response.

If anger is a troubling point that you are dealing with, then listen in to see if you can find the solution to the root of anger in your life.

Freedom From Busyness

“Teach us to number our days so that we may grow in wisdom” Psalms 90:12

 

 

We want to get organized so our days will run smoothly, so we don’t forget we
write everything down and then find ourselves with a list that takes a week to
complete, and we need to get it done in a day. It is called busyness.

Now the Bible talks of not being idle and using our time wisely. When we ignore
these instructions, we get trapped in the blunders of busyness and miss the
blessings waiting for us. The problem with busyness is that it robs us of the
goodness of God as He waits to get on our schedule.

Ephesians 5:15-17 “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,
making the best use of the time because the days are evil. Therefore do not be
foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is”

Today, we discuss how our character reflects the attitudes of a pressured person
and prevents quality time in helping others as well as ourselves. People always on
the run seldom have beneficial fun. Pursue Freedom from Busyness

The Danger of Anger

 

“A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones” Proverbs 14:30

 

Anger is one of the most basic emotions that trap our hearts and add more negative emotions to our problems, starting a roller coaster ride taking us up and down through,

. Confusion in our beliefs,

. Suspicions regarding others because we have assumed conclusions without having all the facts,

. Relying on partial truths that attack our thinking with lies we believe to be true. 

To get off this roller coaster ride, the book of Proverbs in the Bible offers very practical wisdom with truths that transform rather than leaning to our own understanding, in overcoming and escaping The Danger of Anger

 

Blind in Busyness

“The thief comes not but to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I have come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly” John 10:10.

 

 

Sharon and Janie continue their discussion on busyness and how to unplug. There are times in our life when unplugging is absolutely not possible. Janie shares some great tips on what we can do in those situations. The discussion covers how we can evaluate the busyness in our life to determine the source. What power source do we have our busyness plugged into and how can we reconnect to peace and rest?

Anger to Apathy

 

“Do not associate with a man given to anger, or go with hot-tempered man, or you will learn his ways and find a snare for yourself.” Proverbs 22:24-25

 

Anger begins with an EXPECTATION of what we want, think we need, shocked at something or someone that causes pain to us. We all battle anger at some point. 

 Telling a person to control their anger is like trying to pet a porcupine – porcupines are best left alone and so are those who are chronically angry. Some people that are angry blow-up and some clam up and later build up so much that they explode. 

God’s love, shown through gentleness is anger harnessed. If anger can flare quickly in your life, but leaves very slowly, join in the conversation today to understand the good and the danger of anger.

 

 

A Lifestyle of Busyness

“But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise” Matthew 22:5.

 

 

Sharon and Janie tackle the topic of busyness. None of us are excluded from busyness, most everyone is affected by “too much to do and not enough time to get it done.” Busyness is often the result of taking responsibility for what is meant for God. The culture in which we live screams GET BUSY! Our children are encouraged to be involved in every activity at school, we are encouraged to be involved in every activity at church, and with career moms today, it seems that everyone is pulling at us from all directions. There are many times when we desire to slow down and get unplugged, but it ends up being more complicated than simply pulling a plug because everything is entangled, and shutting down seems impossible. There are some warnings in scripture that we need to be aware of and evaluate where we are in the busyness of our own lives.

Anger without Sin

“Be angry, and do not sin. Mediate within your heart on your bed, and be still.” Psalms 4:4

 

So many physical functions within the body occur during the hours of sleep. Going to bed with a hot temper, or maybe just frustrated, irritated, or annoyed will keep the body from resting and restoring a person to meet the challenges of a new day. We go against the very design by our Creator.

Now is a great time to evaluate and examine how to recognize the little signs and symptoms that cause us to choose to handle matters “MY WAY”.   We cover the pain of hurt, rejection, and loss by DOING something that dulls that ache in our hearts. Yes, that can give us temporary relief, but those hurts get buried deep inside the building for an explosion and poison our thinking. 

Develop the art from the counsel given in the Scripture that begins with BEING STILL. We will be talking about that issue today on sharinhearts.org at 4 pm.

Joy in Adversity

“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice” Philippians 4:4

 

 

Joy is very often associated with adversity in scripture as the result of accepting the hard times of life.  We don’t wait for the hard times to come before we learn the art of living in joy and developing the mindset our Lord shows us throughout the Word.  Adversity can promote the progress of the Gospel in many different ways.  We must not make it our goal to get out of difficult situations as these may be a part of the calling of God in working out His eternal plan and purpose for getting the Good News to all.  Resting in His wisdom for each of our lives will keep us from discouragement and wanting to throw in the towel when we think we have heard His voice and then plans don’t go according to our best intent, agenda, and desire.

Adversity will have unknowns and complexities, but the foundation that will hold us fast is: looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of faith, renewing our mind in the word, bringing every thought into captivity in a commitment of total surrender, acknowledging our fears and dread of the unknown.  Claiming JOY is all circumstances and learning how to apply, and finally waiting on the renewed mercies to live one day and maybe each hour in trust, obedience; made possible through love and led by the Holy Spirit as Grace Covers All.

From Anxiety to Peace

 “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction for instruction, in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16

 

We hear people quote this verse and then turn around and refuse to apply these very words in their lives. The Bible is GOD breath, they are His words in the original text, but don’t use words of wisdom on me when I am bitter from circumstances that make me anxious, angry, and unforgiving. 

To replace bitterness with a peace we ought to LISTEN TO HIS WORDS as they DO matter.  We are told to GUARD OUR WORDS and make sure what we said is what you heard with the meaning we intended, otherwise we ignore the Grace of God.

 Join us in today’s conversation as we dig into why words matter in going FROM ANXIETY to PEACE. 

Joy of Unity

“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” Philippians 1:14

 

 

One of the best descriptions of Joy is:

“Joy is the flag flown high from the castle of my heart, for the  King is in residence.”

“The joy of the Lord is my strength.” “Rejoice in the Lord, with a whole heart, and be glad”.  The Lord is our foundation and source of true joy, with the Holy Spirit guiding us on the path to knowing Him as our life.

Joy is a gift for the hard times of life. It is a source of encouragement to all that can possess it and see it flowing between each other.  Jesus first, Others next, and You last will spell JOY.

True Joy expresses a right relationship with a desire to be of the same mind and of one accord in the spirit of servanthood and humility.  If we have that spirit within us, there can never be disunity. Even with differences of opinion, we can and must have the same disposition.

Let’s explore the Joy of Unity of being one “IN CHRIST” and a part of His family.

Fear and Anxiety

“Be Anxious for Nothing but in Everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your request be made known” Philippians 4:6

 

In these changing times problems are commonplace and “Be Anxious for Nothing” addresses a situation within the church at Philippi between 2 women. Whether then or now the Word of God remains timeless for the solutions to live in peace and be a guard for our hearts and minds.

Let’s relieve the stress and tension within today as we apply the counsel in living free from FEAR and Anxiety. 

  

The Attitude of Joy

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these” Mark 12:30-31

 

 

Attitudes are the foundation on which our actions are built.

This sentence gives us a picture of the important role attitudes play in our lives. Our attitude must start from scripture. Putting Jesus first, Others second, and You last will produce real JOY, but living out JOY cannot be done in our own strength. The scriptures are what gives life to joy in our lives. Joy is experienced through a leading of the Holy Spirit. Paul gives us an example of joy in his letter to the Philippians; which was written while he was chained in prison, yet joy flowed from his heart.

Anxious For Nothing

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6

 

We quote this verse a lot and probably think we are applying the Scripture in our circumstances the way the Apostle Paul described.

However, we need to take a closer look at the details. Paul uses absolute words, such as NOTHING, not just a little bit sometimes. He further declares ALWAYS – there is to be a consistency in our thoughts originating in PRAYER; expressed through supplication and thanksgiving. Then, we are ready to make our request known by the manner that He longs to hear and answer.

Today, let’s dive into what keeps us from taking the Words of Jesus, written by Paul, to see what it takes to make a really great faithful servant that is ANXIOUS FOR NOTHING. 

The Joy of the Lord

“Thou wilt shew me the path of life; in Your presences is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” Psalm 16:11

 

 

The new year is here and we are wishing people a Happy New Year.  We want people to enjoy the new year putting old memories behind and look to a bright future.  Some people are very sincere when they give this salutation, and some say it is a matter of tradition. But is happiness as good as it gets?

The Lord offered a better word in place of happiness.  It is joy.  Happy is connected with happenings and some are good and some not so good.  When we depend on our circumstances to determine how our emotions and thinking relate to our happiness, happiness falls short of what is being offered by the Lord. His joy comes from delighting to do the will of His Father and praying that His disciples may have this joy fulfilled in themselves.  John 17.22

Discover with us the surprises that await when we choose to see His example, understand the joy He offers, and follow the path that leads to true joy regardless of our outward condition.

Steps To Maturity

 

“Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When you said, “Seek My Face,” My heart said to You, “Your Face, Lord, I will seek.” Psalms 27:7-8

 

When we are drawn by the mercies of God and our salvation is secure and complete, we are just beginning the progression of growing in grace and knowledge as we apply the Scriptures to our daily lives. 

There are essentials for establishing our Father’s will in fulfilling our maturity that is well pleasing to Him and it is easy to accept a path of comfort and miss the Master’s best.

Join our discussion as we evaluate the stepping stones to maturity.