Hope Reflected

Encouragement and Hope from God's Word

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Monday

11

April 2016

Tulips

Written by , Posted in Gardening

A couple of years ago, I purchased some tulip bulbs, which sat in my kitchen through the winter, until one day when my Mum was visiting, she planted them. Last Spring, when the tulips bloomed, they were the most vibrant red.

Those same tulips in our garden started to sprout up with the warm weather we had a few weeks back. Wes and I both intended to cover them, however — as frequently happens in life — things of more importance took precedence.  Since then, we’ve had sleet, snow, ice, rain, more snow, and as a result we’ve been questioning whether or not the tulips will bloom when Spring finally makes an appearance.

red tulips bouquet

Being the incredible man that he is, Wes brings me home flowers every Friday. This past Friday, he picked up the most beautiful, fresh tulips from Elora St. Flowers — and they’re red, just like the ones in our garden. *sigh* I’ve been enjoying these beauties the past few days, and I have to say, they make me eager for warmer days and to see our outdoor flowers!

Like robins, tulips are a sure sign of Spring. Part of the lily family, tulip flowers come in a wide array of colours, and there are more than 3,000 varieties of the flower. You may associate tulips with Holland, and rightfully so, however tulips are thought to have originated in Central Asia.

red tulip flowers

While the tulips in our garden are midseason bloomers (late April/early May), you can purchase tulips that bloom as early as March and as late as mid-May. These attractive flowers offer a lot of vibrance for very little maintenance.

On a more important note, April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and the tulip is the symbol of hope for a cure.

red tulip flowers

Wednesday

6

April 2016

Hope’s How-To: Build a Robin’s Nesting Shelf

Written by , Posted in Hope's How-To

april6_hopereflected_robin2

Spring is always an exciting time of year: The days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter, and there are signs of new life everywhere. All this to say, we’ve had a less than stable Spring so far, what with fluctuating temperatures and seemingly endless snow. That’s got the returning robins scrambling, looking for a secure place to nest, and also foraging for food.

You’ve likely noticed the beautiful birds by the roadside or out on your lawn, looking for worms, berries, or other items to eat. They’re also deep into scouting season — looking for the best place to settle down, lay their eggs, and raise their young (for a full 13 days).

Being the compassionate person that I am, — save all the animals! — Wes agreed to build me a robin’s nesting shelf (or two!) to see if we could welcome a couple of new feathered friends to our home.

It doesn’t have to be complicated, in fact building a robin’s nesting shelf can be quite simple. You don’t have to use the best wood, and measurements don’t need to be exact. Just remember to include the fundamentals of a sturdy shelf made from non-pressure treated wood, a shelf approximately 8 inches squared (or something in that range), a height of at least 7 feet off the ground.

Here’s how Wes built ours:

  • For building my robin’s nesting shelves, Wes used 4-inch Spruce straps, non-pressure treated. You could use any other kind of wood, permitting it’s not pressure treated. Wes just used Spruce straps since we had them on hand.

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  • The platform should be approximately 8 inches squared, and depending on where you plan to install the nesting shelf, it may or may not need a roof (cover). Wes made one for me without a cover for under our covered porch, and one with a cover that’s on a more exposed side of the house.
  • Another key is that you don’t want to have any kind of barrier on the front of the nesting shelf.

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  • You’ll also want to be mindful that the nesting shelf is secured in a location where there is no way for cats or squirrels to climb up into the nest.
  • A good rule of thumb for where you’ll locate the nesting shelf, is to find a place close to your home that is between 7 feet tall and tree top height. It should be in a location that gets some sun, but also stays cool and dry.
    • Many people choose to secure a robin’s nesting shelf onto their home (rather than in a tree or on a fence) because predators like cats, squirrels, and even other birds (like Starlings or Crows) are less likely to get too close to your house. (You may have noticed in the past, that sometimes robins will choose to nest above a porch light or on top of a downspout, and this is why.)

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  • If your house is made with brick or stone, secure the nesting shelf with a tap-con or a concrete nail. Be sure to pre-drill to the appropriate size for that fastener. If your house is made with siding, before drilling, make sure you’re not compromising the house material or drilling into electrical/plumbing/etc.

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  • When the season is over, make sure to dispose of their old nest and clean the nesting shelf. Old nests have the potential to breed lice or mites. Besides this, next year, returning robins will build a fresh nest.
  • If you’re looking to make your nest shelf even more attractive, you could set out some berries or meal worms for the robins.

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Robins appearing are a sure sign of Spring. I hope you are able to take some time to get outdoors and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation during this season!

“The bird also has found a house, And the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young…” {Psalm 84:3}

april6_hopereflected_robin1

Monday

4

April 2016

A Guide to Encouraging Bible Verses Part 1 – Verses About Peace, Courage, Comfort, Happiness, and Joy

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

apr4_hopereflected_psalm4211

As I’ve written in past columns, there are so many ways to be encouraged. Smiling more often, writing a handwritten note, going for a walk – these are all great ways to boost not only our own morale, but also the spirit of others who are touched by our gratitude.

Another great way to be encouraged is to dig into God’s Word and find some verses of encouragement. Feeling anxious? There are verses for that. Feeling afraid? There are verses for that. Feeling sad? There are verses for that. This selection is certainly not exhaustive, however I’ve curated some of my favourite Bible verses about a few different topics that I hope will be an encouragement to you, wherever you’re at in your walk today.

[If you’re feeling afraid or anxious] Verses about PEACE:

  • Psalm 4:8 “I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”
  • Psalm 29:11 “The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.”
  • Psalm 34:14b “Seek peace, and pursue it.”
  • Psalm 85:8a “I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people…”
  • Isaiah 26: 3 “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in You.”
  • Isaiah 26:12 “LORD, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.”
  • Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;”

[If you’re feeling afraid] Verses about COURAGE:

  • Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of a good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave your nor forsake you.”
  • Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
  • Ezra 10:4 “Be of good courage, and do it.”
  • Psalm 27:1 “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
  • Psalm 27:14 “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.”
  • Psalm 31:24 “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”
  • Psalm 118:6 “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”

[If you’re feeling sad] Verses about COMFORT, HAPPINESS, and JOY:

  • Nehemiah 8:10b “The joy of the LORD is your strength.”
  • Psalm 16:11 “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”
  • Psalm 32:11 “Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous; and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.”
  • Psalm 42:11 “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
  • Psalm 119:111 “Thy testimonies have I taken has an heritage forever; for they are the rejoicing of my heart.”
  • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

1 Peter 5:6-7 “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”

 

Originally published as “A Guide to Encouraging Verses in the Bible Part 1 – Verses About Peace, Courage, Comfort, Happiness, and Joy”. Minto Express. March 9, 2016: 5: Print.

Friday

1

April 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Things to Do When You Get Angry

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

apr1_hopereflected_anger

Someone says or does something rude or obnoxious or insinuates an untruth about you.

You turn on the news – bad news, sad news, completely biased and ‘politically correct’ news – and you get fired up and go into debate mode.

You make a mistake – break something, lose something, ruin your favourite sweater in the wash – and you get mad.

We’ve all been there, because we’ve all been, (and will be again at some point in the future), angry. Anger is an emotion that’s a part of life.

Here are 3 things to do when you get angry:

  1. Determine whether you’re sad or mad. You might not think there’s a difference, because anger is anger, but there is. We often mask feelings of sadness with anger. Maybe that’s because we’re trying to come across strong instead of weak, and whatever the reason it’s not healthy. In the book of Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV), we’re taught about the fruits of the Spirit, which are the exact opposite of anger or sadness: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” While it’s one thing to suggest we should never be angry or sad, that’s also completely unrealistic. When we do experience negative emotions however, we should take the time to determine their root, and take steps to overcome.
  2. Decline from doing anything. You may have heard the saying; “A moment of patience in a moment of anger saves you a hundred moments of regret.” When feelings of anger strike, take a step back. 5 minutes, 5 days, if you need time to cool off before you react, take the time. As James wrote in James 1:19 (NLT): “…be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Words spoken can’t be retracted, and reactions are remembered. When you do opt to act, remember what we’ve been commanded in Ephesians 4:32 (NLT): “…be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
  3. Don’t dwell on it. You may be the one who requires forgiveness, or perhaps you need to extend forgiveness. Forgiveness is the one true way to move forward, to relieve feelings of anger, and to get better – best to take care of it sooner than later, otherwise you risk becoming bitter. David said in Psalm 37:8 (NLT), “Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper – it only leads to harm.”

Being angry isn’t a sin, but being controlled by your anger is. Anger is a fact of life, and while it can’t be avoided, it can be remedied. It’s easy to talk about when life is good and everything’s going your way, but even when the chips are down, here’s some good advice to remember from John. C. Boger: “Anger and bitterness are two noticeable signs of being focused on self and not trusting God’s sovereignty in your life. When you believe that God causes all things to work together for good to those who belong to Him and love Him, you can respond to trials with joy instead of anger or bitterness.”

 

Originally published as “3 Things To Do When You Get Angry.” Minto Express. February 24, 2016: 5. Print.

Thursday

31

March 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Ways to Be Encouraged

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

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This column was originally published in early February 2016, in the midst of winter.

So far this winter, – knock on wood, – has been relatively mild, bright, and manageable. We’re just over halfway through the season, and there haven’t been too many days filled with dark skies and endless grey clouds. And for that, I’m thankful (seasonal affective disorder sufferers, rejoice!). That being said, it’s most common that when we reach just beyond the halfway point – whether in seasons, personal or professional goals, or schoolwork, – that we can begin to feel restless or ready to give up. If you’ve ever fought feelings of discouragement, you know what I mean. For those times when you’re feeling down, fatigued, or even restless, a little encouragement can go a long way.

I’m thankful to be surrounded by several people who inspire courage, and I’m also aware that sometimes the people who freely give support or encourage others are the very people who need encouragement the most!

If you’re reading this today and you find yourself fatigued, or restless, or in need of a little pick-me-up, here are three ways to find encouragement today:

  1. Write a gratitude list. David said in Psalm 103:2 (KJV), “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits”. If you need some encouragement, count your blessings and create a gratitude list. It’s easier said than done, but often I take for granted the very things that people in other parts of the world long for – a peaceful neighbourhood, a pillow for my head, and a place to call home. That doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of God’s blessings.
  2. Go for a walk or pick up some flowers. In Ecclesiastes 3:11 (KJV), Solomon wrote that, “He [God] hath made every thing beautiful in his time”. Even though I don’t have a green thumb, I always find it encouraging to be surrounded by flowers and other examples of God’s creativity and handiwork. It’s amazing how a walk outdoors and some fresh air can help you feel encouraged.
  3. Get into God’s Word. Not familiar with the Bible? The Psalms are a great place to start, and within those pages you’ll find some of the most encouraging truths. These timeless poems and songs contain some of the most poignant phrases, which are uplifting to read and to recall to mind.

There are more than three ways you can encourage yourself, but these three provide an effective starting point. It is true what they say, that a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. It’s an incredible gift to serve others, but don’t forget to take care of yourself, too. It’s easier to encourage another when you’re at a place of positivity!

 

Originally published as “3 Ways to Be Encouraged.” Minto Express. February 10, 2016: 5. Print.

Wednesday

30

March 2016

Hydrangea Plants

Written by , Posted in Gardening

Every Friday, Wes has been known to bring me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. This past weekend, we celebrated Easter with some beautiful Hydrangea blooms. We have two Hydrangea bushes in our outdoor garden (which usually bloom mid-summer). Since it’s too early for blooms outdoors, these indoor plants were a welcome addition to our kitchen, brightening up the space with their voluptuous shape and vibrant colour.

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The name Hydrangea comes from the Greek “Hydro“, meaning “Water“, and “Angeion“, meaning “Vase“. As you know, Hydrangea plants love their sun and they love their water. The plants have two flower arrangements: One is the mophead flower (pictured here), and the other is the lacecap flower.

pink and white hydrangea.

The Hydrangea plant was originally discovered in the 1730s by an English-American botanist, John Bartram. Bartram became King George III’s botanist and is widely known as the “Father of American Botany”.

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While white is the most common colour of Hydrangea, in some species the plant can also be pink, purple, blue, and even green. Regardless of the hue, Hydrangea blossoms remain some of my favourite. Not only is the flower itself beautiful, but these plants have healthy green leaves, which make for a lovely contrast.

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Tuesday

29

March 2016

Hope Reflected: Strategy (On the Road to Success)

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

Proverbs 21:5

Last weekend, Wes and I were playing a game of Battleship. As it usually happens when we play board games, things got pretty heated, and before long, we were engaged in a best of three tournament (and I’ll admit, Wes won two of the three rounds). This brought up the discussion of strategy during the first and second World Wars, and further than that, got me thinking about the relevance of strategy in every day life.

The word strategy is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as, “A plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim.” The thing is though, you might have what you believe to be the best laid plans to achieve your goals, but there are always some circumstances that are out of your control. What do you do when life doesn’t go according to plan? Here are three important factors to consider in your strategy on the road to success:

  1. If you move too quickly, you’re more likely to go the wrong way. The line between patience and pursuit is a fine one, but as King Solomon – one of the greatest strategists of Biblical times – said in Proverbs 21:5 (KJV), “The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.” Don’t be so eager to achieve your goals that you make decisions before first praying, and thinking. See also King Solomon’s wisdom in Proverbs 13:16 (NKJV), “Every prudent man acts with knowledge, But a fool lays open his folly.”
  2. Be willing to re-evaluate your plan and change your mind. Continually. Sure you’ve set goals, as well as the road map to achieve them, but let’s face it: Life is constantly changing. King Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV), “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:” We have to be ready and wiling to adapt to – and to anticipate – change. Part of that is having a willingness to hear constructive criticism and listen to the advice of those around you.
  3. Fight your battles on your knees. I’ve long been a huge fan of Dr. Charles Stanley and his “Life Principles” series, and his “Life Principle 8” states, “Fight all your battles on your knees and you win every time.” The most important thing to realize about any pursuit in life is that you’re not in it alone. And when I write that, I don’t refer to family or friends. I’m referring to the importance of your relationship with God. While we are all born with a free will, God’s got every circumstance in His control. It’s an amazing truth to realize that when our life strategies don’t go according to plan, we don’t have to panic. Claim Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) which promises, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Ask any successful person, and they’ll tell you the road to accomplishment is not without its sharp curves, potholes, and detours. Don’t give up just because things may not be going the way you want right now. Part of a winning strategy involves learning to be patient, being open to change, and being prayerful in your direction and decisions.

 

Originally published as “Strategy on the Road to Success.” Minto Express. January 27, 2016: 5. Print.

Monday

21

March 2016

Hope Reflected: Remember to Rest

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

Eleanor Brownn quote

We’re well into the New Year, and our schedule is picking up. It seems like each weekend is accounted for, and when Wes and I aren’t working, we’re running (and I don’t mean working out). There just aren’t enough hours in the day to get things done.

Interestingly enough, Wes has been making time in his evenings to read a book entitled, Living the Sabbath. While the book in and of itself isn’t about the importance of rest, it’s about the importance of delighting in the Sabbath and what that means for our lives each day of the week. (Likely another column to follow on that later).

Wes going through this book has been a reminder to me of the importance of rest. Especially with a whole new year ahead, where plans are being made and goals are being set, it’s crucial that we remember to take time to rest.

Rest has several benefits. Not only does rest recharge your body and your mind, rest can also help improve mood, memory, and health. Additionally, the Bible talks a lot about rest. While God’s Word talks about rest in several different contexts, these are some areas that I find practical in applying to my life today. We all experience trials, we all have personal problems, and we all work. When I need rest and encouragement, these are some of the Scriptures in which I find solace.

  1. Rest from life’s trials. One of my favourite portions of Scripture is Psalm 37. Psalm 37:7 (KJV) says, “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.” When we commit our way to the Lord, and find our strength in Him, He will direct our paths and provide rest for our souls. It’s amazing the peace that comes when we commit our paths to Him.
  2. Rest from personal problems. Especially in our world of instant gratification and constant connection, anxiety and depression affect so many people. What’s the solution? Find your rest in God. Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV), “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” God’s peace = rest.
  3. Rest from work. While some career choices are more stressful than others, everybody needs a break from work once in a while. Rest from work is essential and part of living a balanced lifestyle. Even God rested! Genesis 2:2 (KJV) tells us, “And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.” Additionally, in Mark 6:31, Jesus encourages His disciples, “And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.”

Throughout the year, some weeks will inevitably be busier than others. Remember the importance of rest. Not only is rest Biblical, it’s good for your health. Whether it’s turning off your phone, turning off the TV, or taking time to eat dinner around the table, remember to take some time this week to rest.

 

Originally published as “Remember to Rest.” Minto Express. January 13, 2015: 5. Print.

Wednesday

9

March 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Life Lessons I Learned from my Grama

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

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Whether we are willing to admit it or not, we’re all influenced by those around us, and some souls have a more lasting impact on our lives than others. With the celebration of American Thanksgiving, and the start of Christmas festivities, many of my recent thoughts have been surrounding my Grama (she would have been 85 in November).

During her tenure her on Earth, my Grama imparted a lot of wisdom to her children and grandchildren. Both directly and indirectly, she taught us many lessons through the way she lived.

  1. Treat others the way you wish to be treated. Even if you don’t like them. My Grama always treated others with respect, even if she was encountering someone she didn’t really care for. She was an example, living out the Scripture of Luke 6:31 (KJV), “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”
  1. Cherish your loved ones. For my Grama, the best time spent was time surrounded with family and friends. Especially in her later years, the value she placed on this time was obvious. One of my favourite family memories is from the year before she passed, when Grama suggested we all go up to the cottage for a family weekend getaway. Everyone had to bring something – whether it was food or a favourite board game – and we spent much of that weekend eating, laughing, and creating some of the best family memories. We don’t know how long we’re given here, and it’s important to cherish those who are important to us, and to remind them of how they’re loved. Like it says in Galatians 5:13b (KJV), “…through love serve one another.”
  1. Always have faith. There were several people and things in my Grama’s life for whom she was praying. And while several of her wishes for those around her hadn’t come to pass when she passed away, she didn’t lose hope and she always had faith. Though I can’t tell her, seeing her live out her faith has influenced me in an incredible way. We may not instantaneously get answers to prayers or see success, however living with faith and purpose (and patience!) is so important as we journey through life. Hebrews 11, the faith chapter, tells of several individuals who never saw their vision fulfilled in this lifetime, but serves as a great reminder of how important strong faith is. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (v.1, KJV)

These are only three important life lessons that I learned from my Grama, and there are many more. We can learn much from our elders, so the next time you’re privileged enough to spend time with someone older than you, pay attention. Sometimes it’s not what they say, but how they live, that will stick with you.

 

Originally published as “3 Life Lessons I Learned from my Grama”. Minto Express. December 2, 2015: 5. Print.

 

Tuesday

8

March 2016

Hope Reflected: Leaving a Legacy

Written by , Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

Colossians 3:23

“Today I shall behave, as if this is the day I will be remembered.” Dr. Seuss

Last week during the Remembrance Sunday and Remembrance Day memorials, we were all reminded of the incredible sacrifice of the men and women who have served our country in years past, and who continue to serve and protect today. Additionally, this past week brought the tragic news that one of my former schoolmates – 12 weeks pregnant with her second child – was murdered during a random home invasion. You might wonder how any of this relates, however for me, these two events have served as great reminders of the importance of living a life of purpose and being mindful of our influence. There is a legacy of bravery that follows our servicemen and women. Similarly, there is a legacy of joy and purpose that follows my former schoolmate, Amanda.

At least in our twenties and thirties, we don’t often give a whole lot of thought to the legacy that we will one day leave when we depart from Earth. But this past week has  got me thinking about how quickly our lives pass, and the importance of what we leave behind. Quite often, our initial thoughts may be what we will leave behind for family and loved ones from a financial or material perspective, however there are several other – and I’d argue more important – ways that we should concentrate on leaving a lasting legacy.

  1. The legacy of love. They say there is nothing like a mother’s love, and this is true. Nothing compares to the love we receive from our mother, and this is something I know I’ll try to carry on someday when Wes and I have children. John 13:34-35 (KJV) says, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” People notice when you act out of love and demonstrate a genuine care for others. True love can’t be faked, and it shows through our actions.
  2. The legacy of commitment. Ever worked with someone who’s incredibly motivated, and who has an unmatched work ethic? I have. Equal parts challenging and inspiring, someone who works with commitment has a unique influence on his or her peers. Colossians 3:23 (KJV) says, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men…”.
  3. The legacy of joy. You know those people who exude something more than happiness? When you make the choice every day to have joy, that has lasting impact. Psalm 16:11 (KJV) says, “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy…”. Craig Lounsbrough once said that inheritance is what we leave with people, and legacy is what you leave in people – that’s how it is with joy. It spreads in the soul, especially when we’re taking time each day to deepen our relationship with the Lord and His word.

With everything going on in the world today, sometimes it’s difficult to remember the importance of building our legacy. It’s s easy to get caught up in circumstances or what’s happening around us, however it’s so important to remember our influence and the importance of living a life of purpose. As entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuck says, “Please think about your legacy, because you’re writing it every day.”

 

Originally published as “Leaving a Legacy”. Minto Express. November 18, 2015: 5. Print.