quote of the day Archives - Page 7 of 8

Wednesday

31

August 2016

Wednesday Wisdom: Be Quick to Listen

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Wednesday Wisdom

“God gave us mouths that close and ears that don’t; that should tell us something.”

I’ve always loved this saying. How simple and how true. We were created with mouths that close and with ears that don’t!

It reminds me of James 1:19, where we are instructed to “take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”

How many conflicts would each of us avoid in life if we followed these instructions? How many relationships would be improved if we took this advice? It’s a reminder that we can all use.

Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.

Monday

29

August 2016

Monday Encouragement: 2 Timothy 4:17

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Encouragement

“Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me;” 2 Timothy 4:17

The beginning of a new week always brings with it a sense of freshness. While I’d love to say the start of a new week always brings along with it a renewed energy, that’d be a lie, because quite often on Mondays we wake up longing for the weekend past and not ready to get out of bed at an early hour. (Especially as the days are getting shorter, am I right?!)

That being said, I find encouragement in the words of Paul in his second letter to Timothy: “Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me”.

Two things we quite often take for granted:

The Lord stands with us,
The Lord strengthens us.

There are some commentaries on the book of 2 Timothy that state that God provided Paul with courage and readiness. Heading into a new week, I can’t think of two qualities better fitted to equip us for the week ahead.

If you’re entering this week feeling discouraged, or down, or lacking the energy you think you need to make it through, meditate on God’s Word and promises. He will stand with you and strengthen you if you put your trust in Him.

“Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me;” 2 Timothy 4:17

Friday

26

August 2016

Hope Reflected: The Importance of Being Original

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

Wes and I love jazz. Diana Krall, Duke Ellington, Tony Bennett, Wes Montgomery; you name the artist, and chances are, we’ve got them in our playlist. Listening to a Diana Krall album last week, we were both struck by her ability to take a standard that’s been sung so many times before and make it her own. Krall has her own distinct delivery that gives her the ability to sing the same songs as other jazz artists, but to make them unique. She takes the influences that speak to her and infuses them into her music. Krall is an original.

We all collect and draw influences from our surroundings – people, music, movies, books, ideologies – and we live these influences out in our daily lives. Even what you eat can affect your mind! That’s why it’s so important to be conscious of what you allow into your heart and mind.

In a world of copycats, it’s not easy to be original. And let’s be real, is there anything that’s truly original anymore? King Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 1:9, “That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun.” God is the original Creator of every single thing, and He created each of us uniquely in His image.

Why else is it important to be original?

God created you to be you. Not your neighbour, not your best friend. God created you with a distinct purpose in mind, and you can’t achieve His purpose for your life if you spend all your time trying to be like other people. Luke 12:7 reminds us that “even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” If God knows the exact amount of how many (or how few) hairs are on your head, you can rest assured that He created you for a purpose that only you can accomplish and fulfill.
You have a responsibility to draw from the Original Source. While there are many influences in the world, remember to draw your best influences from the Creator of everything: God. God is loving, and He is the Great Comforter. God provides peace, and only He can provide true joy in our lives. Philippians 4:8 says that “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” When we draw on God as the Original Source of all creation, we keep our focus on the right things in life.
Others look to you as an Influencer. As much as you draw from the influences of other people, there are also other people who look to you as an influence in their lives. That’s another reason it’s so important to be conscious of the sources from where we draw our influences. 1 Corinthians 15:33 is a great reminder, “Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”” Who we allow to influence us and how we live our lives matters! Matthew 5:16 tells us “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father Who is in heaven.” Being yourself is a big deal; you never know who is watching.

God created all the snowflakes unique, He is the Creator of every single thing, and all of His creations are original. Often overlooked, being original is very important. Be a voice, not an echo!

Originally published as “The Importance of Being Original.” Minto Express. July 13, 2016: 5. Print.

Wednesday

24

August 2016

Wednesday Wisdom: Proverbs 4:26

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Wednesday Wisdom

“Ponder the path of thy feet, And let all your ways be established.” Proverbs 4:26

The book of Proverbs is full of great advice, which still resonates thousands of years after its original publication. Proverbs 4:26, which says, “Ponder the path of thy feet, And let all your ways be established,” is a statement which may seem simple, but contains some very practical advice.

You’ve heard the saying, “Your actions speak louder than words.” The first part of Proverbs 4:26 is a timely reminder to us that we should consider our ways before we act.

The second part of Proverbs 4:26, “And let all your ways be established,” is saying that we should make sure our actions are set, fixed, acceptable, even habitual. The decisions that we make should be reflective of our Faith. The direction in which we choose to take our life should be honouring to the Lord.

If you’re worried about the path before you not being clear or not knowing what way God wants you to go, remember these verses:

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105
“Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.” Psalm 143:8
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

When in doubt, get into God’s Word.

Monday

20

June 2016

Monday Encouragement: Psalm 18:30

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Encouragement

“As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him.” Psalm 18:30

Ever wonder what a buckler is? A buckler is defined as being “a portable shield”, “a shield surrounding the person”, “a large shield protecting the whole body”.

If you’re going into this week (or this month, this year) wondering how you’ll ever make it through, just remember: God is our buckler. David tells us right in Psalm 18! “He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him.” All you have to do is trust God. He’s got this!

David wrote Psalm 18 in the day that the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and specifically from Saul (who was seeking him out to kill him). If the great King David could utter these words when he was on the run in the wilderness, surely we can claim God as our buckler, too!

“As for God, his way is perfect:” God’s way may not always be our way (read: His way is most of the time completely not our way, for real). Isaiah 55:8-9 says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

We may think we’ve got it all together, we may think we’ve got the best plan, but when it comes right down to it, God’s way is the best way, and His plan for our lives is the best plan. We’ve been in His mind since the day we were born, and God knows every single circumstance, relationship, job, career, pursuit, joy, sadness, and love before it’s even a thought in our minds. Until we completely surrender to God’s will, we’re just wandering nomads.

“…the word of the LORD is tried:” God’s Word is tried, tested, and true. If you’re in need of encouragement (aren’t we all?!) then flip open your Bible to one of the Psalms. Proof of God’s truth is everywhere throughout the Bible, and it’s not religion; God’s Word is full of historical facts!

“As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him.”

If you’re entering this morning feeling unsure, or filled with doubt, or afraid, or sad, or unloved, remember this: God’s way is perfect, and He will be your buckler if you put your trust in Him.

Tuesday

8

March 2016

Hope Reflected: Leaving a Legacy

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

“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.

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.
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…”.
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.

Thursday

3

March 2016

Hope Reflected: Standing Up For What You Believe In

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

Albert Einstein once said, “The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.” There is a lot happening in our world today, and everyone seems to have an opinion.

Especially with recent world events, it’s more important now than ever before to be secure in your personal beliefs. With today’s society, it would seem that everyone has an opinion, and the more abstract and obscure, the more popular you become. We live in a world that tends to place more value on the love of money than on human life; where having a whole family is considered ‘weird’; and where being unconventional has become commonplace. These things, among others, have really got me thinking about the importance of standing up for what I believe in.

Here are three facts about the importance of standing up for what you believe in:

Standing up for what you believe in takes courage.

Joshua 1:9 (KJV) says, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Joshua was the successor to Moses who lead Israel into Canaan (no pressure, right?). In just the first chapter of the book, Joshua was commanded three times to be strong and of a good courage. Standing up for what you believe in takes courage. It’s not always going to be the easiest thing, and it’s not always going to be popular, but standing up for what you believe in shows that you have courage, and courage inspires respect from those who surround you (even if their opinion differs from yours).

Standing up for what you believe in builds confidence.

Psalm 3:6 (KJV) says, “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.” David was fleeing from his son when he wrote this, but he knew that ultimately standing up for what he believed in was more important than finding favour in the eyes of others (even his own son). When you stand up for what you believe in, you build confidence in your character.

Standing up for what you believe in breeds contentment.

It’s not always easy to stand up for what you believe in, however when you do, standing up for your beliefs breeds contentment. When we know what we believe in, and we have the evidence to back it up, we can rest content. Timothy says in his letter, 1 Timothy 6:6-7 (KJV) , “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we bought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can nothing out.” When you have a firm foundation, and the evidence to back up your beliefs, you can rest content.

There’s an old saying, “He who stands for nothing will fall for anything.” Be sure you have a firm foundation for your beliefs, and that you have evidence to back up what you stand for. The worst thing is to fall for popular opinion, or to agree with the latest headline just because it’s published by your favourite news source. Truly research the answers for yourself. Be your own filter.

Originally published as “Standing Up For What You Believe In”. Minto Express. October 7, 2015: 5. Print.

Wednesday

2

March 2016

Hope Reflected: The Importance of Attitude

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

It was Captain Jack Sparrow (aka Johnny Depp) in the Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise that said, “The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem. Do you understand?” Many a true word is said in jest, and Captain Sparrow sure shared some dingers.

It’s true, though; a lot of how we walk through life has to do with our attitude and our outlook on circumstances. I’ll be the first to admit that my attitude isn’t always the greatest; like many people, I go through waves of positivity, only to get down in the dumps at the first sign of something discouraging. That’s life. Much like choosing joy, we’ve got to make the choice to have the right attitude. Our attitude can make or break us.

There’s a ripple effect when we make the choice to have the right attitude, and here are three ways the right attitude can help each one of us:

The right attitude helps us maintain a focus on edifying and uplifting things. Philippians 4:8-9 (KJV) lists six virtues that we should focus on – “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report…”. This can be really hard, especially if we’re in the midst of conflict or have received discouraging news – no one ever said having the right attitude was easy, but our attitude can help us keep things in perspective and keep our focus on the positive.
The right attitude helps us become more selfless. In our world, there’s an ever-growing movement that focuses on self and instant gratification. That’s a dangerous path to walk along, as the more we focus internally, the more likely we are to become discouraged, down, or even depressed. The right attitude helps us put our focus where it should be: Less on me, me, me, and more on how we can best serve God and others. In Galatians 5:13 (KJV), we’re encouraged to put the needs of others before our own: “…by love serve one another.”
The right attitude brings peace. There’s no comfort like recognizing that even in the midst of threshing and discouraging circumstances, God has a plan for each one of us. Having the right attitude while we’re walking through life’s valleys gives us power over our circumstances and peace that passes all understanding. In chapter 4 verse 7 of his letter to the Philippians (KJV), Paul wrote, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

I’ve written before about purposefully choosing joy, that happiness isn’t just something that happens to us, and the same principle applies to our daily attitude in life. Maya Angelou said, “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” A positive attitude doesn’t always come naturally – quite often the right attitude is something we need to choose. Every. Single. Day.

Originally published as “The Importance of Attitude”. Minto Express. September 23, 2015: 5. Print.

Friday

19

February 2016

Hope Reflected: 3 Ways to Control Your Reactions

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

Anyone else love eating a good steak? You marinade the meat in the fridge overnight, and then grill it, and that combination of char-grilling with your secret spice recipe is mouth-watering – literally. Our saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which reacts with the food we put in our mouths everyday, and begins the digestion process. And what about photosynthesis? Plants have to eat too, you know! Photosynthesis is a reaction that plants have to convert carbon dioxide and water into food and oxygen for themselves.

OK, so you might be wondering how eating a piece of steak and photosynthesis are relative to each other. Besides the food connection, eating and photosynthesis are processes that both contain reactions.

We don’t always think a lot about our reactions – someone throws a ball, you catch it; the sun shines, you’re more cheerful; someone asks, “how are you today?”, you reply, “Fine.”; something’s funny, you laugh – but reactions are an important part of life, and they can have huge impact on those around us.

Reactions have been on my mind quite a bit lately, especially when I see challenging situations around. Ever notice how when someone gets upset with you, or does something just to spite you, that others are watching to see how you’ll react?

Reactions are important for several reasons, not just because they have lasting impact, but because – even though they are sometimes impulsive – reactions are an outward demonstration of how we feel inside and what’s in our heart.

Here are 3 ways to better control your reactions (usually applied to unfavourable circumstances or people):

Wait for it. Someone say something to you that was rude or out-of-line? Receive a nasty note or email? If you can, step away from the situation before speaking or hitting that ‘Reply’ button. In the heat of the moment, we’re more apt to respond rashly. Give yourself a break, take a breather, step outside and inhale some fresh air – once you’ve had a chance to gain some perspective, then respond.
Sometimes, not doing anything is the best thing. During my undergrad studies, one of my teachers gave my entire class a reading assignment: J. Allan Petersen’s Your Reactions Are Showing booklet. I’m pretty sure several in the class laughed as a reaction to receiving the booklet, but some of the wisdom shared within those pages has stayed with me, even years later. J. Allan Petersen suggests that sometimes, saying or doing nothing is the best reaction of all.
Keep in mind, reactions have lasting impact. What we say and do can’t be taken back, and quite often, even if a circumstance or comment occurs between two people, there are others on the outside watching to see how you’ll respond or react to a situation. Our actions and reactions impact others. What kind of impact do you want to have?

I’ll close with this unknown quote, which says: “You can’t change how people treat you or what they say about you. All you can do is change how you react to it.”

Originally published as “How to Control Your Reactions”. Minto Express. May 20, 2015: 5. Print.

Thursday

18

February 2016

Hope Reflected: How to Be Decisive

Written by H, Posted in Christian Living, Published Work

“Where do you want to eat?”

“I don’t know; where do you want to eat?”

“It doesn’t matter to me, I’m good with whatever. You decide.”

“I’m totally neutral, you decide.”

While my indecisiveness is usually focused mostly around what restaurant to eat at when dining out with friends, the struggle is real. Indecisiveness is something that’s affected generations, throughout the entire world. Hey, even in Biblical times, there were some ‘ordinary’ men who had to make extraordinary decisions – check out Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and Daniel. We make decisions every single day, in every aspect of life – whether political, personal, or professional. That’s why it’s important to learn the fine art of being decisive!

The word ‘decisive’ is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as “Settling an issue; producing a definite result; having or showing the ability to make decisions quickly and effectively.”[1] Interestingly enough, the word was first used in the early 17th century, coming from the medieval Latin decisivus, decis– meaning “determined”.

If you’re someone who struggles with making decisions, or making the right decisions, here are 3 ways to be more decisive:

Prayerfully consider decisions. People who pray and put thought into major life decisions have a peace and a calm that others lack. There’s good reason for that. The Bible says in Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV), “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” While your spirit gives you a sense of right and wrong, your Bible is also an awesome place to look for clear counsel.
Prioritize, and don’t sweat the small stuff. Buying a house? Committing to spend the rest of your life with one person? Yeah, I’d say those are pretty big decisions and require some serious consideration. Choosing a new paint colour for your house? Buying a new pair of shoes? While these may seem like important decisions (especially the shoes!) it’s important to prioritize and spend time focusing on the big picture. Forget trivial things; focus on what’s truly important.
Own your decisions, and your mistakes. Having confidence in the choices we make is HUGE, and this can only be done when we know what we believe in and where we stand. Don’t make decisions based on what others think you should do (this mentality will only lead to unhappiness). And also, don’t be afraid of mistakes. As much as we try to avoid them, mistakes are inevitable, so it’s key to admit mistakes, own them, and grow from them.

It’s not always easy to make decisions, – especially decisions that have lasting impact, – however as a wise man once said, “when your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.” Now if only I could decide on what to have for dinner.

[1] “decisive.” Oxforddictionaries.com. 2015. http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/ (30 April 2015).

Originally published as “How to Be Decisive”. Minto Express. May 6, 2015: 5. Print.

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quote of the day Archive

31

Wednesday Wisdom: Be Quick to Listen

29

Monday Encouragement: 2 Timothy 4:17

26

Hope Reflected: The Importance of Being Original

Originally published as “The Importance of Being Original.” Minto Express. July 13, 2016: 5. Print.

24

Wednesday Wisdom: Proverbs 4:26

20

Monday Encouragement: Psalm 18:30

8

Hope Reflected: Leaving a Legacy

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

3

Hope Reflected: Standing Up For What You Believe In

Originally published as “Standing Up For What You Believe In”. Minto Express. October 7, 2015: 5. Print.

2

Hope Reflected: The Importance of Attitude

Originally published as “The Importance of Attitude”. Minto Express. September 23, 2015: 5. Print.

19

Hope Reflected: 3 Ways to Control Your Reactions

Originally published as “How to Control Your Reactions”. Minto Express. May 20, 2015: 5. Print.

18

Hope Reflected: How to Be Decisive

Originally published as “How to Be Decisive”. Minto Express. May 6, 2015: 5. Print.

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