Emotional – Page 3 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Peace in the Midst of a Storm

LaPorterAugust 5, 20181 Reply

Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions. – Pema Chodron

Thought for today – At the end of the day, I am at peace because my intentions are good, and my heart is pure.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! It seems like it has been so long since I have shared a blog post with you. Unfortunately, life happens to the best of us, right? Today, I want to talk about the “Peace in the Midst of a Storm”. Whether your storm is BIG or small, it takes internal strength to overcome many obstacles in life. After all, as long as we are living on Earth, we will always experience some type of storm. So, instead of living your life worrying about the “what ifs”, spend time preparing your mindset with peaceful thoughts, such as scriptures, prayers, positive affirmations, inspirational quotes, uplifting words, etc.

Peace

Today I choose: calm over chaos; serenity over stress; peace over perfection; grace over grit; faith over fear. – Mary Davis

Today, I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, and joy. Today, I invite peace and harmony to dwell in me and surround me at all times. Today, I have the freedom and power to create the life I desire. It is important to speak peace into your life every day. How about you? Can you honestly say these statements with confidence? It is important for you to know that you already have peace within you, right now, in this very moment. Just because you may be struggling right now, does not mean you are failing life forever. Keep believing in yourself and good things will happen in the near future.

Back-to-school deals are here. Valid 8/5-8/11.

In the Midst

In the midst of life’s greatest storms, do not forget your divine heritage as a son or daughter of God. -Ronald A. Rasband

In the midst of it all, what do you feel? What are your thoughts? How do you cope with every day struggles of life? Now, I realize my struggles may be different from your struggles, but can we agree that it takes a strategy to not only cope with the struggles of life, but to overcome such struggles?

Let’s face it, painful life experiences often leave heart-deep scars within us. Even though danger is long past, fear still lingers around us. It affects our present relationships and experiences, and even our perception of God. We may never know why it has happened to us, but we do know that we can and will survive it. We also know that God has given us a new day and a new season to reach out for His blessings in joy and gratitude. Painful experiences leave scars within us, but they also leave strength and wisdom in the midst of the storm, giving us the opportunity to help those enduring similar trials.

Storms of Life

Your storm is bigger than you are, but your Jesus is bigger than your storm. -Ron Hutchcraft

Even in the midst of life’s many storms, we have the capacity to stand in the center of our own peace. Now, let’s think about that for a moment before we proceed. When you are faced with the storms of life, think about how God is your strength and power; God is your protector and He will guide you through the storms of life if you let Him. Needless to say, it is always our choice. Will we allow God to lead us or will we try to handle our storms ourselves?

Here’s some storms of life examples:

• Stress
• Health Issues
• Financial Difficulties
• Unemployment
• Wayward Children
• Divorce
• Lack of Transportation
• Mental Illness (Depression, Anxiety)
• Imprisonment
• Grieving the Loss of a Loved One
• Various Addictions

To Overcome Life’s Obstacles

God promises to make something good out of the storms that bring devastation to your life. (Romans 8:28)

When was the last time you not only experienced a storm in your life, but you push through the storm with your inner strength? If you struggle in this area, please follow these tips to overcome life’s obstacles:

• Stay focused on positive thoughts instead of negative thoughts
• Don’t ever give up
• Challenge yourself and try new things every day
• Each day you should choose happiness
• Choose to shine and smile
• Don’t compare yourself to others and find time to celebrate your little accomplishments

pink, flower, journal, book, write, pen — pixabay

Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection
Are you ready to write yourself into a peaceful state? If so, grab your journal and let’s get started. Journaling should be a safe place for you to write how you feel and to reflect on your heart felt thoughts. This is your personal journey so make sure you are honest throughout the process.

MIND – Meditate on peaceful thoughts. Define those thoughts in detail and write about them.

BODY – What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.

SPIRIT – How do you cope with struggles? What set a spark in your soul? Write about it.

Remember, my storm may be different from yours, but at the end of the day we both are in the midst of something that makes us uncomfortable. Instead of ignoring and judging others, let’s be more supportive to others who may be experiencing difficult life situations. Sometimes just lending a listening ear will do wonders. Life is not about weathering the storm, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Please share what brings peace into your life. How do you find peace within? How do you overcome obstacles in life? Can you write yourself into a peaceful state? I look forward to reading your comments and feedback!

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Meditation from the Inside Out

LaPorterJuly 5, 201810 Replies

The inspiration you seek is already within you. Be silent and listen. – Rumi

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I hope you enjoyed your 4th of July holiday to my United States readers. I don’t know about where you live, but it was humid and in the 90’s. No grilling here! I cooked some steaks and hamburgers in the Air Fryer which makes for less cooking time and less mess to clean up in the kitchen. Well, enough about cooking and food. I want to discuss a very important topic today related to our mental state, relaxation and total well-being. The topic is called meditation.

meditation, yoga, pose, stillness, peaceful, water — pexels

Did you know…

• Meditation reduces stress?
• Meditation helps with clearing your thinking?
• Meditation increases our capacity for empathy and compassion?

Meditation is not a way of making your mind quiet. It’s a way of entering into the quiet that’s already there. – Deepak Chopra

meditation, stones, relax, peace, nature — pexels

Thought for today – I am in perfect balance. I am physically and emotionally connected and healed. I am free of worry and I am at peace with who I am. Every day I grow stronger and more relaxed. I love myself and life.

The goal of meditation isn’t to control your thoughts, it’s to stop letting them control you. – Unknown

Alright, let’s be honest here. Do you practice meditation daily? weekly? monthly? or never?

Meditation, when practiced regularly, can bring about a true personal transformation from the inside out. As you allow yourself to experience your inner peace and security, you will naturally begin to discover aspects of yourself that were previously hidden due to stress. Keep in mind, when practicing meditation, your body undergoes a structural change, which demonstrates the profound impact of simply sitting down, perfectly still, with your eyes closed, breathing deeply nice and slow. Meditation relaxes the entire brain and places your entire body in a calm way of living. Simply put, meditation is spending quality time with your soul and not allowing anything or anybody to distract you.

The body benefits from movement, and the mind benefits from stillness. – Sakyong Mipham

Physical Benefits of Meditation:

• Lowers high blood pressure
• Lowers the levels of blood lactate, reducing anxiety attacks
• Decreases tension-related pain
• Increases serotonin production that improves mood and behavior
• Improves the immune system
• Increases the energy level, as you gain an inner source of energy

If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place. – Lao Tzu

Mental Benefits of Meditation:

• Anxiety decreases
• Emotional stability improves
• Creativity increases
• Happiness increases
• Gain clarity and peace of mind
• Problems become smaller
• Sharpens the mind by increasing focus

As you can see, meditation is your time to relax, unwind, and practice your deep breathing techniques. Even though you are free to meditate anywhere, it would be nice to create your very own personal space in or around your home dedicated to meditation.

Tips to Create Your Personal Meditation Space

Tip 1: Choose a location with nature in mind. For example, lush green trees, soothing blue water, beautiful flowery garden, next to a window, on a patio, porch, empty room decorated with nature colors and pictures, etc.

Tip 2: Keep the space clean. If the environment around you is clean, your mind can also be relaxed during meditation. Less clutter is better.

Tip 3: Invite lots of fresh air. An airy and well-ventilated room is surely going to make you enjoy your meditation better.

Tip 4: Light shades work better. Pastel shades give a more soothing feel compared to dark or bright colors. You may choose a room which has either white or light shade walls that helps you relax.

Tip 5: Light it up as you like. Allow sunlight to come through your windows or if it is evening you may want a specific type of lamp to help set the relaxing mood.

Tip 6: Smell the relaxation. You may choose from a variety of fragrances as per your choice. Whether it is aromatic incense sticks or essence oils, the choice is yours.

Tip 7: Think comfort. You may choose a soft yoga mat, a low-height mattress, soft cushion or a comfortable chair.

Tip 8: Play it soft. You may choose some soft instrumental music which helps enhance your experience.

Journal Prompts

Let’s make it common practice to write in your journal after you practice meditation.

• I like to practice meditation because ___________________________.
• When I practice mediation, I feel ___________________________.
• What are your daily habits?
• What is a habit you want to break?
• What is keeping you from changing?
• List 5 emotional trigger words. How do they make you feel?
• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present or future?

Remember, once you get into the habit and experience the mental clarity, emotional stability, physical relaxation that the meditation practice offers, not practicing meditation seems unimaginable. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s set aside some quality time today to renew inspiration – mind, body and spirt by practicing meditation!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you practice meditation, please share your favorite place to meditate. What is your favorite time of the day to meditate? Do you like music playing in the background when you are meditating? Were you aware of the health benefits when practicing meditation? Have you experienced any positive health benefits while doing meditation? If so, please share in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

Courage to the Next Level

LaPorterJune 17, 20189 Replies

Having courage does not mean that we are unafraid. Having courage mean we face our fears. We are able to say, “I have fallen, but I will get up.” – Maya Angelou

Thought for today – Always remember that you deserve to be happy. You deserve to live a life you are excited about. Don’t let other people make you forget that.

Welcome to Renew Inspiration and Happy Father’s Day! Knowing when to walk away is wisdom. Being able to is courage. Walking away, with your head high is dignity. Now, think about that for a moment. What does courage mean to you right now in this very moment? Your honest response would be a great journal entry if you want to reflect on it later. According to the Webster Dictionary, courage is defined as the ability to do something that frightens one and the strength to withstand in the face of danger, fear, difficulty, pain or grief. So, how does one take courage to the next level? There is no right or wrong answer here. Everyone handles situations in their lives differently. However, many situations occur in life that call upon us to do something we find scary, upsetting, uncomfortable, anxiety provoking, or distressing. For example, when I decided to start blogging, I had no idea where to start. Then, I took time to research online and read through various books about blogging. After a while, I had the courage to invest money into my new venture and here I am five months later writing my thirty fourth blog! We have to learn how to move out of our comfort zone throughout this journey called life, so we can develop, grow, and expand both our mental and physical capacity. Are you up for the challenge? I sure hope you are.

Here’s some ways to help boost your courage:

• Don’t overthink it. Once you’ve decided to do anything in life that requires courage, don’t wait, proceed to act.

• Commit yourself ahead of time. Schedule an appointment or tell others when and where you plan to attend the activity. Committing yourself ahead of time or stating intentions to your support system will make you be accountable and you will follow through with the activity.

• Do the activity with a friend. Recruit a friend or family member to participate in the activity. Interacting with another person is a true way of managing fear and anxiety.

• Think of how good you’ll feel afterwards. Give some serious thought to how great you’ll feel about yourself after you take this leap of faith. You will feel more confident and increase your determination.

• Think of the doors that would open for you. If you struggle with courage and anxiety issues, you may need to seek help from a mental health professional or support group. Take some time to consider all the ways your life could be different if you were able to tackle your issue(s) successfully and use the motivation this process gives you to take the necessary step.

Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection
• What are five things that make you nervous or uncomfortable?

• What is it about each of these five things that bothers you most?

• Where does this discomfort come from?

• What is your personal definition of courage?

• Have there been times in your life when you’ve needed to be courageous? Take a moment to write about the situation and what you did to overcome your fears.

• Is there someone in your life whom you would characterize as courageous? If so, write about what you admire about this person and their courage.

• Complete the following sentences – Every day, I am afraid of_____________________. I show courage by _____________________.

• Describe an area of your life in which you wish you were more courageous? What is it, and how would you benefit?

Inspirational Quotes
Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts. – Winston Churchill

Courage does not always roar, sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, “I will try again tomorrow.” – Mary Anne Racmacher

You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. – Eleanor Roosevelt

My strength did not come from lifting weights. My strength came from lifting myself up when I was knocked down. – Bob Moore

With courage you will dare to take risks, have the strength to be compassionate, and the wisdom to be humble. Courage is the foundation of integrity. – Mark Twain

Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak. Courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen. – Winston Churchill

So, the next time you hesitate to activate your courage, take a moment and review the components of this blog. Remember, having courage is about a brief moment in time in which we take action to do what we know is healthy for us. Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

God Our Healer

LaPorterJune 3, 20183 Replies

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! God is our healer today, tomorrow and forever! Do you believe this on today? Despite what we may be going through in our lives, God wants to heal us from our emotional bondage that continues to hinder our spiritual growth to maturity. God wants to give us peace, love, and comfort throughout our lives. God wants to free our minds, bodies, and spirits from those things that will harm us. God does not want us to live in pain and misery. It’s important for all of us to read, pray and meditate in God’s Word.

There is no doubt in my mind that God is my healer. No matter what my mind is telling me or how my body may feel, I trust God to heal me from the top of my head to the soles of my feet. I ask God to bless me with vibrant health and overflowing joy every day. How about you? When you enter God’s presence with praise, God enters your circumstances with power. Yes, we should be confident and know that God is forever powerful within this Earthly realm. Before you read any further, let’s get ourselves prepared for a spiritual breakthrough. Please grab a pen or pencil, a Bible, your journal or a notebook.

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. (I Peter 2:24)

Here’s some life challenges that you or someone you know maybe facing:

Mind – Mental Illness, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Worry

Body – Physical Aches and Pains, Stress, Eating Disorders, Arthritis, Stroke, Heart Attack, High or Low Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Cancer

Spirit – Lost in Sin, Nonbelievers

God has provided the following spiritual tools to assist us in this healing process:

• The Cross of Jesus Christ
• God’s Word
• Rejoicing and Praise
• The Holy Spirit
• God’s Body, the Church
• A New Self-Image in Jesus Christ

The Cross of Jesus Christ
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. (Matthew 10:38)
The cross is God’s remedy for our emotional pain and distress. Without Jesus’ death on the cross for our sins, no one would have eternal life. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This verse explains the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The cross of Jesus Christ provides the way to heaven for sinful mankind, like you and I, who could never get there on our own.
• Ways I want God to transform me…
• Define an area in my spiritual life where I need to see God’s guidance is…

God’s Word
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17)
The healing power of God’s Word is shown throughout the Bible. God truly has unfailing love for His people. God has always challenged us through His Word to experience Him in a tangible, but loving way so that He could bless us with health through our obedience. The Word of God says, “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:23).
• My favorite passage of Scripture is…
• One lesson I learned from Scripture this week is…

Rejoicing and Praise
I will praise the Lord according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the Lord most high. (Psalm 7:17)
God is the only unchanging constant in our lives. When all is gone – health, family, friends, money, position, etc. God remains. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Isn’t that something to rejoice about? Not only is God present with us, but God’s Word also tells us that nothing can separate from that great unconditional love.
• Today or this week I was most blessed by…
• The area where I need to put more trust in God is…

The Holy Spirit
Behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:23)
It is a fact that God knew that we could not change our sinful ways or heal ourselves in our own strength. God gave us His Holy Spirit to live within us and to take up residence in our hearts. The Holy Spirit gives us new birth, makes us a new creation in God’s sight and places us into the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit helps us to better understand and apply Scripture to our daily lives. (I Corinthians 2:12-13)
• I feel God’s presence most when…
• I feel most distant from God when…

God’s Body, the Church
And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18)
God’s Word tells us that God loves and accepts us, yet we strive to get love and acceptance from people we can see, hear and touch. If one part of the Christian body suffers, every other part suffers with it. So, if you are in a difficult situation, do not be alone. Reach out to Christian family members, friends, support groups, or spiritual counselors.
• I am eager for God to…
• My calling in life is…

A New Self-Image in Jesus Christ
For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. (Galatians 6:3)
Not only must we believe in God’s evaluation of us, but we need to reject what our own faulty experiences and emotions tell us. Remember, self-image doesn’t change because we focus on pleasing ourselves, but it changes because we believe God and accept His love for us.
• An aspect of God’s character he recently revealed to me is…
• God is leading me to make the following changes…

Other Journal Prompts
• My spiritual gifts are…
• Define what brings me the most joy in life…
• Sometimes I get angry with God about…
• An act of obedience God is prompting me to take is…
• Journaling has helped build my spiritual foundation by…
• The most significant area of my life that is not finding its way into my journal is…

Always remember, nothing in this world is too big for our God. Don’t underestimate God in times of trouble or distress. Humble yourself and turn it all over to God to handle. Allow God to guide your every thought, your every step along this journey called life. As I stated earlier, God is our healer today, tomorrow and forever!

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
and Wisdom to know the difference. – Reinhold Niebuhr

Let’s pray – Heavenly Father, I bring to you my burdens and you know my current situation. You know I cannot make it in this world without you. Comfort my heart, heal my body, give me strength to carry on throughout my journey. Amen.

Practice the Miracle Morning Life S.A.V.E.R.S:

1. Silence – Time for reflection, meditation, deep breathing or praying
2. Affirmation – Room to develop and repeat your positive affirmations
3. Visualization – A moment to visualize your goals possibly with a vision board
4. Exercise – Benefit mentally from physical exercise with a brief workout
5. Reading – Develop your mind by reading a few pages from a self-help book
6. Scribing – Write down your thought keeping and reviewing a journal
www.wantforwellness.com

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Leave the Past Behind

LaPorterMay 31, 20185 Replies

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am starting over today, right now in this very moment. Yes, as I type these words to inspire you, I am also being inspired. I want to erase all negative thoughts and feelings from my inner being. I want to replace all negativity with a new pattern of positive thoughts and feelings; a new wave of emotional balance and well-being; a new connection to my life as I know it, think it and feel it. There will be a new belief system inscribed within me.

The beauty of life is, while we cannot undo what is done, we can see it, understand it, learn from it and change so that every new moment is spent not in regret, guilt, fear or anger but in wisdom, understanding and love. – Jennifer Edwards

How many times do you think about the past? It could be past events, death, thoughts, people, relationships, choices, successes, failures, etc. While it is not against the law to think about the past, be careful not to get caught up in an emotional web or bondage that may keep you from moving forward. Each day I wake up, I thank God for allowing me another chance to get my life back on track. What do I mean by that? Well, we are human and last, I remember, all humans make mistakes. We should live and learn from our mistakes, not dwell in them.

Face each day with a positive attitude. Dig deep inside to strive for new opportunities that surround us every day. Focus on right now and not what ifs. Believe it or not, even as I type these words, it seems easier said than done. I realize it will not be easy for some, but to move to a better place in life, we sometimes need to place ourselves in uncomfortable situations and/or conversations. Involve yourself with like-minded individuals who build you up and not tear you down.

Here’s some ways to help you leave the past behind:

• Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal
• Share your thoughts and feelings with a trusted family member or friend
• Seek professional help from a licensed therapist
• Read and be grounded in God’s Word
• Meditate and be prayerful
• Practice yoga and stretch routines
• Read inspirational and spiritual books
• Set some attainable goals for yourself
• Post positive quotes where you can read them daily
• Recite positive affirmations throughout your day

The only way to get over the past is to leave it behind. If you spend your time re-living moments that are gone forever, you might miss the special moments that are yet to come. – Susan Gale

Mind – Meditation
The thing about meditation is: You become more and more you. – David Lynch

According to the Wikipedia, meditation can be defined as a practice where an individual focuses his or her mind on an object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. It’s important to start with good breathing techniques when doing your meditation. In addition, create a peaceful and safe place where you will not be distracted during your meditation. Remember, to let go of all frustrations throughout the meditation process. Then, you will feel refreshed, renewed, and at peace.

• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present, or future?
• What are your priorities in life? What helps you to stay on track?
• How do you keep your thoughts in check throughout the day?

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Body – Set Attainable Goals
Set goals that are well balanced. – M. Russell Ballard

First, you must set attainable goals for yourself. Second, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout your journey. Rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis. Simply put, your success is found in your daily routine.

• What do I want to accomplish in my life today? Tomorrow? Next week? Next month? Next year?
• What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses?
• Discuss one way you would like to grow in the next year.

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Spirit – Self-Reflection
Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted. It is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong

Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things, then better yourself. I think of self-reflection as making time for ME. Similar, to meditation, you are going to a quiet and safe place away from distractions. Then, you are taking short breaths and paying attention to what is going on within you. Your thoughts, feelings, emotions, all moving to the same rhythm.

• What did you learn about yourself today? This week? This month?
• What are you inviting into your life with your actions or thoughts?
• How can I create more acceptance and happiness in my life?

Don’t close the book when bad things happen in your life, just turn the page and begin a new chapter. – Unknown

blank screen, desk, laptop, work, thoughts, feelings, typing — pixabay

I want to hear from you – Don’t be afraid to start over. It’s a new chance to be creative and to rebuild what you want. Begin to look at your life as a story being written on paper and you are the author. Train your mind to think differently. Train your body to react differently. Train your spirit to feel differently. This will be a process that will continue for a life time. Out with the old and in with the new. Leaving your past behind, old habits, negative thoughts, old relationships, failures, etc.

Please share your thoughts in the blog’s comment section concerning the following questions:

• How do you plan to leave the past behind?
• What methods of release do you use? For example, do you write in a journal, write blogs, read inspirational books, talk to someone, meditate, go for a walk outdoors, etc.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Moving Forward in Faith

LaPorterMay 19, 20182 Replies

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Well, here’s to another wonderful and blessed week! Would you agree? Despite what you have experienced throughout the week, be thankful that you are here today to speak about it, read my inspirational blog, or write in your journal. It’s important to speak positive words into our lives so we can receive the benefit which is a positive outcome to our negative situation. I always think of it as moving forward in faith.

Don’t dig up in doubt what you planted in faith. -Elisabeth Elliot

With that said, let’s have a spiritual discussion concerning “FAITH”. Your faith can move mountains and your doubt can create them. Now, what is your understanding of this statement? Well, it’s quite simple. You must believe in your heart and mind that you will receive whatever it is that you are praying for throughout your journey. No mountain is too big for our God. I always think of a mountain as any obstacle, problem, or situation that happens in our lives throughout the journey. Unfortunately, some mountains can destroy relationships and break up happy homes.

Faith is all about believing. You don’t know how it will happen, but you know it will. -Unknown

Take a Step Back
Throughout our journey, it would be nice if we could backtrack and start over from time to time without harming anyone along the way. But how did we get to the point where we want to press the reset button? For some of us, we try to learn from our mistakes which causes us to wonder why we made them in the first place. Retracing our steps helps us remember who we are and where we come from throughout the faith process. This means spending time in meditation and prayer. Then, looking at your current situation to see where we may have taken the wrong turn.

Faith isn’t a feeling. It’s a choice to trust God even when the road ahead seems uncertain. -Dave Willis

Apologize
Then, it is time to apologize for our mistakes if you have hurt someone along the way. How awful we must feel, right? For some people apologizing and asking for forgiveness is too hard to bare alone. In most cases, our pride stands in the way of apologizing to make someone else feel better. It is important to retrace our steps and learn how we should be honest to not just ourselves, but also to others. We should all strive to learn and grow from our mistakes. This learning and growing experience is not meant to be easy, but it is a necessary step in this learning and faith process.

God has a purpose for your pain, a reason for your struggle and a reward for your faithfulness. Trust Him and don’t give up. -Dave Willis

Make Amends
Then, it is time to make amends with those who we have done wrong. In some cases, amends can be straight forward and in other cases it can be quite messy. But nevertheless, be true and honest to yourself. Put everything you have into this faith process to amend your relationships and receive the much needed forgiveness from the person(s) in question.

Your faith can move mountains and your doubt can create them. -Unknown

Move On
Then, the final step in this faith process is the time to prepare yourself to move on. Remember, it is good to ponder on your mistakes, but don’t let them shame you or make you think you are alone throughout the faith process. No matter how big our mistakes seem in life, God’s love can help us through those darkest days. Simply put, we shall be well and rise again. Just let go, release, and move on.

I choose faith over anxiety hope over worry love over fear. -Unknown

Journal Prompts
• How can I strengthen my faith in God?
• What feels like a struggle in my life right now?
• What stresses me out? What can I do to reduce this stress?
• How can I support myself more? How can I support others too?
• How can I make more space in my life for the things or people I love?

Your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed it faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love. Until next time, believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

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Speak from Within

LaPorterMay 8, 20188 Replies

My soul finds rest in God alone: my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to share some inspirational words with you with a message titled “Speak from Within”. Now, this is a message that you will have to open your heart and be willing to feel the words throughout your soul. I want you to read these words and meditate on what the message really means to you.

Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously

Before we get started, please make sure you have the following:
• Mind – An open mind; Meditation ready
• Body – Willingness to express oneself; Eager to move from one place to another freely
• Spirit – Humble and caring spirit; Broken soul
• Journal or Notebook
• Pen or Pencil

The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. Romans 8:11

What is the message that you need on today? What is it that you need to focus on within your life, right now, in this very moment? I’m stronger because I had to be, I’m smarter because of my mistakes, happier because of the sadness I’ve known, and now wiser because I learned. During our life long journey, it is important for us to speak positive words into our soul. It is important for us to speak success into our inner being. Despite the hurt we may feel or the sadness we experience in life, often times we forget that the power to overcome life’s challenges is already inside you and me. If you feel lost, it is because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together you will find peace.

Define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you’re proud to live. -Anne Sweeney

Depression and grief may rise up within me, but I meditate on positive thoughts to overcome this feeling. But sometimes that is not enough. I’m going to be honest, this is truly a difficult time for me because I have to feel the sadness and experience the grief from my mother’s death. No one can prepare you for the emptiness inside after losing your mother or any loved one for that matter. No words can comfort your heart after it is broken in many pieces. I look up at my mother’s picture and father’s picture every day and think about all of the positive memories that are carefully stored away in my mind and in my heart. Sometimes I shed tears and sometimes I just pick up a pen and just start writing. Now, this is my testimony or life experience however you want to define it. What is your story or experience? It is important to allow yourself to feel and to express honestly. I survived throughout my journey because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fire around me. I had to reflect on scriptures that are hidden in my heart in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc.

Don’t mistake God’s patience for His absence. His timing is perfect, and His presence is constant. He’s always with you! Deuteronomy 31:6

Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

With God there is no limit to what you can do. There is no obstacle you can’t overcome. Through Him, all things are possible. Matthew 19:26

Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. -C.S. Lewis

As I get older, I realize that decisions become easier when your will to please God outweighs your will to please the world. I know that is a lot to accept at times, but it is truly a choice that you and I have to make each day we wake up. Know that your words, thoughts, and actions speak into your very existence throughout your journey. Whether you agree with me or not, it is important for you to understand where you are. You don’t owe others nothing in life, but you owe everything to yourself. Examine your priorities and make the necessary adjustments in order to make time for personal growth.

Don’t underestimate me. I know more than I say, think more than I speak, and notice more than you realize.

Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?

Greatness is hearing your truth and speaking it, no matter how your voice shakes. -Mel Robbins

journal, pen, plant, desk, thoughts, purpose — pexels

Positive Thinking Every Day: An Inspiration for Each Day of the Year

Please grab your journal or notebook and reflect on the journal prompts below. I told you at the beginning of this blog that you will need to be honest with yourself and be willing to feel the words within your soul. If you allow yourself to escape for a moment and answer the questions, you may free yourself from emotional bondage. Keep in mind that this is a journey and everyone takes their own path, makes their own choices, and suffer their own consequences.

Journal Prompts with a Purpose – Positive Thinking – Positive Outcome:
• What do you want people to remember about you?
• If I really loved myself I would ___________________.
• Where do you feel safe and loved?
• What’s your biggest regret?
• What have you done to make amends and/or forgive yourself?
• If you could change just one thing about yourself, what would it be?
• How do you think your life would be better?
• Have you ever tried to change it?
• I think I’m really good at _________________ and I know this because ________________.
• What are you proud of?
• What do you see as your biggest accomplishment?
• If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?

Gratitude Journal Amazon Affiliate Link

Remember, this is a personal journey. It is important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace and joy.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Journaling to Find Yourself

LaPorterApril 5, 201810 Replies

Inhale the future, exhale the past

journal is a reflection of who you are, it’s a repository for all of the things that interest and inspire you. A journal provides a safe environment to experiment with your writing style and technique. Simply put, when you write in a journal it becomes your personal journey of creative and heart felt thoughts.

Stay patient and trust your journey

Now, let’s take the journaling process to the next level. How about using the journaling process to find yourself? Journaling is a way to capture ideas and keep your dreams alive until you can put them in motion. Ideas can be found all around you. Take a moment and look around you right where you are. Inspiration is not required to knock at your door twice. We have to be ready and willing to do what’s necessary to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to find yourself.

A little progress each day adds up to big results

cup, saucer, coffee, journal, pen — pixabay

5 Tips for Capturing your Best Journal Ideas:

1. Take your journal everywhere you go to capture those special thoughts or moments as they happen. If your journal is too big, you can always buy a small notebook to use while you are on the go. Then, transfer or glue your notes in your journal at a later time.

2. Select a journal that feels right to you. You can purchase a beautifully crafted handmade journal, a hardcover book with unlined pages, a softcover notebook with lined pages, a 3-ring binder with loose paper, or just a spiral notebook. It really doesn’t matter your style, just make sure that your journal feels right to you and you can comfortably use it to capture your thoughts.

3. Handwrite your journal entries so you are unable to edit your thoughts. Handwriting keeps things more spontaneous and also gives you clues about your emotional state. If you’re anything like me, you can tell what you’re feeling just by analyzing the state of your writing.

4. Create an informal table of contents in the beginning of each journal. Number each page and try to list the topics covered as you go along. This makes finding stuff a lot easier down the road or when you just want to reflect on some of your past writings. Don’t worry about doing this each time you journal, but make sure to complete this step before starting your next journal.

5. Don’t worry about format, grammar, or spelling. Remember, this is your personal space and a written account for how you feel right now in this very moment. Don’t worry about following your traditional writing rules, just write.

dream, courage, inspire, harmony, stones — pexels

Here are 10 reasons why you should use journaling to find yourself:

1. To ponder and pen your big dreams – Your journal is an ideal place to write out all of your desires and dreams. If there were no limits, what would you want to become? Who would you want to meet? What would you have? Where would you go? Write it all down, describing in detail what your success would look like. By doing this, you can begin to put the laws of success attraction into motion.

2. To get clarity and solve problems faster – When you are unable to see a clear path in your life, it’s better to jot down all those thoughts swirling around in your head. Writing things out gives you the accurate perspective necessary to attract the right solutions. Take a moment to write down questions related to your problems. In fact, you should have an attitude of expectancy that you will find the right answers.

3. To chart what works – Journaling about your ideas, successes, and even failures empowers you to backtrack to see what’s working in your life and what’s not. It’s important to be honest with yourself and be willing to make the necessary adjustments where needed to live a rewarding life.

4. To track your past victories – Take a moment to celebrate your victories and write when and where you have excelled in life. It’s easy to remember your every mishap, but also make an effort to note what’s going right in your life as well.

5. To plan and strategize – Use your journal for both short-term and long-term planning. This process will allow you to work through specific strategies on how you will accomplish your goals. Plan everything from the week ahead to the entire year in your journal.

6. To create a success action routine – Your success action routine should consist of time for meditation and visualization, speaking positive affirmations and reviewing your goals. Visualize yourself completing your goals and feeling the benefits and rewards of doing so.

7. To take control over your future – Journaling about your ideal life and begin to act as if you have that life right now. Be descriptive and detailed in your writing. This will help you prepare for an opportunity that doesn’t exist yet, and ready yourself for the victory to come.

8. For self-improvement – Your journal is a safe place where you can truly be honest with yourself. This is your book, your story, your journey. You have no limitations or boundaries. Your journal is private so you can express yourself and get to know who you really are and what you truly desire.

9. To help you through the decision-making process – In your journal, you can list pros and cons when you are faced with having to make a difficult decision. Write out every possible outcome and use this to guide you through the decision-making process.

10. To keep you in a state of gratefulness – As you go through the process to find yourself, stay grateful throughout your journey. Express gratitude in your journal. Slowing down to make note of what you’re thankful for can relieve you of anxiety, stress, and help you to enjoy life to the fullest. In addition, the act of gratefulness also draws more positivity your way, helping you to create a cycle of success.

Still stuck in a rut and have nothing to write, here are examples of ideas to include in your journal:

• Reactions to personal situations and world events
• Goals you’re working toward (weight loss, career, personal)
• Inspiring quotes or affirmations
• Poetry that moves you
• Pictures from magazines or photos you love
• Books to read
• Music you’ve heard that you may want to purchase
• Websites to explore
• To do lists or reminders
• Topic research or exploration
• Relationship successes or problems
• Travel plans
• Dreams to explore
• Feelings, thoughts, or emotions

One small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day

Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely and to help you think about mind, body, and spirit as you write. But today, think of journal prompts as a thought provoking exercise to help you find yourself.

• Name 5 things that you love about yourself.
• What did you learn about yourself this month? this week? today?
• What are you inviting into your life with your actions?
• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present, or future?
• What feels like a struggle at the moment?
• What do I want to accomplish in my life today? tomorrow? next week? next month? next year?
• What has been going well in my life lately?
• How can I create more acceptance in my life?
• What traits do I like about myself?
• What are my character strengths?
• How have I been holding myself back?
• How can I take a step forward?

Dream. Plan. Do.

So, grab your journal and write your ideas so you’re able to retrieve your thoughts whenever needed. Your journal holds all of your pertinent life information so you can remember and reference at any time in your future. Remember, you shape your world for success. Begin to imagine and dream. Don’t be afraid of goal setting and planning. Have courage to move in a positive direction toward your personal growth and advancement.

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you do keep a journal, please share some of your organizing tips and techniques; pros and cons of journaling; journaling tips that help you continue your journey. We learn from one another so your comments are necessary in order for all of us to learn and grow. I look forward to reading your feedback!

In the Midst of it All

LaPorterMarch 30, 20188 Replies

In the midst of life’s greatest storms, do not forget your divine heritage as a son or daughter of God. -Ronald A. Rasband

JOURNAL PROMPTS:
• Find a quote to live by and write it down. Then, write a journal entry.
• What book has influenced your life?
• What are you grateful for?
• Define your struggles and create a plan to overcome them.

Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions. -Unknown

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM

Sometimes I feel tangled up in my emotions. Trying my hardest to break free. Emotional freedom is almost at my fingertips, but it is difficult to trust myself to move in the right direction. Can I control my emotions or do my emotions control me? I ask myself this question every day. How about you?

Emotional freedom is what we all strive for while on this journey called life. Trying to live a healthier lifestyle. But let’s be honest my friends, the struggle to emotional freedom is real and sometimes scary. The temptations and challenges are real, such as unhealthy foods, drinks, not enough time to exercise, health issues…the list can go on and on. But once again, I ask myself daily…Can I control my emotions or do my emotions control me?

I am a survivor, a fighter, a wife, a mother, a sister, an aunt, a friend. Yes, I am all of these things, but most of all, I am strong enough to overcome this emotional struggle. I am strong enough to make a commitment to not only myself, but also to my loved ones. I am strong enough to control my roller coaster of feelings, desires, and personal choices in life. So, I ask myself and you should ask yourself…Can I control my emotions or do my emotions control me?

Emotional freedom is within our reach, but we must stay focused and keep pushing toward our ultimate goal…to be at peace, happy and free of all negative feelings that sometimes hide within.

JOURNAL PROMPTS:
• How do you see the world? Describe it in detail.
• Share a vivid dream.
• How have you changed in the past year?
• What are your priorities in life?

Peace comes through hope. -James E. Faust

BEING AT PEACE & FINDING GOD’S PURPOSE

There is one sure way to know that you are doing exactly what God wants you to do, you will be at peace. Not every day, not all the time, but even in the midst of hard times and confusion you will feel good about what you are doing. Even when it seems like you are getting nowhere, you will know there is absolutely nothing else on earth you can do other than what you are doing. It’s called being on purpose. There will be times when you want to walk away, but you won’t. You can’t. Perhaps the money will not show up fast enough, but some way, somehow, you will have just enough to handle the task at hand.

Every day, every hour, and every minute has a purpose. God has a plan for you. Continue to trust that. He is taking you great places. -Unknown

When you are doing what God wants you to do, nothing else matters. You will be willing to stick it out in bad times. You will ignore people who tell you that you can’t or that you are crazy. You will be so intent on finding the happiness and success you know you deserve, you will be at peace. In peace, you find God’s purpose for you.

Simply put, your peace is God’s pleasure – Now let’s go find it – Are you ready? Ready, set, go!!!

JOURNAL PROMPTS:
• What do you feel strongly about?
• Something you are proud of.
• How would you like people to describe you?
• Discuss one way you would like to grow in the next year.

Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light. -Yogi Bhajan

TRAVEL LIGHT

woman, stillness, meditation, light — pixabay

If you know that your life is a journey and if you want to make it to your divine destination, you must learn to travel light. Shake off all of the unnecessary baggage and negative thoughts. Unpack the abrasive attitudes, addictive appetites, belittling burdens, conflicting confusion, and frivolous fears that you have packed away in the crevices of your heart and mind. Pack a tidbit of truth, a capsule of courage, a fistful of faith, and a pocketful of prayer, and be your way to a healthier and stronger you!

JOURNAL PROMPTS:
• What do you love about yourself?
• If you could change just one thing about yourself, what would it be?
• What do you want people to remember about you?
• What do you need to be content?

Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life. -J.K. Rowling

SOLID FOUNDATION

A solid foundation is the most important part of a building. Without a solid foundation, the building won’t last very long. Unfortunately, the building could crumble or fall apart at any time, especially if stress is placed on it by a storm.

The Bible encourages people to build their lives on the solid rock of Christ, rooted securely in Him (see Matthew 7:24-27 and Ephesians 3:17). If you try to build your life on what people say and think of you, how they treat you, how you feel, or your past mistakes, you are building on sinking sand. But if you trade that old, cracked foundation for a solid foundation, one based on Christ and His love, nothing can shake you.

JOURNAL PROMPTS:
• What is your favorite scripture that you have hidden in your heart?
• What or who gives you comfort during difficult times?
• What can you do to nurture your mind, body, and spirit more?
• What has been going well in your life lately?

Journaling is like whispering to one’s self and listening at the same time. -Mina Murray

JOURNALING – TIME FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION

journaling, book, flowers, writing — pixabay

Journaling helps you make sense of your emotions and pinpoint patterns. Journaling helps to reduce stress, solve problems more effectively and even improve your overall health.
One way to practice journaling is to write about a good life experience. Not only does this remind you that there’s life beyond bad feelings, but it also serves as an emotional anchor. When you describe a happy memory in your journal, you will be mentally reinforcing that memory so that it might occur to you later in life while you’re going through difficult times.

Now, let’s practice this exercise to access your anchor:

I remember a good feeling _______ [when]. I simply felt ______________ [describe the feeling in a few words]. I was __________________ [where], and I remember noticing _________________ [something sensory]. It was a time in my life when I was doing ________________ [an activity or a general description]. I’ll never forget ________________ [people, weather, environment, etc.] around me. I’ll never be right there again but I know I CAN feel that way again.