Foundation – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Misguided Journey

LaPorterMay 25, 20202 Replies

When you think that everything is against you remember God is always with you. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Happy Memorial Day to all of you. I don’t know about you, but lately I feel like I’m on a misguided journey through life. Nothing seems right or normal. At times I don’t know if I’m coming or going. Quite frankly this current pandemic has shaken my life to the core. Our government leaders are only focusing on opening the economy, but not caring about saving American lives.

It’s times like these that force us to return to our spiritual foundation which includes two important components:

• Component #1 – Seeking God’s face during difficult times.

• Component #2 – Remembering that grace changes everything in our lives.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

SEEK GOD’S FACE

When we look at God’s face we see his glory, but when we look at the cross we see his heart. – Unknown Author

How often do you seek God’s face? For some, seeking God’s face is done on a daily basis and for others seeking God’s face is done on an as needed basis. What does it really mean to seek God’s face? Well, I believe seeking God’s face simply means to seek God’s presence in your life. Presence is a common translation of the Hebrew word “face”. Literally, we are to seek his face throughout our lives, not just when we are in trouble or feeling lost.

Here’s some ways for us to seek God’s face throughout our misguided journey:

• Read God’s Word, study it often and meditate on it

• Fasting and praying regularly

• Confessing your sins and repenting to God regularly

• Reading daily devotions and journaling about what you learned

• Singing praise and worship songs

Through this spiritual process, remember to seek God’s face by calling and pleading for Him to fill your presence with His anointing from on high. Only then will you receive the necessary peace, comfort, security and healing from God.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

GRACE CHANGES EVERYTHING

I don’t know exactly what’s next but I’m stepping forward with grit, anchored in grace. – Julie Graham

In addition, grace changes everything. Grace has been defined as “the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings”. Simply put, grace is “undeserved favor from God.” God’s grace is adequate for anything and everything that you experience in this life. Despite what prompted the hurt you’ve experienced in life, know that God’s grace can bring peace, hope, and healing.

Here’s some simple ways to receive God’s grace today:

• Just ask God for it

• Through praise and worship

• Say thank you often

• Through forgiveness

• Forget and move forward

• Receive new mercies everyday

One beautiful thing about grace is that God does not withdraw His grace when you stumble or fall. Now, let’s pause here and give God some praise for His sincere love for us. Instead, acting with grace, God gently picks you up and enables you to take the next step. You can always find at God’s throne of grace whatever help you need whenever you need it. You can run to the Lord in times of trouble, when your heart is breaking, at life’s crossroads, and during the darkest and loneliest nights. Remember, God is waiting for you with open arms.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Grace gives kindness to ourselves and others even when it’s hard. – Unknown Author

I love journaling because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Remember, journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes and failures. In addition, journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that this is a journey. Everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

• Do you feel misguided on your journey?

• How often do you seek God’s face?

• What feels like a struggle in my life right now?

• What advice do I need to receive from God?

• Am I prepared to receive God’s grace? Why or why not?

• How can I strengthen my relationship and faith in God?

• How much time do you spending reading God’s Word, praying or meditating?

As you travel throughout your misguided journey, there are always obstacles that you may encounter while living on Earth, but you must work around them in order to seek God’s face and see him clearly. It is always important to stay away from anything and anyone who blocks us from being in the presence of God. Remember, God offers us an extravagant gift: His grace. The best thing about that, it cost Him everything, but it costs us nothing. If you find yourself in a small place, God knows you’re there. He’s with you, and He can do something mighty big. Trust his amazing grace. Be peaceful, be happy, be whole and stay encouraged.

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

She has grace in her heart and fire in her soul. – Unknown Author

Let’s take a moment to share with one another. How much time do you spend seeking God’s face? Have you experienced God’s grace in your life time?

Please share your responses in the comment below so we can learn and grow together. I am excited to hear from you. Until next time, stay encouraged, stay healthy, and stay safe!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Journaling to Move Mountains

LaPorterOctober 13, 20194 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Journaling, Move Mountains, Problems, Obstacles, Goal Setting, Self Confidence, Self Care, Spiritual Foundation, Affirmations — pexels

My mind is focused, my body is healthy, and my spirit is calm. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Believe in yourself. Be brave and take risks. After all, nothing can substitute an experience, whether it is positive or negative. Today, I want to talk about Journaling to Move Mountains. Let’s take a moment and think about the following questions.

• Why do I write in my journal?
• What do I want to learn about myself?
• What am I exceptionally good at?
• How do I shine from day to day?
• Do I have any talents or special skills?
• How do I stand out in a crowd?

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – Purchase this item to help improve your personal journey!

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Believe with all your heart that you will do what you were made to do. – Orison Swett Marden

Mind – Your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed it faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love.

Body – Your body is healthy and beautiful.

Spirit – Everything you need is within you.

Well, I hope you have your journal and something to write with. I love to write in my journal because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Journal writing is a form of personal expression. Journal writing can be whatever you want it to be. Remember, journal writing is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes and failures.

So, when you first read the title Journaling to Move Mountains, what were you thinking? What does the title Journaling to Move Mountains mean to you and your current situation? Whenever you make the decision to move mountains, you must put in some hard work and dedication. Let’s face it, most of us did not just wake up one day and have a successful career, a beautiful home, a healthy fitness routine, etc. You had to first decide what you wanted to work on, then you had to plan, then you had to execute your plan into action. In reality, most people fail many times before they succeed so never give up on your dreams.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 2 – Purchase this book to learn how to set SMART goals.

Well, in order to use journaling to move mountains, you must begin to think and act differently. Here’s a few concepts to keep in mind throughout this wholesome journey:

GOAL SETTING

Goal setting is important in every aspect of your life. To pursue new ideas or strive to reach your dreams, you must have a plan to do so. Here’s some steps to follow when goal setting:

• Identify what you want and name your specific goal(s). You can brainstorm each area of your life and identify one or two things you want most and set these as your beginning goals, such as weight loss, exercising more, building stronger relationships, being a better person, etc.
• Write your goal(s) down and write the steps needed to facilitate the goal(s). Make sure to include changes in habits and lifestyle that must take place.
• Take each of the steps you wrote down and incorporate them into your current lifestyle. You may need to rearrange your work schedule, ask for help around the house from family or friends, etc.
• Begin to visualize yourself after your goals are achieved. Take a moment and ask yourself what life looks like after the goals are reached, then spend a few minutes every day picturing yourself in that very same life.
• Evaluate your progress as you move through the steps you’ve identified as necessary to reach your goals and adjust your efforts as needed.

SELF-CONFIDENCE

Self-confidence is extremely important in almost every aspect of our lives, but if we are honest with ourselves, we sometimes struggle to find it throughout our everyday lives. Did you know that gaining the confidence of others is one of the key ways in which a self-confident person finds success in life? Unfortunately, people who lack self-confidence find it difficult to become successful. There are two main things that contribute to self-confidence: self-efficacy (when we see ourselves and others mastering skills and achieving goals) and self-esteem (we cope with what’s going on in our lives and know that we have a right to be happy). Here’s some ways for you to build self-confidence:

• Prepare for your journey. Look at what you’ve already achieved, think about your strengths, think about what’s important to you, and where you want to go in life.
• Set out on your journey. Build the knowledge you need to succeed, focus on the basics, set small goals and achieve them.
• Accelerate towards success. By this point, you should feel your self-confidence building from within. Keep yourself grounded and always aware of how you feel throughout this process.

SELF-CARE

Prioritizing everyone else in your life may seem honorable, but the reality is, totally neglecting yourself isn’t good for anyone. In order to take care of others, you first need to take care of yourself. Here’s some great ways to practice self-care:

• Make time for exercise or yoga.
• Read an inspirational book or read positive affirmations.
• Listen to soothing music with your eyes closed.
• Create a relaxing routine (warm bath, meditation, reading, writing in your journal).
• Get out in nature (go for a walk, run, or hike).

SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION

Without a strong spiritual foundation, you cannot withstand the storms of life that you may be facing, whether they are financial, emotional, or relational. Although society and culture may offer many solutions to help you brace against the struggles of daily living, here’s the three essentials needed in your spiritual life to weather any storm you might be dealt:

• Praise and Worship
• The Word of God
• Prayer

These spiritual essentials will help you build strength (your spiritual foundation) and begin to experience a powerful new sense of God’s presence and purpose in your life.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – Purchase this item to improve your spiritual self.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Your life only gets better when you do. Work on yourself and the rest will follow. – Unknown Author

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Upon entering the journaling process, you will find that you are able to reflect freely without judgement. Now, close your eyes and clear your mind. Grab your pen/pencil. Open your journal or notebook. Ready, set, write!

• What are your short-term goals and long-term goals?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What is your proudest accomplishment?
• What is your biggest failure?
• What are some of your mountains that seem too hard to overcome?
• As of today, what is my vision for my life in one year, two years, three years?
• What is overwhelming in my life right now?
• How can I reduce this overwhelming feeling?

AMAZON RESOURCES #4 – Purchase these items to start a new and refreshing journey!

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

You have the power to heal yourself, and you need to know that. We think so often that we are helpless, but we’re not. We always have the power of our minds. Claim and consciously use your power. – Louise Hay

Let’s talk. You were given this life because you are STRONG ENOUGH to live it. What kind of thoughts do you have on a regular basis? Do you enjoy journaling? Do you think journaling will allow you to move mountains in and around your life? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Surrender My Life

LaPorterSeptember 8, 20192 Replies

The moment of surrender is not when life is over, it’s when it begins. – Unknown Author

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Thought for today – Have patience and wait for the things you want most. Don’t chase it. Don’t run after it. If God wants you to have it, He will give it to you. Amen.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today I want to discuss a topic that truly impacts your mind, body, and spirit. Your total well-being depends on the decision for you to surrender your life to God. Every thought, every choice, and every move we make throughout our journey is based on how we build our spiritual foundation. Do we believe in a Higher Power? Do we trust God enough to allow Him to guide our every step? I don’t know about you, but I always think about this topic. At what point do you feel comfortable enough to surrender your all and all to God?

DEFINE

Before you can attempt to answer any of these questions, it is important to understand what the word “surrender” means. The word “surrender” is defined as to yield, give up or over, submit, abandon, relinquish, cede, waive, or capitulate. Unfortunately, in some Bible translations, the word “surrender” is not found, but the concepts of “yielding” (Romans 6:16-19) or “submitting” (James 4:7) are used instead.

Take a moment and answer these questions:

• Does something in your life seem out of control?

• Do you have more problems than solutions?

• Do you feel like you’re stuck or at a standstill in life?

• Are you overwhelmed no matter how hard you try?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s time for you to surrender your life to God. No excuses, no exceptions, just do it!

GOD SAYS

God says, remember these four things while living your best life:

• I will make a way for you.

• I’m fighting your battles.

• Prayer is the best medicine.

• Trust my timing.

I realize that God has given me a choice to believe and receive His blessings each and every day, but it all depends on when I make the decision to surrender my life to Him. Just like anything else in life, this decision may not be an easy one to make. However, it is a necessary one.

WAYS TO SURRENDER MY LIFE

Life is a balance between what we can control and what we cannot. I am learning to live between effort and surrender. – Danielle Orner

Here’s some creative ways to surrender my life to God:

• Believe and Obey God – First, I must believe in God. God’s direction isn’t always the easiest way, but God does make it clear that sometimes we only need to be still and let Him handle the rest. Remember, obedience is key.

• Stop Striving and Start Abiding – We don’t have to strive to make our life turn out a certain way. Instead, we need to abide in God and allow Him to work miracles in our lives.

• Confess and Surrender Your Need for Control – Go to God in prayer and confession. Ask God to help you surrender control each and every day. Focus on trusting in God and not being afraid to surrender your life.

• Be Still and Know – God delivers us, protects us, fights for us, and expects us to trust Him throughout life experiences. Be still and know this to be true.

• Trust God – It’s important to know that trusting in God is a lifelong process. We must learn how to submit our thoughts, trials, and emotions to God. This will not only lighten your burden, but God will make your path straight.

• Seek God – If we diligently seek God in all we do, He will direct your steps.

Remember God knows your every thought and he knows what your heart is really feeling. No matter how hard we may try to act a certain way, if our actions are not sincere, God will know it. Be true to yourself, to others, and most importantly, be true to God who should be the head of your life.

DAILY TO-DO LIST

• Wait Patiently – Psalm 27:14

• Have Faith – II Corinthians 5:7

• Pray – Philippians 4:6

• Think of Others – Philippians 2:4

• Trust in the Lord – Proverbs 3:5

• Read God’s Word – Psalm 119:12

• Give Thanks – Psalm 136

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Writing is the only way I have to explain my own life to myself. – Pat Conroy

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Now, open your journal or notebook and practice journaling each day by using these helpful journal prompts:

Here’s some journal prompts to help you throughout this transition:

• When I wake up in the morning, how do I most want to feel?

• What do I need more of in my life?

• What do I need to let go of?

• What do I most need to heal right now?

• What problem can you surrender today?

• What beliefs are holding me back from living my dream life?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Do you find it difficult to surrender your life to God? If so, why do you think this decision is difficult to make? Please share in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Motherly Love

LaPorterMay 12, 20196 Replies

A mother’s love cannot be measured. It’s a brilliant gem to be treasured.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Happy Mother’s Day to all of the well-deserved women reading this blog today. Mother’s Day is a holiday honoring motherhood that is observed in different forms throughout the world. Today, should be all about honoring you and showing how much your family appreciates and loves you. Mother’s Day is bitter sweet for me since I lost my mother in December 2015. In honor of my mother, Rosalynn K. Russell, I wrote two poems as I struggled through my first phase of grief.

STILL HERE – Written by Latisha Porter

Still here…your spirit lives within me, I can feel you, but I cannot see;
Your beautiful face that often lit up a room, makes us wonder if you left too soon;
Still here…your presence surrounds me day by day, sometimes I cannot find the words to say;
I love you, I miss you, I cry myself to sleep;
No one seems to understand me cause my emotions are so deep.
Still here…your love will forever be in my heart, even though you’re gone, we’ll never be apart…Still here!

Mothering is the gospel lived out as you hold your child’s heart in beauty, prayer, and patience. It’s not the big decision, but the little ones, trusting God through it all. – Elizabeth Hawn

Thank You – Written by Latisha Porter

Thank you for giving me life and raising me up in a positive way;
Thank you for the hugs, kisses and trust to care for you until the very last day.
Thank you for your strength and courage along the way;
Thank you for your beautiful spirit that often times stay;
Right here in my heart…no matter what, we’ll never grow apart!

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher. – Oprah Winfrey

Did you know that positive affirmations are used to reprogram the subconscious mind and to encourage us to believe certain things about ourselves or about the world and our place in it? Positive affirmations are also used to help us create the reality we want in life. Now, with that said, please recite these positive affirmations every day and look in a mirror as you say them. Repeat them until you feel it in your soul and you begin to believe every word.

• I am a good mother.

• I must take care of myself so I can take care of those I love.

• I love my family and I love myself.

• There is a value in everything I do.

• I am exactly who and what my children need.

• My family loves and values me as a mother.

• I am worthy of the love, support, and appreciation I receive from my family.

• It’s okay to need, want, and take a break from my family to be alone.

MOTHER’S DAY QUOTES

When you look at your mother, you’re looking at the purest love you’ll ever know.

Here’s a few of my favorite Mother’s Day quotes:

• A mother’s heart is like a rose, always open, always loving.

• Mothers hold their children’s hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.

• A mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend.

• Mom’s bring life into the world, love into our hearts, and joy into our homes.

DID YOU KNOW…

• Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start Mother’s Day Work Clubs to teach local women how to properly care for their children.

• In 1868, Ann Reeves Jarvis organized Mother’s Friendship Day at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation.

• In 1870, Julia Ward Howe wrote the Mother’s Day Proclamation which was a call to action that asked mothers to unite in promoting world peace.

• In 1873, Julia Ward Howe campaigned for a Mother’s Peace Day to be celebrated every June 2.

• The official Mother’s Day holiday arose in the 1900s as a result of the efforts of Anna Jarvis, daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis.

• In May 1908, Anna Jarvis organized the first official Mother’s Day celebration at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia.

• By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday.

• In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

journal, writing, books, pencils, awareness — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

A mother instructs with wisdom, guides through example, trains by love. – Roy Lessin

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track.

• Write a letter or poem to your mother expressing your gratitude and appreciation.

• I am incredibly grateful for _________________________.

• My favorite thing to do by myself is ______________________.

• My favorite thing to do with my family is __________________.

• What do you like about yourself as a mother, sister, aunt, friend, etc.?

• What makes you feel nourished in your mind, body, and spirit?

• How do you add value to the world and those around you?

• How can you show yourself more love?

• What is your favorite part of your daily routine?

• What do you want your legacy to be?

In the United States, Mother’s Day continues to be celebrated by presenting mothers with cards, candy, flowers, jewelry, and/or taking our mothers out to eat at her favorite restaurant. While this is great, make it a priority to celebrate mothers throughout the year by giving her compliments, appreciating her more, and supporting her endeavors! Peace and blessings!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon, Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com

Getting Organized

LaPorterJanuary 1, 201917 Replies

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

Getting organized is a sign of self-respect. – Gabrielle Bernstein

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration and Happy New Year! Let’s get organized in 2019. Did you know that the secret of your future is hidden in your daily routine? If you take the time to organize and commit to your daily routine, you will become happier, successful and strive to keep and/or maintain a healthy lifestyle. Now, let’s define a healthy lifestyle as a process and a personal journey created by focusing on various healthy choices or habits each day.

When we clear the physical clutter from our lives, we literally make way for inspiration and good, orderly direction to enter. – Julia Cameron

Remember, this process is personal so think about what you want different in your life or how you want to change your current situation. Then, build your healthy choices or habits on a strong foundation (your goals, beliefs and values). In addition, take time to learn more about your life, nutrition, fitness, spiritual-being to help you become a better version of you in 2019. Have fun and make the best of it!

Getting Organized, Renew Inspiration, Desk, Work Area, Writing — pexels

KEEP IT SIMPLE

For me, a calm house equals a calm heart, equals a calm life. – Erica Layne

Let’s start with getting our house organized. A cluttered home can drain your energy and have you living in a chaotic state of mind. Take a moment from your busy schedule and go to every room in your house to place everything in its correct place. You may need to create a new space for some things as well to become more organized.

Here’s some organization suggestions:

• Toss old or broken items in the trash.

• Donate slightly used items to your local charity.

• Store, sort and label items for easy access.

• Clean, organize and purge your desk/work/closet areas.

For every minute spent in organizing, an hour is earned. – Benjamin Franklin

Do you find yourself constantly rushing through your day or forgetting things? If so, you need to focus on organizing your time. Getting organized and proper time management can impact your life in a positive way and help you cross things off your daily to-do list.

Here’s some organization and time management suggestions:

• Use one calendar or planner to manage your daily activities.

• Don’t overbook yourself. Don’t be afraid to say no sometimes.

• Use a daily to-do list as a quick checklist and make necessary adjustments.

• Schedule in “ME” time or time to just relax just like any other appointment.

MIND

When we throw out the physical clutter, we clear our minds. When we throw out the mental clutter, we clear our souls. – Gail Blanke

Here’s some positive ways to organize your mind throughout this process:

• Think Positive – read inspirational quotes or positive affirmations daily

• Spend Time in Meditation – quiet your mind, calm your spirit throughout your day

• Set Personal Goals throughout the process.

• Track Progress of your personal goals throughout the process.

• Keep a Personal Journal or Blog capturing your thoughts and feelings.

BODY

Organization isn’t about perfection, it’s about efficiency, reducing stress & clutter, saving time & money & improving your overall quality of life. – Christina Scalise

Here’s some positive ways to organize your body throughout this process:

• Schedule “ME” time often.

• Practice Self-Care activities, such as haircut, manicure, pedicure, facial, warm bath, etc.

• Create a Daily Ritual. For example, reading before bedtime or exercising in the morning.

• Exercise Daily, no exceptions.

• Planning and Cooking Healthy Meals.

• Schedule Time to Relax. For example, read a good book, dance, write or family outings.

SPIRIT

Seek God first. Everything else will fall into place. – Unknown Author

One of the tactics the enemy uses against believers is to keep us disorganized and feeling scattered throughout life. The enemy wants to replace our godly priorities with worldly distractions.

To avoid feeling disconnected from God, you should do the following:

• Read and Study Scriptures Daily – sacrifice time to read and study scriptures

• Hide Scriptures in your Heart – know scriptures so you can speak to your situation

• Keep a Journal – scriptures, prayers, thoughts or feelings, notes from scriptures or books

• Pray and Meditate – be in constant communication with God

• Listen to the Holy Spirit – stay connected with God so you can hear His voice

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Be patient with yourself. Nothing in nature blooms all year. – Unknown Author

Take time daily to repeat these positive affirmations:

• I am whole, feel complete and I continue to believe in me.

• I acknowledge my own self-worth and my confidence is soaring.

• I can do anything I put my mind to.

• I give myself permission to make choices.

• I deserve love, compassion and empathy.

• I honor my commitments to myself.

• I choose to be happy and positive each day.

• I am open and ready to learn.

• I have the power to make all my dreams come true.

• I am free of worry and am at peace with who I am.

Getting Organized, Renew Inspiration, Journal Prompts — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

A little progress each day adds up to big results. – Unknown Author

• What is your vision for 2019 and beyond?

• What is your priority for the next week? month?

• What did you do today that helped you get organized?

• What are you struggling with at the moment?

• What would you like to change your daily routine?

• What’s holding you back from improving your lifestyle?

• Write about someone who inspires you and why.

• Write about your favorite way to recharge your energy levels.

• Write about what’s on your mind right now.

So, the best way to get things organized in your life is to simply begin. It’s important to remember that getting organized is your personal journey. Your personal roadmap to a successful and prosperous life.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com

Journaling to Excel

LaPorterJune 9, 201819 Replies

Your life only gets better when you do. Work on yourself and the rest will follow. – Unknown

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Believe in yourself. Be brave and take risks. After all, nothing can substitute an experience, whether it is positive or negative. In today’s session, I want to talk about Journaling to Excel. Let’s take a moment and think about the following questions.

excel, success, achievement, happiness — pixabay

So, when you first read the title Journaling to Excel, what were you thinking? What does the title Journaling to Excel mean to you and your current situation? Whenever you make the decision to excel at something, you must put in some hard work and dedication. Let’s face it, most of us did not just wake up one day and have a successful career, a beautiful home, respectful children, a healthy fitness routine, etc. You had to first decide what you wanted to work on, then you had to plan, then you had to execute your plan into action. In reality, most people fail many times before they succeed so never give up on your dreams.

You have the power to heal yourself, and you need to know that. We think so often that we are helpless, but we’re not. We always have the power of our minds. Claim and consciously use your power. – Louise Hay

To take yourself to the next level, let’s look at the following concepts:

Goal Setting
Goal setting is important in every aspect of your life. To pursue new ideas or strive to reach your dreams, you must have a plan to do so. Here’s some steps to follow when goal setting:
• Identify what you want and name your specific goal(s). You can brainstorm each area of your life and identify one or two things you want most and set these as your beginning goals, such as weight loss, exercising more, building stronger relationships, being a better person, etc.
• Write your goal(s) down and write the steps needed to facilitate the goal(s). Make sure to include changes in habits and lifestyle that must take place.
• Take each of the steps you wrote down and incorporate them into your current lifestyle. You may need to rearrange your work schedule, ask for help around the house from family or friends, etc.
• Begin to visualize yourself after your goals are achieved. Take a moment and ask yourself what life looks like after the goals are reached, then spend a few minutes every day picturing yourself in that very same life.
• Evaluate your progress as you move through the steps you’ve identified as necessary to reach your goals and adjust your efforts as needed.

Self-Confidence
Self-confidence is extremely important in almost every aspect of our lives, but if we are honest with ourselves, we sometimes struggle to find it throughout our every day lives. Did you know that gaining the confidence of others is one of the key ways in which a self-confident person finds success in life? Unfortunately, people who lack self-confidence find it difficult to become successful. There are two main things that contribute to self-confidence: self-efficacy (when we see ourselves and others mastering skills and achieving goals) and self-esteem (we cope with what’s going on in our lives and know that we have a right to be happy). Here’s some ways for you to build self-confidence:
• Prepare for your journey. Look at what you’ve already achieved, think about your strengths, think about what’s important to you, and where you want to go in life.
• Set out on your journey. Build the knowledge you need to succeed, focus on the basics, set small goals and achieve them.
• Accelerate towards success. By this point, you should feel your self-confidence building from within. Keep yourself grounded and always aware of how you feel throughout this process.

Self-Reflection
Self-reflection is a process of examining one’s own thoughts, feelings, and sensations to gain better insight of one’s life. Self-reflection allows you to:
• Notice negative patterns in your life.
• Keeps you focused on the bigger picture.
• Prevents you from worrying about things out of your control.
• Helps you face your fears.
• Allows you to clearly define happiness on your own terms.
• Allows you to make decisions based on your conscience.

Self-Care
Prioritizing everyone else in your life may seem honorable, but the reality is, totally neglecting yourself isn’t good for anyone. In order to take care of others, you first need to take care of yourself. Here’s some great ways to practice self-care:
• Make time for exercise or yoga.
• Read an inspirational book or read positive affirmations.
• Listen to soothing music with your eyes closed.
• Create a relaxing routine (warm bath, meditation, reading, writing in your journal).
• Get out in nature (go for a walk, run, or hike).

Spiritual Foundation
Without a strong spiritual foundation, you cannot withstand the storms of life that you may be facing, whether they are financial, emotional, or relational. Although society and culture may offer many solutions to help you brace against the struggles of daily living, here’s the three essentials needed in your spiritual life to weather any storm you might be dealt:
• Praise and Worship
• The Word of God
• Prayer
These spiritual essentials will help you build strength (your spiritual foundation) and begin to experience a powerful new sense of God’s presence and purpose in your life.

My mind is focused, my body is healthy, and my spirit is calm. – Unknown

Mind – Your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed it faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love.

Body – Your body is healthy and beautiful.

Spirit – Everything you need is within you.

Journal Prompts – Journaling to Excel
• Name at least five things that you love about yourself.
• What are my short-term goals and long-term goals?
• What are my strengths and weaknesses?
• What is my proudest accomplishment and my biggest failure?
• What matters most to me right now in this very moment?
• What am I ashamed of and/or what do I fear?
• What brings me the most joy and how can I make time for it?
• As of today, what is my vision for my life in one year, two years, three years?
• What stresses me out? What can I do to reduce the stress?
• What is overwhelming in my life right now? How can I reduce this overwhelming feeling?

In addition, here’s some suggestions of things you can do to help you connect deeper (www.simplystepping.com). This process will help you stay grounded and become more comfortable with yourself while doing various activities, then writing about them throughout your journaling process.

• Walk a long distance or hike. Realize what you’ve accomplished in the end.

• Stand in the rain and let it wash you clean. Feel grounded in the Earth.

• Plant a tree or start a garden. Place labels where you planted, with words that encourage you to move forward.

• Imagine what a new beginning would look like or how it would feel. Create a vision board with images and words capturing what you what.

• Wear new, special, comfortable shoes that represent your bravery and willingness for simply stepping one step at a time forward in life!

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

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?

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.

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

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

Staying Grounded

LaPorterMay 13, 20187 Replies

The Lord will fight for you. You need only to be still. Exodus 14:14

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration and Happy Mother’s Day to all of you beautiful mothers that read my blogs every week! Today let’s focus on the concept of “Staying Grounded”. What’s the first thing you think about when you see the words “Staying Grounded”? I think about being grounded in the Word of God, staying focused from day to day, being on track to reach goals, and hope for the future.

Don’t be ashamed of your story. It just might inspire someone. -Unknown

Word of God
Stand your ground, it’s sacred. -Unknown

In my opinion, staying grounded in the Word of God increases your faith and renews your hope for the future. Staying grounded takes a strength from within like no other. For some, reading God’s Word is enough. For others, reading God’s Word, praying to God, practicing meditation, and living Christ-like satisfies their spiritual endeavors. As you read God’s Word, keep these tips in mind:
• Always ask yourself – How does this word apply to me?
• Receive every word as true. Rest upon the promises that God has given you.
• Be prepared to put what you read into action in your life.

Staying Focused
Don’t fear change. When its winds come blowing stay grounded, don’t let it knock you down. -Unknown

Staying focused from day to day is not as easy as it sounds. It seems to be easier when you have a daily To-Do List. Your list may include your daily agenda or you may want to include items that will build your faith and bless others along the way. For example, you may want to include:
• Count my blessings
• Practice kindness
• Let go of what I can’t control
• Listen to my heart
• Be productive yet calm
• Just breathe

On Track to Reach Goals
Make it your goal to stay physically strong, mentally sound, emotionally stable, and spiritually grounded. -Unknown
There has to be a fire within you in order for you to strive to reach your goals. You have to think positive and plan for success. Well, how do you start? First, you should set some personal goals for yourself. However, not just any kind of goals, make sure you set SMART goals for yourself. Second, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Third, break down your goals into small and manageable steps to overcome any anxiety you may have. Fourth, hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout your weight loss process. Fifth, rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Remember, effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis.

• S – Specific – Well defined so that anyone can understand the goal
• M – Measurable – Needs to have parameters in order to know if the goal was achieved
• A – Attainable – Must be a realistic goal that challenges you
• R – Relevant – Make sure the goal is consistent with your other goals and will aid you in achieving your long-term goal
• T – Time Oriented – Create a time frame for when you want to accomplish your goal

Hope for the Future
I am grounded. I am safe. I am divinely protected at all times. -Unknown
is another one of those words that can be defined on a personal level and may change from situation to situation; or person to person. According to the Webster Dictionary, hope is defined as a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen; a feeling of trust.
But what does hope mean to you? Do you hope for anything great on today or in the near future? When I think of hope, I think of beauty and positive vibes. Hope is like a beautiful flower that thrives on sunlight and water. In a spiritual sense, hope relies on your daily commitment to God’s Word, meditation, and prayer.

• How do you define hope?
• What do you hope for each day?
• I feel hopeful/hopeless because…
• Name at least 5 things you are hopeful for. Then, take a moment and reflect upon each thing listed.

Wings to show you what you can become. Roots to remind you where you’re from.

I am present within myself. I can center myself with the ease of my breath. I feel grounded, confident, worthy & whole. -Unknown

As always, I look forward to hearing your feedback and reading your comments. Remember, sharing our thoughts and experiences teaches others a life lesson. In addition, please invite others to subscribe to my blog as well and share my blog on your social media platforms. Finally, I have added some items from www.amazon.com that may interest you so I would appreciate your support if you make a purchase. Until next time…

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Gratitude Changes Everything

LaPorterApril 11, 201810 Replies

When gratitude becomes an essential foundation in our lives, miracles start to appear everywhere. -Unknown

So, let’s define gratitude as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness. Simply put, gratitude changes everything. Gratitude is one of the sweet shortcuts to finding peace of mind and happiness inside no matter what you might be going through in life. Gratitude changes the way we start the day, spend the day, and look back on the day. For me, my day always begins and ends with gratitude. How about yours?

Living in a state of gratitude is the gateway of grace. -Arianna Huffington

Gratitude Affirmation – I am grateful for another opportunity that life offers me on today. I am grateful for a fresh start, a brand- new way of thinking and a positive outlook on life. I am grateful for the fact that I can learn from my mistakes, and then let them go. I am grateful for my mind, body, and spirit functioning in a way to inspire others using encouraging words from the soul. I am grateful to have God as my guide, my supporter, and my protector. I am grateful for my husband, children, close family, friends, and readers like you who offers me support every step of the way. I am grateful just to have another chance to get my life right and back on track.

Scriptures
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. I Chronicles 16:34 NIV

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 15:57 NIV

Gratitude is a lifestyle that you choose. Overtime, choosing gratitude means choosing joy. It’s a choice that requires constantly renewing of your mind with the truth of God’s Word, setting your heart to inspire others with creativity from within, and disciplining your tongue to speak words that reflect God’s goodness and His grace. Honestly, I believe a grateful spirit, rooted in the soil of God’s goodness and grace, will impact how you view and respond to everything in your life. When gratitude becomes your default setting, life changes.

It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful. -Unknown

Gratitude Journal
A gratitude journal is a diary of things for which one is grateful. Gratitude journals are used by individuals who wish to focus their attention on the positive things in their lives.

ACTION – Start a gratitude journal to include a personal reflection (goals, thoughts, feelings), affirmation, scriptures, poems, quotes, kind gestures (writing notes, letters, or making phone calls). Be creative and honest. This process will change your life in a positive and uplifting way.

Here are some Gratitude Journal Prompts to help you get started:

• What’s a simple pleasure that you’re grateful for?
• What’s something about your body or health that you’re grateful for?
• What book(s) are you grateful for?
• What’s a tradition that you’re grateful for?
• What’s one of your personality traits that you’re grateful for?
• What mistake or failure are you grateful for?
• What skill(s) do you have that you’re grateful for?
• Look around the room and write about everything you see that you’re grateful for.
• Write about some place you’ve been that you’re grateful for.
• What’s something that you’re grateful to have today that you didn’t have a year ago?