God’s Word – Page 2 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Engage in God’s Word

LaPorterAugust 23, 20205 Replies

Get in God’s Word until God’s Word gets in you. – Unknown Author

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Thy word is thy lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s begin this beautiful Sunday discussion on how to get engaged in God’s Word. Especially during this pandemic or any time of crisis, it is important to keep God’s Word in the forefront of our minds. As believers in God and Jesus Christ, we must schedule quality time to not only read God’s Word, but also to write down our personal thoughts about the verses read, determine how we can apply the verses to our own lives in 2020 and don’t be afraid to cross reference the information in the Bible Concordance.

PREPARING FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Pause and find the blessings in today. – Unknown Author

Making time to read and study God’s Word is so important for your spiritual growth. God’s Word can help guide us in the right direction or make us rethink a situation before we pursue it further. Take a moment right now to analyze where you are today and then continue reading my list of suggestions that will help you prepare for your spiritual journey ahead.

Set a time to better engage in God’s Word and stick to your plan.
Gather your materials, such as Bible, Notebook, Journal, Pens, Highlighters, Dictionary, Bible Concordance, etc.
Designate a quiet space with no distractions.
You may want to play some soft music in the background to set a relaxing mood.
Make sure your study area is free of clutter and well lit.
Pray and meditate while studying God’s Word to open your mind and heart.
Speak to God often to strengthen your relationship and ask Him to direct your study time/spiritual journey.

Don’t be afraid to be creative. Be your own inspiration. After all, this is your spiritual journey. Make it as comfortable as you like, but also for growth purposes step out of your comfort zone from time to time to make it an unique and pleasurable experience as well.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

BETTER ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORD

Each day I need to let God’s Word interrupt me, rearrange me and redirect me. – Unknown Author

Our time spent reading Scripture, prayer, and meditation must alter us if we have truly experienced a spiritual encounter with God. After all, God has created us to interact and respond to His Word in multiple ways. We should all endeavor to engage in God’s Word throughout our lives and hold ourselves accountable.

Here’s five ways to better engage in God’s Word:

Study – When we study God’s Word we are investing focused time in a passage word, character or theme. Study requires you to analyze the Scripture which takes concentration and focus. The primary goal of study is understanding.
Devotional – The goal for devotional reading is application. Simply put, what the Scripture means to me. However, we must make sure this is not the only way we interact with Scripture or we risk losing the truth.
Meditation – Meditation is the ability to hear God’s voice and obey His Word. During meditation it is important to fill your mind with Christ. The goal of meditation is reflection.
Memorization – It is important to understand what Scripture teaches us so have God’s Word hidden in your heart and mind. Memorizing God’s Word helps us achieve the goal of discipline.
Action – Clearly, we must be focused on doing what Scripture teaches. We must be changed and compelled into action, whether in our thoughts or our actions. Spending time in God’s Word must lead us to obedience.

So, as you can see, there are various ways to better engage in God’s Word. Keep in mind, you may not be able to engage in all of these ways each day but schedule your time to include all the areas of study, so you can have a better understanding of God’s Word. Remember, spending time studying God’s Word is our intentional determination to grow in our understanding and to strengthen our bond with Him. Even if you have not engaged in God’s Word in the past, take a leap of faith and start today.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

JOURNAL PROMPTS

True peace comes from knowing that God is in control. – 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!

MIND

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

What takes your mind away from the Lord, thus robbing your peace?

What is your biggest dream?
What has prevented you from going after your dream?
What thoughts have I been repeating in my head lately? Are they true?

BODY

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

List 5 ways you’ve become stronger and more courageous this month.
Lord, please strengthen my heart when it comes to ________________.
When I’m in pain, physical and emotional, I find strength in ________________.
How can I make more space in my life for the things I love?

SPIRIT

Behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:23)

Where do you see the unmistakable mark of the creator? Thank and praise God for it.

How is God trying to get your attention to stop, treasure, and ponder how he’s working in your life right now in this very moment?
When have you seen God use something small to produce a big outcome?
What can I do to nurture my spirit more?

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORD KEEPSAKE

Please accept this ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORD keepsake. Post it on your wall, mirror and/or social media accounts and cherish it always.

Renew Inspiration, Engage in God's Word, You Are God's Masterpiece, Pink Flowers — Renew Inspiration

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. How often do you read God’s Word? When is your favorite time to ready and study God’s Word? Do you have a favorite scripture that is hidden in your heart? Do you keep a written Bible Journal or Notebook to reflect your study time? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Worthy Enough To Shine

LaPorterJuly 28, 20204 Replies

I am worthy of the very best in life, and I now lovingly allow myself to accept it. – Louise Hay

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am worthy. I am loved. I am whole. I am enough. I choose to shine bright on today. How about you? Now, it’s important to note that the ways I choose to shine may be different than yours on any given day, but the end result should be the same, we’re worthy enough to shine! Our lives should be an example and reflect positive vibes through the eyes of others. For example, it seems like random people always offer me positive compliments regarding my smile or grateful compliments for the kind gestures that I showed them (holding the door open or just saying hello or good morning). Despite how dark it is all around us, we are all worthy enough to shine so let’s get to it.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

WAYS TO KNOW YOUR WORTH

The only keeper of your happiness is you. Stop giving people the power to control your smile, your worth and your attitude. – Mandy Hale, SimpleReminders.com

Remember, that at any moment you can choose to feel whole again and worthy, no matter what is or isn’t in your life. You need nothing to feel worthy except your realization that you are. Nowadays, it’s so important to know your worth.

Here’s some great ways to know your worth:

Be yourself and be your own inspiration.
Set reasonable goals for yourself.
Be kind to yourself and take back your personal power.
Build on your strengths, not weaknesses.
Be decisive and take risks.
Have faith, show gratitude, and stay hopeful.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

WAYS TO SHINE

Your value doesn’t decrease based on someone’s inability to see your worth. – Unknown Author

Even when I am not feeling well or just simply having a bad day, I try hard not to reflect my negative vibes and feelings toward others. As we travel along this journey called life, we will experience some ups and downs. However, the way we respond to life’s challenges is the key to overcoming the obstacles that occur in our lives.

Here’s some great ways to shine throughout your life during difficult times:

Read God’s Word, pray and meditate.
Smile and believe in yourself. Yes, believe in the awesome person you’re becoming.
Show kindness everywhere you go. Especially, to unkind people.
Forgive people who don’t deserve it. Then, let it go.
Acknowledge your patterns of stress and release them into the atmosphere.
Move out of your comfort zone throughout your journey so you can grow.
Allow yourself time to heal from life’s challenging moments.
Be gentle and patient with yourself. Practice self-care routines.
Love unconditionally. Find time for self-reflection and to write in your journal.

Every situation in life is meant to be temporary. When life is going as planned, make sure to enjoy every moment. And when life is not going as planned, know that it will not last forever and better days are sure to follow.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Your greatest obstacle and your greatest strength stare back at you in the mirror every day. – 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 worthy enough to shine?
- How well do you really know yourself?
- Where does your mind wander throughout the day?
- Do you strive to learn something new every day?
- What do you need to do to become healthier (inside and out)?
- What are some things that you want to change in your life?
- What would you do if you can travel into the past?

Free Colorful and Creative Stock Photos

WORTHY ENOUGH TO SHINE KEEPSAKE

You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody. – Maya Angelou

Please accept this WORTHY ENOUGH TO SHINE keepsake. Post it on your wall, mirror and/or social media accounts and cherish it always.

Renew Inspiration, Worthy Enough To Shine, Keepsake, Yellow Flower, Nature, Sunshine, Bloom — Worthy Enough To Shine – Renew Inspiration

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Your worth can never be determined by someone else. You don’t have to prove yourself to anyone. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Remember, your actions will always reflect who you are so the closer you get to being who you are meant to be…the brighter you shine! How do you choose to shine during life’s most difficult times? 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 Through Isolation

LaPorterJune 14, 20201 Reply

Renew Inspiration, Journaling, Isolation, Journal Prompts — pexels

Isolation is the one sure way to human happiness. – Glenn Gould

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Despite the unrest, hatred, loneliness, and fear that is often times experienced during difficult times, it is important for me to continue writing positive and uplifting messages to inspire you. As I sit here today thinking about how great God is in our lives, I cannot help but wonder why we will not just be still, get out of God’s way and allow Him to restore our souls. We read God’s Word, pray, meditate, and attend church services week after week but why do we forget to let God order our daily steps and thoughts? We have to remember that we cannot restore ourselves, but we must be restored by God, our Maker and Creator. What better way to be totally restored than to spend quality time journaling through isolation?

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

You will never change your life, until you change something you do daily. – Unknown Author

Journaling is my safe place, my time to just write how I feel and scream on paper and no one will ever know. Let’s take a moment to define journal. A journal is a personal reflection of who you are, it’s a repository for all 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.

Here’s some benefits of journaling through isolation:

• Reduce stress – Expressive writing has been shown to lower stress levels.

• Improve your memory – Regular journal writing can improve your short-term memory.

• Stay organized – Keeping a journal such as a weight loss diary lets you maintain an organized record of your progress.

• Strengthen your self-discipline – Journaling helps you to keep a regular writing schedule until it becomes a habit.

• Allow yourself to self-reflect – Don’t over think your written entries, just write honestly and make time for self-reflection.

• Be creative – Add photos and positive quotes to enhance your written entries.

• Clarify your thoughts and feelings – Jot down your thoughts and feelings with no editing and you will get in touch with your internal being.

As you can see, keeping a journal allows you to track patterns, trends, improvement, and growth over time. Make sure to reflect on these thoughts often throughout your journey.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

WAYS TO RESTORE YOURSELF

God restores everything. When I submit the broken pieces of my life to Him. He restores me to a beauty far more than what I prayed for. – Unknown Author

During this journey we call life, it’s important to realize that you have the power to cultivate positive energy within your body in any given moment. Yes, even when you are exhausted, burned out and feel like you’ve got nothing left to give, your body can guide you to a peaceful place of greater vitality, inner strength and well-being.

• Rest when your body says rest. When you listen to your body and give yourself the rest you need, you’ll rebuild your energy over the long-term.

• Cultivate stillness within you. Allow yourself to feel the stillness around you, letting it soak into your body.

• Practice whole-body breathing. Feel your breath inside your body and notice how far it reaches within you.

• Nourish your body wholeheartedly. Be conscious and heartfelt in how you nourish your body by choosing healthy foods that feel inherently good for you.

• Explore gentle and restorative movement. Light walking, stretching, yoga can help you regain energy in your body and life.

• Have compassion for yourself. Be gentle with yourself when you’re exhausted and treat yourself kindly. Be kind in your thoughts and feelings towards yourself.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

JOURNAL PROMPTS

The world has slowed so you can rediscover yourself. – 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 plan to start journaling through isolation?

• How has God restored your soul?

• Every day is a new opportunity to learn something new, whether you planned to or not. What was today’s lesson for you?

• What made you smile today? Make a list of all the things that brought you happiness.

• Every day is an opportunity to become better than you were yesterday. Set at least 3 short-term goals for yourself. On your mark, get set, write.

• What are some of your saddest moments when you feel stuck in isolation?

Remember, it’s important not to forget where God has taken us from but knowing that God still has plans for our lives. To be totally restored takes time as well as our precious minds focused on God and His greatness. Then, and only then will God renew us with hope and joy leaving us with much needed anticipation for eternity.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Your elevation may require your isolation. – Unknown Author

Let’s take a moment to share with one another. God is fixing the broken pieces of your life. Get ready for restoration. God is preparing you for everything you prayed for. How do you spend time restoring yourself? Do you enjoy journaling through isolation?

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).

Overcoming Spiritual Imbalance

LaPorterApril 19, 20205 Replies

By God’s wise designing we are wonderfully made, every part essential and in perfect balance laid. – Anon

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Here’s to another beautiful and blessed day! Michigan is still under the Stay-At-Home order due to the coronavirus (covid 19) outbreak. I don’t know about you, but I am really scared. Our government leaders do not care about the needs and well-being of the people. The government is only focused on money and getting the economy back up and running. Rushing to open up businesses and become normal again. It doesn’t matter about how many of us are still dying alone from this awful virus.

I’ve taken this time to overcome my personal spiritual imbalance. Instead of focusing on the fear of the unknown, I am choosing to pray, read God’s Word, and write in my journal. This process has helped me shift my mindset so I can improve my spiritual well-being.

SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

Thy word is thy lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

How often do you read and study God’s Word? Do you just read your favorite Bible verse, pray, then move on with your day? In order to overcome spiritual imbalance in our lives, it is important to schedule quality time to not only read God’s Word, but also to write down our personal thoughts about the scriptures read and to determine how we can apply the scriptures to our own lives.

Here’s some ways to begin your spiritual journey:

• Set a time to better engage in God’s Word and stick to your plan.
• Gather your materials, such as Bible, Notebook/Journal, Pens, Highlighters, Sticky Notes, Bible Concordance, Dictionary, etc.
• Designate a quiet space with no distractions.
• Play soft music in the background to set a relaxing mood.
• Make sure your study area is free of clutter and well lit.
• Pray and meditate while studying God’s Word to open your mind and heart.
• Speak to God often to strengthen your relationship.
• Ask God to direct your Bible study time.

AMAZON RESOURCES #1

SPIRITUAL BALANCE

Life is all about balance. You don’t always need to be getting stuff done. Sometimes it’s perfectly okay, and absolutely necessary, to shut down, kick back, and do nothing. – Lori Deschene

To strive for spiritual balance within your life, it is important to 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 find spiritual balance within your life:

• Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal.
• Read and be grounded in God’s Word.
• Meditate and be prayerful often.
• 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.

AMAZON RESOURCES #2

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT – MEDITATION

My mind and body are in perfect balance. I am a harmonious being. – Louise Hay

When thinking about spiritual balance, it is important to prepare your mind, body and spirit for your spiritual journey. From experience, it is difficult to have spiritual balance without first getting the mind ready to receive our spiritual gifts from God. So, in addition to reading and studying God’s Word, it is also important to practice meditation regularly.

Meditation can be defined as a practice where an individual focuses his or her mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. Remember, practice makes perfect so make sure to plan for meditation every day. It’s important to start with good breathing techniques when doing your meditation. In addition, create a peaceful and safe space where you will not be distracted during your meditation. It is important to let go of any and all frustrations throughout the meditation process. Meditation, when done correctly, offers many benefits throughout your life.

Here’s some helpful benefits of meditation:

• Reduces stress and anxiety.
• Reduces impulsivity, cravings, and addictions.
• Increases resilience in hard times.
• Increases happiness and optimism.
• Helps create loving, harmonious relationships.
• Increases focus, creativity, and life satisfaction.
• Increases memory, compassion, and productivity.
• Produces a deep state of peace and well-being.

AMAZON RESOURCES #3

LET’S PRAY

Pray. Wait. Trust. – Unknown Author

When life gives you more than you can stand, take a moment to close your eyes, bow your head, and kneel. Open your heart, then open your mouth. Allow true words to flow from your lips. Prayer is the world’s greatest wireless connection. Prayer is more powerful than any level of education, wealth or status. Simply put, prayer changes everything!

Dear God,
Enlighten what’s dark in me.
Mend what’s broken in me.
Bind what’s bruised in me.
Heal what’s sick in me.
And lastly,
Revive whatever peace and love has died in me.
Amen.

Written by Winston Porter

Each day I need to let God’s Word interrupt me, rearrange me and redirect me. My prayer today is that you start taking this time to focus on overcoming spiritual imbalance within your own life. Remember, if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. Water your roots, so your soul can blossom. Peace and blessings!

AMAZON RESOURCES #4

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Balance your life with spiritual experiences that remind and prepare you for continued, daily ministering to others. – M. Russell Ballard

• How do you define spiritual balance?

• What is your plan to overcome spiritual imbalance?

• What are your priorities in life?

• What do you need to be content?

• What are your values and beliefs?

• How do your values and beliefs align with your spiritual being?

• What is your favorite Bible scripture?

• Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

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).