Spiritual Journey

Finding Spiritual Balance in the Presence of God

LaPorterMay 22, 2022Leave a Reply

Spiritual balance is the principle that allows the mind to be still. You cannot expect the world to settle down, everything to work out, in order for you to be happy. You have to get control of your mind. – Frederick Lenz

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! As you go through personal experiences in life, how often do you pause to reflect on the path you’re on and to find spiritual balance? Today, let’s talk about finding spiritual balance not only in your personal life, but also in the presence of God. How often do you read and study God’s Word? Do you just read your favorite Bible verse, pray for a moment, then move on with your day? In order to find spiritual balance in your life, it’s important to schedule quality time to not only read God’s Word, but also to write down your personal thoughts about the verses read and to determine how you can apply the verses to your own life.

Here are a few suggestions for beginning 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, pen(s), highlighters, sticky notes, reference books, etc.
Designate a quiet space with no distractions, such as cellphones, televisions, people, noise, etc.
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.

FINDING SPIRITUAL BALANCE

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

To strive for spiritual balance, 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 this will not be an easy process for some, but to get to a better spiritual 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
Practice yoga and stretch routines
Read inspirational and spiritual books
Listen to a motivational podcast
Set some attainable goals for yourself
Post positive quotes where you can read them daily
Recite positive affirmations throughout your day

SPIRITUAL BALANCE AND 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 the 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 his or her weight loss journey as well.

Benefits of meditation includes, but not limited to:

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

How to Meditate:

Sit Still – Just sit still and close your eyes – Outer stillness will lead to inner stillness
Relax – It’s not a process – You just let go and surrender
Pay Attention – To nothing in particular – Just be awake and focus on self-awareness

HOW TO RECOGNIZE THE PRESENCE OF GOD

We cannot attain the presence of God because we’re already totally in the presence of God. What’s absent is awareness. – Richard Rohr

Every day is a new beginning. Take a deep breath, smile and start again. The presence of God is all around us. Can you feel God’s presence right now in this very moment? God inhabits every part of our lives except for the parts that we refuse to share with Him. Would you agree? When we don’t sense God’s presence in our daily routines, it’s not because God leaves us, but it’s because we have not developed a deep awareness of God’s presence in our lives. This process takes not only practice, but it also takes commitment and the willingness to surrender to God’s will throughout our lives.

Here’s some steps to recognize the presence of God:

Step 1: Do everything in your life for the love of God. It is important to give God your happiness and praises as well as your pain and suffering. God is always listening because He is your protector.
Step 2: Look for God’s goodness in all things. Remember, it is important to notice God’s presence in both simple and great things. Acknowledge this fact often throughout your life.
Step 3: Create stopping points in which to rest in God. Spend quality time throughout your day to pray, meditate and communicate with God.

Now, begin finding spiritual balance and placing yourself in the presence of God, breathe deeply and be aware of his loving kindness. Always remember to put God first in everything you do. Don’t forget to acknowledge God’s presence in the simple and more complicated things in life. Spending quality time in God’s presence has to be a priority in life.

BONUS – INDICATIONS OF GOD’S PRESENCE IN OUR LIVES

Don’t equate the presence of God with a good mood or a pleasant temperament. God is near whether you are happy or not. – Max Lucado

Here’s some important qualities that are indications of God’s presence in our lives:

Peace (Romans 15:33; Philippians 4:9) – When you know God’s presence, you can have inward calm despite chaos around you because He is the God of peace.
Rest, Refreshment (Matthew 11:28; Acts 3:19) – When you acknowledge God’s presence within, you will always have rest and feel refreshed.
Encouragement (Psalm 16:11; 21:6) – When you are aware of God’s presence, you can’t help but be full of joy and gladness because with Him come eternal blessings.
Shelter (Psalm 16:8-11; 31:20) – When you acknowledge God’s presence, you can feel secure and protected at all times.
Enlightenment (Psalm 89:15; 90:8) – When you get in touch with God’s presence, you will allow God to order your steps, then you will follow.
Nearness (Psalm 145:18; James 4:8) – When you bask in God’s presence, you can feel a sense of comfort knowing that God accepts you right where you are and you feel Him close to you.
Contentment (Hebrews 13:5) – When you experience God’s presence, you can be satisfied because you know you have all you need.
Endurance (Psalm 46:1; Isaiah 41:10) – When you spend quality time in God’s presence, you can feel renewed as you find His strength to help move you forward.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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, and everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

What are your priorities in life?
What do you need to be content?
Write down something that you want to remember. Why is it important to you?
Write 5 things you would like to do more and make a plan to do them.
What do you love about yourself?
Identify your strengths and weaknesses.
What are you thankful for? Why?
What are my values? What do I believe in?
Identify one way you would like to grow in the next year.

JOURNAL TO OVERCOME GRIEF: A PERSONAL JOURNEY TO HEALING

No matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief. – Faraaz Kazi

Journal To Overcome Grief: A Personal Journey to Healing can be purchased via Amazon.com. This beautiful grief journal includes thought provoking journal prompts and quotes that will help you navigate life after loss.

There will be times when you’ll want to cry and other times when you’ll smile as you explore your personal reflections. This is a unique way to honor your loved one and connect with their spirit through writing while creating your own personal keepsake for years to come.

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).

Seek God’s Presence

LaPorterFebruary 7, 20212 Replies

We cannot attain the presence of God because we’re already totally in the presence of God. What’s absent is awareness. – Richard Rohr

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! Today, I want to spend some time speaking about God’s presence. Let’s start with this question – How often do you seek God’s presence in your life? For some, seeking God’s presence is done daily and for others it is done on an ‘as needed basis’. What does it really mean to seek God’s presence? Well, I believe seeking God’s presence simply means to allow God to guide your every step and decision throughout your spiritual journey.

Here’s some ways for us to seek God’s presence throughout our lives:

Read God’s Word, study it and meditate on it
Fasting and praying regularly
Confessing your sins and repenting to God regularly
Reading daily devotions
Singing praise and worship songs
Attending church services regularly

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – Book – Experiencing the Presence of God

STEPS TO IMPROVE AWARENESS OF GOD’S PRESENCE

The presence of God is all around us. Take a moment and close your eyes. Relax and breathe slowly. Can you feel God’s presence right now in this very moment? God inhabits every part of our lives except for the parts that we refuse to share with Him. Would you agree? When we don’t sense God’s presence in our daily routines, it’s not because God leaves us, but it’s because we have not developed a deep awareness of God’s presence in our lives. This process takes not only practice, but it also takes commitment and the willingness to surrender to God’s will throughout our lives.

Here’s some steps to improve awareness of God’s presence:

Step 1: Do everything in your life for the love of God. It is important to give God your happiness and praises as well as your pain and suffering. God is always listening because He is your protector.
Step 2: Look for God’s goodness in all things. Remember, it is important to notice God’s presence in both simple and great things. Acknowledge this fact often throughout your life.
Step 3: Create stopping points in which to rest in God. Spend quality time throughout your day to pray, meditate and communicate with God.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – Book – Hope When Your Heart Is Breaking

INDICATIONS OF GOD’S PRESENCE IN OUR LIVES

Now, place yourself in the presence of God, breathe deeply and be aware of his loving kindness. Always remember to put God first in everything you do. Don’t forget to acknowledge God’s presence in the simple and more complicated things in life. Spending quality time in God’s presence has to be a priority in life. I want to leave you with this scripture, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you”. (Hebrews 10:22)

Here’s some important qualities that are indications of God’s presence in our lives:

Peace (Romans 15:33; Philippians 4:9) – When you know God’s presence, you can have inward calm despite chaos around you because He is the God of peace.
Rest, Refreshment (Matthew 11:28; Acts 3:19) – When you acknowledge God’s presence within, you will always have rest and feel refreshed.
Encouragement (Psalm 16:11; 21:6) – When you are aware of God’s presence, you can’t help but be full of joy and gladness because with Him come eternal blessings.
Shelter (Psalm 16:8-11; 31:20) – When you acknowledge God’s presence, you can feel secure and protected at all times.
Enlightenment (Psalm 89:15; 90:8) – When you get in touch with God’s presence, you will allow God to order your steps, then you will follow.
Nearness (Psalm 145:18; James 4:8) – When you bask in God’s presence, you can feel a sense of comfort knowing that God accepts you right where you are and you feel Him close to you.
Contentment (Hebrews 13:5) – When you experience God’s presence, you can be satisfied because you know you have all you need.
Endurance (Psalm 46:1; Isaiah 41:10) – When you spend quality time in God’s presence, you can feel renewed as you find His strength to help move you forward.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – Book – My Diary of Prayers

As you travel throughout your spiritual journey, there are always obstacles that we encounter while living our lives on Earth, but we must work around them in order to seek God’s presence 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. 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. Be peaceful, be happy, be whole.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

What is the best way to seek God’s presence in your life?
What do you need to meditate and/or pray about?
How do you plan to improve awareness of God’s presence?
What feels like a struggle in your life right now?
What advice do you need to receive from God?
Are you prepared to receive God’s advice?
How can you strengthen your relationship and faith in God?
How much time do you spend reading God’s Word, praying and/or meditating?

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).

Healing Power

LaPorterOctober 25, 202012 Replies

When God heals and restores, He brings you out better than you were before. – Joel Olsteen

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! Today, I open myself to God’s blessings, miracles and His healing power. 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.

Here’s some life challenges that you may be facing during this difficult time:

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

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

SPIRITUAL TOOLS TO ASSIST US IN THE HEALING PROCESS

God has an amazing way of taking all the pieces of our life and transforming them into a beautiful design. – Stacy L. Sanchez

God is a healer. By faith, receive your healing today. 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. When you enter God’s presence with praise, God enters your circumstances with healing power.

Here’s some spiritual tools to assist us in the healing process:

The Cross of Jesus Christ

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.

God’s Word

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).

Rejoicing and Praise

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 us from that great unconditional love.

The Holy Spirit

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)

God’s Body, the Church

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.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

FINAL THOUGHTS

During these difficult times, trust God and believe in good things to come. God has a perfect timing; never early, never late. It takes a little patience and faith, but it’s worth the wait. Yes, we should be confident and know that God is forever powerful within this Earthly realm. 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 my healing power today, tomorrow and forever!

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Heal yourself, heal the world. – Eileen Anglin

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 and be patient with yourself. Ready, set, write!

MIND

Define what brings me the most joy in life…
Today or this week I was most blessed by…
The area where I need to put more trust in God is…
An act of obedience God is prompting me to take is…

BODY

Ways I want God to transform me…
An aspect of God’s character he recently revealed to me is…
God is leading me to make the following changes…
The most significant area of my life that is not finding its way into my journal is…

SPIRIT

I feel most distant from God when…
One lesson I learned from Scripture this week is…
Journaling has helped build my spiritual foundation by…
Define an area in my spiritual life where I need to see God’s guidance is…

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. Give God your weakness and He’ll give you His strength. Do you believe in God’s healing power? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

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

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! 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).

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).

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

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! 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.

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).