Time for Reflection – Page 2 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

The Black Experience

LaPorterFebruary 17, 20197 Replies

The more you know of your history, the more liberated you are. – Maya Angelou

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! I wanted to take a moment to write about the black experience from my perspective in honor of Black History Month. Black History Month honors the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. The celebration of Black History Month began as “Negro History Week” which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. It became a month long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass (February 14, 1818) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809).

As a child, I can remember participating in Black History programs at school that would include singing African centric songs in concert, writing and presenting reports about African Americans, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, George Washington Carver, and Madam C.J. Walker to name a few. Also, I remember having a Black History class as an elective in middle school that taught us about our African American culture and described our many contributions to society. In addition, I remember learning about many famous African Americans who fought and died so that other African Americans like myself could have the right to vote, to attend segregated schools, to shop and eat in segregated places, and to be treated fair throughout society.

I find it so ironic that Black History classes are no longer offered in most of our inner city schools, but the core curriculum includes American History. I’ve always felt that Black History is a part of American History because it happened in the past. However, I think Black History should be taught separately so that we can learn about many of the accomplishments and successes of those who came before us and look like us. We cannot continue to stay enslaved as a people because of the lack of knowledge, but we must be creative in teaching our young people about their African American culture and history.

The best way to fight an alien and oppressive culture is to embrace your own. – African Proverb

WAYS TO CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

We all know that Black History Month is celebrated during the month of February. But, let’s be honest. We should be celebrating our African American heritage every day we wake up and have the ability to do so. How many African American families still celebrate Black History Month? How do you celebrate Black History Month and what are some of your family traditions? For example, you can watch movies and documentaries, go on family outings, and travel to create long-lasting memories.

Here’s some other ways to celebrate black history month and beyond:

• Visit local art and history museums to learn new information

• Enjoy the performing arts, such as watching a play or going to a concert

• Volunteer at homeless shelters and/or make monetary donations

• Become an activist and get involved with politics

• Sponsor a local school, non-profit organization or youth shelter

• Find a cause or non-profit to join then, volunteer and/or donate to make a difference

• Sponsor a child or family in need throughout the year and around the holidays

• Visit your local library to research facts and/or people past and present

• Support black authors by reading their books and writing reviews online

• Support black bloggers by subscribing to their blogs and writing comments

• Write a poem, story or journal entry to express how you feel

• Create a vision board as a family and then one of your own

• Create a bucket list and travel to historical sites around the United States (New York, Tennessee, Maryland, Georgia, Washington D.C.)

BOOKS TO READ

Reading gives us some place to go when we have to stay where we are. – Mason Cooley

Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously, Aretha Grant
Aretha Grant combines personal experience with biblical principles in Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously to teach you how to walk as the overcomer God designed you to be. Aretha takes her time to show how you are already an Overcomer. Now, it’s time for you to walk as one, in faith, courage, and victory.

Digging Deep Within, B.W. McKay
B.W. McKay wrote this novel from an African American male perspective. It’s a story of courage and liberation. You will be able to relate to the characters as they step out in faith while learning how to overcome some of life’s most challenging obstacles related to relationships, careers, communication, unresolved pain from the past, grief, brokenness, and mental anguish.

Becoming, Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama has given us an intimate, powerful, and inspiring Memoir. Michelle offers us a glimpse of her life growing up in Chicago, college life at Princeton, the early years of her marriage as she struggles to balance her work and family. Then, of course the debate whether Barack Obama should run for presidency. Michelle’s story shows us her inner strength and her passion for life itself. Michelle issues a challenge to the rest of us: Who are we and who do we want to become?

LIFE CHANGING QUOTES

Your ancestors took the lash, the branding iron, humiliations and oppression because one day they believed you would come along to flesh out the dream. – Maya Angelou

There is no gain without struggle. – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe. – Oprah Winfrey

You have to meet people where they are, and sometimes you have to leave them there. – Iyanla Vanzant

Don’t wait for the world to recognize your greatness. Live it and let the world catch up to you. – Muhammed Ali

You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own. – Michelle Obama

It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. – Frederick Douglass

I have fallen, but I will get up. – Maya Angelou

I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism. And that’s how I operate my life. – Oprah Winfrey

I am very proud to be black, but black is not all I am. That’s my cultural historical background, my genetic makeup, but it’s not all of who I am nor is it the basis from which I answer every question. – Denzell Washington

I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves. – Harriet Tubman

History has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take a life of its own. – Michelle Obama

We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools. – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Your willingness to look at your darkness is what empowers you to change. – Iyanla Vanzant

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Proud to be what I was meant to be. – Keen James

Now, here’s a time for reflection using journal prompts. Use this time to be honest and dig deep within yourself. Then, write freely about your life and your personal experiences; your dreams, challenges, and failures. Take time to think about your thoughts, to acknowledge how you feel, and to strive to be spiritually grounded throughout your journey. Keep in mind, this is an on-going process because life is always changing.

• How has racism impacted your life?

• How do you wish the world could be different?

• What is your biggest dream?

• What is your biggest fear?

• What are you struggling with at the moment?

• Where would you like to be right now?

• What are your core strengths and weaknesses?

• Who are you one year from now?

• What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?

• What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?

I’ll be the first to say that it is quite difficult to celebrate Black History Month year to year when we are still fighting against racism and hatred every day. Many of our African American brothers and sisters are still being murdered because of the color of their skin. Despite this reality, we must still stand strong as a people in our own skin and celebrate everything that our ancestors fought for…EMPOWERMENT, INSPIRATION, HONOR, RESPECT, KINDNESS, FAIRNESS, PRIDE & CULTURE!

Peace to my Ancestor’s and my Elder’s. I walk in your strength, legacy, and power, today and every day! – Unknown

SPEAK LIKE FREDERICK DOUGLASS
LEAD LIKE HARRIET TUBMAN
THINK LIKE MARCUS GARVEY
EDUCATE LIKE W.E.B. DUBOISE
BELIEVE LIKE THURGOOD MARSHALL
WRITE LIKE MAYA ANGELOU
FIGHT LIKE MALCOLM X
DREAM LIKE MARTIN LUTHER LING JR.
CHALLENGE LIKE ROSA PARKS
BUILD LIKE OPRAH WINFREY
CHANGE LIKE BARAK OBAMA

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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My Time, My Season

LaPorterJanuary 19, 201919 Replies

Time, Season, Clock, Plant, Writing, Blogging, Journaling — pexels

Time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters. – 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! So, how has your January been? Honestly, it feels like forever since I’ve written a blog post. Well, I don’t know about you, but 2019 has started off busy for me, but in a positive way. For starters, on the writing front, I have decided to:

• Continue my Renew Inspiration blog.
• Plan to write my first Renew Inspiration book.
• Strive to keep journaling, reading, writing, and meditating.
• Continue to write articles via Hub Garden.
• Pursue other freelance writing opportunities.

I have really enjoyed this blogging experience while connecting with you and have met so many awesome bloggers along the way as well. I felt it necessary to document my writing goals in a blog post to keep me grounded on what’s important in my life, right now, in this very moment. In addition, I want to be accountable to my overall writing career and make plans to reach all of these goals this year. Why now you ask? Because I feel it is my time and my season to enjoy my passion which is writing.

In addition to following after my writing dreams, shortly after the new year, I started a new part-time secretary job in an educational setting. If you know me, I have another passion which is doing administrative type work, such as typing, organizing/doing projects in an office setting, answering calls and resulting customer complaints, managing paperwork and/or online files, etc. This specific job proves that it is my time and my season as well. I was offered a full-time job after months of testing and interviewing, but I had to decline the offer due to family conflicts. Unfortunately, I have to drop off and pick up my children from school so I cannot work full-time hours at this time. Then, they offered me the part-time position right after I declined the full-time offer which was a total blessing for me and my family. This job opportunity allows me to work in an office environment (which I love), offers me an opportunity to work in an educational setting (which I have a passion for learning), gives me an opportunity to contribute to my retirement (which is a bonus) and offers me a flexible work schedule which is a WIN – WIN any way you look at it!

Time, Season, Work Space, Clock, Desk, Home Office, Writing, Blogging, Journaling — pexels

WORK-LIFE BALANCE

Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life. – Unknown Author

Well, as you probably already know, I have been pulled in so many directions in the last few weeks. I’ve been struggling to balance my work, family obligations and writing projects which are all dear to my heart. There’s so much information to learn when starting a new job. Quite frankly, it is totally stressful and difficult to find a healthy work-life balance that works for me while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Work-life balance can be defined as the balance that an individual need between time allocated for work and other aspects of life. Areas of life other than work-life can be, but not limited to personal interests, family, social or leisure activities.

TIPS TO MANAGE WORK-LIFE BALANCE

• Set realistic schedules and do not strive for perfection.

• Prioritize your health by eating healthier options, meditating and exercising.

• Build downtime into your schedule to relax, read, and update your planner.

• Make time for yourself. For example, schedule a spa da or day out with your friends.

• Rethink your errands and household chores. Don’t be afraid to delegate duties to others.

MY TO-DO LIST FOR TODAY

• Count my blessings and take nothing for granted.

• Practice kindness to everyone I come into contact with.

• Let go of what I cannot control, seen and unseen.

• Listen to my heart in every situation.

• Be productive throughout your day yet calm in your spirit.

• Just relax and breathe.

HOW TO COPE WITH ANXIETY

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

Anxiety can be defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about something with an uncertain outcome. Often times, if not properly treated, a person could be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder which involves compulsive behavior or panic attacks. I realize that transition and change are sometimes difficult for us to handle throughout life. As you experience these type of situations, please remember, you are not alone throughout this process.

• Get enough sleep.

• Eat well and exercise.

• Organize life as much as possible. Example – plan meals, get clothes ready at night, etc.

• Ask for help when necessary.

• Avoid masking how you feel. Honesty is key.

• Make self-care a priority during the transition.

• Remember your strengths.

• Know that you are in control.

Time, Season, Journaling, Writing, Blogging, Journals, Desk, Writing Space — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

The most important person to keep your promises to, is yourself. – Unknown Author

• What makes you proud of yourself right now in this very moment?

• What is your vision for the next 6 months? year?

• What fear is holding you back?

• How do you respond to setbacks and failure?

• What is one behavior you need to let go this year?

• What did you do today that brought you closer to your goal/dream?

• How can I love myself on today?

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES, GOALS & DREAMS

Do you feel it is your time and your season? How do you handle anxiety and the fear of the unknown? What are some of your goals and dreams? Do you have passions that you plan to pursue or are pursuing?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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 a New You

LaPorterDecember 28, 20186 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).

I choose to feel good about myself each day. – Louise Hay

Special Thought – I take time to reflect on my amazing life, then write in my journal.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Getting started with journaling can be frustrating for some people, but also can be life changing for others. When doing anything in life, having a personal and well-defined purpose will encourage you to stick to it. Do you want to journal to relieve stress and anxiety? Do you want to deal with a childhood trauma? Do you want to journal to a new you for 2019? Whatever your reason, the results will be the same. Once you begin the journaling process, you’ll become wiser, more enlightened, and all around better version of yourself.

JOURNALING TIPS

Journaling can help with personal growth and development. By regularly recording your thoughts you will gain insight into your behaviors and moods.

Here’s some great journaling tips:

• Use a pen and paper

• Journal in the morning

• Write every day

• Don’t edit your thoughts or feelings

• Don’t correct your grammar

• Schedule quality time for journaling

• Write about the current space you’re in and always be honest

• Use journaling prompts

• Talk to your inner child and write letters

• Cultivate an attitude of gratitude

• Keep it private

JOURNALING BENEFITS

Journaling allows you to track patterns, trends, improvement and growth over time. In addition, journaling has been proven to improve not only mental and physical health, but it has increased self-esteem in some people as well.

Here’s some other journaling benefits:

• Clarify your thoughts and feelings

• Know yourself better

• Reduce stress

• Solve problems more effectively

• Resolve disagreements with others

Meditation, Yoga Pose, Stillness, Peaceful, Water, Journaling — pexels

MEDITATION TIPS

In addition, to starting your journaling process, it is important for you to participate in meditation practices as well. There is no doubt that meditation is good for you and will help you feel calmer throughout life.

Here’s some great meditation tips to help you start this process:

• Start small with 3 – 5 minutes (or less); Pay attention to the sensations of taking breaths

• Understand what meditation can do for you as it relates to stress, anxiety or overthinking

• Understand the principles of meditation; Becoming aware of when your mind has drifted and being able to redirect your attention back to your point of focus

• Do meditation your own way, make it personal

• Reduce all or nothing thinking

Journaling, Writing, Mug, Journal — pexels

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Everything you’ve ever wanted, is one step outside your comfort zone. – Unknown Author

MIND

• What thought patterns do I have and how do they impact my life?

• What takes your mind away from positive thoughts? Peaceful thoughts?

• What is one thing I can do this week to improve my meditation time?

BODY

• What is happening in my body right now?

• How can I honor my body on today?

• Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?

SPIRIT

• What am I grateful for and why?

• What do I need to be free from and surrender to God?

• How much you are trusting God with your life right now?

As we look ahead to 2019, we’ve got gratitude on our minds. Continue to focus on your healthy living and fitness journey. I wish you a new year filled with joy, peace, hope, love, family, friends and laughter! Don’t procrastinate any longer. Get a journal and start journaling to a new you.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Journaling for Fitness

LaPorterDecember 15, 20182 Replies

Pink Kettlebell, Grey Sneakers, Fitness, Journaling — pexels

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).

I believe in the person I want to become.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! This is the time of the year when everyone is trying to make New Year’s Resolutions. Instead of doing what seems to fail year after year, let’s plan to get healthy and fit by Journaling for Fitness. Keeping a fitness journal can be very helpful to most people. Studies show this easy tool helps reduce stress, builds positive thoughts and feelings, and helps us better understand what may be holding each of us back.

Never let a stumble in the road be the end of the journey.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

• 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 or fitness journal lets you maintain an organized record of your progress and journey.

JOURNALING TIPS

• Keep a regular writing schedule with few distractions so journaling becomes a habit.

• Don’t over think your written entries, just write honestly.

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

• Keep your journal private so you will not begin to write for others instead of yourself.

• Do not try to write perfect words, but instead just write what you think and feel.

• Reread your journal entry throughout your journey to see if you spot any patterns you want to change.

REASONS TO KEEP A FITNESS JOURNAL

Fitness means so much more than having a nice body. It means having a much better life.

Keeping a fitness journal can help you plan ahead to achieve your health and fitness goals, look back to see what’s working and what’s not, and gives you a clear idea of what you’re going to do for the day.

Here’s some additional reasons to keep a fitness journal:

• To clarify and focus your fitness goals.

• To break down goals into smaller, more manageable goals.

• To track progress towards goals.

• To plan future workouts.

• To record workouts done and progress.

• To plan exercise rest days.

• To gain a better understanding of exercise habits.

• To provide a factual record of successes.

As you can see, 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. So, with that said, let’s start 2019 healthier and more organized. Plan to focus on your health and fitness goals by including a fitness journal in your daily routine. After all, your health and well-being must take priority, so you will be able to provide the necessary support to your family and friends.

Pink Flower, Journal, Earbuds, Pen, White Cup, Fitness — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

When you feel like giving up, think about why you started.

• Today, I can honor my body by ___________________________.

• I am taking ___________________ actions to reach _____________________ goal.

• What are my fitness goals for the new year?

• What am I feeling today and what thoughts are creating that feeling?

• How can I love myself on today?

• What can I do to take better care of myself?

• What is one thing I know I really need to change?

• What is my vision for the next 3 months?

• List 5 to 7 new habits you’d like to adapt in the new year.

SHARE YOUR COMMENTS

You’ve always been beautiful. Now you’re just deciding to be healthier, fitter, faster and stronger. Remember that as you continue your healthier journey. Do you prefer setting goals or New Year’s Resolutions? What kinds of goals are you setting for yourself? What would be your New Year’s Resolution(s)? Do you plan to include a fitness journal in your daily routine? Why or why not?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Fill Me Up, Holy Spirit

LaPorterOctober 15, 20184 Replies

The spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. (I John 4:4)

Something to Think About – Invite the Holy Spirit to lead your decisions and emotions today!

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Fill me up, Holy Spirit. Fill me up while I continue my journey here on earth. Fill me up with your presence as I write these inspirational words for my readers on today. Holy Spirit guide my every step and give me positive thoughts in the midst of turmoil. Strengthen my heart and comfort my spirit.

The mere whisper of the Holy Spirit can drown out the thundering noise of an entire world. – David Jeremiah

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit is also referred to as the Spirit, the Spirit of God, and the Spirit of the Lord. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is sometimes called the Spirit of Christ.
The Holy Spirit is included in the Trinity, which is made up of 3 distinct persons: The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit serves as a teacher, counselor, comforter, strengthener, inspiration, revealer of the Scriptures, convincer of sin, caller of ministers and intercessor in prayer.

As soon as Jesus (the Son) was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God (Holy Spirit) descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven (Father) said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17 NIV)

The Holy Spirit helped in creation with the Father and Son, filled the prophets with the Word of God, assisted Jesus and the apostles in their missions, inspired the men who wrote the Bible, give guidance to the church, and sanctifies believers in their walk with Christ. The Holy Spirit acts as Christ’s presence on earth, counseling and encouraging Christians as they struggle with the temptations of the world.

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; He is the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it does not see Him, neither do they know Him: but you know him; for he dwells with you and shall be in you. (John 14:16-17)

The Holy Spirit is the Comforter sent by Jesus to dwell in us and to comfort our souls during challenging times in life, such as the death of loved one, divorce, losing a job, etc.

Holy, Bible, Scriptures, God, Jesus, Salvation — pixabay

Seven Attributes of the Holy Spirit

1. The Holy Spirit is a loving Comforter. He has loved us since before the creation of the world. Remember, he is the only one able to truly comfort our hearts in times of trouble. (see Romans 5:5)

2. The Holy Spirit is a faithful Comforter. Remember, he loved us while we were still dead in our sins. He loves us even to the end and will never turn away from us. (see Romans 15:13)

3. The Holy Spirit is an untiring Comforter. Despite our murmuring and complaining, he never loses heart or feels weary while helping us work through our issues. (see John 14:26)

4. The Holy Spirit is a wise Comforter. He finds what is causing the disease within you and cures it. He offers healing to us that is acceptable in the eyes of God. (see I Corinthians 2:10)

5. The Holy Spirit is a safe Comforter. The comfort of the Holy Spirit is safe for us to rest in it as well as trust it. (see I Corinthians 2:13)

6. The Holy Spirit is an active Comforter. He intercedes for us, reminding us of God’s great promises and His grace. He actively leads and guides us to the perfect will of the Father. (see Romans 8:26-27)

7. The Holy Spirit is an ever present Comforter. He is always right there with us. Remember, he will never leave us alone, nor forsake us. (See John 14:16)

We should be so grateful that Jesus thought so much of us, to give us the wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit lives within us and will guide you through the challenges of life. Get a better understanding of the seven attributes of the Holy Spirit and hide the scriptures in your heart.

candle, stones, lavender, holy spirit, reflection — pexels

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

MIND

You must learn to master a new way to think before you can master a new way to be. – Marianne Williamson

• Write about personal beliefs or things that held you back in the past? How do you plan to avoid them in the future?

• How can you create a space to help clear your mind?

• What are some of your mental obstacles in life that are holding you back?

BODY

These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb. – Najwa Zebian

• Imagine what a new beginning would look like or how it would feel. Write about it.

• Sit or stand very still. What are you feeling right now in this very moment?

• What are you having a hard time accepting in your life?

SPIRIT

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. (Psalm 31:24)

• What steps do I need to take to become spiritually grounded in God’s Word?

• What is holding you back from trusting and believing in God?

• Does my life reflect what my heart desire? If not, what changes can I make?

lightbulb, thought, thinking, mind — pixabay

Share Your Thoughts

Do you allow the Holy Spirit to guide you throughout your day? Do you notice when the Holy Spirit speaks to you? If so, how do you respond?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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