"I am the vine, you are the branches: John 15:5

 

John 15:1-8 reads Christ spoke of Himself as the true vine: “I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

Have you ever looked closely at a tree and its branches? I have often looked and appreciated trees for their beauty and usefulness but only in the last couple of weeks have I looked closer at a tree just several feet from our front window. We have several huge trees surrounding our property and they provide shade and beauty.

The really strange and interesting thing about this one tree is how one of its branches reaches out to one of our neighbor’s smaller trees. That tree is only a foot away from ours. It is a smaller tree of the same kind, but the neighbor’s tree and branches look like it is not doing well. That is, until recently when one of the branches of the weak tree extended one of its branches to our stronger tree and its branch. Honestly, it looks like our strong tree and its branch is trying to help the smaller branch and tree survive. After a couple of weeks, the smaller tree and branch is doing better. The branches actually look greener and stronger.

I have noticed this same phenomenon with plants such as rose bushes, daffodils, and other plants. Years ago I read that plants that are different but placed close to other different plants—huddle together; they stay close together and support each other, so that they will survive. And survive, they do!

Isn’t this a lot like human beings? Don’t we hang together with people who are similar to us—attitudes, opinions and so forth? And don’t we do this so that we will survive—perhaps thrive? Of course, we do.

For Christians like you and me, we should first thing in the morning rush to our savior and get nourished. He is the tree and we are the branches. If we go straight to Him in the morning, won’t we get the nourishment, encouragement and love so that we can face the day with courage, a plan to do well and love from our Savior? You bet we will. All we need to do is go to Him directly and say, “Will you be with, help and love me today?” His answer will always be, “Yes!”

Are you discouraged? Here is what can help by Toni Star

It is important, before I discuss discouragement, to write it's definition: discouragement comes from the root word, courage. The prefix dis, means "the opposite of." When you and I are discouraged, we have lost the motivation to press forward. The battles, the mountains, the valleys become too steep, dark or too fierce.

For example, I have chronic back and leg pain that sometimes make me feel that the struggle to sleep or perform ordinary tasks, are just too much to do. Another example is when chores around the house or errands to run; become too difficult to perform. To be honest, sometimes I just feel that maybe the work that needs to be done, is just too much to accomplish.

Do you feel this way too? If you are a human being, then most likely you have such moments. The enemy will use such moments to suggest that life is unfair and that God doesn't hear your needs; or that your past deeds of selfishness, uncaring or resentment are the end results of not being a Christian. This so untrue!

 One example of discouragement comes from the Bible is the apostle Paul. "Paul stood on the promises of the Bible. he pressed forward, preaching the gospel, eventually ending up in a Roman jail where he lost his life. From prison, he wrote, “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). He could press on through persecution, rejection, beatings, and discouragement because his eyes were on the ultimate prize: hearing the words “Well done!” from his Lord and Savior (see Matthew 25:23; Revelation 22:12)."

It is easy to become discouraged when seeking reward from those around us. Jesus seldom too the easy path, and warned his followers to consider not taking the easy path (Luke 14:25-33. "We are not so easily discouraged when things don’t go our way because we know the battle is the Lord’s (1 Samuel 17:47).

We easily become discouraged when we seek reward or affirmation from those around us. If our service or obedience is based upon immediate gratification, we may be setting ourselves up for discouragement. Jesus did not always take the easy path, and He warned His followers to consider that before they started (Luke 14:25–33). When we have already counted the cost of discipleship, we have more strength to face the battles ahead. We are not so easily discouraged when things don’t go our way because we know the battle is the Lord’s (1 Samuel 17:47).)

When we lose our primary focus of always turning to Jesus first, discouragement often comes in the form of a warning light. Sometimes it is pride, greed, or covetousness that feeds discouragement. (When we use discouragement as a reminder that our priorities have become skewed, the feeling of discouragement can become a refining tool to make us more like Jesus (see Romans 8:29).)

Discouragement can be a warning light suggesting to us that we have lost our primary focus. When we feel discouraged, it helps to get alone with the Lord and allow Him to examine our hearts and our motives (Psalm 139:23). Often, it is pride, greed, or covetousness that is feeding our discouragement. A sense of entitlement can worm its way into our hearts and highlight the discrepancy between what we have and what we believe we are owed. When we recognize that attitude as sin, we can repent, humble ourselves, and let the Holy Spirit readjust our expectations. When we use discouragement as a reminder that our priorities have become skewed, the feeling of discouragement can become a refining tool to make us more like Jesus (see Romans 8:29).

Not long ago I allowed discouragement to get the better of me. I felt helpless and so lost. I didn't see an end to the physical and mental pain, brought on by chronic pain and disappointment in people. But, when I brought to mind that my priorities in life had become unbalanced, I saw how those skewed priorities would help make me more like Jesus. Jesus suffered terribly but He knew that the end result--His death and resurrection--would bring hope, life and goodness to everyone who followed Him. 

The poem below speaks clearly about our souls and how we can praise God, no matter what our suffering is....

“Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
My soul is downcast within me;
therefore I will remember you” (Psalm 42:5–6)."

We all go through "dark" days; days when we can't see the light. Always remember, no matter how dark the day may be, Jesus, the light, is always there.  You can't see Him, but He is there in spiritual form. Centuries ago He said, "I am with you always; even to the end." Matthew 28:20

Don't let the enemy make you feel that it is your fault you are discouraged. Discouragement happens to all of us sometimes in our lives. Let discouragement bring you to God and His Son for they "care" for you! You are never alone!

Copyright Toni Star January 2023

What is the cross that you bear? by Toni Star

Christians know what our dear Lord said while on the cross. On each side he had two that were convicted of crimes. In the middle, of course, was Jesus.

Jesus told the two thieves on the cross that one of them, the one who repented, would be with Him in Paradise that day. Those who watched the crucifixion mocked Jesus. Some were religious leaders, while others were "watchers." After casting lots for His clothes at the foot of the cross, it wasn't long that Jesus died. The one who repented went to be with Jesus; the other ended up in Hell. The repented thief said to Jesus, "Remember me, O Lord when thou come into thy kingdom." Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you, today you will be with me in heaven."

We all, one day, will die and will either go to Heaven and be with Jesus or we will go to Hell.

There are many sins that are committed by humans such as coveting, being unloving, stealing, being unfaithful to your spouse, being mean and cruel, killing another human being, lying or baring false witness against another.

Whenever you or I commit a sin, will we turn to God and say, "Father forgive me and remember me?" Or, will we stay rigid and not ask for forgiveness suffer and go to Hell? The choice is yours and mine.

Most importantly, keep in mind, we all have a cross to bear while we live on this earth. But, you and I do not have to carry our cross alone! All you and I have to do, no matter what the cross may be--illness, losing a loved one, being disowned by your family, living in an area where you are suffering physically or mentally or losing your finances--all we need to do is pick up our cross and ask Jesus for forgiveness and help. He will give us forgiveness and help and He will also give us His Peace.

Keep in mind; you and I cannot visually see Jesus but He is with you and me right now--anytime night or day. For He said, "I am with you always." Matthew 28 Jesus comes to all of us night or day--in spirit form. You and I; we are never alone! Just knowing this gives me peace of mind. How about you? Will you choose to suffer your cross alone or will you ask Jesus to help you and receive His peace?

Copyright Toni Star 2022

 

 

Matthew 7: 7-8

Matthew 6: 33-34

John 14: 1-4

Mark 14: 36

Matthew 6: 6

James 4:2

 

Introduction: “But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut the door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.” Matthew 6: 6 King James Version (KJV)

 

Ask, Seek and Knock!

 

In my mind, so many problems and concerns could be answered if only we Christian women would ask, seek or knock. Like so many women I like to think that I have all the answers; that I can sustain myself in almost any situation. But, the truth is I don’t have all the answers.

 

As I look back on the 70 plus years of my life, I know that if I would have only done one of the three above, so much stress, anxiety and fear would have been eliminated.

 

Jesus spoke many wise words but in my mind, some of the finest and most productive words He spoke were, “You have not because you ask not.”

 

Another wonderful passage comes from Matthew 7:7-8: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” King James Version (KJV).

 

I don’t know why it took me so long to return to this passage; for my life in the last couple of years, truly needed to hear and read this statement.

 

I am a senior citizen and I’ve carried some emotional/mental baggage for years that could have been wiped out a long time ago. The above passages from the Bible have helped me face and throw out, most of the baggage I’ve been carrying. Maybe it will help you, too.

 

I’ve always felt that with most problems that “it’s never too late” to seek help and so that is exactly what I did and continue to do when facing a problem. When troubled, I go to my trusty Bible and looked up the passage and prayed on it for several days—repeating the words over and over—day and night.

 

I’ve suffered with O.C.D.—obsessive-compulsive disorder and overeating for years and in the last couple of months, it has gotten to the point where “checking” things has gotten totally out of hand and eating too much, a bad habit that is threatening my health.  I knew back then that I had to do something…

 

Anyway, I turned to my Bible and found the answers I have been needing and words from Matthew 7, in particular have certainly shed light on solving these pesky problems of mine.

 

By reading and focusing on these words from Christ, I have found that the O.C.D. and the overeating are lessening—in other words, they are becoming less important to me because I’ve changed my focus—that of obsessing on things and overeating to obsessing on Christ and His words.

 

Sounds too simple? Maybe. But, all I can tell you is that it’s working and continues to work.…Oh, there will be times when I “fall off the wagon” so to speak, but I know that with Christ’s help, I can jump right back on that “wagon” and be with Christ; for He loves and cares for me.

 

I have come to learn from reading the Bible that “all things are possible, through Christ.”

This saying of “all things are possible, through Christ” used to be just words but then as I grew older and went through, like many, trials and tribulations and sought answers and help, I found that there were few people—men or women who wanted or knew how to help me. I tried therapy, turning to my parents and husband, a close friend but it seemed that no one could give me the help I needed.

 

It came down to an emotional crisis in my life before I finally turned to my Bible and the one and only in the world who knew me, cared about me and had the answers. And, that man, of course is Jesus Christ. The most wonderful thing about this is that he has been and is always there for me and for you. All I had to do was to sit down, open my Bible and pray to him and ask him for help.

 

I said, “Lord, I need help! I don’t know what to do and I feel like I just don’t want to go on. I have health problems, I fear most everything and getting older is really bugging me!”

 

I must have repeated those same words over and over again and then I just sat still and waited for His reply. I can’t say that it happened right away but it did happen. I felt a calmness soon after the prayer and later I felt as if everything was going to be alright. Sure enough hours, days, and months later, my life began to turn around. I felt a new beginning—that this time things would work out. True, it hasn’t been perfect or easy but I am making positive changes in my life that are making a difference not only in my life but in my husband’s and those close to me.

 

The fear is going away and in place of it faith has resided. And, it feels wonderful!

 

So, if you need a healing, a blessing or an answer to a prayer—and who doesn’t, ask, seek and knock. He will hear you and He will help you!

 

Prayer:

 

Lord help us to remember that we don’t need to constantly seek help from those around us—though sometimes it is helpful and some people do care about our lives. But, Lord, help us to know that you are always there; that you love us more than anyone on earth; that all we need to do is simply to sit down in a chair and talk with you—for it is you who have the answers to our problems; because you are Lord and you love and care about us.

 

Below are some questions that reflect on the Old Testament. Back then, they faced similar problems and learning about how they faced or dismissed such problems, can help you and me. Take a look and see what you think.

 

Reflective Questions:

 

Why is David being so honest with Abiathar? 1 Samuel 22: 20-23

 

What is the importance of these words on “seeking God?” 2 Chronicles 19:3

 

Why was it important for Ezra to devote himself to the teachings of our Lord? Ezra 7:10

 

What do you see as most important in these words from the Bible? Psalm 10:17

 

 

Words to Ponder

 

James 4: 2 writes wonderful words: “You have not because you ask not.” Think about this the next time you’re struggling and needing something. Ask yourself, “Have I asked for help—for a needed item—or for assistance with a problem. Chances are, you didn’t ask for help because you didn’t want to look stupid, in need or look weak. So when you need help, ask Jesus! You’ll be surprised at the answer you get. May take awhile, but you will get an answer, you will get help.

 

The words “ask,” “seek,” and “knock” are such simple words. Words many of us use everyday, yet how many times do we hesitate to ask our Lord for things we truly need in our life—to make our lives safer, healthier, more relaxing and peaceful?

 

When we turn to the Bible and are fervent in our prayers for Christ’s help, we are seeking, asking and knocking on His door. And, isn’t it absolutely amazing that He is always there and can help us find the solutions to our problems!

 

Why is it most of us turn to Christ as the last resort, when He should be the one we come to, first. Maybe it’s just stubbornness or maybe it’s just being stupid but no matter how you look at it, Christ should be the one we turn to first—whether it’s giving praise or seeking help.

 

So, the very next time you need help, don’t go searching all over the place for someone to help you. Go to the Main Source, Christ Jesus and you will undoubtedly find the answers you are seeking! As an online friend Paul Mobley suggests: “Take a few minutes each day to invite Christ into life. Those few minutes, you will find, will make a huge difference in your life.”

 

 

There is Endurance for Each Day

 

Look upon each and every day of your life as an opportunity to find the answers and help you need!

 

Remember, that He is always there and He cares for you! Because He is the Creator, He is waiting for you….

 

Seek the Savior not only when seeking help but when giving praise and thanksgiving…

 

Ask for Christ’s help; for He is the One true, reliable Source!

 

Knock on the door to His heart; He is waiting for the knock that will unlock the door to your heart and to your salvation.

 

Copyright Ann Star 2020

Reasons why mindfulness is so important by Sylvie and post script by Toni Star

 

Why mindfulness is important may seem obvious once you understand what mindfulness is. Don’t be fooled! Many people use the words mindfulness and meditation interchangeably. Meditation is a mindfulness tool but is NOT mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of purposely setting your attention on something. For example, it can be an object, your surroundings, your feelings, a person, or the sensations in your body.

Why Mindfulness Is Important

Mindfulness is about calming your mind and living in the present moment. However, you will experience many life-changing benefits from becoming more mindful.

1. Mindfulness Improves Your Well-Being

As you become more mindful, your satisfaction with life grows because you improve your physical and mental well-being.

Physical Well-Being

Being more mindful enables you to use your mind’s power to be healthier. For example, you will learn to make better food choices as you become mindful of how your body reacts to poor food choices. You will learn to pay attention to your hunger cues and stop eating when you are full. Your body talks to you. Learning to listen will promote your physical well-being. Furthermore, the state of your mind impacts your body. Specific emotions (e.g., anger, sadness, embarrassment) can be linked with particular health outcomes (e.g., cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disease).

Mental Well-Being

Practicing mindfulness can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

 

2. Mindfulness Teaches You to Enjoy Life

You can learn to enjoy life again using mindfulness. As you practice living in the present moment, you take in everything and make the most of your time. Here are some ways to practice this:

·        Pay attention: Practice listening to others with more intention. Open your mind without judgment.

·        Rediscover the old: Look at your familiar surroundings and find something new you never noticed before.

·        Remember to breathe: As you draw your attention to your breath, you will often notice that it is shallow. Take a few cleansing breaths.

·        Lift your chest proud: Most walk around, never noticing our stance. Lift your chest, and feel tall and proud.

·        Listen to your senses: Take a moment to absorb sounds, colors, smells, and sensations.

 

3. Mindfulness Enables You to Be Truly Present for Others

When you learn to become mindful, you absorb each moment with those you love. You are more present for them, you pay attention to their conversation, and remember what matters most. You learn to eliminate distractions and create meaningful interactions.

4. Mindfulness Changes Your Brain

Did you know that mindfulness has the power to modify your brain’s structure? Mindfulness practices like meditation can reduce age-related brain degeneration and improving cognitive functions. You can change your brain’s neural pathways using mindfulness as you practice creating new thoughts. Moreover, neuroimaging studies have demonstrated structural changes in many brain regions relating to paying attention and regulating your emotions when people practice mindfulness.

5. Mindfulness Helps You Regulate Your Emotions

Besides improving your overall mental well-being, mindfulness can be a powerful tool to regulate your emotions. This doesn’t mean not experiencing certain emotions. Rather, it means developing a certain self-awareness to notice your emotions and become curious about their meaning. This awareness then enables you to self-regulate.

Avoidance, suppression, and rumination are associated with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. On the other hand, acceptance, attention, and intention lead to the decreased mental proliferation of other negative emotions (which leads you to ruminate on your emotions).

 

Written by a woman named Sylvie, fitness trainer and holistic coach

From a Christian point of view, mindfulness can be especially helpful when it comes to lowering anxiety and depression because it helps you to focus only what is currently going on, instead of worrying and feeling anxious about tomorrow or next week. When you focus only on the present, your brain only deals with what is currently going on. Anxiety and depression can enter the brain when you worry about what is coming up. So, to lower the anxiety and depression, focus only on what is going on in the present.

Think about it! You and I only have what is currently before us. We don't have the rest of the day, tomorrow, the following days, next month or next year. This is not fatalistic thinking; it is the truth! So, put away the worries of tomorrow, next month or next year. Focus only on now! By doing this you will be happier and your anxieties about the future will be smaller, more manageable and you will enjoy the hours and days that God gives to you! 

God Bless and be happy!

 

Don't believe the lies of "the evil one"

 Dear Reader,

 Just recently, I was attacked by the evil one. Last night I began worrying about driving; actually it was a small distance to where I needed to go. I began to feel anxious and I allowed the anxiety to escalate. What happened was I lost a lot of sleep and was unable to go with my husband to a dental appointment. His appointment went well but I felt bad that I didn't go with him. I have felt tired all day but I want to learn from this and share this information with you.

No matter how you feel at night--worried, frightened, anxious--whatever it might be---don't give up or give in. Instead of feeling bad all night and giving into fear, focus on something happy and positive. Get away from the negative and fearful thoughts--think about something happy that occurred during the day and zero in on that.

Also, do some deep breathing. Breathe in for about 7 counts and then slowly let out the air on the count of 10. Do this several times and know that the good Lord will be with you and guide you out of fear or depression. He wants you well; allow Him to help you. And, keep in mind what author Rick Warren said about thinking---Think, Feel and Act in positive ways. Think positive, feel positive and act positive, Sound simple? It is--Think positive and happy, Feel positive and happy and Act positive and happy. Do this simple routine and feel free!

Always remember what Jesus said, "I am with you always--even to the end. And, Jesus never lies; He always tells the truth and He love for you and me is Never Ending!

Begin and end each day by giving praise to God

 Like many, I have enjoyed many days with the good Lord; however, like you, I have had days when I didn't feel that I could go on. I suffer from chronic back and leg pain and when that pain combines with struggles to take care of everyday online and offline work, or traveling to doctor, dentist or other appointments, I find myself feeling down and negative. Does this sound like you?

If it does, I have some great news for you! No matter how your day goes--be it good or bad--sunny or dark clouds, there is always hope, love and faith in God that there are better days ahead. If you suffer from pain of any kind or struggle to do daily chores or travel to appointments you're not up to, never forget that you are not alone! Our good Lord is always with you and will see you through!

Of course, the "evil one" will try and make you think that you are alone, that no one cares or that there is no hope. But, if you are a Christian, believe and have faith that Jesus rose from the dead, then you have hope for a future and hope that your prayers will be answered!

If you feel depressed, here are a few tips that will uplift you. First, find out "what is causing you to be depressed." Second, relax, find a quiet spot and stop ruminating. Third, find something that makes you feel satisfied, like writing a letter, sending an email, making a resolution, or exercising, like taking a small walk. 

Most importantly, find out what is causing you to be depressed. It is what you do when you are depressed; that will help you quickly get out of depression. Remember, when you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you will never be alone! Never! For He said, "I am with you always; even to the end." What a comfort to know that you and I will never be alone!

If you have not accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior, do it now! He is waiting for you!

Blessings always,

Toni Star