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

Don't give up: God is right by your side by Toni Star

 Don't give up; God is right by your side.

 He never stops caring about you; He never hides.

 No matter how hard life gets and it does get hard.

 His reaching out to you is never tardy...

 He lives within you. You are never alone

 He hears the calmest moan.

                      For He has said, "I am with you always."

 

The Writing Process: Easy Steps and tips by Toni Star

 Good writing, be it academic or other, needs effective planning, drafting and revision. For writing to be effective as well as interesting, it needs to be well-thought out and revised, according to the needs of the article.

The first step is prewriting. Decide what you want to write about and do the research. During this process come up with a topic. Choose a topic that intrigues, interests or perhaps confuses you. Narrow down your idea to a certain question or argument. Collect data that uses relevant research methods such as experiments, interviews or surveys.

The second step is planning and outlining. What words for many is creating an essay outline. Use bullet points or numbering to make your structure clear at a glance.

The third step is to write a first draft. Use your outline as a framework. Make sure that each paragraph has a clear central focus that relates to your overall argument.

The fourth step is to redraft and revise. Look with a jaundiced eye at your first draft and find potential areas for improvement. Then, evaluate the first draft. Once you see where changes are needed, make the big changes first. The redrafting process and revising includes making changes to your overall argument, reordering the text, cutting parts of the text and adding new text. 

The fifth step is editing and proofreading. Read the text closely to remove typos and ensure stylistic consistency. When you edit, look for grammatical errors, phrasings that are ambiguous and repetition and redundancy. 

Follow these steps, let your uniqueness and creativity of your writing come through and you will be writing articles and books that are not only interesting but helpful to the reader.

Best wishes and keep writing!

Copyright Toni Star 2022

Poem: Where to find God? by Toni Star

 Where oh where can you find God?

  God is not hard to find; I know that to be true.

  You don't have to wander around or give anyone a nod.

  Look to your heart and you will not feel blue.

  He's right there all the time--right in your heart!

  Copyright Toni Star 2022

Tips on how to get through COVID or other trials in your life by Toni Star

 Let's be brutally honest; life, at times, can be extremely difficult and demanding. Such is the case for all of us going through the COVID disaster. I call it a disaster because in my mind, it has been a disaster for so many of us on this earth. I just read a wonderful article that lists ways in which you and I can handle this disaster or any other disaster in a more positive and less emotional way. I don't know about you, but I need this kind of information.

First, the article suggests to limit our news and media exposure. The article states, "there are two predictors  to how well a person will respond in a crisis and they are (1) how vulnerable they were in their own lives before the crisis and (2) how much news they consumed during the crisis. Then, to get through any crisis, one must accept his or her feelings as normal. "Mentally strong individuals accept their feelings as normal because this is a time for both personal trauma and collective trauma." A person who is resilient, knows that feelings such as fear and anxiety and sadness are normal because "the information is too overwhelming to process at once."

Third, "they--those going through the crisis--" carefully choose the leaders they follow." Those who are mentally strong follow people who display healthy leadership skills and mental health. Fourth, "limit social media and exposure." Social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter are unofficial news channels--that give news based on your behaviors. Fourth, mentally healthy people display self-compassion for lack of productivity. During the pandemic, there are pressures from certain sources that say we should be productive because of the increased time we have at home. But, ask yourself, "Is it reasonable to be productive when we are combating COVID or anything else that is "warlike?" And, COVID is an entity that is warlike!

Five, mentally healthy people meditate. Meditation has many benefits such as anxiety reduction, reduced stress, decreased depression and improved well-being. In addition, mentally healthy people limit toxic people. It is important to limit time with mentally toxic people. Mentally toxic people are very negative and can take a huge toll on your well-being. Whenever possible, stay away from them. Six, healthy people focus on self-care. By focusing on self-care and attempting to be flexible with new routines, they will get through the pandemic and other stressors better than those who remain inflexible. Laughter, connecting with family and friends by phone or text, getting the proper rest and good sleep; all of this will see you through much better during times of high stress. Lastly, mentally strong people know themselves and what they need to feel supported. If you are an introvert, focus on small gatherings; if you are an extrovert, enjoy some social activities; activities where you can gain energy from others and social activities.

To conclude, COVID is a war--it is a war that is still raging but it is a war we can WIN! Follow the above tips and be happy, productive and be successful as the COVID challenge continues. Keep in mind; as Chrisitians, God is in charge--not COVID--

and He will show you the way!

Copyright Toni Star 2022

Why is Easter Important? by Toni Star

 

Why is Easter so important?

 

Many celebrate Easter by coloring eggs, filling baskets with chocolate, hunting for Easter eggs and going to church on Easter Sunday. All of this is enjoyable and fun; however, Easter is important for one main and true event and that is Christ rising from the dead.

Easter is important for several reasons; mainly that Jesus, the son of God, is who He claimed to be. Jesus is God in the flesh. And as Rick Warren, famous Christian author, once stated, “He came to earth to save us.” Jesus saved us from eternal death and gave our human bodies life, a promise to be with Him in Heaven and to have His help, protection and guidance while we remain on this earth.

Three huge and important events occurred with our Lord; the trial of Jesus, the death of Jesus and the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus was put on the cross because Herod, the governor of Galilee, Annas Caiphas, the high priest of the Sanhedrin (the religious Supreme Court) and the local people who brought phony charges against Him—they all convicted him on one count: claiming to be the Son of God. They just didn’t like, want or accept that claim.

The death of Jesus is the second reason for Easter. He was beaten and crucified—with crucifixion the most brutal and tortuous death ever conceived by men. Jesus died on the cross for you and me; He didn’t have to die that horrible death but he did it willingly because He loved you and me. He died that unspeakable death because dying on the cross was the only way He could pay for our sins. We all deserve punishment for our sins but Jesus paid that penalty for our sins because of His great love for us.

After Jesus died, they took his body down and put him in the tomb, and a giant millstone was set in front of the cave. The religious leaders -- worried that Jesus’ body might be stolen -- asked for Roman guards to be posted in front of the tomb. They didn’t want him coming out but of course, he did.

It is important, as a Christian, to remember that Easter is not just a memorial to a religious leader who lived thousands of years ago. Easter is a celebration that reminds us that Jesus is alive and lives as spirit form in those who believe in Him. Keep in mind, Jesus was, after the resurrection, seen by hundreds of people not just a handful of people; as some would like you to think. Later, after approximately 40 days after rising from the dead, he went back home and talked with many people.

Easter is essential to everyone!  Jesus gave the ultimate sacrifice—His life-- so that you and I might live, be pardoned for our sins and live with Him forever in Heaven. So, Happy Easter to you and enjoy the promise of eternal life with Jesus!

Copyright Toni Star 2022

Words to Live by

 Words to live by can be found in the Bible. Whenever you feel anxiety, fear or depression coming your 

  way, go to His Word, the Bible and you will find the answer. Words from devotions online, quoted from 

  the Bible are so beautiful and comforting. Take a look at this one and I can guarantee that you will feel 

  His presence and peace. May the good Lord bless and keep you and watch over you day and night. God      Bless, 

  Toni 

  

Wonderful passage from Ephesians 6:10-12

 "Be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength.

  Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against

  the tactics of the devil. For our battle is not against

  flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,

  against the world powers of this darkness,

  against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens."

  The above words are wonderful to read because they are not only true but also

  inspiring. No matter if you are dealing with negative, evil or stupid people or 

  going through something that stresses you out, your battle is not against 

  flesh and blood but against the powers of darkness.

  But you need not fear anything here because when you put on the full armor of 

  God which is faith, love, trust and belief and most importantly, the word of God,

  you can stand against anything negative or evil that comes along.

  So, each day and night; no matter how you feel or what is going on in your life,

  turn to God and put on the "full armor" of God. To ensure that your armor stays

  fresh and renewed, pray without ceasing. For, the Lord our God knows exactly what

  you need to lead a godly, beautiful and peaceful Chrisitan life!

  Never fear, for the good Lord said eons ago, "I am with you always; even to the end."  Jesus is the 

  door. Open His door and find peace.

  Copyright Toni Star February 2022

When things don't go right, don't give up--go directly to God!

 Everyone struggles now and then when things go wrong.

 That is the time when most of us say, I give up!

 But don't give up, God will keep you strong!

 Instead of looking down and sad, look up!

 The evil one will try and trip you up.

 That is what he does to everyone.

  Take a sip of inspiration from Christ's cup

  And, your struggles, you will overcome.

  Instead of giving up, look up and you will find the best "buddy" on earth--

  Our Lord and Savior--Jesus Christ!

Wonderful article on how to get closer to God

The following is a wonderful article from the Web that I want to share with you. This is this link:

https://www.wayfm.com/content/faith-life/3-ways-to-grow-closer-to-god-when-you-feel-far-away/ 

I'm posting this because lately I have felt a strong need to get closer to God. This article has helped me so much. For me, what has helped me to get closer to God is finding a quiet place and spilling my heart and soul to Him. Find a quiet place, tell Him how to feel and ask for His help. Then, listen to what He wants you  to know. He will speak to you. Be patient for He may not always respond to you quickly; it may take a day or more but He will speak to your heart.

Blessings I send to you all in getting close to the Father.

Toni Star

A few years ago I felt really close to God. I was growing in my faith, talking and walking with God, and even though things weren’t perfect, life was going well. Then, for the next year or so, I felt stuck in a rut. I felt like I wasn’t maturing in my faith and was becoming distant from God. It wasn’t until I tried the steps below that I noticed a positive change in my spiritual walk. Here are three simple steps to deepen your relationship with God no matter how far away you may feel.

1. Reach Out

It can be easy to become overwhelmed by life, but instead of holding everything in, reach out for help. If you don’t feel God in your life as you used to, don’t be afraid to come to Him. God knows our deepest thoughts and the desires of our hearts. No matter how long it’s been since you’ve truly felt God’s presence; please know that calling out to Him is the solution. God doesn’t push us away. He loves us, He pursues us, and He wants us to grow in our relationship with Him. Admitting that we need God’s help isn’t a sign of weakness; instead, it’s expressing a desire to know God better.

2. Limit Distractions

Life is full of so many distractions and unfortunately there are many things that can hinder our walk with God. The heroes of the Bible weren’t strong on their own power, but the Bible says that they walked with God. They had temptations and weaknesses of their own, but their desire to do God’s will had a greater hold on them. Sometimes in order to walk with God, we need to walk away from the things that are driving us away from Him.

If anything in your life has taken precedence to spending time with God, consider putting it on the back-burner for a while. When social media or entertainment or future plans take precedence, it can be nearly impossible to find room for God. Consider limiting the amount of time you spend on these activities and use that time to grow closer to God.

3. Be Intentional

Set aside a time where you can be alone with God in a place with few distractions. Waking up a half hour earlier to read the Bible and pray might be just the thing to help you strengthen your relationship with Christ. Or maybe you could listen to an audio Bible or the radio while preparing dinner. God will meet you where you are and since the Holy Spirit dwells within us, we can spend time with God in a variety of places.

When we seek God with all of our hearts and draw near to Him, we will feel His presence once again.

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James 4:8 (NLT) says, “Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.” When we seek God with all of our hearts and draw near to Him, we will feel His presence once again. There’s no better feeling that being close to God and I encourage you to give your all to Him.

Inspirations Quotes for 2022

 

• “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'” —Muhammad Ali
• “The difference between a successful person and others is not lack of strength not a lack of knowledge but rather a lack of will.” —Vince Lombardi
• “I am thankful for all of those who said NO to me. It’s because of them I’m doing it myself.” —Albert Einstein
• “I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” —Michael Jordan
• “I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.” —Serena Williams
• “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” —Thomas Alva Edison
• “Belief in oneself is one of the most important bricks in building any successful venture.” —Lydia M. Child
• “Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.” —Earl Nightingale
• “Success is achieved and maintained by those who try and keep trying.” —W. Clement Stone
• “Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” —Will Rogers
• “Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal. Nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong attitude.” —Thomas Jefferson
• My inspirational quote: "Always stay close to Jesus; rest assured, He will be there close to you." Toni Star 2022