GOD OF HOPE

Daily Stop & Thinks

Stop & Think: April 21, 2023

Warning

Precautions are useless after the event. (Aesop’s Fables)

It’s like “closing the door after the horse has left the barn.” These warnings are simple but important. Putting off till tomorrow may be harmful if our failure to prepare means great loss in a fire, a theft, or even a health issue. What is even more dangerous—though too often ignored in our secular society, is the preparation for life after death.

For God says, “Indeed, the ‘right time’ is now. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).

Stop & Think: April 20, 2023

Worry

What worries you masters you. (John Locke, 17th century English philosopher)

One of the most difficult issues we face from time to time is the sense of unease and worry. We just can’t seem to control the anxiety associated with the current problem. We act as though if we fret about it long enough, we might eventually be able to change the outcome. We really know that doesn’t work, so we may need to find peace by trusting God with the outcome.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done (Philippians 4:6).

Stop & Think: April 19, 2023

Rituals

Bringing intent to our rituals gives us the chance to rewire our attitudes. (Seth Godin, author and business executive)

More from Godin: “The things we do each day, every day, often arrive without intent. By the time we realize that they’re now habits, these random behaviors have already become part of [our lives].” It would be a good practice for us to examine our habits to be sure they reflect our values and interests rather than just doing them as part of our routine.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior (Ephesians 4:31). So get rid of all evil behavior (1 Peter 2:1).

Stop & Think: April 18, 2023

Citizens

The true test of civilization is not the census, nor the size of cities, nor the crops—no, but the kind of man the country turns out. (Ralph Waldo Emerson, 19th century American essayist)

When we study history, we often judge past civilizations by the size of their territory, their conquests in war, or the monuments they may have left—the pyramids, for example. Isn’t it more important, however, to know the kind of people they produced? Are they known for their evil dictators and cruel warriors or for their artists, philosophers, and teachers?

He chose capable men from all Israel and made them leaders of the people. (Exodus 18:25)

Stop & Think: April 17, 2023

Charity

Charity is never lost; it may meet with ingratitude . . . yet it ever does a work of beauty and grace upon the heart of the giver. (Conyers Middleton, 18th century English clergyman)

Middleton has added an important twist to the essential quality of charity, or love. We most often think of charity as helping others and, in turn, receiving the thanks of the recipient of our love. But when that isn’t the case, there is still great benefit to our acts of charity because they do something good in us.

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)

Stop & Think: April 16, 2023

Sunshine

Don’t be a dark cloud on a sunny day. (Television commercial)

Do you know anyone like that? Things are going well; you’re happy and doing fine, and wham! Somebody comes along and ruins your day with their unhappiness, pouring out their misfortune or bad attitude on you. Wouldn’t you rather be the person who brings sunshine and hope into another’s life? Make it your purpose for today.

Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else (1 Thessalonians 5:15).

Stop & Think: April 15, 2023

Success

To feel valued, to know, even if only once in a while, that you can do a job well is an absolute[ly] marvelous feeling. (Barbara Walters, American broadcast journalist)

We all want to succeed at something, to do really well, and to be recognized for our achievement even if it’s only in a little thing. It does something for our self-image. Knowing that, it would be good for all of us to lend a hand to others by helping them succeed in a worthy endeavor so they can have their moment of “feeling valued.”

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29).

Stop & Think: April 14, 2023

Achievement

If you want to do memorable things, you must put forth incredible effort. (Roger Grossman, sports announcer)

Grossman has watched thousands of sports activities and called hundreds of games. In his weekly newspaper column, he often reports on the successful efforts of athletes, crediting their exploits to good coaching, family, and fan support and—above all else—the hard work over many months of practice that has developed their skills. What a life lesson for all of us!

Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come (1 Timothy 4:8).

Stop & Think: April 13, 2023

Truth

It’s better to wrestle with truth than wallow in turmoil. (Lysa Terkeurst, author)

Truth is sometimes difficult to discern. Hearing varying deeply held convictions expressed by authoritative voices, how are we to know what is true? Some just give up, thinking it’s impossible to know. Others think that truth is relative; whatever pleases you is true for you. But it’s essential to pursue truth at any cost because following falsehoods can be fatal.

Get the truth and never sell it; also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment (Proverbs 23:23).

Stop & Think: April 12, 2023

Life’s Path

If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one. (Dolly Parton, singer, songwriter)

Many people seem to be content with their life and see no need for change. But there are some others who feel as if they are pursuing the wrong goals or are unhappy with their current situation. It may not be easy, but Parton’s advice could be the answer to finding contentment in this stage of your life. Set worthy goals, pray and plan, and create a new path.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). 

Stop & Think: April 11, 2023

Decisions

Stay committed to your decisions but stay flexible in your approach. (Tony Robbins, author and speaker)

It’s often difficult to make a decision when many options are available. Whether it’s job- or family- or career-related, it’s sometimes tough. When you reach a decision, stick with it. But, as Robbins suggests, you may sometimes have to adjust your approach as you live with your choice. Be firm in your decision and flexible in the application of your choices.

Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you (Psalm 37:5).

Stop & Think: April 10, 2023

Mistakes

He who never made a mistake never made a discovery. (Samuel Smiles, 19th century British author and reformer)

We all make mistakes, but no one really intends to. The fewer risks we take, the fewer mistakes we make. But, as every inventor and learner knows, you can’t make much progress or growth if you are determined to avoid ever making a mistake. As Edison and other inventors knew well, it’s the process of trial and error that ultimately leads to learning and success.

For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again (Proverbs 24:16).