We practice self-control. We exercise our bodies. We study. We work hard. We give our all to what we love. Self-control, also known as self-discipline, is a focused practice. It is a determined discipline of the mind, body, and spirit—all that we are. Examples of self-control include exercising, detoxing our bodies, and consuming healthy foods… Continue reading Focused Discipline
Tag: Purpose
Serving with Gentleness
Gentleness is a characteristic that God is developing within us. We exercise gentleness when we willingly place ourselves under God’s authority. By practicing humility, thankfulness, forgiveness, and politeness, we influence others through our words, our attitudes, our responses, our actions. We serve others with gentleness. Scripture says much about people who are examples of gentleness… Continue reading Serving with Gentleness
Responses of Gentleness
A mother’s love. A father’s tenderness. A manager’s soft firmness. A doctor’s compassionate care. A coach’s encouragement. It’s a matter of a gentle response. Gentleness is the same as meekness, which is strength under control. It is knowing when to release your desire to serve another. It is refusing to retaliate when others come against… Continue reading Responses of Gentleness
Great is Thy Faithfulness
Welcome to Faith Connections Friday! I am so glad you joined us! Scripture is abundant with examples of God’s faithfulness. His covenant with Abraham as the father of many nations. His promise to David that he would be king and his descendant would be the Messiah. His promise to Mary that she would bear the… Continue reading Great is Thy Faithfulness
Faithfulness of Cats and Dogs
Welcome to Connections2Excellence! I am so glad you are here! Thank you for being so faithful! Confession time. I love cats. Please don't stop reading--I promise I'm trying to make a point. Yes, I think they are the cutest. They are adorable, independent, and finicky. They fight like little ninja kitties and do their little… Continue reading Faithfulness of Cats and Dogs
Blessings of Goodness
The book of Genesis records the dramatic life of Joseph. It is one of betrayal, forgiveness, redemption, and goodness. When Joseph’s brothers sold him, they thought they would never see him again. Joseph, however, became a leader in Egypt. Several years passed, and Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt for food. They unknowingly met with Joseph,… Continue reading Blessings of Goodness
Intentional Kindness
Kindness is a trait that comes naturally to some. It is one that can be easily and intentionally practiced so others are impacted by your thoughtfulness. A fruit of the Spirit is kindness, or lovingkindness. It is a characteristic of God, and He develops this trait in us so we can be more like Him.… Continue reading Intentional Kindness
Pursuing Peace
There have been instances in which I have experienced undeniable peace with major life decisions, conflict resolution, job situations, or family crises. There have also been instances in which peace seemed difficult to find, resulting in unrest, fear, anxiety, and worry. Like joy, peace is internal and difficult to grasp. It is an unexplainable calm,… Continue reading Pursuing Peace
Developing Peace
Recently, I spent a day in DC with family. It was ... peaceful. The traffic was manageable. The people were friendly. The day was beautiful. Even at the end of the workday, I noticed people enjoying the outdoors by playing soccer or frisbee or walking their dog. Yes, it may have been an extraordinary—not the… Continue reading Developing Peace
Unexplainable Joy
Joy is inner, unexplainable, delightful peace. It’s quiet. It’s calming. It’s resting. It’s uplifting. Joy is a gift from God. It is fruit of the Spirit. Joy is recognizing the blessings of God and finding delight. As we proclaim our thankfulness to God for the gifts He so willingly and abundantly bestows upon His children,… Continue reading Unexplainable Joy
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