Giving Jesus Radio

Of course, the victory celebration doesn’t end with the Israelites merely leaving the land of Egypt.

That would be a great, Hollywood-worthy ending complete with a young, chiseled Moses staring confidently into the sunset.

But once again, the Israelites are faced with a desperate situation as the Egyptians chase them in the wilderness.

Ahead of them is the Red Sea and the tiny nation has no boats, ships, or even floaties among them. Behind them is the life they once knew—cruel oppression and open hatred.

If there were ever a moment to dig deep and try to muster some faith, this is it. Yet the Israelites respond the same way we do when faced with a crisis.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

The truth is that sometimes God uses opposition to His will to further His glory.

So often God turns a test of our faith into His testimony. He does this for the honor of His name and to draw even more people to Him.

But this doesn’t mean the road is easy or painless. What happened to the Israelites was degrading, unfair, and just plain cruel.

Yet God never left the wheel. He still reigned on His throne, even as it looked like everything was spinning out of control.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

The nation of Israel had been enslaved for four hundred years. Four hundred years of crying out to God as generation after generation hoped their children and grandchildren would one day know the sweet blessing of freedom.

Some scholars refer to this period in Israel’s history as “The Silent Years” because from all appearances, God was silent during this time. Have you endured “the silent years” in your own life?

In these moments, it’s natural to wonder what’s going on. You question yourself—did you miss what God said? Did you fail to walk in His ways? Was your faith simply not enough to prompt Him to show up?

The Lord is calling us to be open to the new thing in our lives Join in drawing nearer to God and invite Him to do a new thing in our lives.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

I know there are times that we get discouraged by unfulfilled dreams.

And you might be in that place right now.

Sometimes our dreams appear barely still alive and some are just dead.

Your dream may be so dried up that you wish it were such that you could just walk away and start on something else.

Your dream can be resurrected!

God can restore your dream and lost hope and give you purpose.

Dare to Dream again!

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

What about perhaps the most well-known resurrection is Lazarus apart from the resurrection of Jesus.

When Lazarus became ill, his sisters sent Jesus a message.

Jesus did respond…though he seemed much slower than they would have liked.

Her words flowed from an aching heart. How many times have you whispered words similar to Martha’s?

It’s not wrong to ache in the space in between pain and resurrection.

It doesn’t mean your faith is small if you cry because everything in you is aching.

It’s OK to reveal the anguish of your soul to the One who formed you.

Listen as He is Risen!

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Sometimes when we go through seasons of heartache, it’s easy to assume that we’ve done something wrong.

We search for the sin or mistake we made that caused the calamity we’re experiencing.

We find in the story of Job how that sometimes our test has nothing to do with us at all.

What’s more God can—and often does!—restore what was taken from us during times of testing.

But emotional and financial resurrection begins when you remind yourself God is in control and choose faith in the midst of the suffering.

It seems easier to sing praise when everything is going well and you are feeling good.

But when things aren’t going so well and you emotions are not on the top of the world and you feel finances are drained it take tremendous faith to rise about the circumstances of life and praise God through the pain and suffering.

In the lowest of low and the highest of high we cling to the knowing that God is our Redeemer and has everything in control for our good.

“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!” - Job 19:25–27

Remember God is with you…

Together, Giving Jesus, -Lana

When most people think of the word “resurrection” they think of Jesus Christ returning after the Crucifixion. This is definitely the most important resurrection in all of history.

In fact, it’s the Resurrection that gives us hope, comfort, and peace. But there are actually several different types of resurrection that can affect your life.

Relational resurrection happens when we think a relationship is over but God steps in. Sometimes, this resurrection might involve reconciling with a spouse after divorce proceedings were started.

Or your resurrection might be about making peace with a parent after a long season of silence or re-connecting with a sibling who abandoned the family.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Expect to be tested

As we grow, we are tested and tried.

Sometimes it feels like we’re facing the same trials again and again, doesn’t it?

We don’t love facing the same tests over and over, still, we know God knows what He is doing.

I may not realize that I need the repetition, but He knows my heart. Not every test that you re-take is about teaching you something.

Sometimes God allows you to experience a trial so that you can model a grace-filled response for someone else. Listen as we learn how to see the blessing even in the battle.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

One of the ways to keep our eyes on the enemy is to not let our eyes get off our primary concern in our relationship with God and to see His Kingdome grow.

Many times adversity and obstacles can get in our way to cause us to take our eyes off Jesus and the path set before us.

We can get distracted by the obstacles and pretty soon we have lost sight of our purpose and just try to “make it through.”

The problem with this is that our energy and focus is on the obstacles. Because as soon as one obstacle is handled rest assured that another obstacle is right around the corner.

When we are focused on the obstacles then we are focused on the wrong things. Turn your eyes upon Jesus, keep your focus on the calling God has for you and the temporary concerns will come into proper perspective.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Your mission on this earth will come up against incredible resistance at times. God will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

God is faithful. He will always provide a way of escape.

As we are on the mission of fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives, He will show us where the victory can be found.

no weapon forged against you will prevail,    and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,    and this is their vindication from me,”declares the Lord.(Isaiah 54:17)

Our mindset in the battle as God’s children is that as we come upon many afflictions and trials, we are ready to fight against that with which the world bombards us.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Remember the old Mission Impossible television shows? Maybe you’ve seen the movies staring Tom Hanks as Ethan Hunt?

The operatives came up against seemingly un-surmountable obstacles and they put their training to the test and worked to overcome the adversity. The shows wouldn’t have been very exciting to watch if the characters didn’t have amazing obstacles to overcome.

Unlike characters in the movies or television we face obstacles in our lives everyday. For example, at the time of this podcast our whole world is being turned upside down by a virus called COVID19.

As tough as life gets, we can find comfort of knowing that God has a plan and a mission for our lives.

Listen as we learn more about how we always need to be advancing and how God will be there to help us overcome the obstacles and struggle of life.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Fruit of the Spirit are thoughts based upon biblical principles to inspire us to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives because these are fruit given to us by the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.

The lack of self-control has been in the news.  Their president didn’t win, so they took to the streets in protest. Colleges relaxed rules because sad students couldn’t cope with their loss. A cartoon showed people in their 20's on the floor at the workplace throwing a temper-tantrum. The vending machine didn’t have their usual candy bar selection.  The last one is a little bit far-fetched, but we've seen similar examples.  Self-control is control over ourselves when things don’t go our way.

Listen as we learn more about how the fruit of the Spirit inspire Self-control in all we do.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Fruit of the Spirit are thoughts based upon biblical principles to inspire us to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives because these are fruit given to us by the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.

God calls us for steadfastness, or faithfulness. It’s not meant to change. Our faith is a trust and conviction to an allegiance to the Bible and what the Bible says about God. There is only one prerequisite to this faithfulness. You must believe in Him--His existence, His works and His character.

Listen as we learn more about how the fruit of the Spirit inspire Faithfulness and Gentleness.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Fruit of the Spirit are thoughts based upon biblical principles to inspire us to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives because these are fruit given to us by the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.

You are busy walking through the city, your head lowered as you read the latest news on your phone. You happen to look up to see a young man scurrying ahead to open the door for a woman. One arm is laden with bags while the other works to navigate the stroller holding a small child. The toddler drops her stuffed animal and the young man swoops to pick it up and tucks it in her arms. He holds the door ajar until they are safely inside, then he walks ahead of you down the street.  He chose kindness.

Listen as we learn more about how the fruit of the Spirit inspire Kindness and Goodness.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Fruit of the Spirit are thoughts based upon biblical principles to inspire us to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives because these are fruit given to us by the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.

An artist painted a picture of raging ocean waves crashing on a craggy and rocky coastline. The ocean spray flew into the sky. The waves churned, and storm clouds filled the sky. But, as you look closer at the painting you see something. Where two rocks leaned together forming a crevice there was a white figure.  It was a sleeping seabird, nestled in its nest, safe from the storm because of the shelter of the rock. The little bird was at peace although a storm raged around her.

Listen as we learn more about how the fruit of the Spirit inspire Peace and Patience.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Love and Joy are a part of the fruit of the Spirit. In Philippians 4:8, Paul gives us specific guidelines on what we are to think or meditate about.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.”

Fruit is something that naturally grows from a living plant. The fruit of the Spirit are characteristics which should naturally grow out of the operation of the Spirit of our life.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Fruit of the Spirit are thoughts based upon biblical principles to inspire us to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives because these are fruits given to us by the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.

Listen as we learn more about the fruit of the Spirit in God inspired love and joy.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Much of our resistance to taking charge of our lives comes from forces within ourselves. Fear, insecurity, doubt and overwhelm can really keep us rooted in place. Unfortunately, what others think and say can also have a big role in holding you back.

Job says in Job 42:2 I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.

People don’t like change and may prefer you to stay exactly as you are for fear of rocking the boat.

Some people might be afraid you'll move on without them. Perhaps your success is intimidating to them. Whatever the case, you can't change them. You can only keep moving forward and focusing on your own happiness.

Listen to these tips to help you avoid letting the opinions of others keep you from crafting the life of your dreams.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

One of the best ways to take charge of your life is to take proactive steps to live each day to its fullest. So many people find themselves facing the end of the lives with sadness and regret about all the things they wish they'd done.

While this is common and speaks to human nature, living with regret doesn't have to be your fate. Often in the Bible our everyday life is described as a race. “…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1b

Do you have a bucket list? The term "bucket list" comes from the phrase "kick the bucket", slang for dying or passing away.

The list is made up of all the things you hope to do before you die. Paul says in Philippians 3:14, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Run the race that God has set before you and when your race is over you will know you are going to win the prize. Hint: the prize is Jesus.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Daring to dream is one of the ways we can bring our goals to fruition.

Picturing your life going as you've always wished or envisioning that one thing you've long wanted to accomplish can be quite motivational. It can also be overwhelming.

One of the biggest killers of dreams is fear. We often let fear keep us from dreaming or the memory of past failures hold us back from setting our sights too high.

This type of limitation can become a pattern. In order to live the abundant life you desire, it's important that you don't be afraid to dream big.

Listen how Joseph wasn’t afraid to dream Big and you can too!

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

God wants us to use the time we have in our lives wisely.

The currency of our life is Time. The way we invest our time is very important. Jim Rohn, the motivational speaker, and author said: “Time is our most valuable asset, yet we tend to waste it, kill it, and spend it rather than invest it.”

In Proverbs 10:27 the Living Bible says “Reverence for God adds hours to each day.

Being good stewards of our time isn’t just about money. We need to take control of our lives and the time which we have to invest in it. God will lead us but we need to take charge  and make the most of what God has given us to invest in His service.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

There are many definitions of gratitude. Some people believe it’s a feeling or emotion. Others look at it as more of a mood. Still, some folks believe gratitude is a personality trait a person exhibits. These can all be correct. In essence, gratitude elicits satisfaction and appreciation in a person through feelings, actions or even inherent qualities.

However, even those of us who may be more inclined to feel grateful on a regular basis through our glass-half-full-optimism likely need to work on evoking such an outlook.

Gratitude can be viewed as a practice or something you perform regularly. Most people practice something because it benefits them. This is true of gratitude.

As with other practices, you’ll get better at demonstrating gratitude the more you work at it.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

There are many benefits of gratitude; many of them have been scientifically proven. Once you begin to understand these, chances are good that you’ll see why it’s so important to develop a grateful mindset.

Gratitude can have a positive effect on both physical and mental health. Research has shown it to improve relaxation, sleep quality and energy levels.

Research has shown it to improve relaxation, sleep quality and energy levels. Being thankful for your blessings can enhance your emotional wellness. You’ll deal better in crisis situations and find you’re more resilient when you’re able to look on the bright side.

This can contribute to better relationships, too. Appreciating the positives in life can simply make you feel happier.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Recognizing your blessings may not come easily at first, but there are some ways to help make it a habit and a regular part of your routine.

One of the most convenient and impactful methods for cultivating appreciation is through keeping a gratitude journal. In this practice, you’ll write down three things each day that you’re grateful for, which makes it easier to notice and recognize those good things.

Also, making an effort to thank someone each day, for even the smallest thing, opens your eyes and heart to abundance. Giving back and doing good for others can provide tremendous perspective, as well.

Embracing and expressing gratitude are more important than many of us realize.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Gratitude can be simply broken down to appreciating the good things in your life. It doesn’t always seem simple, though. When things are hectic or stressful, finding the silver lining can be challenging.

However, learning how to embrace gratitude can significantly boost your happiness. Being grateful offers a host of other benefits you’re probably not aware of, too.

What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me? - Psalm 116:12

Let’s take a closer look at the concept, ways it can improve your life and how to practice it.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

It seems life has taken us to a place where we no longer value kindness as a trait.  In fact, kindness has been replaced with self-importance and wanting to stay impersonal.

The question is why has the world become less kind?

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. - Philippians 2:3

Is it that we no longer care about others?

Do you show kindness to others? Is that the first thought that comes to your mind when you meet someone?

Do you sometimes find yourself feeling irritated, critical, or upset with others because of their actions or attitudes?

You know sometimes we do feel irritated and upset with others and that can be human and normal.

What is your response? Kindness and Grace?

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

It’s common to want to feel a sense of belonging. When we belong, we are accepted as a member of the group. A sense of belonging is a normal human need just as our need for food and shelter is. When you feel like you belong, you feel your life has value and you cope with your emotions better.

Sometimes though, we lose our sense of belonging.

This can be for a variety of reasons. Traumatic events could influence a person’s self-esteem and self-compassion. Trauma often leaves survivors feeling out of sync with the rest of the world. They feel lonely, overwhelmed, anxious, turmoil and emotional pain that creates a sense they are different.

So, my question is Are you feeling out of place?

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Do you remember how you felt when you had a tough day and a stranger smiled at you?  Or the time you helped your neighbor carry in her groceries and how she still thanks you for it? Each of these small acts of kindness can make a huge impact on someone’s life.

Small actions often lead to giant ripples. One small action can completely change the life of someone who then performs a kindness for someone else. And the cycle continues and grows.

He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God? - Micah 6:8

No matter how big or small the kindness is, it’s likely to have big significances to your own mental health. According to psychologists and researchers, the smallest acts of kindness can create a rebound effect on not only the receiver’s psyche but your own as well. Want better mental health? Find someone to be kind to today and have a healthy day.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, our emphasis is on kindness and how kindness does not equal weakness. On the contrary, it takes a great amount of strength to be kind to someone who thinks differently than you or is slowing you down in some way.

You may have heard the saying “nice guys finish last.” People often believe that being kind means you are weak and can be easily taken advantage of.

But is this really true?

We are taught that behind every smile there is an ulterior motive. We are suspicious and skeptical of others who are kind to us.

People who perform regular acts of kindness are often more successful, have more social friends and are well liked than those who don’t.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. - Galatians 6:9-10

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, our emphasis is on Kindness doesn’t have to cost a lot of money or take much time. Kindness goes deeper than just being nice. Kindness goes out of its way and is more than just being polite.

Proverbs 12:25 “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.”

Sometimes people feel there’s not much they can do for others when they’re struggling in their own life. This is especially true when money is tight. The truth is that you can sometimes feel even better about your situation when you take some time to focus your energy elsewhere.

Giving allows you to feel gratitude for the things you do have. Kindness doesn’t have to cost a thing, and there are plenty of ways you can express it that require little time investment. Listen to this episode where I share give you some ideas on how you can show your kindness and not take much time or money.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, our emphasis is on how God is our comfort and encouragement. God is our comfort in times of need and whatever the circumstance may be we know God is faithful. Isaiah 41:10 says So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

God’s words can bring encouragement to us and also teaches us to encourage one another. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

In the midst of our struggles and times of discouragement it is important that we remember our struggles are not against flesh and blood as Ephesians 6:12 says For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, our emphasis is on God hearing us. Ever wonder if God really hears you? Sometimes I feel like I need to Yell so He will hear me. And there have been a couple of times where I have done just that because I thought the effects might help me get my answers sooner I guess. Not sure what I was thinking but probably was desperate in that moment for God to hear me maybe.

We all know God hears us even when we talk loud or whisper the soft words of just Lord I need you. You know as parents, babysitters, care givers even the slightest sound from a baby or child can make us come to attention. Even when we don’t know what the child might need we are still there to see what is wrong.

In today's episode, we see how God wants us to be still and let him be in charge of our lives so that we have peace and not stress.

God wants us to hold onto Jesus, rest in His peace and then share that peace with others. Let us give thanks as we embrace the peace of God and share God’s peace with others.

Exodus 14:14 says the Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. You see God wants to fight our battles that we have each day and for us to be still and relax in His peace.

Easier said than done sometimes Yes? Sometimes we get impatient with the circumstances of life surrounding us that we forget who is surrounding us and even singing over us. Zephaniah 3:17 tells us The Lord your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, our emphasis is Peace, Clarity and Focus. Sometimes we just have to concentrate our hearts and minds on these things when life gives so many opportunities to lose our peace and focus.

Being distracted by worry and fear can cause us to lose our peace and focus. We often need to take a step back and take control of our own Peace and Focus. Like Isaiah 26:3 says you will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Jesus says in John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. Finding God’s peace in our lives bring rest.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, we see how God wants us to live in peace with each other and to be peacemakers to others even when they are in pain and hurting.

It is important that we live in peace with each other and sometimes people come into our lives and they are rude and insensitive to us and others they meet.

Matthew 5:9 says Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.

Then when we try to talk with difficult people towards peace is not always possible. There are times people have conflicts with each other and it just seems like they can’t live in peace. Romans 12:18 says that If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

You can be the one to try and eliminate the conflict if it is possible and as Romans 12:18 commands you to do what you can as far as it depends on you to bring peace to the person or situation.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

Sometimes when we have our best moments in witnessing or helping in ministry and serving the Lord the enemy wants to come and steal our joy. Jesus had just been baptized by John in the Jordan River and the Spirit of God had just descended on him like a dove and Matthew 3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

After Jesus had this awesome baptism experience, he went into the wilderness and fasted forty days and forty nights. Just as Jesus was tempted we can be tempted by Satan and subjected to our own weaknesses.

We know that our amour in the midst of the temptations and spiritual battles of life is the Word of God. We need to arm ourselves with the Word of God so that when we need it most we can say “It is Written” in the middle of our situations where Satan wants to tear us down and God wants to use the spiritual battle to build Strength in Him and that we stand on our Faith and Confidence in Him.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, we will see how we often don’t stop and acknowledge our gratitude more often throughout our day.

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and take the good things for granted. Sometimes we do forget just how fortunate we are to simply have out basic needs met to survive.

Acknowledging gratitude on a regular basis can be a powerful display of kindness. Let me show you what I mean. Sometimes gratitude can be doorway to worshiping our God the Creator of all things.

In John 13:34-35 it says “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Let’s start today to take more time to be thankful, grateful and show others how much we love and appreciate them too.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today's episode, we will see how God wants to dwell in us. We are His Dwelling place.

Psalm 90:1 - “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.” –

Psalm 84:1 – How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty!

God’s dwelling place is in us, the work of the Holy Spirit is to build us up to be a dwelling place for God

We are made Alive in Christ – Because of God’s love, He wants to bring us to our best potential.

God wants us to be with him. Just as Adam and Eve walked with God in the cool of the day in the Garden so does God even now want to walk with us in the cool of the day.

God wants our companionship and He wants to be with us.

Together, Giving Jesus,

-Lana

In today’s episode we will see how God brings Light into our darkness.

Light . Light is a very important part in our world. Just think what it would be like to not have the sun, the moon, the stars and the electric pole outside our houses. We are all dependent on light for our many conveniences. Sometimes it would seem that light is a necessity. The lack of light would mean no sun and that could mean no vegetation, trees for shelter or producing oxygen so we can breathe.

In Psalm 27:1 it says “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” – Psalm 27:1, NIV

So, we see how Light is a vital source to everything we need and it’s not just all about the power for the electricity so we can have the basic conveniences of life.

What you may not realize is just what a difference being kind can make to someone else. Sure, you’re acting on behalf of the other; however, it’s not always apparent what such positive deeds can mean to them.

In this episode we learn how providing hope, belonging, care and happiness can bring to others. Being kind also spreads happiness and light in a world that can be too full of darkness. It can lead a person to smile, even if for just a moment.

We truly can never know the happiness we bring to others when we just share kindness with others. Jesus gave us a good example in the story of The Good Samaritan.

Be the light to the world. We are to share our testimony with others. God uses us to share His message to the people who need Jesus. We love Jesus and need to let others know about God’s love for them.

When we come together to share Jesus with other then we shine the brightest when we are together. Jesus tells us in John 8:12 I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. As we follow Jesus, we have the light of Jesus in us to share and give Jesus to the world. Giving Jesus to others is sharing the light of Jesus with others.

Share your light of Jesus with others as you share Giving Jesus Radio with others so they to can have Inspiration and Encouragement for their day!

There are many great prayer warriors in the bible and Daniel is thought of as a great prayer warrior because of his bravery and confidence in the lion’s den. Even in the face of execution, Daniel gets on his knees and keeps on praying.

Lots of times we often pray the hardest when faced with our own hardship or the hardships of our loved ones. Daniel was a prayer warrior as he prayed daily, seeking God constantly. That face alone is remarkable when you consider the time he lived in, it’s downright amazing. Daniel’s story illustrates how being faithful to God requires obedience and standing firm in your convictions.

Listen to the episode of The Older Brother and find what you think is the turning point of the lost son. I give my thoughts on the turning point of the story and not sure it is the typical turning point most people believe is why the son was accepted by his father.

This is about the parable of the lost son and how he squanders everything his father gave him and returned not knowing what his father would do or if he would be accepted. As you listen and find how the story unfolds to acceptance, we also need to be careful not to judge those that are lost and just as God pours out His desire to love us we need to be in acceptance and show our love for others.

Joshua 1:9 says Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Be Strong and Courageous! I know that many of us can find ourselves in situations where we can muster up some strength for the situation or even just during the midst of the crisis we can find strength just to make it through. But what about Courage in the face of difficult times. 

So be strong and courageous, do not fear God is with you. He will help you face whatever you are facing today! You may not be climbing Mount Everest even though it might feel like you are but we deal with a variety of obstacles and a multitude of fears everyday. God will give you the strength in the midst of difficult times.

Have you ever been delayed and wondered why? Maybe you had a delay or setback and then found out there was an accident or something else you missed because of the delay. In Psalm 37:23 we read that the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighted in his way. Sometimes we are delayed because God has ordered our steps and know what is happening ahead of us.

When you feel like you are being delayed or something is holding you back just rest in Jesus care and do not stress about the delay because God has your life in His lovingkindness and will take care of your every step throughout your day.

Discouragement and disappointment are normal emotions and sometimes we as Christians can have these emotions, but the importance is to make sure these emotions don’t overwhelm us.

Discouragement happens, even to the strongest and best of people. Job felt discouraged with his wife and friends. Elijah became discouraged with life’s circumstances. Despite our persistent and fervent prayers, things don’t turn out the way we’d hoped they would. Jeremiah felt angry and discouraged with God when he believed God was against him, and because of that perspective, he temporarily lost hope in God (Lamentations 3). Peter felt discouraged with himself when he realized that he wasn’t as courageous as he thought he was.

When you’re facing discouragement, it can be easy to focus on what you see—the hard heart of your spouse, the deaf ears of your child, the cruelty of your parent. But just as there was a Holy army around Elisha, there is one around you, too. You are not walking into the battle alone. You are backed by the “Lord of Heaven’s armies”.

Sometimes we can’t do it on our own and we need the help of others. I don’t know about you but most times we all think we can do everything ourselves. I know I get like that sometimes when people offer to help I just say thank you but I think I can handle it myself. When I probably should have accepted the help. I guess one of my problems is I don’t know how to let others help. A friend once told me that most people just want to do a little something just to show they care.

So, when my cancer came back a couple of years ago my friend told me that one way I could let others help me would be to just let them drive me to a doctor’s appointment. Sometimes we have to help people help us so we can let them be a giver too. Because people want to help but they don’t always know how or what we need.

Along with the helper’s high we’ve already talked about, you can gain a lot of other health benefits from being kind on a regular basis. Both your physical and mental well-being are impacted in a positive way when you get into a habit of being generous toward the people around you.

When you’re feeling anxious or nervous, it’s natural to want to be alone and away from people. However, it often helps to push through and get out among people. Especially helpful is if you go do something for someone else. This takes your attention away from yourself. It’s actually been shown to improve positive affect, which is the inclination to feel positive emotions such as happiness and joy.

When you do a good deed, it’s likely the recipient will go on to also help someone. This is simply human nature. As with most behavior, there’s actually science behind the concept. One single act can go on to inspire many more. We've already learned about “helper’s high.”

It’s that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you help someone. This simple concept is one reason why kindness is so contagious. Once you’ve shown generosity to someone and gotten that feeling of fulfillment, you want more

One of the best places to begin sharing kindness is within your own communities. It’s easier to reach out to people you already know. In addition, they’re more accessible since you encounter these folks on a regular basis. Remember, kindness is contagious. Once you begin setting a good example for those who know you, they just might pick up where you left off and continue the spreading of good deeds.

No matter how you define “community”, you can be a kindness leader within this group. As with any type of leader, this is the person who others look to for motivation and direction. By being a leader in the initiative to do good, you’re showing the people around you how it’s done.

An incredibly powerful question to ask yourself as you pursue this journey toward becoming a kinder person is, “Who can I help today?” You may be surprised to discover the wide array of opportunities that present themselves to you simply by considering this one question. By seeking out one person to serve each day, you’re looking outside of yourself with purpose and intention. You can almost always find at least one person to extend kindness to when you take proactive steps in this way. Let’s look at some ways you can begin helping someone within your network each day.

One of the absolute easiest, yet most wonderful, things you can do to show kindness to others is to give them a smile. As long as it’s genuine, a grin can provide a number of positive results. You can truly make a difference in someone’s day or change the course of events for the better.

Being generous with loved ones and the people in our lives can truly do a lot for our own mindset. It can also benefit our health, as I talked about in yesterday’s blog post. Expressing gentleness and good will toward yourself can be more difficult than sharing these gifts with those around you. We often neglect to do positive things for ourselves or take care of our physical and emotional well-being. However, it’s important to remember how doing so can improve your life.

Kindness and compassion are similar concepts. They’re both positive assets that contribute to human growth and the betterment of the world. However, they do have some slight differences in meaning. It’s important to thoroughly understand what it means to be kind. Let’s take some time today to explore the nuanced differences between these terms.

In this episode, I want to explore a more thorough definition of the topic, discuss why it really matters, and offer some simple ways to begin practicing kindness in your everyday lives. Join me as we continue our journey in learning more about Kindness. Kindness involves being caring, generous, helpful, considerate or respectful, among other qualities. You know I didn’t realize this but the characteristic of being kind can also be considered a skill. Sometimes, it doesn’t come naturally. You can become more aware and proactive in the amount of grace you grant others. It just takes practice.

In today’s world, negativity often seems to take center stage. Sometimes it’s easy to focus on the negative and to allow the toxic events we see around us and in the news consume us. I’ve found that one of the easiest and most effective ways to combat all the bad is to focus on good - specifically on kindness.