A real beauty!

What comes to mind when you hear or read the expression "a real beauty" ? It is an oft-used expression, but so common that we seldom think of what the term actually means. Beauty is defined as: that which is pleasing to the mind, spirit or senses. Most of us think of beauty as usually related only to the senses. That which looks good, feels good, sounds good, tastes or smells good.

Yet GOD greatly values the beautiful mind and the spirit which is beautiful. These are hidden and seen only by GOD. Are the thoughts and functions of my mind and spirit beautiful to GOD? Are the meditations of my heart pleasing (beautiful) to GOD?

"Man looketh on the outward appearance, but GOD looketh on the heart." I Sam.16:7
"Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are like unto whited sepulchres,which indeed appear beautiful outward, but within are full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness."Matt.23:27
"and let the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD...Ps. 19:14
"My meditation of Him shall be sweet..."Ps. 104:34
"...whatsoever things are lovely, think on these things." Phil.4:8

Pray about everything. Worry about nothing.

Are you a worrier? It is a very common temptation, isn't it? What is the basis of worry? I think it is mostly related to lack of control. Let's face it. We don't like being out of control. We think if we had control of life's issues, things would always turn out right! But would they? Are you perfectly qualified in all things? Do you have a perfect outcome record of the things you have been given control of...now or in the past?

What would happen if the sun suddenly fell off its axis, or the tides failed to recede? The GOD of the universe is controlling these things. No need to worry...GOD is in control. What is it that you are worrying about?

Remember GOD's remedy: confess your worries to Him and surrender to His control.

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto GOD."Phil4:6

PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING. WORRY ABOUT NOTHING

Meet the Joyful Journalist !

This is a new experience for me, so if you are a blogger, it may seem too simple. I hope you were drawn by the title. I am interested in encouraging and being encouraged here. It is my hope that this will be a place of warmth, caring and sharing. A place of honest contemplation of the best way to deal with everyday life challenges.
I must confess, I want to use every legitimate means I can to reach others with messages of hope and joy. But in this venue, you can join along, because shared joy makes it even better!
If you have been invited it is because we have mutual interests and expectations. The true JOY of my life is Jesus Christ. My life really began when I accepted Christ as my Savior at the age of 25. So for 33 years, I have been living in His love and learning that He is my all- in-all. One of my favorite Bible verses is where He says, "Neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength". (Neh.8:10) Before I became a Christian, I didn't realize there was real hope for happiness in this world. I despaired of my life, had no power to live above depression.
Belonging to Christ doesn't guarantee a trouble-free life. There will be times of earthly sorrow. But God says in Christ we are able to be joyful in our hearts even when in hard circumstances. Christ gives the strength to go on as we realize He dwells within us as believers!