fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383 
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 18, 2017 12:46:23 GMT -5
Just a quick note...I have not read your post yet...
I am at the library sigh!!!
I am not sure if you remember we were having trouble a few weeks back with intermittent service for the net.
Well, Brent our landlord called the server and we got a new modem......yeah
but then....
He decided to move it a little .....and dropped it
So then it was back to intermittent
But....
Also
The cable in his apt ( not his home).....is toooo short so when the temporary guests, sit on the couch, it pops apart and the services ends and to make a long story short
we have had zero service for a few days.
Leonard and a neighbor are going to try a couple of things later today
but
if it does not work
then the company has to come out with new modem ( again....and they may have to order it like last time)
also
they are soooo booked after they get the modem it might be 3 or 4 days before they can come out.
And
( are you falling asleep yet?)
We have to go pick up Hossanah in about 20 mins.
Soooooo all in all, I might be back to read you post later in the day, or up to a week or so. arrrrggggghhhhhhhhhhhh
I will keep you posted.
Hey, I didn't think patience was one of my major sin problems hummmmm????
lots of others but oh well....surprise, now I get to try to have some LOL
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 19, 2017 11:22:21 GMT -5
Sorry, today's not a good day for me so I'll be back tomorrow to read and reply....
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 19, 2017 13:04:31 GMT -5
Soooo Leonard and a neighbor, taped down the internet cable thingy and for now.......we are back up....but all most certainly something else will have to be done in the future.
Anyway, I got to read all of your post yeah!!
I am really working on what you said about finding a time for Bible study.I think that has to be number one priority. I actually am doing better talking and praying to Jesus than ever before ( been really working on that....not ignoring my Lord, Savior,master, friend, to be husband,
etc.
But why then would I be neither hot nor cold about His love letters to me ( His Word...which is also Him???) so yeah.
I especially liked the honesty stated in this quote:
"Trusting God is not a matter of my feelings but of my will. I never feel like trusting God when adversity strikes, but I can choose to do so even when I don’t feel like it.
Also loved the song...thanks. It seems like all the Gaither singers are soooooo good! I still like Guy Penrod the best but soooooooooooooo many of them are superb!!!
I have been on FH bible study for over 1/2 hour but I have to go clean the apt. however tomorrow I will attempt to get totally disciplined
I will come back and re-read your post and do some on my own.
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 20, 2017 9:12:01 GMT -5
Barbara, everything we've been studying for the last year of more has led us to this point, and it's so important that I don't want to continue until I'm absolutely sure that you've absorbed it all and have applied the answers to those questions to your life - having first written them down with your answers in your notebook of course, so you can keep check on yourself. My job will be to hold you accountable to your answers for the next season. So with that in mind, I'm going to go back and quote some of the posts about those questions with my replies, which should give you more time to reflect on them and get your answers written down. I'm also doing this because I have a feeling that we discussed so much that it was probably difficult for you to assimilate it all. So by doing this I hope to give you more time to absorb it and apply it to your life. Although I'll do it all in this one post, when you quote it, you can reply to just part of it at a time if you need to. Plus, I also saw some things i missed before and will reply to those now.
You would not believe what sort of got me a wee bit down yesterday. Devon, for the first time, had a young friend for his birthday along with family and vanessa's 2 friends.
Well his little 10 year old friend 'seemed' a bit rude. And for a time after when I got home, I felt down (by a ten year old LOL)
Then as I thought about it a bit, I realized, maybe he did not want to talk to a strange adult at that time, and maybe before looking at and admiring the lego creation he made I should have asked him if it was ok.
I still think he was a tad rude, but he was not my child to talk to about that
and
it was a birthday party ( and I did not want to ruin it for Devon)....
plus,
when I got home,
I began to see my errors.... or even MY rudeness.
OK, now look at that whole thing, and realize that you allowed a little child ruin your whole day - or at least the portion of it that you allowed yourself to feel depressed about that. Now, can you see how ludicrous that is? Can you see the humor in it? When things like that happen, one way to get out of the depression is to find the humor in the situation. For example, when my grandson was a toddler and my daughter would get really upset about something because he didn't obey her instantly, she'd call me and tell me about it. She'd obviously be upset - angry and depressed thinking she wasn't a good mom etc. I'd listen while she got it out of her system and then I'd finally say, "Are you listening to yourself? You, a full grown adult, were arguing with a two year old! The two of you sounded just alike!" I'd start laughing and finally so would she and the whole attitude she'd had would be broken. Other times she'd get depressed for no reason that she could find, and call me. After listening to her for a bit, again letting her get it out of her system, I'd then ask her what the kids were doing. Generally they'd be playing but at the same time, constantly bugging her, arguing with each other, etc. because kids pick up on how their parents are feeling and begin to act up when their parent is feeling upset or down, because they don't understand what's happening or why. It's unsettling to them. So she'd tell me how they were constantly bugging her and I'd explain that to her. Then I'd tell her, "Jenn, you're the grown up now, and it's up to you to change the atmosphere in your house. I can't do it for you and those children are way to young to understand and do it themselves. And They will continue to act out until you change the atmosphere." She'd ask me how she could do that and I'd tell her: "You need to change your thoughts and feelings which we normally do by taking our thoughts captive and replacing them. But you don't have time for that now, but you can do it later if you need to. For now, you need to change fast, and you can do that by engaging the children in something fun for all of you. Get them to sing fun songs with you, and maybe you can dance with them or do the hand movements to the songs with them as you sing. Or put on music you all like and get up and dance with them. Another way if the children were older might be to start telling each other jokes, or play a game you all enjoy together. But you must do something to get your attitude changed and once yours is changed theirs will change too." These kind of interventions work even if we don't have young ones around that we need to change the atmosphere of our home for. Fun and laughter always work, that's why God says that laughter is good medicine. And it's why I will often try to find a way to look at whatever's bringing me down in a humorous way. Granted, it's sometimes a sarcastic humor, like thinking "I can't believe I let a child get to me!" And laughing at how ridiculous that is.
But to the question about the waking up and depression....
I don't think I have yet made it a habit to pray about it before I go to sleep.....
in addition
maybe have some specific wake up scripture of praise ready...
That's one good idea, but I'd like to see it more specific... in other words, "I plan to begin to pray about it starting today, before i go to sleep and I plan to find a scripture today that I can use each morning to praise God when I wake up. I'll tell you what it I've found tomorrow." Do you see the difference? The way you stated it, while you may have meant the same thing, is actually kind of vague, while the other way is very specific about what you're going to do and when you're going to do it.
However, I am in fact, almost always smiling at the Lord first thing. ( so I am putting ino effect that suggestion)
That's very good!
I listen recently to a gaither song ( I think it was one of his 600) anyway,
t was something like: I want to go to Heaven but I don't want to die.
I thought, yup, I can identify with that.
Then I thought....well the rapture would be one way (maybe the ONLY) way that might actually work.
But then,
with a little more thought...............
I remembered what you said, about actually dying.....
one breath you are alive and here,
the next,
you are in Heaven and changed......new body, no sin etc.
Then, I thought, well, I wonder IF when we are raptured...
there is a similar one second in this body...which dies ( in a sense even tho we are raptured and don't die the 'normal way)....
but in essence..... since we still have to get a new body.....
maybe it isn't quite the escape, I was counting on...hummmmmm?
 Honey, when I said "in one breath" I didn't mean that literally since the change happens so very fast that we can't possibly perceive it. God's Word says it happens "in the time it takes a person to blink."
“in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.” (1 Corinthians 15:52)
“in a flash” an extremely short unit of time—‘moment, flash, instant.’ GK 875; pertaining to what happens in an instant, a flash of time so brief it could not be briefer. Dictionary of Biblical Languages
The Greek word rhipē refers to a very rapid movement. This has traditionally been translated as “twinkling,” which implies an exceedingly fast—almost instantaneous—movement of the eyes, but this could be confusing to the modern reader since twinkling in modern English often suggests a faint, flashing light. In conjunction with the genitive ὀophthalmou, “of an eye”, “blinking” is the best English equivalent, although it does not convey the exact speed implicit in the Greek term. Biblical Studies Press. The NET Bible
It happens at the rapture and at "death" so fast that we don't even know that it's happened! We don't realize it until afterward because our minds can't grasp changes that fast.
I guess dying-death is not so much the issue as the process if one has a prolonged illness ( like cancer) and even more pain....and more aging
With what we experience as pain and illness every day, death will be a release. It's not going to be any worse just before we die than what we deal with every day, regardless of what we die from. Why? Because praise God, with death there's an end in sight! With what we go through daily, there is no end in sight except for the "someday" of death or the rapture. And while I hang on to that, it's not like I know that's going to happen within the next few days, where as when you're dying, you do know that it won't be much longer before you'll be in your new body with no pain or limitations! Therefore there's nothing about death that can scare me!
but don't worry I did hear you....
we don't really really have an 'age'
and much that we think is one way or another..... is an illusion.......
I am working on making that, more of a reality than my
woe is me, old lady reality....
but you even said, it might take a while.
How are you working to make that a reality?
So getting your ( well the Lord's)
new ( to me) paradigm into my head, would also be a way to begin to end the early morning blah's and woe is me. What new paradigm?
You should also include what steps you're going to take to change how you view "old age" and "beauty", so I'll make those things separate questions:
2A. What specific steps are you going to take in order to see age and aging the way the Lord wants us to? 2B. How will you know it's working?
What specific steps are you going to take to prevent beauty from being an idol?
3A. What specific steps will you take to overcome any depression that tries to attack you during the day? 3B. How will you know it's working?
And finally:
4A. What specific steps are you going to take to experience the Joy of the Lord? 4B. How will you know it's working?
Here are some scriptures that I use:
“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10)
“Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you. When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.” (Isaiah 26:8–9)
“The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.” (Isaiah 50:4)
“In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.” (Psalm 5:3)
“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God.” (Psalm 59:16–17)
“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.” (Psalm 90:14)
“It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!” (Psalm 92:1–5)
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.” (Psalm 143:8)
“I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.” (Psalm 9:1–2)
This one is a memory verse for me, I've memorized verses 5, 6, and 11 together.
“LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.” (Psalm 16:5–6)
“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:11)
“I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,” (Psalm 16:7–9)
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” (Psalm 28:7)
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,” (Romans 14:17)
This one is a great one to pray for others and for yourself, perhaps before you go to sleep?
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13) To use it for yourself, just pray, "May You, the God of hope, fill me with all joy and peace as I trust in You, so that I may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Notice that this next one is a command:
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)
Obviously, you can use all of these as a prayer or part of a prayer for yourself or others, as well as memory verses to help you when you need them. You can use the whole verse or part of a verse... Anyway I hope one or more of these will be helpful or at least give you some ideas of perhaps others that would help.
Ephesians is great because it's all about our privileged position as “accepted in the Beloved” and our ability to function in the "real world" which is the heavenly places. So if you're looking for what to read now, go ahead an read Ephesians, unless of course the Lord leads you elsewhere. We'll actually begin studying it after we get the answers to those questions finished and you've got your plan for your future of joy started.
Just wanted to mention that Rachel Starr Thomson is doing a 31 day days of joy e-mails.
You may have received her e-mail today also
part of it said:
"Why joy?
Because right now, I am fighting a battle.
I believe you are too.
I couldn't see a more appropriate way to fight it than to literally focus on JOY together for the next thirty-one days, taking James's advice as practical and literal....."
Let's make a ruckus for the kingdom (thanks Seth Godin for the phrasing).
Let's choose joy.
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."
(James 1:2-4)
Also another group ( a link you sent be via facebook I think)
is doing a month on the Prodigal ( for parents with prodigals) 1A. What (specific) steps are you going to take in order to stop the depression or the feeling down upon waking once and for all?
I will pray the night before and first thing upon awakening.
I also will memorize scripture to help fight this battle ( because even Jesus fought satan with the Word).
At the same time, I will be working on experiencing joy.
I will remind myself that every day, even down to every minute, I am that much closer to being with Jesus in Heaven where I will have every tear wiped away, will never have to battle depression ever again and will have the joy and love of Jesus for ever more for all eternity.
Those are very good! You forgot to add the one about starting every day with the Lord and having a smile for Him. (you might include having a smile for Leonard 1st thing in the morning too lol) Don't forget to add this when you write it in your notebook!
I was thinking about this last night and about how I maintain my joy. I remember talking to you once about having something to look forward to each day. I realize that this may sound corny to some people, but what I enjoy most is being able to study with the Lord. It's gotten to the point where I have to discipline myself to stop instead of the way most folks have to discipline themselves to start. I'd love nothing better if I could do nothing all day but spend it in His Word with Him, but I know that's not what He wants. He wants me to take what I've learned and use it in my life and if I don't close my bible program and turn off my computer, I won't have a life to apply it to! It may even sound to some people like I'm bragging that I spend so much time in His Word, but I'm not. It really did become a problem that I had to take to Him and then determine to discipline myself to end my study time by a certain time each day. There's nothing spiritual about it when you go overboard like I was starting to do. It wouldn't have been a problem normally, but since I can't do a lot of other things and can't work, after many years it became one. I told myself that I wasn't really ending my time with Him when I turned off my computer, because I talk to Him all day, but I wasn't in His Word which I just love, so it was hard to stop. Back to my point though, that is the big thing I look forward to every day. So when I get up, I can't wait to get into His Word and spend time with Him. Knowing that I'm going to be spending time with Him in His Word puts a smile on my face and in my heart as soon as I wake up, especially as that's what i do first thing in the morning. Of course there's other things I also enjoy like knowing the kids are coming over to visit, or doing something special for Bruce like making him cookies as a surprise. (today I'm going to make him a pizza sized cookie! LOL)
Anyway, if you think about your days and can find things in them that you enjoy and can look forward to, that will also help you get rid of the depression. It's very easy to become depressed because of our health and limitations, but having something we enjoy to look forward to counters it and keeps us smiling. Even if it's a long term thing, like Bruce has agreed to take me horseback riding on our anniversary this year. I've wanted to do that for years so I'm really looking forward to that! But if you can think of even one thing that you normally do every day that you enjoy and include in your list a note about remembering that you're going to get to do that, it will help you to start your day happy instead of sad. I'd love to hear what you think of to add to your list too, if you don't mind.
I should also add here that when I say I look forward to seeing my daughter, her husband and my grandkids, I don't put any expectations on their visit. The part i look forward to is simply being with them. If the kids misbehave or Jenn's in a bad mood, or having problems, it doesn't ruin my time because my only expectation was that I would get to see them and spend time with them. I don't expect them to always be bright and cheery and perfectly well behaved, therefore I'm not let down.
1B. How will you know it's working?
It already is lessening ( some days it's not there at all, other days its greatly reduced and for a much much shorter time.).....so it will continue to go away ( and more so as joy takes its place....so they will work hand in hand).
Praise God!
2A. What specific steps are you going to take in order to see age and aging the way the Lord wants us to? .
I will work on being more concerned about serving others.
I will continue to watch the Gaither's to see how much other Godly older people are loved, and how their inner beauty, character and love shows forth...as inspiration.
I will continue to talk to Jesus about how He wants me to view aging and 'beauty'.
Very good, but may I suggest another one or two you could add to this? How about talking to the Lord about it and asking Him to point out to you how He thinks and feels about beauty whenever there's something about it in His Word? Another one would be to try to see yourself as the Lord sees you a little more each day, for the Lord sees you as beautiful right now. So whenever you look in the mirror, instead of finding fault with yourself, which the Lord hates, look and see the beauty that the Lord sees in you.
“All beautiful you are, my darling; there is no flaw in you.” (Song of Solomon 4:7)
“The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.” (Psalm 45:11)
“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. ...” (Genesis 1:31)
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,” (1 Timothy 4:4)
2B How will you know it's working?
I won't feel depressed, down, sad about it, but will also look forward to soon having a new, young and truly Godly beauty in Heaven
Good! Would it become easier to accept a compliment and actually believe them?
3A. What specific steps are you going to take to prevent beauty from being an idol?
I have a feeling this is not the best way of looking at it, but Ray Comfort has come out with a new movie called "Exit"...it's about suicide...on young people ( but also of the many many 'beautiful movie stars, singers, models, etc.)
If I get a chance to see it...it may also nail home, the emptiness, of beauty without the Lord and beauty as an idol.
I am going to continue to talk to Jesus more and more about everything....so my focus is less on 'me' and my lack of youth and beauty and more on His beauty.....but especially of His beauty in love.
Look at your answer and the part I underlined specifically and you'll see that you just defeated yourself because you're still insisting that you lack beauty (and of course youth too) So how can you rephrase that so that you're not defeating yourself even before you begin? God didn't make any mistakes when He created you. While we all do age and most of us eventually don't have the same beauty we had when we were in our 20's, we do still have beauty - it's simply different. We need to stop grasping for our old toys of childhood, and look with appreciation at our new ones.
Remember that He created you in His own image, to be beautiful in your own way and that it was for your good and His glory. He doesn't want us to covet someone else's beauty, or even our own beauty from when we were younger. He wants us to enjoy every stage of our lives.
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” (Romans 1:20)
“One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4)
Here is the truth: in the kingdom, the rules have changed. The majority opinion on beauty has been exposed as silly. There is a deeper, more lasting beauty that comes as we learn the character of God and imitate him. God is beautiful, so we would expect to find beauty reflected in his people.
Who are you? You are a mirror, turned toward Jesus so you can reflect his glory. You are looking better every day. Welch, E. T. Shame interrupted: How god lifts the pain of worthlessness and rejection.
3B. How will you know it's working?
I will look less in the mirror except to comb hair, and other necessary things to be clean. I have already minimized any make up to go out to very little ( I still do a little tho).
How about that you'll think less about your looks, and when you do think about them, it will be with satisfaction and/or contentment? Would Leonard notice anything different?
4A. What specific steps will you take to overcome any depression that tries to attack you during the day?
Immediately talk to Jesus, sing hymns and songs, quote scripture about joy, count my blessings.
Those are good and should each be listed as a step, but don't you think the very 1st step should be taking your thoughts captive and replacing them instantly?
4B. How will you know it's working?
The depression will leave
Is that all? Won't you or others, especially Leonard notice anything different about you? What would they notice? Do you think that the less depressed you are that it may change how others act and feel and how they'll interact with you as well?
5A. What specific steps are you going to take to experience the Joy of the Lord?
Be grateful and thrilled that Jesus is ever with me and He loves me, and I will soon be with Him in Heaven ( be it a few months, or years I don't know....but it is much sooner than when I was young....and I am certainly way more joyful now than then.
pray for it ( because I can't force it in a phony way, but God's Holy spirit can provide it)
He has already provided it. We don't ask for what we already have, instead we simply need to use what we have. Here we can look at Ephesians 1:1-3.
Paul repeatedly emphasized our sufficiency as believers. In Col 2:10 he declares that in Christ “you have been made complete.” In Phil 4:13, 19 he says, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me … my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Peter adds that God’s “divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life & godliness.” (2 Pet 1:3) As a Christian, you possess every spiritual resource you need to fulfill God’s will for your life. You need not pray for more love, because His love is already poured out in your heart through the Holy Spirit Rom. 5:5. The same is true of joy John 15:11 peace John 14:27 strength Phil. 4:13 & every other resource you need. The key to spiritual progress & victory is learning to apply what you already have, not seeking more. Praise God for His abundant spiritual resources. Ask Him to help you apply them with wisdom & consistency. Read Matt 6:25–34 & Phil 4:6–8. What specific promises does God make in those passages? What does He require of you? Drawing Near
“Spiritual” does not refer to immaterial blessings as opposed to material ones, but rather to the work of God, who is the divine & spiritual source of all blessings. in the heavenly places. Lit. “in the heavenlies.” This refers to the realm of God’s complete, heavenly domain, from which all His blessings come (v. 20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12). in Christ. God’s superabundant blessings belong only to believers who are His children, by faith in Christ, so that what He has is theirs—including His righteousness, resources, privilege, position, & power (Ro 8:16, 17). MacArthur study Bible
We should have joy because it is a reasonable response to continual spiritual blessings. God’s pouring out of spiritual blessings for believers never stops. if we just pause & consider some of the ways the Lord is good to us, we'll not be able to keep from rejoicing. For example, every time we sin it's instantly forgiven. Every time God refines us through trials, exposes us to solid biblical teaching, & molds us more toward the image of Christ, it should be cause for us to praise Him. Every time God brings us safely through another day & spares us some terrible disaster or extreme agony, we experience the blessing of His mercy. God is also planning future blessings, such as preparing a place for us in heaven. The pillars of Christian character
God the Father has made us rich in Jesus Christ! When you were born again into God’s family, you were born rich. Through Christ, you share in the riches of God’s grace (Eph. 1:7; 2:7), God’s glory (Eph. 1:18; 3:16), God’s mercy (Eph. 2:4), & “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph. 3:8). Our Heavenly Father is not poor; He is rich—& He has made us rich in His Son. He promises to supply all our needs “according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19), but He does not promise to shield us from either poverty or pain. The Father has given us every blessing of the Spirit, everything we need for a successful, satisfying Christian life. The spiritual is far more important than the material. The Holy Spirit channels our riches to us from the Father, through the Son. Not to know & depend on the Holy Spirit’s provision is to live a life of spiritual poverty. The unsaved person is interested primarily in earthlies, because that's where he lives. No matter where the Christian may be on this earth, he is seated in the heavenlies with Jesus, & this is the basis of his life & power. The Bible exposition commentary
Continue to listen to hymns and worship songs that are uplifting with Godly and biblical truths
Continue to study God's word the Bible daily
Good!
5B. How will you know it's working?
depression with flee and I will be ever closer with Jesus and able to give to others ( even if its just a smile....which I am doing almost daily)
Praise God!
What I'd like you to do now is to write all of what you posted above in your notebook so you can review it regularly - maybe once a week, or whatever you feel is best, to assess your progress. Perhaps you could include in your notebook after this a note once a week to say how you're doing on each of these too.
Let me know what you think of my reply. Love you my dear, beautiful sister!
I never thought you were boasting about your Bible study ( and I do see the potential problem)
but my first reaction was back then....
( and I know a sinful ungodly one) was envy, covetousness and putting myself down......
like I would think: "What is wrong with me Lord? Why am I not like Cindy? Why don't I love you and your word like she does?
and so on......
What happens with me...is I can read ( either in scripture all by myself, or a commentary, or a post from you etc.)
and I will read a bit.....and then, it's like 'overload'....I need to stop.....often because something was so powerful,
I need to think about it, or, there is just tooooo much info,
that to keep on, I cannot file it all in my mind or heart or spirit......
But I envied ( and from time to time) still do because I want to love the Lord Jesus like you do,
your ability to absorb so much more of what Jesus has to give you....
(and I am sure the Lord also gives me a LOT as well..........I just don't access it like you do)
I think, tho, it goes back to disciplining myself.....
even IF...I do have to take a break, to meditate on what I have or had read......I
need to come back to it.....much quicker than I have done or even do now.....
For example....say I take a break and get something to eat.
While getting something to eat, I mull over the scripture or commentary or post from you.....
but then, while eating,
I tend to pick up a novel I am reading....or watch something on the net
which may or may not be the right thing to do,
but let's go with it's okay.....
but then ....
when I am done eating
that would be the time to go back to reading God's word...
.but instead,
I say to myself, just until I finish this chapter.....
I get to the end of the chapter ( and like you,
only with studying God's word)
I want to know, what happens immediately next....
so I read the next page of the next chapter...
and before I know it, that chapter is done, and a few hours later.......
I go back to God's word, assuming something in the 'world' does not come up....which it often does.....
Sooooooo, then I am back to:
"what is the matter with me?
Why don't I love Jesus enough to put His Word (my first last ) and make it my priority?
I do often tell Him I am soooo sorry....but like the old saying, 'sorry' gets a bit old,
when it's an ongoing unloving habit.
So then, it's back to envying your ability to study God's word all day, if you could.
Well wow that was soooo long LOL that I think I will start another post....
but then, I forget, you are able to stay focused a really long time ( well I guess I am too, just not with the right priority....or the one I really want....maybe its old habits not dying fast enough sigh)
I was thinking of the verse about we love Him because He loved us first
and
I do love Him for all He went thru to save me
I want to love Him more and to do so I would love to know more about Him thru His word.....and of course I do...in that I am here....and I talk with Him a lot now......
but still.....
It's not a matter of not being able to stay focused, after all, you can stay focused as long as you want to when you're reading fiction. Therefore Satan, your flesh, and the world are trying to stop you, just as I told you many years ago that they would. As far as understanding it goes, you're not going to understand it all at once. No one does. What I tell you is stuff I've learned over the last 17 years. I certainly didn't understand it all the first time I read it, and in fact still don't understand some things. And even things I might think I understand perfectly, the Lord often shows me something new about it the next time I study it. Nor do I remember everything I've studied about a chapter or verse without looking at my notes. The more often I study a section of scripture and the more often I read my notes and add new notes, the better I understand it and the more I remember about it without my notes.
This is why I've told you in the past that you need to set up a time schedule for yourself that will always be "your time alone with the Lord." A time that you can let others know that you don't want to be disturbed during that time because it's your time with Him. As I told you back then, it doesn't have to be an actual set "time" like "6:30am to 7:30 am" but can simply be something like, "for one hour from the time I wake up". (Or whatever length of time you choose.) Let's say you choose to make your time with the Lord when you first wake up, what would that look like? You'd get up (smiling and knowing the Lord couldn't wait to talk to you), you'd go to the bathroom and take care of whatever needs taking care of - brush your hair, brush your teeth, go to the bathroom, etc.; then you'd go grab a cup of coffee or whatever your preferred morning drink is, and perhaps a pop tart or some toast, or a muffin, or whatever you usually like to eat in the morning, and you'd take your drink and your food to wherever you'll be studying the bible at. You do that so that Satan, and your flesh can't disturb you with the ideas that you're hungry or thirsty, and by doing so completely ruin those attempts to get you to quit. Remember, we know all about Satan's schemes and we're to be alert and watchful so that he doesn't trick us and get us to abandon God's Word before our time with Him is over for that day; and we're to be self-controlled and not allow other things to get in the way of our time with the Lord each day. We're to stand firm and resist him, while at the same time we flee straight to the Lord and His Word. “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (James 4:7–8) ( see also 2 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Peter 5:8-9)
You really do have to have a set time that you spend with the Lord every day; a time that you've told others that you don't want to be disturbed because that's your time with Him. You need to think ahead and make sure that you have everything you might need with you during your time with the Lord, so that nothing can take you away from Him. For example, besides my coffee and pop tarts, I also have a bottle of water and my meds right here for when I need them. The only thing I get up for is to use the bathroom, but when I'm done, I come right back here. Plus, in order to have enough time with Him, you also need to determine what your time with Him is going to include. For me, it includes bible study and prayer time, and that's generally what most people choose as well. Often, if I go over time with my studying though, I then have to pray while I'm doing chores, which isn't as satisfactory, but at least it can be done. I would strongly suggest you have a "study notebook" that you can jot down your thoughts about what you've studied that day as well as how you're going to apply it to your life and that you always have it with you during your study/prayer time.
We simply can't allow our time with Him to be broken up into pieces, doing a bit here and a bit there while we do other stuff in between. It just won't work. Your fiction books should be saved for those times in the evening when all your work is done, or when you're waiting in a doctors office or something like that. As far as watching or reading something on line during our time with Him, that too is a no - no. On line activities are for after we've finished out time studying with the Lord and praying. When that time is over, then we can do whatever else we want and need to do, knowing the Lord goes with us and taking what He's taught us that day and applying it to our life. Keep in mind too that at some point during the day, we should also find time to reflect on what the Lord has shown us in His Word. That can be done when we're washing dishes or doing something that doesn't require us to concentrate on it.
One of the things I look forward to is reading Christian novels...but it often gets me in trouble as I already explained in that I sometimes put them first, or get caught up too much in them, I am also now very much into listen to hymns ( I especially like guy Penrod formerly in the Gaither group for years....the one with the long hair LOL....but I really believe he loves the Lord with all his heart and soul and he has a great voice!
I have also been listening to Christian comics a lot for the first time.
In the Spring, Summer and early Fall, I enjoy walking as much as I can, and gardening.....I do have plants in the house.
Leonard and I were talking the other day and started laughing because we both 'almost' thought of the mini banana plant we put in the bathroom, as a 'little person'....obviously its NOT human, but it grows, and needs us to take care of its needs ( we are 'spoiling' it....I trot it back and forth around the bathroom from the window when there it light, to the light bulbs ...we both turn on the small bathroom heater, and spray its leaves with water and water it etc.
Are you rolling your eyes yet, or rolling in laughter at how silly we are?
And........its growing very well....I envision some day in the future, we may have to duck, under this enormous tree to find the toilet!!!
I even sometimes if my hands are wet from washing them, sort of wipe them on the leaves....cuz well.....it really really likes its leaves wet ha ha.
But I really really need something in the winter months which tends to be when if I am going to be down....it often strikes then....some of the things I listed will still work...but I get to feeling, cooped up, useless etc.
Oh but I am in fact, talking to Jesus more and more every day....i still forget Him from time to time ( way more than I want.....but I speak to Him waaaaaaaaay more than I ever did in my life....hourly at least and often more than that)
Leonard's old computer used to be such that I could use the head phones and play music and dance...esp during the winter.
But then the sound ended when he switched to windows ummmm whatever was the newest
so now he has a bigger chromebook than I have but its not set up the same....I suppose I could just use mine...unhook the headphones, and turn up the vol on my puter etc.
I like to shop.....when I am feeling ok....I don't always,
sometimes I am tooo tired or achy but I do look forward to that.
which reminds me....you know how you and your grandchildren inspired me to give and leave packages for the homeless right?
Well yesterday, I was listening to Ray Comfort's program because I wanted to hear about the new movie he is releasing "Exit".
But he and his son in law, were answering questions from watchers and one asked him, what might be a helpful way to 'witness' to the homeless? One of the things he mentioned was a track ( one of many he sells) called a gift for you.
In it you can put whatever amount of money ( a dollar prob is what I will put)....it's like a gift card you might give someone where it has tabs for paper money.....only this will have scripture and gospel message.
so I ordered 50 ( for $5.00) which when I receive them I will put into my packages along with the dollar bibles from Hossanah's store ( she is assistant manager at dollar tree ).
I also when I go shopping, try to buy one or two things especially for homeless women . Most people think of giving the homeless food or clothing...but women have some special needs ( like a small package of pads) or a dollar set of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash etc etc. I even buy makeup....prob not the best when we realize my fixation of worldly beauty huh?
Maybe I need to re-think that....
but toothpaste, and a toothbrush, comb, cute hair ribbons, barrettes etc. etc.
Anyway, I look forward to making and leaving those.
well see I have hit the wall and am hungry sigh....
I will be back....prayerfully sooner than later
Those are great ideas for the homeless too! I'll mention it to the kids as well.
I used to wonder why Peter said what he did about prayer here: “The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.” (1 Peter 4:7) Now I understand because when I reflected on it, I realized that often many other things would keep me from praying if I hadn't had time to do it during my time with the Lord. It made me realize that I needed to make prayer as much of a priority as studying His Word with Him, so now that's what I do. I realized that one of the ways that Satan, our flesh and the world defeat us as far as prayer and bible study goes, is by giving us so many other choices of things to do. So if we don't exercise self-control, and make bible study and prayer our priority, they'll fall by the way side or, just as bad, get cut up into pieces while we do other stuff in between times.
I'm baaaack!
This verse tho not exactly about 'beauty' per say....does in one way touch it and also about aging:
".....Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
2 Corinthians 4:16 b and 17
Then there is the Peter verse about God saying beauty should not be outward ( not that it's forbidden...even Ester had beauty treatments),
Yes, Esther had beauty treatments but God did not approve of them. She was forced to have them by the pagan King. Over and over God tells us that outward beauty is not important and often leads to sin and over and over He tells us that we're to focus on developing an inward beauty instead.
but the 'real' beauty should be a inward gentle and quiet spirit.
God says in this world anyway, beauty is fleeting ( the outward kind....tho some woman do remain very pretty outwardly and physically to their very old age.) but the woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
and then of course there is what was probably the most beautiful 'created' being ( not even female) satan....but see where his beauty got him.
Not every physically beautiful woman becomes proud, shallow and obnoxious.....but I probably would have!! I think only the Godly beautiful woman can escape the pride of her beauty....and even then, it may be a big struggle, because the world is not going to just let her get away with being just Godly.
I have already written a small book today LOL
so I don't want to overwhelm you I will write more tomorrow
but this was a different perspective ( you wrote) that I need to mull over....
"While we all do age and most of us eventually don't have the same beauty we had when we were in our 20's, we do still have beauty - it's simply different"
Yes, taking thoughts captive should definately been included!! arrrgghhh
Is that all? Won't you or others, especially Leonard notice anything different about you? What would they notice?
Yes, he and others won't feel like they have to walk around me like egg shells, and will find me more 'attractive' in that a smiling face or laughter is prettier than a scowl or frown.
Do you think that the less depressed you are that it may change how others act and feel and how they'll interact with you as well?
I think people can only take glum for so long and then they want to get away...almost like it will begin to pull them down. So they would stay around more
I liked this quote:
"We should have joy because it is a reasonable response to continual spiritual blessings
Just a quick note...I have not read your post yet...
I am at the library sigh!!!
I am not sure if you remember we were having trouble a few weeks back with intermittent service for the net.
Well, Brent our landlord called the server and we got a new modem......yeah
but then....
He decided to move it a little .....and dropped it
So then it was back to intermittent
But....
Also
The cable in his apt ( not his home).....is toooo short so when the temporary guests, sit on the couch, it pops apart and the services ends and to make a long story short
we have had zero service for a few days.
Leonard and a neighbor are going to try a couple of things later today
but
if it does not work
then the company has to come out with new modem ( again....and they may have to order it like last time)
also
they are soooo booked after they get the modem it might be 3 or 4 days before they can come out.
And
( are you falling asleep yet?)
We have to go pick up Hossanah in about 20 mins.
Soooooo all in all, I might be back to read you post later in the day, or up to a week or so. arrrrggggghhhhhhhhhhhh
I will keep you posted.
Hey, I didn't think patience was one of my major sin problems hummmmm????
lots of others but oh well....surprise, now I get to try to have some LOL Soooo Leonard and a neighbor, taped down the internet cable thingy and for now.......we are back up....but all most certainly something else will have to be done in the future.
Anyway, I got to read all of your post yeah!!
I am really working on what you said about finding a time for Bible study.I think that has to be number one priority. I actually am doing better talking and praying to Jesus than ever before ( been really working on that....not ignoring my Lord, Savior,master, friend, to be husband,
etc.
One thing...Neither the Father or Jesus is going to be our husband, that is said to the Church, the Body of Christ as a whole, not to the individual members of that body. Do you see what I mean? Jesus is marrying the Body of Christ, the Church, not each individual member of that body. He is the husband of the body as He is the head over the church - not individual members. Otherwise we would have to say that He is marrying men as well as women and that goes against His Word. When Paul says that he has promised the Corinthians to one husband, Christ, that he might present them as a pure virgin to Him, he wasn't speaking literally. He was showing them that God is to be first in our lives with no one and nothing else coming before Him, just like a bride with her husband. And when something or someone else does come before God in our lives, it's the same thing as spiritual adultery. In yet another way we are like a husband and wife, in that we are one with Him in Spirit, but again this was just using the picture of marriage to explain our relationship and not to be taken that He will literally be our husband. Remember, there is no marriage in heaven as even the angels don't marry. That's again because God will be first in all our lives then because we will have no sin nature and will have no desire to put anyone or anything in His place.
But why then would I be neither hot nor cold about His love letters to me ( His Word...which is also Him???) so yeah.
I especially liked the honesty stated in this quote:
"Trusting God is not a matter of my feelings but of my will. I never feel like trusting God when adversity strikes, but I can choose to do so even when I don’t feel like it.
Also loved the song...thanks. It seems like all the Gaither singers are soooooo good! I still like Guy Penrod the best but soooooooooooooo many of them are superb!!!
I have been on FH bible study for over 1/2 hour but I have to go clean the apt. however tomorrow I will attempt to get totally disciplined
I will come back and re-read your post and do some on my own.
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 20, 2017 11:16:46 GMT -5
I will start reading this but first I wanted to say....thank you so much....
and
You hit the nail on the head....I really truly need to re-read.....because otherwise I absorb....maybe a couple of things...out of all you posted.
To be generous say, it was even 25%.....but if I read it again, it bumps it up to 50%....but to get to 100% well you can see, that once is rarely enough!!!
And further, I have gotten waaaaaay behind in my notebook again...
I did start a 'separate' notebook, with about 6 or 7 pages and then that fell by the wayside ( ummmmm well, it didn't do it all by itself.....)
I actually think I am still on ch 9 in the notebook....I never finished the original entirely.
I think I need some accountability to finish the original
like maybe 2 weeks?
and then
I wrote a few pages a month or so....but each time you say.....you need to write this in your notebook....I have good intentions....
but
since, I have never even been disciplined doing my bible study...which seems like it should be first
the notebook on top ( without discipline),
is overload and I keep pushing it back
I need a plan
and
accountability
can you help?
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 20, 2017 11:40:53 GMT -5
Just to let you know, I dug out both notebooks, and started adding to them......not catching up tho.....just about what we are working on today.
One note was to be specific about what I am going to do ( plan) and
when, I am going to do it.
See.... you have only been saying that about 5-10 times so far.......
However, writing it down a few minutes ago,
it seems like I finally got it!!!
( weird huh.....it's such a simple concept...couldn't be simpler
( maybe not so easy to actually do.......)
An example would be like cleaning a totally messy home.....what would be the plan?
How to prioritize when one has only so much energy
A mess, if it's big enough, without a plan, can seem so overwhelming,
that I can't even get started.
That's not to say I don't pray about it
or ever do anything
but it is like having a 100% mess, and tackling 2-5 percent of it.....well that is a start....but in a day or two, if I don't have a plan, or energy,
it is right back where I started.
Like you said, it has to do with commitment and making this my number one priority
and
having a plan
and
at least for a time ( maybe until the rapture or I die?) but for sure for awhile....
I need an accountability partner and encourager
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 21, 2017 12:40:18 GMT -5
I actually have both note books right here by my side, and got as far as writing the scriptures of God on beauty yesterday.....ecaus
So I will pick up from there and write in notebooks, and comment here .
I actually made some progress and wrote in both notebooks.
But this morning I can barely keep my eyes open, I am so tired, but did not sleep a wink.
I am super super tired, weak and aching but can't sleep.
Am watching Devon until 11 or so, but then have to clean #4 ( there will be 5 beds, towels, etc. for laundry, and they were 5 guys...so I am not exactly hopeful, it will be an easy clean....but then, anything is possible.
We don't know if Leonard's brother Chuck made it thru the night yet. His youngest sister Debby flew from New York to Chicago because his fight with cancer is almost done. Leonard and I do not know if Chuck is saved...probably not, so if you can't do anything else today, IF you can could you pray for Chuck...even at this late hour in his life.
I know a last minute conversion, is not the best, but God can do anything, even that....and that is better than going to Hell for sure.
Come to think of it, maybe you can pray I can do all things thru Jesus....like watch Devon, clean #4,
and do some more Bible study.....but I am so tired I am feeling a bit sick......weird...besides being achy all over, my gums are swollen too.
I feel a little nauseous to boot....I am a mess LOL
Oh yeah, to round it off, our landlord sent us a big e-mail, outlining all his many many many expenses, and how and why he is going to have to up the rent...yet again in Jan....but he is not sure exactly how much.
But......nevertheless.....I smiled at Jesus, and thought, I will not worry about Jan. I may not even be here...after all, we might be raptured or I might die and be in Heaven with the Lord.....or Brent won't raise the rent so high we will be forced to move.....
So I will just decide to get rid of some of my junk, organize etc. it's a good excuse to do that anyway....I've need to do it since forever anyhow
Am I making any sense?
I feel like I am just babbling .....sorry....lack of sleep can do that to me....sigh!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 22, 2017 12:20:24 GMT -5
I have now gone thru for the 2nd time, and actually put notes in both notebooks ( I didn't write everything twice, I put some notes in the joy notebook, and all the rest in the first bigger notebook).
So my plan is to do my Bible study in the morning to start, with an hour ( and hopefully, get up to 2 hours).
I can't remember if I need to answer any other questions or go on to Ephesians study?
I will go read Ephesians 1 now tho....I can always re-read it....in fact, I am sure I will want to and it's what you suggested ( I am pretty sure)....maybe even 3 reads when doing a study?
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 23, 2017 19:40:36 GMT -5
Today was a first.....both our grandchildren ( here, not Liam as he is in Texas) went to church with us today!!!
Both stayed for the whole adult service....what a surprise and blessing!!!
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 24, 2017 10:14:37 GMT -5
I will start reading this but first I wanted to say....thank you so much....
and
You hit the nail on the head....I really truly need to re-read.....because otherwise I absorb....maybe a couple of things...out of all you posted.
To be generous say, it was even 25%.....but if I read it again, it bumps it up to 50%....but to get to 100% well you can see, that once is rarely enough!!!
And further, I have gotten waaaaaay behind in my notebook again...
I did start a 'separate' notebook, with about 6 or 7 pages and then that fell by the wayside ( ummmmm well, it didn't do it all by itself.....)
I actually think I am still on ch 9 in the notebook....I never finished the original entirely.
I think I need some accountability to finish the original
like maybe 2 weeks?
and then
I wrote a few pages a month or so....but each time you say.....you need to write this in your notebook....I have good intentions....
but
since, I have never even been disciplined doing my bible study...which seems like it should be first
the notebook on top ( without discipline),
is overload and I keep pushing it back
I need a plan
and
accountability
can you help?
Just to let you know, I dug out both notebooks, and started adding to them......not catching up tho.....just about what we are working on today.
One note was to be specific about what I am going to do ( plan) and
when, I am going to do it.
See.... you have only been saying that about 5-10 times so far.......
However, writing it down a few minutes ago,
it seems like I finally got it!!!
What did you write down? Did you write down that you need to make a specific plan or did you write down what your plan was?
( weird huh.....it's such a simple concept...couldn't be simpler
( maybe not so easy to actually do.......)
An example would be like cleaning a totally messy home.....what would be the plan?
How to prioritize when one has only so much energy
A mess, if it's big enough, without a plan, can seem so overwhelming,
that I can't even get started.
That's not to say I don't pray about it
or ever do anything
but it is like having a 100% mess, and tackling 2-5 percent of it.....well that is a start....but in a day or two, if I don't have a plan, or energy,
it is right back where I started.
Like you said, it has to do with commitment and making this my number one priority
and
having a plan
and
at least for a time ( maybe until the rapture or I die?) but for sure for awhile....
I need an accountability partner and encourager I actually have both note books right here by my side, and got as far as writing the scriptures of God on beauty yesterday.....ecaus
So I will pick up from there and write in notebooks, and comment here .
I actually made some progress and wrote in both notebooks.
But this morning I can barely keep my eyes open, I am so tired, but did not sleep a wink.
I am super super tired, weak and aching but can't sleep.
Am watching Devon until 11 or so, but then have to clean #4 ( there will be 5 beds, towels, etc. for laundry, and they were 5 guys...so I am not exactly hopeful, it will be an easy clean....but then, anything is possible.
We don't know if Leonard's brother Chuck made it thru the night yet. His youngest sister Debby flew from New York to Chicago because his fight with cancer is almost done. Leonard and I do not know if Chuck is saved...probably not, so if you can't do anything else today, IF you can could you pray for Chuck...even at this late hour in his life.
I know a last minute conversion, is not the best, but God can do anything, even that....and that is better than going to Hell for sure.
Come to think of it, maybe you can pray I can do all things thru Jesus....like watch Devon, clean #4,
and do some more Bible study.....but I am so tired I am feeling a bit sick......weird...besides being achy all over, my gums are swollen too.
I feel a little nauseous to boot....I am a mess LOL
Oh yeah, to round it off, our landlord sent us a big e-mail, outlining all his many many many expenses, and how and why he is going to have to up the rent...yet again in Jan....but he is not sure exactly how much.
But......nevertheless.....I smiled at Jesus, and thought, I will not worry about Jan. I may not even be here...after all, we might be raptured or I might die and be in Heaven with the Lord.....or Brent won't raise the rent so high we will be forced to move.....
So I will just decide to get rid of some of my junk, organize etc. it's a good excuse to do that anyway....I've need to do it since forever anyhow
Am I making any sense?
I feel like I am just babbling .....sorry....lack of sleep can do that to me....sigh! I have now gone thru for the 2nd time, and actually put notes in both notebooks ( I didn't write everything twice, I put some notes in the joy notebook, and all the rest in the first bigger notebook).
So my plan is to do my Bible study in the morning to start, with an hour ( and hopefully, get up to 2 hours).
I can't remember if I need to answer any other questions or go on to Ephesians study?
I will go read Ephesians 1 now tho....I can always re-read it....in fact, I am sure I will want to and it's what you suggested ( I am pretty sure)....maybe even 3 reads when doing a study?
Today was a first.....both our grandchildren ( here, not Liam as he is in Texas) went to church with us today!!!
Both stayed for the whole adult service....what a surprise and blessing!!!
I'll be happy to be your accountability partner and encourager!
Good for you! I'm glad you got started on both notebooks! To be honest, as tired as you sound, I certainly wouldn't have expected you to do so until after you'd had some sleep!
I did say a prayer for Chuck and I know that the Lord has heard you and me and all who've prayed for him.
You did great the way you handled your landlord's news! I'm very encouraged that you handled it so well especially considering how tired and sore you are!
You don't need to worry about the other thread yet hon. The questions I asked you weren't about Ephesians, they were about getting over your depression in the morning and having more joy in your life. So don't bother with the other thread until you're completely caught up with this one, including what you need to write down in your notebooks. As far as what to read when you spend time with the Lord while you're catching up on your notebooks goes, why don't you just read whatever psalm we were working on at the time, or just pick one to read each day, or something like that until you're all caught up. OK? That will help me as well as I have a lot to catch up on around my house right now.
That's wonderful news that your grandchildren got to go to church with you! Does that mean that you went too? I'm praising God because I think it does! That's so awesome!
Planning to spend an hour a day every morning is a great start! So from now on just let me know what you read that morning. You don't need to explain it... just say something like, "today I read Psalm 100" and whether or not you added any notes to your notebook. That way I can hold you accountable for sticking to your plan.
The only thing I'd like to see when you're caught up, is a copy of what your specific plan is going to include. So until then, don't worry about the other thread. Ephesians will keep until later when you're caught up. Between not and then, just let me know if you spent your hour with the Lord each morning as I said earlier. Sound good to you?
Get some sleep and I hope you feel better soon! Love you! You're doing great!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 24, 2017 10:45:36 GMT -5
Just a few updates
1) we have no update on Chuck yet....in one way that might (?) be bad if he is in a lot of pain
but
good, because God has heard our prayer and even if Chuck is unconscious,
the Lord can be communicating with Chuck during this time.
2) yes, I went to church also....I got about 4 or 5 hours sleep so I was able to go....and it was such a gift to have both grandchildren go.
I so wish I could send things of the Lord to Liam....but Jessica has made super clear in the past, that we are to accept their views ( she is an atheist...PHD runs the lab at Univ of Texas)
So that does make me sad....on the other hand, I keep thinking that maybe like Naomi, maybe Liam is in some spiritual way, my son and the Lord hears my prayers for Liam...even tho Liam has yet to hear a word about Jesus.
And that would be my other request, if you would please pray for Liam.....also the rapture may be before Liam turns to the age of accountability ....plus, I am still hopefully for my son and daughter-in-
law to trust in Jesus.
I feel like they already, made one turn from the path they were on...the path of NO children....to Liam!!! :-)
And there is not a doubt in my mind they are thrilled with that little guy......
sooooooo they did change their minds once....it might be, they will yet again....
because as firm as they were about no children.........
Well....
and God has heard my prayers, and continued prayers.
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 24, 2017 12:24:38 GMT -5
So today I studied Philippians for an hour and was surprised how many times joy was mentioned.
I have not yet written in my notebook.....but when I get back from hanging out with Devon while Hossanah goes to the doctor.......I intend to ....so I will add a note to this, when I do...prob this afternoon, or evening.
Still have not written in notebook.....
Hossanah doc apt took longer than expected...her BP is high...needs low dose of meds
she even did not go for full blood work panel
nor did she pick up meds yet
I ended up watching both Devon and Vanessa......normally Vanessa would watch Devon....but she had her boyfriend over and both mom's tho they trust them....still they do not feel it prudent for them to be without an adult ( teens are often clueless as to how easy it is to find themselves in trouble).
And so, I can say, its easier watching a 10 year old LOL
Now I have high BP LOL
not really but still I'd just as soon not have that responsibility arrggghhh
They were fine, just talking....but Vanessa was somewhat put out ( like not being trusted)
Anyway, I need a short nap before going and doing notebook...I may do that after super even cuz I 'might' try for a small walk ( maybe or maybe not) after nap, then come dinner
and then Doug wants to come at 7
Maybe....a nice loooooooong nap. hummmmmm
I am glad I did my hour Bible study early tho!!!!!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 24, 2017 23:09:25 GMT -5
3 things....I did write notes in my notebook
and also Debbie, Leonard's youngest sister called to say his brother Chick died at 5:00 Chicago time.
She said he died peacefully....but we really don't know what his standing or relationship is with Jesus.
I know we just have to leave it with the Lord, now, but its hard, knowing he most likely or maybe died unsaved.....but there is always that hope, that in his last minutes ( even if unconscious, he choose Jesus as his Lord and Savior.)
Oh and Hossanah has high-ish BP ( did I write that already?)
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 25, 2017 11:16:35 GMT -5
Today I read,
and studied Titus and wrote in my notebook....I was maybe a few minutes short of an hour but very close.
I already have several posts and don't want to overwhelm you....so I will leave it at that.
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 25, 2017 12:12:47 GMT -5
Just a few updates
1) we have no update on Chuck yet....in one way that might (?) be bad if he is in a lot of pain
but
good, because God has heard our prayer and even if Chuck is unconscious,
the Lord can be communicating with Chuck during this time.
2) yes, I went to church also....I got about 4 or 5 hours sleep so I was able to go....and it was such a gift to have both grandchildren go.
I so wish I could send things of the Lord to Liam....but Jessica has made super clear in the past, that we are to accept their views ( she is an atheist...PHD runs the lab at Univ of Texas)
So that does make me sad....on the other hand, I keep thinking that maybe like Naomi, maybe Liam is in some spiritual way, my son and the Lord hears my prayers for Liam...even tho Liam has yet to hear a word about Jesus.
And that would be my other request, if you would please pray for Liam.....also the rapture may be before Liam turns to the age of accountability ....plus, I am still hopefully for my son and daughter-in-
law to trust in Jesus.
I feel like they already, made one turn from the path they were on...the path of NO children....to Liam!!! :-)
And there is not a doubt in my mind they are thrilled with that little guy......
sooooooo they did change their minds once....it might be, they will yet again....
because as firm as they were about no children.........
Well....
and God has heard my prayers, and continued prayers.
As far as respecting their beliefs goes, that's fine, but that doesn't mean that you should stop being yourself if they happen to be around you, whether your at their home or they're at yours. Respect goes both ways. They have to respect you and your beliefs as well. But you don't have to say anything to show Liam and them the power of God and His salvation. All you have to do is be yourself and let them see the changes in you that show that God has been working in you. That doesn't mean however that when speaking to them you should refrain from saying something like, "Praise God" when you hear good news, because if that's what you normally say, then you shouldn't change that for them or anyone else. That's where they have to respect your beliefs as well.
Yes, I'll pray and already have been as I pray for all your children and grandchildren hon.
So today I studied Philippians for an hour and was surprised how many times joy was mentioned.
I have not yet written in my notebook.....but when I get back from hanging out with Devon while Hossanah goes to the doctor.......I intend to ....so I will add a note to this, when I do...prob this afternoon, or evening.
Still have not written in notebook.....
Hossanah doc apt took longer than expected...her BP is high...needs low dose of meds
she even did not go for full blood work panel
nor did she pick up meds yet
I ended up watching both Devon and Vanessa......normally Vanessa would watch Devon....but she had her boyfriend over and both mom's tho they trust them....still they do not feel it prudent for them to be without an adult ( teens are often clueless as to how easy it is to find themselves in trouble).
And so, I can say, its easier watching a 10 year old LOL
Now I have high BP LOL
not really but still I'd just as soon not have that responsibility arrggghhh
They were fine, just talking....but Vanessa was somewhat put out ( like not being trusted)
Anyway, I need a short nap before going and doing notebook...I may do that after super even cuz I 'might' try for a small walk ( maybe or maybe not) after nap, then come dinner
and then Doug wants to come at 7
Maybe....a nice loooooooong nap. hummmmmm
I am glad I did my hour Bible study early tho!!!!!
OK, it's very good that you spent an hour with the Lord, but you need to stop allowing things from getting in your way of completing your notebook. What stops you from taking your notebook with you? Or better, why not be writing as you're reading? In other words you read, a thought comes to your mind and you write it down in your notebook. Then you won't have to worry about not remembering what you wanted to write later. 3 things....I did write notes in my notebook
and also Debbie, Leonard's youngest sister called to say his brother Chick died at 5:00 Chicago time.
She said he died peacefully....but we really don't know what his standing or relationship is with Jesus.
I know we just have to leave it with the Lord, now, but its hard, knowing he most likely or maybe died unsaved.....but there is always that hope, that in his last minutes ( even if unconscious, he choose Jesus as his Lord and Savior.)
Oh and Hossanah has high-ish BP ( did I write that already?) Today I read,
and studied Titus and wrote in my notebook....I was maybe a few minutes short of an hour but very close.
I already have several posts and don't want to overwhelm you....so I will leave it at that.
You won't overwhelm me hon. Please tell me what you are doing...why are you reading the things you're reading? Are you doing that just for something to read while you get ready to tell me what your specific plan is? Where are you now as far as your notebooks go? I think it would be best for you to write out your specific plan first and then go back and add whatever it is you think you need to add to your notebook. At least that way we'd have something to work toward. What do you think? (you CAN disagree with me you know lol)
Did you read what I wrote yesterday? I have to ask because you never told me if you read my reply or if you understood what I meant. So I don't know if you're just continuing on your own, or if you're doing something that's part of some plan of yours.... I'll put a copy of what I wrote here for you again, including the first part of your first post so you'll know what I'm talking about. You said:
Just to let you know, I dug out both notebooks, and started adding to them......not catching up tho.....just about what we are working on today.
One note was to be specific about what I am going to do ( plan) and
when, I am going to do it.
See.... you have only been saying that about 5-10 times so far.......
However, writing it down a few minutes ago,
it seems like I finally got it!!!
What did you write down? Did you write down that you need to make a specific plan or did you write down what your plan was?
I'll be happy to be your accountability partner and encourager!
Good for you! I'm glad you got started on both notebooks! To be honest, as tired as you sound, I certainly wouldn't have expected you to do so until after you'd had some sleep!
I did say a prayer for Chuck and I know that the Lord has heard you and me and all who've prayed for him.
You did great the way you handled your landlord's news! I'm very encouraged that you handled it so well especially considering how tired and sore you are!
You don't need to worry about the other thread yet hon. The questions I asked you weren't about Ephesians, they were about getting over your depression in the morning and having more joy in your life. So don't bother with the other thread until you're completely caught up with this one, including what you need to write down in your notebooks. As far as what to read when you spend time with the Lord while you're catching up on your notebooks goes, why don't you just read whatever psalm we were working on at the time, or just pick one to read each day, or something like that until you're all caught up. OK? That will help me as well as I have a lot to catch up on around my house right now.
That's wonderful news that your grandchildren got to go to church with you! Does that mean that you went too? I'm praising God because I think it does! That's so awesome!
Planning to spend an hour a day every morning is a great start! So from now on just let me know what you read that morning. You don't need to explain it... just say something like, "today I read Psalm 100" and whether or not you added any notes to your notebook. That way I can hold you accountable for sticking to your plan.
The only thing I'd like to see when you're caught up, is a copy of what your specific plan is going to include. So until then, don't worry about the other thread. Ephesians will keep until later when you're caught up. Between not and then, just let me know if you spent your hour with the Lord each morning as I said earlier. Sound good to you?
Get some sleep and I hope you feel better soon! Love you! You're doing great!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 25, 2017 12:51:19 GMT -5
My plan ( at least as far as I have gone so far) is to get up and do bathroom etc., get something to eat or not ( because sometimes if I do a green smoothie it can take at least a 1/2 hour to prepare so if instead I am having hard boiled eggs or cottage cheese and fruit....then I will bring that to eat while reading and studying.
So since yesterday was more or less my first day of my plan...I was just doing a read thru first to get an overall picture.....
then
I was going to go back and write in my notebook
and
also look up some or all of the little notes (that are other scriptures on the same topic the bible often has after a verse)
But that got delayed because Hossanah had to go to the doctors ( the first time in at least 10 years....she knew she had a problem because of the various symptoms she had been having but this was her only day off in awhile.....she had already made the appointment time and I had not yet told her my plan either.
but I actually did have my notebook by my side when I did the first read thru and I underlined things I wanted to include in my notes on that first run thru.
I am not sure if this is what you were asking exactly...as my plan I mean?
Oh about Liam, we have never actually seen Liam (in person) and I am not sure when or if we will,
because the live in Texas and we are in Oregon...
I guess that is why I was wondering about what if any influence I could have on him.
Thank you for your encouragement.....I am so blessed to have you as my sister in Christ.
Your telling me about how both your parents ( at least said they hated God, )yet without hearing any of the good news of Jesus, you came to believe at an early age was certainly very encouraging!!!
That is sort of the situation for Liam.....I don't even know what my son thinks....he just simply not say one word at all about God.....his wife Jessica was more vocal, in a negative way, but included them both in the you must respect our beliefs reprimand.
Your pointing out respect needs to go both ways was also helpful....thank you.
I did mention to Michael that it is hard not knowing about Chuck's standing with God at his death,
and when Michael wrote back this morning his condolences
I said some more...
because I felt it was ok and truthful
and I have not really said anything of that nature to him in a long time.
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 26, 2017 11:34:38 GMT -5
I just thought of one more thing to add to my plan.....I will read and study one book in Old testament and the next time in the New ( alternating back and forth).
So today, I spent the hour in Joel ( only read, studied and wrote notes on just 2 chapters in Joel).
I have always like the first half of verse 25 in ch 2
"I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten..."
I knew the verse but it never clicked that it was in Joel.
And also the 2nd half of 2:13
"....Return to the Lord your God,
for he is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and abounding in love"
This morning I told Leonard about my plan to study and hour in the morning.
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 26, 2017 11:47:38 GMT -5
My plan ( at least as far as I have gone so far) is to get up and do bathroom etc., get something to eat or not ( because sometimes if I do a green smoothie it can take at least a 1/2 hour to prepare so if instead I am having hard boiled eggs or cottage cheese and fruit....then I will bring that to eat while reading and studying.
So since yesterday was more or less my first day of my plan...I was just doing a read thru first to get an overall picture.....
then
I was going to go back and write in my notebook
and
also look up some or all of the little notes (that are other scriptures on the same topic the bible often has after a verse)
But that got delayed because Hossanah had to go to the doctors ( the first time in at least 10 years....she knew she had a problem because of the various symptoms she had been having but this was her only day off in awhile.....she had already made the appointment time and I had not yet told her my plan either.
but I actually did have my notebook by my side when I did the first read thru and I underlined things I wanted to include in my notes on that first run thru.
I am not sure if this is what you were asking exactly...as my plan I mean?
Oh about Liam, we have never actually seen Liam (in person) and I am not sure when or if we will,
because the live in Texas and we are in Oregon...
I guess that is why I was wondering about what if any influence I could have on him.
Thank you for your encouragement.....I am so blessed to have you as my sister in Christ.
Your telling me about how both your parents ( at least said they hated God, )yet without hearing any of the good news of Jesus, you came to believe at an early age was certainly very encouraging!!!
That is sort of the situation for Liam.....I don't even know what my son thinks....he just simply not say one word at all about God.....his wife Jessica was more vocal, in a negative way, but included them both in the you must respect our beliefs reprimand.
Your pointing out respect needs to go both ways was also helpful....thank you.
I did mention to Michael that it is hard not knowing about Chuck's standing with God at his death,
and when Michael wrote back this morning his condolences
I said some more...
because I felt it was ok and truthful
and I have not really said anything of that nature to him in a long time. 1A. What (specific) steps are you going to take in order to stop the depression or the feeling down upon waking once and for all?
I will pray the night before and first thing upon awakening.
I also will memorize scripture to help fight this battle ( because even Jesus fought satan with the Word).
At the same time, I will be working on experiencing joy.
I will remind myself that every day, even down to every minute, I am that much closer to being with Jesus in Heaven where I will have every tear wiped away, will never have to battle depression ever again and will have the joy and love of Jesus for ever more for all eternity.
Those are very good! You forgot to add the one about starting every day with the Lord and having a smile for Him. (you might include having a smile for Leonard 1st thing in the morning too lol) Don't forget to add this when you write it in your notebook!
I was thinking about this last night and about how I maintain my joy. I remember talking to you once about having something to look forward to each day. I realize that this may sound corny to some people, but what I enjoy most is being able to study with the Lord. It's gotten to the point where I have to discipline myself to stop instead of the way most folks have to discipline themselves to start. I'd love nothing better if I could do nothing all day but spend it in His Word with Him, but I know that's not what He wants. He wants me to take what I've learned and use it in my life and if I don't close my bible program and turn off my computer, I won't have a life to apply it to! It may even sound to some people like I'm bragging that I spend so much time in His Word, but I'm not. It really did become a problem that I had to take to Him and then determine to discipline myself to end my study time by a certain time each day. There's nothing spiritual about it when you go overboard like I was starting to do. It wouldn't have been a problem normally, but since I can't do a lot of other things and can't work, after many years it became one. I told myself that I wasn't really ending my time with Him when I turned off my computer, because I talk to Him all day, but I wasn't in His Word which I just love, so it was hard to stop. Back to my point though, that is the big thing I look forward to every day. So when I get up, I can't wait to get into His Word and spend time with Him. Knowing that I'm going to be spending time with Him in His Word puts a smile on my face and in my heart as soon as I wake up, especially as that's what i do first thing in the morning. Of course there's other things I also enjoy like knowing the kids are coming over to visit, or doing something special for Bruce like making him cookies as a surprise. (today I'm going to make him a pizza sized cookie! LOL)
Anyway, if you think about your days and can find things in them that you enjoy and can look forward to, that will also help you get rid of the depression. It's very easy to become depressed because of our health and limitations, but having something we enjoy to look forward to counters it and keeps us smiling. Even if it's a long term thing, like Bruce has agreed to take me horseback riding on our anniversary this year. I've wanted to do that for years so I'm really looking forward to that! But if you can think of even one thing that you normally do every day that you enjoy and include in your list a note about remembering that you're going to get to do that, it will help you to start your day happy instead of sad. I'd love to hear what you think of to add to your list too, if you don't mind.
.
1B. How will you know it's working?
It already is lessening ( some days it's not there at all, other days its greatly reduced and for a much much shorter time.).....so it will continue to go away ( and more so as joy takes its place....so they will work hand in hand).
Praise God!
2A. What specific steps are you going to take in order to see age and aging the way the Lord wants us to? .
I will work on being more concerned about serving others.
I will continue to watch the Gaither's to see how much other Godly older people are loved, and how their inner beauty, character and love shows forth...as inspiration.
I will continue to talk to Jesus about how He wants me to view aging and 'beauty'.
Very good, but may I suggest another one or two you could add to this? How about talking to the Lord about it and asking Him to point out to you how He thinks and feels about beauty whenever there's something about it in His Word? Another one would be to try to see yourself as the Lord sees you a little more each day, for the Lord sees you as beautiful right now. So whenever you look in the mirror, instead of finding fault with yourself, which the Lord hates, look and see the beauty that the Lord sees in you.
“All beautiful you are, my darling; there is no flaw in you.” (Song of Solomon 4:7)
“The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.” (Psalm 45:11)
“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. ...” (Genesis 1:31)
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,” (1 Timothy 4:4)
2B How will you know it's working?
I won't feel depressed, down, sad about it, but will also look forward to soon having a new, young and truly Godly beauty in Heaven
Good! Would it become easier to accept a compliment and actually believe them?
3A. What specific steps are you going to take to prevent beauty from being an idol?
I have a feeling this is not the best way of looking at it, but Ray Comfort has come out with a new movie called "Exit"...it's about suicide...on young people ( but also of the many many 'beautiful movie stars, singers, models, etc.)
If I get a chance to see it...it may also nail home, the emptiness, of beauty without the Lord and beauty as an idol.
I am going to continue to talk to Jesus more and more about everything....so my focus is less on 'me' and my lack of youth and beauty and more on His beauty.....but especially of His beauty in love.
Look at your answer and the part I underlined specifically and you'll see that you just defeated yourself because you're still insisting that you lack beauty (and of course youth too) So how can you rephrase that so that you're not defeating yourself even before you begin? God didn't make any mistakes when He created you. While we all do age and most of us eventually don't have the same beauty we had when we were in our 20's, we do still have beauty - it's simply different. We need to stop grasping for our old toys of childhood, and look with appreciation at our new ones.
Remember that He created you in His own image, to be beautiful in your own way and that it was for your good and His glory. He doesn't want us to covet someone else's beauty, or even our own beauty from when we were younger. He wants us to enjoy every stage of our lives.
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” (Romans 1:20)
“One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4)
Here is the truth: in the kingdom, the rules have changed. The majority opinion on beauty has been exposed as silly. There is a deeper, more lasting beauty that comes as we learn the character of God and imitate him. God is beautiful, so we would expect to find beauty reflected in his people.
Who are you? You are a mirror, turned toward Jesus so you can reflect his glory. You are looking better every day. Welch, E. T. Shame interrupted: How god lifts the pain of worthlessness and rejection.
3B. How will you know it's working?
I will look less in the mirror except to comb hair, and other necessary things to be clean. I have already minimized any make up to go out to very little ( I still do a little tho).
How about that you'll think less about your looks, and when you do think about them, it will be with satisfaction and/or contentment? Would Leonard notice anything different?
4A. What specific steps will you take to overcome any depression that tries to attack you during the day?
Immediately talk to Jesus, sing hymns and songs, quote scripture about joy, count my blessings.
Those are good and should each be listed as a step, but don't you think the very 1st step should be taking your thoughts captive and replacing them instantly?
Here are some scriptures that I use:
“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10)
“Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you. When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.” (Isaiah 26:8–9)
“The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.” (Isaiah 50:4)
“In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.” (Psalm 5:3)
“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God.” (Psalm 59:16–17)
“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.” (Psalm 90:14)
“It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!” (Psalm 92:1–5)
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.” (Psalm 143:8)
“I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.” (Psalm 9:1–2)
This one is a memory verse for me, I've memorized verses 5, 6, and 11 together.
“LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.” (Psalm 16:5–6)
“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:11)
“I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,” (Psalm 16:7–9)
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” (Psalm 28:7)
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,” (Romans 14:17)
This one is a great one to pray for others and for yourself, perhaps before you go to sleep?
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13) To use it for yourself, just pray, "May You, the God of hope, fill me with all joy and peace as I trust in You, so that I may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Notice that this next one is a command:
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)
Obviously, you can use all of these as a prayer or part of a prayer for yourself or others, as well as memory verses to help you when you need them. You can use the whole verse or part of a verse... Anyway I hope one or more of these will be helpful or at least give you some ideas of perhaps others that would help.
4B. How will you know it's working?
The depression will leave
Is that all? Won't you or others, especially Leonard notice anything different about you? What would they notice? Do you think that the less depressed you are that it may change how others act and feel and how they'll interact with you as well?
5A. What specific steps are you going to take to experience the Joy of the Lord?
Be grateful and thrilled that Jesus is ever with me and He loves me, and I will soon be with Him in Heaven ( be it a few months, or years I don't know....but it is much sooner than when I was young....and I am certainly way more joyful now than then.
pray for it ( because I can't force it in a phony way, but God's Holy spirit can provide it)
He has already provided it. We don't ask for what we already have, instead we simply need to use what we have. Here we can look at Ephesians 1:1-3.
Paul repeatedly emphasized our sufficiency as believers. In Col 2:10 he declares that in Christ “you have been made complete.” In Phil 4:13, 19 he says, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me … my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Peter adds that God’s “divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life & godliness.” (2 Pet 1:3) As a Christian, you possess every spiritual resource you need to fulfill God’s will for your life. You need not pray for more love, because His love is already poured out in your heart through the Holy Spirit Rom. 5:5. The same is true of joy John 15:11 peace John 14:27 strength Phil. 4:13 & every other resource you need. The key to spiritual progress & victory is learning to apply what you already have, not seeking more. Praise God for His abundant spiritual resources. Ask Him to help you apply them with wisdom & consistency. Read Matt 6:25–34 & Phil 4:6–8. What specific promises does God make in those passages? What does He require of you? Drawing Near
“Spiritual” does not refer to immaterial blessings as opposed to material ones, but rather to the work of God, who is the divine & spiritual source of all blessings. in the heavenly places. Lit. “in the heavenlies.” This refers to the realm of God’s complete, heavenly domain, from which all His blessings come (v. 20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12). in Christ. God’s superabundant blessings belong only to believers who are His children, by faith in Christ, so that what He has is theirs—including His righteousness, resources, privilege, position, & power (Ro 8:16, 17). MacArthur study Bible
We should have joy because it is a reasonable response to continual spiritual blessings. God’s pouring out of spiritual blessings for believers never stops. if we just pause & consider some of the ways the Lord is good to us, we'll not be able to keep from rejoicing. For example, every time we sin it's instantly forgiven. Every time God refines us through trials, exposes us to solid biblical teaching, & molds us more toward the image of Christ, it should be cause for us to praise Him. Every time God brings us safely through another day & spares us some terrible disaster or extreme agony, we experience the blessing of His mercy. God is also planning future blessings, such as preparing a place for us in heaven. The pillars of Christian character
God the Father has made us rich in Jesus Christ! When you were born again into God’s family, you were born rich. Through Christ, you share in the riches of God’s grace (Eph. 1:7; 2:7), God’s glory (Eph. 1:18; 3:16), God’s mercy (Eph. 2:4), & “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph. 3:8). Our Heavenly Father is not poor; He is rich—& He has made us rich in His Son. He promises to supply all our needs “according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19), but He does not promise to shield us from either poverty or pain. The Father has given us every blessing of the Spirit, everything we need for a successful, satisfying Christian life. The spiritual is far more important than the material. The Holy Spirit channels our riches to us from the Father, through the Son. Not to know & depend on the Holy Spirit’s provision is to live a life of spiritual poverty. The unsaved person is interested primarily in earthlies, because that's where he lives. No matter where the Christian may be on this earth, he is seated in the heavenlies with Jesus, & this is the basis of his life & power. The Bible exposition commentary
Continue to listen to hymns and worship songs that are uplifting with Godly and biblical truths
Continue to study God's word the Bible daily
Good!
5B. How will you know it's working?
depression with flee and I will be ever closer with Jesus and able to give to others ( even if its just a smile....which I am doing almost daily)
Praise God!
What I'd like you to do now is to write all of what you posted above in your notebook so you can review it regularly - maybe once a week, or whatever you feel is best, to assess your progress. Perhaps you could include in your notebook after this a note once a week to say how you're doing on each of these too.
Here's a link to a couple of devotions about joy that I posted today for you too:
fresh-hope.com/thread/3627/joy-god
Let me know what you think of my reply and we'll get started on Ephesians for real on Monday ok? Love you my dear, beautiful sister!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 26, 2017 12:19:18 GMT -5
Aha!
I for some reason was thinking you meant my Bible reading and studying plan...but you kind of meant the joy vs depression plan.
Since I have done my hour Bible study ( you know......I almost could have gone on longer...I mean it was for one thing very interesting ( tho parts were confusing) but also various verses we special to me from the Lord.
However, we have to clean again....and will have to on Sunday ( so no church).....usually Brent the landlord cleans on the weekend ( to save money....not having to pay us) and even tho he is in fact coming down this weekend he is leaving sat night so we will do this for him.
Anyway, I will re-read what you posted that you and I posted about joy....either on a break ( from cleaning) or tonight or tomorrow morning after Bible reading and study.
Soon.
We won't be doing that much cleaning in the fall and even less in the winter....summer is the biggest tourist time as always.
I think I got into a sort of 'gossip' session yesterday....:-(
Our landlord sent everyone a coming rent increase letter. But, he included a LOOOOOOONG list of his expenses to justify why he HAD to increase it yet again ( he does so about every year or twice a year).
So as it turns out while talking to Hossanah and her fiancee another tenant came by to join in the gab fest about said letter.
And the grumbling began....just one wee example.....they were saying why is it our expense to pay gas for his car????!!!!!!!
I said: well maybe he meant because he has to come from Portland to Seaside in order to do all manner of repairs on our places he is figuring in the gas?
They all said....nooooo that does not make sense because as the landlord, he should make necessary repairs ( leaking roof, plumbing problems etc. etc.
The point is I did not try all that hard to defend him ( not loyal)
nor
did I try that hard to extricate myself from the grumbling
and
I just cannot remember ( convenient huh?)
if I even began to contribute with some grumbles of my own....seriously, if I could remember I would say so....it seems like I must have....either way, I stay in the mix.....
in part, ( another excuse) I stayed because then they were saying
they simple could not afford another rent increase and maybe we could somehow find a place where we might all be able to live together and all pay our portion of the rent....
At first Hossanah fiancee ( Brian....not to be confused with landlord who is Brent)
said something about where they might move ( just them)
and
Hossanah said...
no wait, we need to be near my parents or find a place with a mother in law or cottage they could live in. ( then Dwana said maybe we could ALL pitch in and live together somewhere)
I did tell them I had spoken to Brent
and said ( to him) that it seemed like according to his expense list,
in order to make up the debt they ( he and his wife) were in each month...
it looked like he would have to increase the rent by $125 per person.
I also told them ( my gab fest partners)
that I asked Brent if we should then all start now ( before the increase took place) ...
and start now looking for another place to live and he said:
Nooooo that was the last thing he wanted.....
but they replied ( well Dwana) said:
No he is trying to make us feel sorry for him and actually, he wants us all to move because he could actually get a LOT more rent for these places...
and on it went.
it's an odd situation because as semi- unofficial managers we do try to be loyal to Brent and give him a heads up on who needs repairs, who is upset about this or that ( noise issues etc.)
but since I have a gossip problem to begin with.....it may not be the best thing for me.
Brent does pay us a small little bit because we do things like let electricians and plumbers, roofers,
workers in etc. etc.
But there seems to be a tenant vs landlord situation. its strange because most everybody here actually likes Brent....but....he still is the landlord and he does raise the rent every year ( and most of the folks here do NOT get a pay raise each year....well I don't think any of them do......so it is beginning to be more than just tighten their belts and do without this and that luxury....
plus, the tenants are apt to grumble because Brent and his wife grumble about their financial hardships but take trips all over the place several times a year ( Mexico, Canada and so on0 plus they are always buying a new car or truck...its hard to keep up with their new vehicles ) daughter going to a very spendy college and so on......so the tenants feel like they are in part paying for all these things
And so there is another bitterness happening....because they do frequently complain to all of us about their hardships.
Bah humbug....
I should have just excused myself huh?!!!!
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 27, 2017 11:15:16 GMT -5
Aha!
I for some reason was thinking you meant my Bible reading and studying plan...but you kind of meant the joy vs depression plan.
Since I have done my hour Bible study ( you know......I almost could have gone on longer...I mean it was for one thing very interesting ( tho parts were confusing) but also various verses we special to me from the Lord.
However, we have to clean again....and will have to on Sunday ( so no church).....usually Brent the landlord cleans on the weekend ( to save money....not having to pay us) and even tho he is in fact coming down this weekend he is leaving sat night so we will do this for him.
Anyway, I will re-read what you posted that you and I posted about joy....either on a break ( from cleaning) or tonight or tomorrow morning after Bible reading and study.
Soon.
We won't be doing that much cleaning in the fall and even less in the winter....summer is the biggest tourist time as always.
I think I got into a sort of 'gossip' session yesterday....:-(
Our landlord sent everyone a coming rent increase letter. But, he included a LOOOOOOONG list of his expenses to justify why he HAD to increase it yet again ( he does so about every year or twice a year).
So as it turns out while talking to Hossanah and her fiancee another tenant came by to join in the gab fest about said letter.
And the grumbling began....just one wee example.....they were saying why is it our expense to pay gas for his car????!!!!!!!
I said: well maybe he meant because he has to come from Portland to Seaside in order to do all manner of repairs on our places he is figuring in the gas?
They all said....nooooo that does not make sense because as the landlord, he should make necessary repairs ( leaking roof, plumbing problems etc. etc.
The point is I did not try all that hard to defend him ( not loyal)
nor
did I try that hard to extricate myself from the grumbling
and
I just cannot remember ( convenient huh?)
if I even began to contribute with some grumbles of my own....seriously, if I could remember I would say so....it seems like I must have....either way, I stay in the mix.....
in part, ( another excuse) I stayed because then they were saying
they simple could not afford another rent increase and maybe we could somehow find a place where we might all be able to live together and all pay our portion of the rent....
At first Hossanah fiancee ( Brian....not to be confused with landlord who is Brent)
said something about where they might move ( just them)
and
Hossanah said...
no wait, we need to be near my parents or find a place with a mother in law or cottage they could live in. ( then Dwana said maybe we could ALL pitch in and live together somewhere)
I did tell them I had spoken to Brent
and said ( to him) that it seemed like according to his expense list,
in order to make up the debt they ( he and his wife) were in each month...
it looked like he would have to increase the rent by $125 per person.
I also told them ( my gab fest partners)
that I asked Brent if we should then all start now ( before the increase took place) ...
and start now looking for another place to live and he said:
Nooooo that was the last thing he wanted.....
but they replied ( well Dwana) said:
No he is trying to make us feel sorry for him and actually, he wants us all to move because he could actually get a LOT more rent for these places...
and on it went.
it's an odd situation because as semi- unofficial managers we do try to be loyal to Brent and give him a heads up on who needs repairs, who is upset about this or that ( noise issues etc.)
but since I have a gossip problem to begin with.....it may not be the best thing for me.
Brent does pay us a small little bit because we do things like let electricians and plumbers, roofers,
workers in etc. etc.
But there seems to be a tenant vs landlord situation. its strange because most everybody here actually likes Brent....but....he still is the landlord and he does raise the rent every year ( and most of the folks here do NOT get a pay raise each year....well I don't think any of them do......so it is beginning to be more than just tighten their belts and do without this and that luxury....
plus, the tenants are apt to grumble because Brent and his wife grumble about their financial hardships but take trips all over the place several times a year ( Mexico, Canada and so on0 plus they are always buying a new car or truck...its hard to keep up with their new vehicles ) daughter going to a very spendy college and so on......so the tenants feel like they are in part paying for all these things
And so there is another bitterness happening....because they do frequently complain to all of us about their hardships.
Bah humbug....
I should have just excused myself huh?!!!!
Anyway, the point is that if something belongs to you, you can do whatever you want with it, and for an apartment owner that means they can charge whatever they want to whether the renters like it or not. More importantly though, the Lord tells us a couple of important things that we need to remember in times like this:
1. that He is in control and He will take care of us.
2. that we are to be content with what we have and in every circumstance we're placed in. We're not to try and manipulate our way out of it or try to manipulate people to get what we want. and 3. We're not to complain about it at all because when we do, we're really complaining that the Lord isn't doing His job very well. (that's the one that gets me every time!) So when we start complaining or gossiping about how bad it is that he's raising the rent, we're really saying that God is bad for allowing it to happen. (at least in God's opinion we are) and we're not trusting Him to take care of us and the situation. Plus we're telling others that we're not trusting God to take care of us. and on and on it goes... see what I mean?
Don't feel alone, I do the same thing. It's hard to remember that we can't do those things because we're so used to doing them. But the more often we realize that what we've done is wrong, the more likely we are to catch it before we actually do it the next time. At least that's how I look at it. Of course i also ask the Lord's forgiveness and ask for His help to do right next time too. So it's good that you realized what happened. You'll do better next time I'm sure. 
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 27, 2017 14:19:51 GMT -5
Thank you for the great pep talk. it helped me so much for you to put it into perspective.But especially, like you said, I by being a part of the grumbling, was saying that A) God was not doing His job right, and B) I was lacking faith, that He was in control and if He choose He would continue to provide like He always has ( but is not bound to )and C) I need to be content in whatever He chooses for me.
Which reminds me....back to depression and joy.
This morning, I woke up a wee bit down ( my excuses ran from being very tired....cleaning Brent's B & B apt yesterday,
getting up at 3 in morning to go over to Hossanah's...
and at first not comfortable sleep on her couch ( but I did sleep),,,but I tho Devon woke up at 6, LOL
Chuck's death and the usual: in pain, old, etc. etc.)
But I said to myself ( oh smile and good morning Lord....)
and I need to count my many many blessings......
so I did
and quickly lost the gloomy doomsday down and out 'feelings'.
Anyway, I read and studied Joel 3 ( wow sounds a lot like today...Israel prosperous after the Jews had been scattered all over the world, the world wanting to divide Jerusalem etc.
Since I still had about 15 mins I read 2 Thessalonians....because I thought I would study it tomorrow, so that was my first, just read thru.
Today I will re-read all the posts you re-posted on joy.
I have done the hour's bible study and now just need to run quickly ( well walk...run HA HA) and make sure the apt is fine....Leonard and I split the things needed to be done, but he wanted me to check to make sure nothing was left undone, or whatever.
So I will be back to re-read joy posts in about 10 or 15 mins....might get a cup of tea first.
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 27, 2017 15:42:00 GMT -5
So starting to re-read the notes on joy......
I wrote:
I will pray the night before and first thing upon awakening.
how am I doing?
I think I remember to do this about 1/2 the time....which is about how I am either completely exhausted in pain etc. and actually fall asleep fast or the other half of the time....tho exhausted, in pain etc. can't fall asleep, and then I remember to pray about joy, count my blessings, take thoughts captive
I also will memorize scripture to help fight this battle ( because even Jesus fought satan with the Word).
How am I doing?
I have not really done this yet....I most recently ( the last 3 days or so) have been focusing on doing an hour bible study)
Do you have a good verse to start with....I know you gave me a bunch....I can go re-read, but I just wondered if you knew of the one to start with).
However, I do think that already being in the word even for only an hour, getting closer to Jesus by His Word, is helping with joy ( I did feel a little down this morning but I think a lot of it was just tiredness)...still I do have a joyful attitude when reading the Bible. So many things speak to me, encourage me, uplift me, help me to be grateful, and praise God and love Jesus because of His word.
like you said, I have had a life time of bad habits and so it may take awhile to unlearn the bad and re-learn the new so to speak.
Next: looking forward to something each day:
How am I doing?
I want it to be being in God's word as the most wonderful thing....and then some days, I look forward to go with Leonard to pick up Hossanah at work, and getting to chat, some days ( at least in the summer) I look forward to a walk tho I haven't done that as much lately, I also look forward to reading Christian fiction books, and listening to praise and worship songs.
I think this may take more than a day to get thru. so I am going to take a short nap because I am tired.
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 28, 2017 10:45:54 GMT -5
Thank you for the great pep talk. it helped me so much for you to put it into perspective.But especially, like you said, I by being a part of the grumbling, was saying that A) God was not doing His job right, and B) I was lacking faith, that He was in control and if He choose He would continue to provide like He always has ( but is not bound to )and C) I need to be content in whatever He chooses for me.
Which reminds me....back to depression and joy.
This morning, I woke up a wee bit down ( my excuses ran from being very tired....cleaning Brent's B & B apt yesterday,
getting up at 3 in morning to go over to Hossanah's...
and at first not comfortable sleep on her couch ( but I did sleep),,,but I tho Devon woke up at 6, LOL
Chuck's death and the usual: in pain, old, etc. etc.)
But I said to myself ( oh smile and good morning Lord....)
and I need to count my many many blessings......
so I did
and quickly lost the gloomy doomsday down and out 'feelings'.
Anyway, I read and studied Joel 3 ( wow sounds a lot like today...Israel prosperous after the Jews had been scattered all over the world, the world wanting to divide Jerusalem etc.
Since I still had about 15 mins I read 2 Thessalonians....because I thought I would study it tomorrow, so that was my first, just read thru.
Today I will re-read all the posts you re-posted on joy.
I have done the hour's bible study and now just need to run quickly ( well walk...run HA HA) and make sure the apt is fine....Leonard and I split the things needed to be done, but he wanted me to check to make sure nothing was left undone, or whatever.
So I will be back to re-read joy posts in about 10 or 15 mins....might get a cup of tea first.
That's great how you got yourself out of the feeling down by choosing to be in control of your emotions and thoughts instead of allowing them to control you. Remember your "reasons" or "excuses" that you posted for why you felt down? Most of them are legitimate reasons to feel down, but just because they're legitimate doesn't mean that we have no choice about how we're going to feel or think. While most people don't have any idea that they are constantly choosing how they are going to feel, the Lord shows us that this is true and that we can control our feelings if we choose to do so. At times it's harder and it may take time before our feelings match our thoughts, but as long as we act as though we feel differently, eventually they will match with our thoughts.
By the way, I meant to mention that what we talked about concerning gossip doesn't mean that you shouldn't talk with your landlord about not being able to afford a rent increase or whatever you need to discuss with him. There's nothing wrong with that. It's just wrong when we talk negatively about someone behind their back.
So starting to re-read the notes on joy......
I wrote:
I will pray the night before and first thing upon awakening.
how am I doing?
I think I remember to do this about 1/2 the time....which is about how I am either completely exhausted in pain etc. and actually fall asleep fast or the other half of the time....tho exhausted, in pain etc. can't fall asleep, and then I remember to pray about joy, count my blessings, take thoughts captive
I also will memorize scripture to help fight this battle ( because even Jesus fought satan with the Word).
How am I doing?
I have not really done this yet....I most recently ( the last 3 days or so) have been focusing on doing an hour bible study)
Do you have a good verse to start with....I know you gave me a bunch....I can go re-read, but I just wondered if you knew of the one to start with).
However, I do think that already being in the word even for only an hour, getting closer to Jesus by His Word, is helping with joy ( I did feel a little down this morning but I think a lot of it was just tiredness)...still I do have a joyful attitude when reading the Bible. So many things speak to me, encourage me, uplift me, help me to be grateful, and praise God and love Jesus because of His word.
like you said, I have had a life time of bad habits and so it may take awhile to unlearn the bad and re-learn the new so to speak.
Next: looking forward to something each day:
How am I doing?
I want it to be being in God's word as the most wonderful thing....and then some days, I look forward to go with Leonard to pick up Hossanah at work, and getting to chat, some days ( at least in the summer) I look forward to a walk tho I haven't done that as much lately, I also look forward to reading Christian fiction books, and listening to praise and worship songs.
I think this may take more than a day to get thru. so I am going to take a short nap because I am tired.
Also, I posted something about aging that may help you:
fresh-hope.com/thread/3652/heart-aflame-keep-on
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 28, 2017 11:49:05 GMT -5
Yes, I was trying to talk about how I was doing with part of my plan
( but also), re-reading the posts....
where I had written some of my plan....
I guess that didn't work out so well....LOL
So I will go back to working on the plan and let you ask the questions! :-)
I read studied and wrote notes in my notebook 2 Thessalonians today
When I woke up I started counting my blessings ( after smiling to Jesus) and thought about what I was looking forward to for today ( Bible study, going to pick up Hossanah and maybe a walk?).
I have to go over and watch Devon but also Vanessa and her boyfriend ( both mom's insist on adult supervision......it's not that they don't 'trust' them, maybe its more they don't trust youthful biology or something
However we are going to leave them along for about 45 mins because not only am I going with Leonard to pick up Hossanah, I need to pick up some stuff at her store ( she ok that short time.....plus they will have to watch Devon during that short time).
Then when I get back and grab some breakfast at one-ish
I will come back and re-read some more of the depression/joy notes.
Did you know MacArthur really doesn't like the NIV? I just watched a video where he talked about why he did his study bible in the NIV even tho.
The publisher agreed that he could put in as many notes of correction ( my word...I can't remember if he said that word exactly)
He did say it is the most popular version in our country but even more so in the world.
I mention it because I was really surprised ( he didn't say which version he prefers)
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 28, 2017 23:13:47 GMT -5
After my hour Bible study,
the day got completely away from me....
baby sat teens (granddaughter Vanessa and boyfriend and Devon) for a couple of hours,
went to pick up Hossanah and got a few things,
landlord came and needed us to go over stuff....
seems like rent will go up $100 but not until Jan. so that is good anyway.
I did write in my notebook 4 or 5 verses you gave for joy etc. but I did not get them all....
Back to my plan....
it has to start the night before with prayer about the morning, and I need to read one of the verses so I can draw on it in the morning ( I will eventually memorize them all but one at a time).
Morning starts with a smile....
take thoughts captive/count my blessings,
maybe sing a song to myself,
speak the verse to myself,
remember what I am looking forward to ( maybe think about that the night before).
I realized another negative thought, besides all the ones we have discussed over the year....
is I sometimes and depressed and disappointed I wasted my life...I did not live it for Jesus....
I know, I have to leave that past behind and live today...
but that sometimes it what also may hit me in the morning.....along with it is saying I am also lazy...
again I need to let it go and do what I can.
The idea of wasting my life and lazy will also hit me when I take an afternoon nap for an hour or two
( depression will sometimes hit me because I feel so tired but also so lazy and useless,
it's like a choking yet catatonic feeling.....
like I can't even get up,
and that in itself is scary and depressing
and the depression is depressing LOL
Weird huh?
Sooooo I have to take those thoughts captive.
It happened this afternoon....I took about an hour or two nap and my plan was to look forward to a walk.....
but I had such a hard time actually getting up...
and I was caught between, not wanting to go for the walk
( but if I stayed sleeping I would be more and more depressed....)
and wanting to go for a walk
Finally.....
I did get up
and go for a walk
and
I felt muchly uplifted
but what a struggle arrgghhhhhh!!!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 29, 2017 15:07:25 GMT -5
I did pray last night,
but was soooo tired, I did not write my first verse to have ready for the morning.....
I will pick one today ( and even tho I wrote it in my notebook),
I will write it on a 3 x 5 card so I can grab just it in the morning
( in case I am so sleepy I can't remember it.....
since it will be a first time thing....
so I am guessing it may take awhile.
Also I can take the verse with me if I go on a walk, and work on memorizing and meditating on it...I know you know I don't mean the worldly type of meditating but thinking on it.
So today for my Bible study I read the first 4 Psalms
And strangely enough the word meditate is in Psalm One LOL
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who 'meditates' on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
You know I never really got why verse 3 followed verse 2.....but I 'think' maybe I did today.
You can tell me if I am wrong tho.
What occurred to me is when a Christian is more and more in the word, when 'droughts' come along ( externally like, people problems,
or spiritually like satan or demonic,
or health issues etc.
because they have so much of the Word ( Jesus is the Word and living water),
then the drought is not going to hurt them the same way it would an unbeliever, because they have 'living water' to keep (most if not all) of the drought from harming them.
Like for a silly example....if someone is mean to them, they can lean on the Lord's word and forgive the person, they have a wealth of scripture to heal the wounds etc.?
or like verse 12 of Psalm 2 says: ".....Blessed are all who take refuge in him"
v. 5 of Psalm 3 seemed to be applicable to my waking up dole drums
5 "I lie down and sleep;
I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.
6 I will not fear...."
And then in Psalm 4 v. 7
there is a joy reference
"Fill my heart with joy"
plus, another reference to sleep etc. in v. 8
8 "In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, Lord,
make me dwell in safety"
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Jul 31, 2017 11:41:37 GMT -5
Yes, I was trying to talk about how I was doing with part of my plan
( but also), re-reading the posts....
where I had written some of my plan....
I guess that didn't work out so well....LOL
So I will go back to working on the plan and let you ask the questions! :-)
I read studied and wrote notes in my notebook 2 Thessalonians today
When I woke up I started counting my blessings ( after smiling to Jesus) and thought about what I was looking forward to for today ( Bible study, going to pick up Hossanah and maybe a walk?).
I have to go over and watch Devon but also Vanessa and her boyfriend ( both mom's insist on adult supervision......it's not that they don't 'trust' them, maybe its more they don't trust youthful biology or something
However we are going to leave them along for about 45 mins because not only am I going with Leonard to pick up Hossanah, I need to pick up some stuff at her store ( she ok that short time.....plus they will have to watch Devon during that short time).
Then when I get back and grab some breakfast at one-ish
I will come back and re-read some more of the depression/joy notes.
Did you know MacArthur really doesn't like the NIV? I just watched a video where he talked about why he did his study bible in the NIV even tho.
The publisher agreed that he could put in as many notes of correction ( my word...I can't remember if he said that word exactly)
He did say it is the most popular version in our country but even more so in the world.
I mention it because I was really surprised ( he didn't say which version he prefers)
While I use the NIV myself (the older version) I always check the other versions on just about every verse anyway, so I guess you could say that I use the NIV/ KJV/NASB/NET/ESV bibles as I read all of those daily lol. The translations people prefer are really personal and it depends on a lot of things. So there's nothing wrong with him not liking it or with others liking it lol. Although I've heard many others say like me that they like the older version and wouldn't even consider using the newer one.
It sounds like you did very well this day!
After my hour Bible study,
the day got completely away from me....
baby sat teens (granddaughter Vanessa and boyfriend and Devon) for a couple of hours,
went to pick up Hossanah and got a few things,
landlord came and needed us to go over stuff....
seems like rent will go up $100 but not until Jan. so that is good anyway.
I did write in my notebook 4 or 5 verses you gave for joy etc. but I did not get them all....
Back to my plan....
it has to start the night before with prayer about the morning, and I need to read one of the verses so I can draw on it in the morning ( I will eventually memorize them all but one at a time).
Morning starts with a smile....
take thoughts captive/count my blessings,
maybe sing a song to myself,
speak the verse to myself,
remember what I am looking forward to ( maybe think about that the night before).
I realized another negative thought, besides all the ones we have discussed over the year....
is I sometimes and depressed and disappointed I wasted my life...I did not live it for Jesus....
I know, I have to leave that past behind and live today...
but that sometimes it what also may hit me in the morning.....along with it is saying I am also lazy...
again I need to let it go and do what I can.
The idea of wasting my life and lazy will also hit me when I take an afternoon nap for an hour or two
( depression will sometimes hit me because I feel so tired but also so lazy and useless,
it's like a choking yet catatonic feeling.....
like I can't even get up,
and that in itself is scary and depressing
and the depression is depressing LOL
Weird huh?
Sooooo I have to take those thoughts captive.
It happened this afternoon....I took about an hour or two nap and my plan was to look forward to a walk.....
but I had such a hard time actually getting up...
and I was caught between, not wanting to go for the walk
( but if I stayed sleeping I would be more and more depressed....)
and wanting to go for a walk
Finally.....
I did get up
and go for a walk
and
I felt muchly uplifted
but what a struggle arrgghhhhhh!!!
Yes, a struggle that you won with God's help! did you remember to ask Him to help you? (He did whether you asked or not, but it's always better when we do) Hon, that kind of thing is due to the pain and illness we have (no, not our age LOL) So no, you're not lazy and neither am I. The same kind of thoughts try to get in my mind too only I refuse to allow them. I know they're not true and you know that as well. The difference is that I'm so used to just shoving them away that they rarely bother me for more than a second anymore.
Here's an idea for you. Since you say this happens once in a while, why don't you tell Leonard about it and ask him to help you? Figure out a "code word" or phrase that will be easy to remember for both of you, and whenever you use that code word or phrase, it will mean that you need his help to get up. And don't forget to discuss what kind of help you would want him to give you. Should he just use words to encourage you or should he at some point reach out and give you a hand physically to get up?
Yes, it can be a very hard struggle, and yet doesn't that make winning it that much more sweet? You did really well!
I did pray last night,
but was soooo tired, I did not write my first verse to have ready for the morning.....
I will pick one today ( and even tho I wrote it in my notebook),
I will write it on a 3 x 5 card so I can grab just it in the morning
( in case I am so sleepy I can't remember it.....
since it will be a first time thing....
so I am guessing it may take awhile.
Also I can take the verse with me if I go on a walk, and work on memorizing and meditating on it...I know you know I don't mean the worldly type of meditating but thinking on it.
So today for my Bible study I read the first 4 Psalms
And strangely enough the word meditate is in Psalm One LOL
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who 'meditates' on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
You know I never really got why verse 3 followed verse 2.....but I 'think' maybe I did today.
You can tell me if I am wrong tho.
What occurred to me is when a Christian is more and more in the word, when 'droughts' come along ( externally like, people problems,
or spiritually like satan or demonic,
or health issues etc.
because they have so much of the Word ( Jesus is the Word and living water),
then the drought is not going to hurt them the same way it would an unbeliever, because they have 'living water' to keep (most if not all) of the drought from harming them.
Like for a silly example....if someone is mean to them, they can lean on the Lord's word and forgive the person, they have a wealth of scripture to heal the wounds etc.?
or like verse 12 of Psalm 2 says: ".....Blessed are all who take refuge in him"
v. 5 of Psalm 3 seemed to be applicable to my waking up dole drums
5 "I lie down and sleep;
I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.
6 I will not fear...."
And then in Psalm 4 v. 7
there is a joy reference
"Fill my heart with joy"
plus, another reference to sleep etc. in v. 8
8 "In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, Lord,
make me dwell in safety"
I've memorized verse 8, but my version is different. It says "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."
Yes, writing it on an index card or slip of paper to keep by your bed (and take with you when you walk, etc) is a great idea. That's exactly what I do as well for my memory verses. I have a huge pile of them on my nightstand now lol... somewhere around 73-75 I think. I try to go over some of them every night, but some nights I'm just too exhausted. When I start a new one, I go over that one until I can get it right all the time and then start going over all the others again so they stay memorized. I just wish I could memorize more faster, but I've had to slow way down because I know if I don't go over the ones I've already memorized that I'll forget them, and I don't want that to happen. So now I'll probably only be able to add a new one every couple of months or so. But it's also good brain work and keeps your brain active and healthy. I've found too that I have less trouble with brain fog and less memory problems now than I did before I started memorizing the verses on a regular basis. That's a nice plus.
It sounds like you're doing really well hon. Keep up the good work. I'm looking forward to seeing what you're whole plan is going to be. I thought you already had most of it done (the part I posted of what you wrote) but I like the additions you've added too. I'm just anxious to see the whole thing lol.
.
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Jul 31, 2017 12:37:01 GMT -5
I did finally write a wake up ( well, also a read before I go to sleep if possible) verse.
I did read 2 psalms (5 & 6) yesterday and studied them in my hour bible reading time....but then we had to go clean the B &
B apt. ( but I did my Bible study first HA....yeah!!)
But it was a harder clean ( the guest had given their 2 or 3 yea old daughter a BIG glass of orange juice on the cloth sofa ( that also has 5 throw pillows).....
and I just know....that you know....what happened!!!
Yup....she spilled it all over the sofa and pillows....so an extra added thing to do we were not exactly expecting....and it was to be a 4 hour turn around ( old guests out, new in 4 hours).....thankfully the guests left early and the new came later.....so we were able to do everything, but nothing extra.
Anyway, I didn't even take a walk....for some reason, yesterday, I was hurting waaaaay more than usual, after cleaning, and waaay more tired.
All to say, I never got to posting yesterday.
Today, for my bible study, I read psalms 7,8, & 9.
Strangely, I found a verse that really spoke to me ( concerning depression.....especially if I get struck with a terror thinking.....Oh no, I am not really saved..... ( that almost never happens anymore, but it still does from time to time.
But the verse that just jumped out in comfort to me, was psalm 9 the 2nd half of verse 10:
"......Lord, (you) have never forsaken those who seek you."
I know I am saved!!!
but what was so comforting was even IF I wasn't
I could assure myself that I am certainly 'seeking' Him sincerely, truly, with all my heart and He has NEVER forsaken those who seek Him.
The word 'Never' in that verse would mean, I would be included....
but of course He has already saved me....
I just found that verse uplifting.....
it's like I never saw it before ...
I know I have.... I used to read all the psalms every month for a while, years ago
(5 psalms a day, along with the one of the 30 proverbs a day) so each month I would read all 150 psalms....so surely I 'read' that verse, but it didn't speak to me then).
Oh nooooo.... I am not sure I remember 'all' of my depression/joy plan....
I remember key parts....
but am drawing a blank when you said 'ALL'.
Maybe I will try write it out tomorrow cuz I'm having a brain freeze or something....like hitting a wall...
I can write a lot of my plan, maybe most of it...but ALL?
I am stumped at the moment sigh!
|
|
|
|
Post by Cindy on Aug 1, 2017 11:45:48 GMT -5
I did finally write a wake up ( well, also a read before I go to sleep if possible) verse.
I did read 2 psalms (5 & 6) yesterday and studied them in my hour bible reading time....but then we had to go clean the B &
B apt. ( but I did my Bible study first HA....yeah!!)
But it was a harder clean ( the guest had given their 2 or 3 yea old daughter a BIG glass of orange juice on the cloth sofa ( that also has 5 throw pillows).....
and I just know....that you know....what happened!!!
Yup....she spilled it all over the sofa and pillows....so an extra added thing to do we were not exactly expecting....and it was to be a 4 hour turn around ( old guests out, new in 4 hours).....thankfully the guests left early and the new came later.....so we were able to do everything, but nothing extra.
Anyway, I didn't even take a walk....for some reason, yesterday, I was hurting waaaaay more than usual, after cleaning, and waaay more tired.
All to say, I never got to posting yesterday.
Today, for my bible study, I read psalms 7,8, & 9.
Strangely, I found a verse that really spoke to me ( concerning depression.....especially if I get struck with a terror thinking.....Oh no, I am not really saved..... ( that almost never happens anymore, but it still does from time to time.
But the verse that just jumped out in comfort to me, was psalm 9 the 2nd half of verse 10:
"......Lord, (you) have never forsaken those who seek you."
I know I am saved!!!
but what was so comforting was even IF I wasn't
I could assure myself that I am certainly 'seeking' Him sincerely, truly, with all my heart and He has NEVER forsaken those who seek Him.
The word 'Never' in that verse would mean, I would be included....
but of course He has already saved me....
I just found that verse uplifting.....
it's like I never saw it before ...
I know I have.... I used to read all the psalms every month for a while, years ago
(5 psalms a day, along with the one of the 30 proverbs a day) so each month I would read all 150 psalms....so surely I 'read' that verse, but it didn't speak to me then).
Oh nooooo.... I am not sure I remember 'all' of my depression/joy plan....
I remember key parts....
but am drawing a blank when you said 'ALL'.
Maybe I will try write it out tomorrow cuz I'm having a brain freeze or something....like hitting a wall...
I can write a lot of my plan, maybe most of it...but ALL?
I am stumped at the moment sigh!
I'm glad you found that verse to comfort you that's great! It's obviously what the Lord wanted you to see.
I hope those people cleaned up some of the mess at least. It's horrible the way people don't clean up after themselves anymore.
I've got to run...I'm late as always! Love you!
|
|
fearnot
Living With Pain
Posts: 8,383
|
Post by fearnot on Aug 1, 2017 12:44:17 GMT -5
I think I did write it down in my notebook....well at least part of it....so I will go back, find the post and finish writing it in notebook ( if I haven't done so already).
Then, am I too re-write it here with all the additions I added?
So today I read and studied psalms 10 & 11
I like the verse in ps. 10
"you are the helper of the fatherless"
What is interesting is Leonard ( who reads from the Bible each night before we eat...) is reading about David
( with his band of men) when he was hiding from Saul ....
and I am reading David's psalms,
and also I am reading a Christian fiction novel titled 'Days of War'....about David and his men
( esp.
one called Beniah) while David was running from King Saul.
That is kind of a first, to be reading 3 different things all about the same thing....well 2 from Scripture and one based ( more or less, it is fiction) on scripture.
|
|
Honey, when I said "in one breath" I didn't mean that literally since the change happens so very fast that we can't possibly perceive it. God's Word says it happens "in the time it takes a person to blink."
!!
