Tips to Move Forward Even When Times Get Tough

The journey of 2024, like any other year, will not be devoid of challenges. But it’s in the face of these obstacles where our resolve is tested and our growth occurs. Here are some strategies to keep moving forward when times get tough.

  1. Maintain your focus on the big picture. Challenges are often temporary, but our larger goals remain constant. Keeping our eyes fixed on the end goal can help us navigate through tough times.
    • Bible Verse to Remember: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14
    • Quote to Remember:  “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow is our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
  1. Foster resilience. It’s our ability to bounce back from adversity that determines our forward momentum. Cultivate a growth mindset, learn from your experiences and remember that setbacks are steppingstones, not dead ends.
    • Bible Verse to Remember: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3
    • Quote to Remember: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela
  1. Remember to take care of yourself. Tough times can be mentally and physically draining. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate rest can boost our resilience and enable us to tackle challenges more effectively.
    • Bible Verse to Remember: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.” – 1 Corinthians 6:19
    • Quote to Remember: “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn
  1. Seek support when needed. We are not alone in our journey. Friends, family, mentors, or professional help can provide valuable advice, encouragement, and a fresh perspective.
    • Bible Verse to Remember: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
    • Quote to Remember: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

While challenges are inevitable, they don’t have to derail our journey. By adopting these strategies, we can continue to move forward, making 2024 the best year ever.

Just some thoughts,

19 Reflections on God’s Goodness

  1. Dive into the deep seas of God’s goodness with Psalm 34:8, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.”

 

  1. God’s faithfulness is a guiding light in the dark. Feeling low? Remember Lamentations 3:22-23, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases…”

 

  1. How about some midweek motivation? Remember, as in Romans 8:28, “God works for the good of those who love Him…”

 

  1. Experience the comfort of His goodness. Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life…”

 

  1. Ever wondered about the vastness of God’s love? Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love…”

 

  1. Need some reassurance today? Remember 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

 

  1. Need a reminder of your worth? Consider Matthew 10:29-31, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care… So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

 

  1. How about a little Monday motivation to start the week, right? Remember Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

 

  1. In case you forgot, you are loved! Let’s remember Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

 

  1. Need a little boost today? Remember Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

 

  1. God’s hand is extended to us, even in our mess. Remember Romans 5:8, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

 

  1. Feeling like the world is against you? God is for you! Remember Romans 8:31, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

 

  1. Have you thanked God today for His endless goodness? 1 Chronicles 16:34, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

 

  1. Struggling with fear? God’s love is a perfect antidote. 1 John 4:18, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear…”

 

  1. Feeling weary today? Remember Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

 

  1. God is our source of strength and comfort. Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

 

  1. A little reminder for today: God’s love for you is unfailing. Psalm 136:26, “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.”

 

  1. You are never alone. Remember Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

 

  1. Let’s end the week with a powerful reminder: God is good, all the time. Psalm 100:5, “For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.”

 


 

Just some thoughts,

Signature File

 

What Does It Mean to be a Christian? (Part #4)

What Does It Mean to be a Christian? (Part #4)

Christians are people of action! Being a Christian transcends beyond mere belief; it’s an active pursuit of a life modeled after Jesus Christ. This journey is not confined to Sundays but is an everyday commitment to living out one’s faith through actions that draw one closer to God.

First, if you ask God in faith for the wisdom to go through trials, He will grant you wisdom. (James 1.8) Faith is not just about weathering storms but seeking the wisdom to navigate them. When faced with trials, a Christian’s faith is a request for divine guidance, a wisdom that God promises to provide generously.

Second, the man who stands firm throughout trials will receive a reward from God—a crown of life. (James 1.12) The crown of life is a promise from God, just as Paul spoke in 2 Timothy 4.6-8)

Third, God is the giver of ever perfect and good gift. (James 1.17) We know this to be true because every spiritual blessing is found in Christ. (Ephesians 1.3) We know God will take care of His children. Matthew 6.19-34)

Fourth, we still must act. James writes, “be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1.22) If we only hear the word and then do nothing about it, we deceive ourselves because our actions do not follow through with our beliefs.

Do your beliefs align with your actions?

Just some thoughts,

 

 

 

What Does It Mean to be a Christian? (Part #4)

What Does It Mean to be a Christian?(Part #3)

Early Christians faced numerous challenges, including government persecution, adhering to a different set of beliefs, and striving to do what is right in an immoral world. These issues are not unique to the first century but continue to be relevant today.

How do you cope with the challenges you encounter?

James tells his readers that it is possible to find joy in the midst of trials and temptations.

Do you find joy, even in the smallest amount amid trials and temptations?

This is achievable for Christians because they have a long-term perspective. James writes, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1.2-3 ESV)

Steadfastness, when fully developed, helps Christians become mature and complete (James 1:4). A long-term perspective has its advantages.

Christians know that things in life work towards a greater good because they have a God who cares for their well-being. James encourages his readers to ask God for wisdom, as He will grant it to those who have faith (James 1:5-8).

How do you deal with challenges?

Do you have a long-term perspective?

Do you seek wisdom from God?

Just some thoughts,

 

 

 

Embracing Change 

Embracing Change 

From time to time, I will share a variety of topics related to personal growth and development. These thoughts are part of what we do at the Preacher’s Pen, but also related to our efforts at 4031 Coaching.  

Today, we will mention a few tips and strategies on “Embracing Change.” Change affects every aspect of our lives from family, work, church, etc. We are all impacted by change and how it gives us opportunity.  

Here are a few thoughts to share.  

Embracing Change 

Change is an inevitable part of life, and it can be challenging to navigate. However, with the right mindset and tools, you can learn to embrace change and use it as an opportunity for personal growth and development.  

Here are some tips and strategies to help you deal with change in a positive and productive way. 

#1 – Acceptance 

The first step in dealing with change is acceptance. As the saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” Life is always changing, and the sooner you can accept this fact, the easier it will be to adapt to new situations. Remember, acceptance doesn’t mean giving up or being passive; it means acknowledging the reality of the situation and choosing to move forward. 

Sometimes, change is an opportunity to get out of our comfort zone and move forward. Remember, Abram and God asking him to pack up everything and move. That is one change in his life that brought great opportunity.  

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” – John F. Kennedy 

Remember, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8.28 

#2 – Don’t Get Too Comfortable 

It’s easy to become comfortable in our routines and resist change. However, change often happens when we least expect it, and it’s important to be prepared for anything that comes our way. By staying open to new experiences and being willing to step outside of our comfort zones, we can build resilience and learn to adapt to change more easily. 

Our comfort can give way to apathy. An individual may become so comfortable, they find themselves complacent and apathetic toward moving forward.  

“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.” – Alan Watts 

Remember, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12.2 

#3 – Talk About Your Feelings Towards Change 

Change can bring up a range of emotions, and it’s important to acknowledge and express these feelings. Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling, whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with others can help you feel supported and understood, and it can also provide new perspectives and insights. 

As Christians, we can talk to our spiritual family. Most importantly, we should be taking to God. (Philippians 4.6) Throughout change, our communication with God should be a priority.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” – Steve Jobs

Remember, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5.7 

#4 – Try to Turn the Change in Your Favor 

Change can be challenging, but it can also present new opportunities. Try to look for the silver lining in the situation and see if there are any ways you can turn the change to your advantage. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth and development. The change we are experiencing may work out to be a great opportunity that we can imagine.  

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” – Viktor Frankl 

Remember, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4.13 

#5 – Keep Changes You Can Control to a Minimum 

Change can be overwhelming, especially when it happens all at once. If you have control over the changes in your life, try to introduce them gradually to give yourself time to adjust. Remember, slow and steady wins the race. 

There are times in our life where changes bring worry. Those times of worry are moments we probably want to avoid. As Christians, if we believe God is in control of our lives, then our worries should be made known to Him. Consider the words of Christ in Matthew 6.19-34) 

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” – Socrates 

Remember, “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” – 1 Corinthians 14.33 

#6 – Join Support Groups 

Sometimes, change can be so significant that we need the support of others who are going through similar experiences. Consider joining a support group to connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can be incredibly helpful and healing. 

The biggest support group Christians have is their brothers and sisters in Christ. As we pray for one another, support one another, and look out for one another, we should know we are loved. The experience of like-minded brothers and sisters will help us gain much throughout life. They will be a support network we can count on.  

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller 

Remember, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” – Hebrews 10.24-25 

#7 – Trust Your Instincts 

When faced with change, it’s important to trust your instincts and listen to your inner voice. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to speak up or remove yourself from the situation. Remember, you are the expert on your own life, and you know what’s best for you. 

You might trust yourself because of your experience and ability but remember the One who designed you with your strengths and abilities. We have gained much in this life, but never forget the One who gave us those opportunities.  

“Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.” – Benjamin Spock 

Remember, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3.5-6 

#8 – Change Can Lead to Unforeseen Opportunities 

Change can be scary, but it can also open up new doors and opportunities. By staying open to new experiences and embracing change, you may discover new passions, meet new people, and find new paths in life. Remember, every ending is a new beginning. 

“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.” – Wayne Dyer 

Remember, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 

Here are a Few Actionable Steps 

  • Practice acceptance by acknowledging the reality of the situation and choosing to move forward. 
  • Step outside of your comfort zone and try something new to build resilience and adaptability. 
  • Talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling and seek support if needed. 
  • Look for the silver lining in the situation and see if there are any ways you can turn the change to your advantage. 
  • Introduce changes gradually if possible, to give yourself time to adjust. 
  • Join a support group to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. 
  • Trust your instincts and listen to your inner voice. 
  • Stay open to new experiences and opportunities that may arise from change. 

Remember, change is a natural part of life, and with the right mindset, tools, and God, you can learn to embrace it and use it as an opportunity for personal growth and development.  

Keep moving forward, and trust that everything will work out in the end. 

If you are a Christian, your change to live for Christ is powerful. Consider Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 5.17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”  

Just some thoughts,