Become an Encourager

From dawn to dusk, we take care of ourselves, we think of our present, our future, our sorrow, our happiness, in-fact everything rotates on us. Rather we are so…. self-centered that we forget to take a look, around even for a minute. Once in a while, we should take a walk in the street, and we will easily notice disturbed people, just read the needy faces, they will have talking eyes, which might desperately; be in need of a pat, a touch, a smile, a look; which will encourage them and make a big difference in their lives.

Encouragement is a genuine human character. Try to be an encourager to others so, that it enables the person to live with their own selves, despite their human frailties, weaknesses and; imperfections. At the same time, the encouragers words, provide power, and; boost the energy levels in making certain changes in personality of the other person. Encouragement makes a good personal relationship even, it makes excellent friendship.

I remember an incident few months ago….

I saw a girl, in our church who used to look quite disturbed, withdrawn, quiet, and reserved. I carefully observed her for few days. She would not talk to anyone, as soon as the service finished, she used to go home. Never mingling with others. One day purposely, I sat next to her, when the service began, I looked her, smiled and touched her hand. She felt nice. As the service was about to finish, I asked her “can you spare 2 min to talk”. She waited after the service, and then we both had a talk. She told me all her problems…and said “till now no one had enquired so keenly”. She felt relieved, after I gave an ear, consoled her, encouraged her and prayed with her. Later I could see the joy in her eyes. I thanked God for helping me to encourage someone today.

Encouraging Verse: 1Thes 5:11 So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it.

Even in scriptures we can see, God commanding Moses, to encourage Joshua. Paul, used to encourage his fellow prisoners and other people when he was in jail. God has given us the gift of His word which provides us with encouraging verses. Try to offer inspiration, for each day and provide comfort, strength and encouragement to cope with life's challenges for those in need.

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Thanks

Ann

Looking in the Mirror....

Mirror, Mirror ….How do I look?

Ahmm……I think this is the question, which most of us ask after getting dressed up. A mirror is a common item in every house. In fact we all, tend to greet it in the morning once, just to see how we are in the morning; so as to be presentable.

When I was working, it so happened that the alarm kept, ringing it is 6 a.m,6 a.m,6a.m…

 But, due to a a hectic evening duty, I slept off. A day duty after an evening shift is very difficult especially for those in medical field.

The alarm clock remained silent after 5 snoozes….Alas when I woke up, the time was past 8 a.m and the duty had started at 6a.m. 

In a haste, I opened the door of the washroom switched on the light, washed my face,
Changed my clothes and headed on to the hospital. I met, my in-charge on the corridor and she asked me..... “Tina why are your eyes, red and swollen, do you have conjunctivitis? Didn’t you notice the redness in your eyes? There's s something wrong? Come let's check with the ophthalmologist " and he advised me few days rest. I came to my room and look in the mirror.

 My eyes looked really red and swollen. Had I found the time to see myself in the mirror little more closely, I would not have the need to dress myself for duty..

Then, I came to realize the importance of a verse I read few days back and came to know its depth.

Anyone who listens to the word, and does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looked like…... But one who looks intently ……….will be blessed in what he does. James 1: 23,24

Everyone, I think especially women, have a tendency to look in the mirror of and on as if, asking how do I look?....Ahmm only if the mirror could speak, it would have told my in and outward appearance.

Imperfections are brought to light when we see the image closely, attentively, intently and carefully. Not only that, the imperfection or the fault should be corrected or fixed once you see it. The more I look into the mirror, the more I try to make myself look different… better…and perfect. Yes, one important thing, the mirror can’t speak but the mirror of God’s word is enough to make you and me perfect. In the image of His likeness.

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Thanks

Ann

Trust In God He Will Fulfill All Your Hopes...

Trust in god He will fulfill all your hopes

When, our expectations are not met, we feel there is no hope to succeed further? When we end up with dashed hopes, and with a lot of wasting of time and energy? That is the correct time when you ought to put your trust in God to fulfill all your hopes.

When all your hopes and dreams, seem to shatter remember, there is only one hope that only God can fulfill. May you see all your disappointments as, evidence of God’s hand working on every details of your life. In our lives sometimes, problems arise which make us shattered and good for nothing. That is the time, when disappointment lays hold on us.  We feel as if the things don’t move the way we, planned or hoped we experience disappointment, we really feel the pain, we feel a little blue, when all the doors remain closed in our lives then suddenly their arises a ray of hope us a beam of light coming in.

A few weeks ago, my close friend, who worked in a very reputed company, abroad for 9 years had to come down for some familial reasons. She applied for a job in many companies here, but was rejected. She was having big plans. This was very disappointing to her. She came to me with a broken heart saying “everyone had left me, even God seems to have forgotten me”. Frustrated and with a long face, she sat down on the sofa. I gave, some solace to her and told her, trust God He will fulfill all your hopes. A beautiful song came in my mind….

I just keep trusting my God, as I walk along…. Both of us together sang and glorified God.

When situations like these arise, we should put our trust in God and pray about it diligently seeking His will.Our hopes will ultimately find a restful bliss in God. He alone has the power to forever wipe away our fears and tears. He alone has the ability to satisfy the deepest desires and longings of our souls.

Famous Quotes: -

“God will fight your battles if you just keep still. He is able to carry you through. Trust Him. Keep standing, keep believing and keep hoping.”- Germany Kent

“Trust in God alone, and lean not on the needs of human help. Be not surprised when friends fail you; it is a failing world. Never reckon upon immutability in man: inconstancy you may reckon upon without fear of disappointment”-Charles Spurgeon

If this article has been a blessing to you and enlightened you, and you would like to help someone, please share with them by using “share” button. I love to hear your comments too. God bless you all.

Thanks

Ann.

Freedom To Choose....

Freedom to Choose

Freedom to Choose

Everyone, has a freedom to choose. Life is a matter of choices. It is up to each, individual how his mind works between choices laid in front.

I remember, when I was a school going child, I used to say to my mother during exams, if the Question paper contains multiple choice, I can easily score but to write a detailed Question answer is rather difficult… Those days my parents, used to give me two options, study and score good marks or play, and be a failure in your class.

At home, I tell my nephew and niece, children if you want to watch cartoon, you have to complete your homework, otherwise; no cartoon. So, they hurriedly complete their homework. Yesterday, I was taking an early morning walk, and being cold, I put on a jacket and a shawl around my neck, to protect myself from the cold wind; suddenly my nephew joined. Seeing, him I told Son “go inside”, as he will be coughing later on, and he may catch infection easily. But he didn’t want to go inside so I kept a clause, I told him son, you want to get sick, and miss your school or, you want to stay healthy, and play indoor games; he opted for the good thing.

In the same way God gives us freedom to choose a life with challenges and good moral or to have an immoral and sinful way.  As in the scriptures it is written about the narrow gate and broad gate in Matthew 7: 13, 14. Though the choice appears easy, the challenging road to the Kingdom of God, dismays many because they are unwilling, to undergo the rigors of the journey. God has given us freedom of choice, but He truly desires for us to choose Him. God has set before us the choice to obey or disobey, hoping we will choose obedience.

Famous Quotes:  “Life is about choices. Some we regret, some we’re proud of. Some will haunt us forever. The message: we are what we chose to be.” —Graham Brown

“The more decisions that you are forced to make alone, the more you are aware of your freedom to choose.” —Thornton Wilder

Life is a matter of choices. It is up to us to make a choice of good or bad. So, keeping God in mind submit your matter and wait for Him He will guide you to take a decision.

If you know this article would help someone, share with them by using “share” button.  Or use the other buttons to share it on your favorite social media.

I’d also love to hear from you. Please do leave a comment.

Thanks

Ann

Problems come with a solution in Life..

Problems come with a solution in life

 Are you facing problems in your way? Often in life we hear the bad news before, but soon the good news follows. We become worried, anxious, broken down; but that does not mean there is no solution. Problems can come to any individual even, I was facing a big problem last days but I had a faith that, I will come out of it, as my problem is not bigger than my God.  Perhaps God makes a solution to our problem then only He gives the problem in our life.  I packed up my luggage and went to my aunt’s house. Her house is situated near a beautiful mountain.

When I looked out, I remembered the beautiful Sunday School chorus…. It’s not by might, it’s not by power but by my spirit says the Lord...This mountain shall be removed…. I felt God speaking to me that there is a solution to all the problem which I am facing now. I felt as if a stone has been rolled away.

 However, we are able to see that God has a solution to all the difficulties. We can see in scriptures, how God provided manna as food to the Israelites in the desert, He even allowed water to flow from the rocks. It is clear that God blessed the Israelites with a home that was overflowing with milk and honey, but to reach there destination it was not easy but full of problems, yet they moved forward with their faith. You too should keep striving for your destiny, knowing that God has a solution to all your problems wait for God’s divine solutions for the difficulties you face in your life. When things seem to go wrong just sit down relax and think of the problem and pray over them Holy spirit will guide you.

Famous Quotes: - Whatever happens in your life, no matter how troubling things might seem, do not enter the neighborhood of despair. Even when all doors remain closed, God will open up a new path only for you. Be thankful! — Elif Shafak

Blessings bestowed on you.

Blessings bestowed on you

Blessing are the gifts from God. Blessings, do not come to us simply because, of our hard work and good planning; it’s all by the grace of God.

Few days back I was facing all sorts of trials in my life, I closed my room and meditated for few minutes, when those beautiful lines of the song which I learnt in my Sunday school, flashed across…. Count all your blessings name them one by one…. Write down all the things God has done in your life God always has a plan when you go through trials do not be discouraged and complaining. He allows things to happen for a reason, He knows what is best. “Count your blessings as often as possible, and you would become very enthusiastic about transforming your struggles into blessings instead of crying or complaining about them.” Really, I remember a story which I read long back:

It was about a farmer, whose wheat was destroyed by too much rain, and an insect. With the expectation of a good harvest the next year, he prayed to God earnestly to provide enough sunny days so that his wheat would not be exposed to winds or cold weather. Moreover, he asked God to protect his wheat from insects. Afterwards, everything went the way he wanted. At the time of harvest, the wheat grew tall and golden. Just as the farmer wanted. The farmer started to thanks God, meanwhile his wife discovered that the ears of wheat had no grains in them. It is seen that the wheat has a bumper harvest only if it faces harsh environment like strong harsh winds and cold weather, if there is no breeze or too much sunny days there will be less grains in it’s ears.

Learn Piano and Keyboard (please place the cursor on the text and click on the website)Learn Piano and keyboard

We can learn something from this story, if we grow in hardship and struggles, we will grow stronger and more mature. We will be able to deal with all the problems coming in our lives. It’s not a good thing if everything is easy and smooth in our lives.

Famous Verse: “My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into divers’ temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith works patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” --James 1:2-4

Yet.....

Yet 
A small poem

Even though I make promises and don’t fulfill YET He loves me.

 Though sometimes I forget to pray and give thanks to my God YET He is their with me.

 Even though I may remain faithless YET He will remain faithful.

Though, you were chastened by Him YET not killed by Him. 

God didn't say when you go through the storm it would be easy. But He said that even if storms come YET He will not leave you and help you to invade those storms.
Your life had disturbed and turbulent water which could have drowned you YET He saved you from those waters.

  Abraham didn't have his son according to his promise YET he did not waver from God's promise.
Written by Ann

Waiting....

Waiting

Few days back, I had a problem with my phone, the messages I sent, were received late to the receiver, I had to wait for the net to get active …. Waiting, waiting, waiting...In other instance I applied for a job and they told I have to wait for an appointment letter, again waiting, waiting, waiting….

Many times, we don't like to go through this waiting process. "Waiting without complaint," or patience might seem to be a morally insignificant trait.

 I was walking, through the river side in our back way, I saw bamboo trees, slender and long when my mind recalled a story, I heard long back…story of a Chinese bamboo tree.

Like any plant, growth of the Chinese Bamboo Tree requires nurturing through water, fertile soil, and sunshine. Once a farmer worked hard, in the first year, providing all the nourishment, for the tree to grow; enough water, soil, and sunshine for the plant to grow but there were no visible signs of growth. In the second year still, nothing to be seen, no growth above the soil. The third, fourth year…still showing no signs of anything happening. The poor farmer waited for 4years without any result but he did not lose his hope and faith. He went on without doubting kept on watering it, then one early morning, he saw something amazing happened…. The Chinese Bamboo tree grew up to 80 feet tall in just six weeks! But think for a moment, does the Chinese Bamboo Tree really grows 80 feet in six weeks? Did the Chinese Bamboo Tree lie dormant for four years only to grow exponentially in the fifth?

Had the farmer, dug up his little seed every year to see if it was growing, he would have stunted the tree’s growth. In other words, the actions caused by self-doubt would’ve halted the miracle from ever taking shape and cause him to go backwards.

You and I are the same. It takes faith to work while you wait. It takes belief in yourself to keep going.

I use my opportunity to spend time with God. When trials come in our lifetime during those times, we should spend time to pray and be in the presence of God. Wait on the results with faith. Pray and leave it to God he will work on it.

Steps for living a Healthy Life...

Steps for Living A Healthy and Happy Life

You are a fantastic being with a perfect body and mind, but to keep it going in the long run you should treat it well. People get illnesses and injuries due to the lack of care they give to this body. Nowadays problems with diabetes, High blood pressure, High cholesterol, Heart disease, Obesity, Kidney problem, Liver problem, Gastrointestinal problems are very common. All these are due to an unhealthy lifestyle. The focus should be in the right direction, for that you have to keep certain steps in mind to keep our body healthy and working.

1.   Eat nutritious and well-balanced food- The food which has carbohydrate, protein, vitamins and fat should be taken in adequate amount. The nutritional and calorie requirement should be met in each meal. Unbalanced food can cause certain deficiencies in the body.

2.  Wash your hands- Wash your hands with soap or sanitizers. If your hands are very dirty, you clean them nicely. Improper cleaning can transmit microorganism to your body which may cause disturbance in your health by reducing the immunity of your body.

3.   Drink fluids – To remain hydrated is very essential. Your body can go for periods of time without food but not without water. Water helps in the metabolic processes of the body. Caffeinated and alcohol drinks tend to dehydrate so try to avoid them instead take fresh juices or water.

4.  Exercise – It is a must, it can be any sort like aerobics, walking, jogging, cycling, swimming anything which makes your heart pump blood. Exercise early in the morning won’t make you feel lazy in the day. It improves blood circulation and releases muscle tension giving you a stronger body and mind.

5.  Sleep well- Get a minimum 8 hours sleep. Proper sleep relaxes your mind and keeps you healthy. Most of us focus on the work more and try to skip night sleep. Sleep increases our productivity levels and helps us in getting our tasks done faster.

6.   Limit on snacking- Eat when you are hungry. Avid fried food and calorie rich food in between your meals. Snacking will cause problems related to obesity. Even snacking at late night is bad for health. Avoid excess salt and oil.

7.   Relax and meditate- Remove stress and find some time for a good relaxation by either listening to songs or reading a book or enjoying nature. Find some time for meditation and thank the Almighty.

Count the number of your days...

Count the number of your days

Last week, being vacations for school, my sister and I thought to spend some time outing. So, I with my sister’s family, decided to go to a park. We packed our lunch boxes, took a can of water and set off... We reached the spot with splendid beauty around. Down the steps there was a beautiful park with flowers, trees and a small pond waiting for us.

Most fascinating was the lawn, like a green velvet under my feet. I just lay myself down, on that green velvet, and looking on the grass, the flowers, and the trees I slept of for a while. Fresh again, I went to the pond and observed the grass growing there too, it came to my mind that these blades of grass don’t have strength of their own it is God who strengthens each one of us. "As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more."

 No man should boast or glory on his strength. We should live our days on the earth by counting it and with fear. It’s very easy to number our cattle’s, houses, our money, our land but very difficult to number our hairs; more than that to number our years on this earth. Even the most productive, most privileged, most adventurous of mortal man will. Surrender your life and your works to God and a live a life pleasing in His sight

 In real life, many of us are highly uncomfortable with any discussion of mortality. Even mentioning it is considered not as a topic for discussion. Even most of them are scared to see or sit with a dying person, rather they like to send flowers or cards.  All fear death. Death is understood and grieved by people of every culture, every generation and every belief system. Like a grass we all have to fade one day, rather we should be happy that a true home is waiting for us. The life here is temporary, we have a home an eternal home a secure future without end.

We don’t have enough time to dispose. As St Austin says, “We can never do that, except we number every day as our last day.” Many people refuse to leave the earth even when earth wants to leave them.

Good fruit and bad fruit....

Good fruit and bad fruit

Out in my garden, one fine day, I was taking a morning stroll when the breeze blowing, carried the sweet and tempting aroma. I could see the ripe fruits of chickoo. The tree gave splendid joy to my heart as it was loaded with fresh chickoos, a pleasant sight to see. The sweet aroma, of sapota is unmistakable marvelous, with its fleshy brown skin and grainy sweetness inside. When I saw it, I just thanked God for the fruit.

 A little further, when I was still walking, I saw our Fig tree with big Elephant Ear leaf, reminding me of elephant’s ears. The leaves when they are young are intensely red, and turn more and more green when they reach bigger size. It is 5-10 m tall very beautiful, decorative leaves, which offer pleasant shade in the summer. But I was surprised to see the fruit, the fruits were numerous in clusters on the roots, on short branches and even on the hard trunk. It was growing like a wild fruit, but when I studied about it, it is quite useful fruit. The fruit can be used to make curry and vegetable dish. They are used in diarrhea and dysentery. Leaves are used for fodder.  Stem bark juice effective for cuts and wounds. Root latex is used in mumps, cholera, vomiting. Even though the fruit does not have sweet smell, still we can see the usefulness. God enlightened my mind with many thoughts seeing the fruits in garden.

When a man sows a seed, he expects that the tree will grow up and will be useful by either getting fruits or shade from it. If a man has so much expectation from a tree, he plants how much more God will expect from us. In the same way, God wants to see that we produce good fruit, where we are planted. As it is written in the scriptures “Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit” (Matthew 7:17-18).

"No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized, by its own fruit". The good man brings, good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things, out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. Thus, if we are connected with God, we produce the fruit God cultivates within us. It is God who does the work in us; our fruit-bearing is simply a result of what He does.

Fruits cultivated by God in us