Support System Sunday

-->According to the Bible, it is our responsibility to console, support and protect others during hard times.

Gal. 6:2 tells us: Go on carrying the burdens of one another, and thus fulfill the law of the (Divine Light/) Christ. 

Each of us can contribute to the well-being and growth of those around us, and beyond.  How do we do accomplish this responsibility?  We do this by striving to be, at all times, a source of encouragement and spiritual refreshment to others.

So, then, let us pursue the things making for peace and the things that are upbuilding to one another. Rom. 14:19   Above all things, have intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.  Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.  In proportion as each one has received a gift, use it in ministering to one another as fine stewards of God’s undeserved kindness expressed in various ways.  1 Peter 4: 8-10

Let us always be ready and willing to assist others.  Let us share as much as we can, as circumstances allow.   Let us be cheerful givers.  

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 reminds us: But as to this, he that sows sparingly will also reap sparingly; and he that sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 

It is up to each us to do the work to connect with others; no one can do it for us.  Sometimes this responsibility to our brothers and sisters can feel overwhelming, especially when fulfilling this responsibility interferes with our own wants and/or needs.  When this happens, let us remember that we are never really alone; the Creator/God, the Divine Light/Jesus and other Spirits are with us.  

Let us take our problems to the Creator/God.  Just as it is up to each us to do the work to connect with others, it is up to each of us to make the connection with the Creator/God.  Sometimes we allow ourselves to get so disconnected and frazzled that we can not reconnect.  The Creator/God knows this and recommends having a support system; it is vital to our success.   Success in most endeavors is a team effort, not a solo performance.      

Proverbs 15:22 states: There is a frustrating of plans where there is no confidential talk, but in the multitude of counselors there is accomplishment. 

A support system is a network of people who interact and remain in informal communication for mutual assistance; members of the network provide practical, emotional and/or spiritual support which sustains other members in their survival and growth, on an as needed basis. 

Successful support systems typically consist of a minimum of 3 people.   There are 2 main, beneficial, reasons for this:

1.     No one is available 24/7; the more people in our support system, the better chance we have of receiving the assistance we perceive we need. We will not always be there to shield others from life’s challenges. 

2.     When we stay focused on the goal of teaching another to stand on his/her own two feet, we are given the opportunity to help empower them.   

To help us stay focused on this goal, we can ask ourselves the following questions:

1.     What can the person asking for help reasonably do on their own? 

2.     Are there things we (the support system) are doing for this person, that they could do for themselves?   If yes, work with the person until sure that they can handle the responsibility on their own. 

3.     How much can each of us reasonably assist this person?

4.     What are our own personal boundaries?

5.     What are our support system group boundaries?

6.     What are the consequences to individual group members, the group at large and to the other person if the boundaries are not respected? Outline potential consequences of actions: good and bad.  In a very covert way, accepting the consequences of our actions helps us learn to rely on support only when necessary.  A good support person will not support a brother or sister in staying stuck.

For each one will carry his own load. Galatians 6:5

At times, we all need support. Let us never hesitate to accept help when struggling to cope.  Keep in mind, however, that if we do not trust a person, they really have no place in our support system.  People in our support system are the people, who, over time, get to know us; the real us.  In an effort to receive assistance, we often find ourselves sharing dis-harmonious/dis-eased thoughts and/or gut-wrenching emotions.  We must be able to trust those with whom we open up to and share our real “earthly” selves with. 

If a support person offers suggestions or options to assist us, we may choose to ignore them … If 2 support people tell us the same thing, it is usually in our best interest to listen … If 3 or more support people tell us the same thing, it is in our best interest to quit whining and take action by following or trying any suggestions or options given. 

Not all options or suggestions given, will work.  This does not mean that we should not do the footwork and try to implement them though.  When we shoot them down automatically, we disrespect and thereby abuse one or more members of our support system.   Let us be willing to do whatever it takes to move forward. 

Let us always accept any support we receive, with appreciation.  Let us never be demanding when asking others to help us handle our problems. Let us be reasonable in how much of their time and attention we expect them to give us.  Let us remember that our brothers and/or sisters may be unable to meet our needs.    

When this happens, let us continue to take our problems to the Creator/God and have faith that the Creator/God will sustain us in whatever trials we may face.

Whether we are giving or receiving help, let us do so in the right spirit.

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light/Jesus. Amen.

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The Lost Art of Discernment: Part 2 of 2

The formatting is acting up again; this week we seem to have some color ... lol

In a nutshell, it could be said that discernment is the “mindful consideration” of a subject. It is the conscious act of going beyond our individual, pre-conceived views, judgements and perceptions. 

Discernment is cyclical and consists of an external and an internal component. 

The external component of discernment pertains to actively researching a topic, to gain understanding. It is the practice of comparing and analyzing what we already believe we know, with information we read, see or hear.  

The internal component deals with comprehension and personal integration of our research, via meditation and personal reflection.  It is an interior search, it is the process of determining the Creator’s/God's will for us, and the ability to carry it out. 

(Discernment is) “Knowing what to do, how to proceed, and how to respond when the issue is not visible to us.”   Peggy Moerbe

King Solomon emphasized the importance of practicing discernment.  

My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up my own commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment; if, moreover, you call out for understanding itself and you give forth your voice for discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of God, and you will find the very knowledge of God.  When wisdom enters into your heart and knowledge itself becomes pleasant to your very soul, thinking ability itself will keep guard over you, discernment itself will safeguard you, to deliver you from the bad way, from the man speaking perverse things, from those leaving the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness. Proverbs 2:1-5, 10-13

Discernment helps us:

·        determine the value and quality of our individual views, judgements and perceptions

·        perceive subtleties (grasp and comprehend that which is not obvious)

·        discard any old or new information that is misleading or irrelevant

·        recognize truths that resonate within our hearts

·        practice humility

·        self correct

·        set our priorities straight

·        exercise good judgement

·        gain wisdom by making wise decisions, especially during stressful/trying times

·        cultivate a close relationship with the Creator/God

Discernment requires time and personal effort. As mentioned earlier, discernment is cyclical; there are many steps to take to complete a discernment cycle.  The process is the same, regardless of how many times we have gone through the cycle.  

Here is the process:

·        Abandon the notion that we always know what is best.  

·        Pray to the Creator/God for an open, receptive mind and heart: Because truth is constantly changing, it is important to have an open mind so we can let go of old knowledge that is no longer valid.

·        Ask the Creator/God for the help of the Holy Spirit.

·        Actively dig for information, as if searching for a buried treasure. 

·        Isolate and focus on the main points presented in our research; this will help us understand the development of the subject at hand.

·        Ask the Creator/God to help us understand/comprehend information found in our research.

·       Analyze new information: Put information received to the test; see if it is truthful.  How does this new information apply to us, individually?  Do the results of our research resonate as truth within our hearts?  If  not, do not automatically assume that it is false; we may simply not be ready to receive it yet.  Instead, continue researching and meditating on the subject at hand; in time, the truth will be revealed. 

“Beloved ones, do not believe every inspired expression, but test the inspired expressions.”  1 John 4:1

·        Pay attention to intuition; it does not lie.  Intuition is the spark of light within each of  us that provides us with an innate knowing/sense of awareness that comes to us without explanation or proof.

·        While digging for answers, wait for the Creator/God to respond.   

·        Meditate upon how new found information relates to the Creator’s/God’s purpose.

One who is trying to make spiritual progress should attempt to … see things objectively … without being influenced by  emotions or passions. Discerning whether something is the Creator’s/God’s will, or the (D)evil’s will, requires calm, rational reflection.  The Creator’s/God’s will brings us to peaceful, joyful decisions. The (D)evil’s will leads us to make quick, emotional, conflicted decisions. Paraphrase, St. Ignatius of Loyola 

·        Meditate upon how to integrate and apply new ideas into our lives

·        Practice honest self-evaluation: Do we need to make personal adjustments in our thinking/beliefs? 

·        Abandon our personal views/judgements/perceptions when it becomes obvious that we are wrong.

·        Integrate our new found truth(s) into our hearts.   

When we consistently practice discernment, integrate our new found truths into our hearts, and apply new ideas into our lives, we grow spiritually. Over time, we take on a new personality, and the current cycle of discernment is complete. Each completed cycle brings us closer to the truth. 

If we make the conscious effort to fill our minds and hearts with the truth, we will gain wisdom, insight, and discernment.  A humble person who puts forth this kind of effort will indeed be able to get to know the Creator/God.
 
Let us gives serious attention to what is really deep inside of ourselves. Let us use our minds to acquire accurate knowledge of the Creator/God. Let us meditate on these things and seek to apply them. By doing so,

You will know the truth, and truth will set you free. John 8:32

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light (Jesus Christ). Amen 

Reasonableness

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In the Bible, the word “reasonable” relates to the concept of being considerate, and conveys a sense of not being too strict.   Many people believe that they always need to do more, do better, or be better.  If we strive to attain unreasonable goals regardless of the cost, we subject ourselves to unnecessary stress.  Developing a reasonable view of what we CAN do, will greatly reduce our day to day stress levels.

Many of us are able to view others reasonably (with consideration), yet we find it very difficult to be considerate with ourselves. When we are reasonable, we are able to view our own circumstances in the same objective, balanced manner in which we view others.  To have a reasonable view of our own limitations can be challenging. 

We need to learn to recognize the signs that may tell us when we are approaching our own limits.  Proverbs 11:17

Once we identify our perceived limitations, it is not in our own best interest to become too lenient with ourselves, using our limitations as an excuse for doing less than we are capable of.  Though self examination and self adjustment can be challenging, it brings rich blessings.  Remember, the Creator/God never asks more of us than we can give. 

Just as it is not in our best interest to become too lenient with ourselves, it is not in our best interest to continue to focus our attention on our limitations.  To do so, prevents us from seeing what IS within our reach. 

It is to our benefit to do our best to make an honest appraisal of our abilities and limitations, and then cultivate reasonable expectations in light of our personal abilities and circumstances.  When we discern and appreciate the possibilities that ARE within our reach, instead of dwelling on our limitations, we are able to set balanced goals, and achieve a sense of achievement, despite our limitations.

The Creator/God understands human limitations and loves us when we serve him to the best of our ability, in spite of our limitations. 

Remembering that the Creator/ God is not a strict taskmaster, will help us to be modest in what we expect of ourselves, recognizing our limitations.  Micah 6:8

We may feel stress as we make personal adjustments.  Take time to speak to the Creator/God, the “Hearer of prayer” frequently.  Psalm 65:2

When we pray, we can ask the Creator/God to help us to make necessary adjustments in our lives.  Likewise, we can safely tell him about any anxiety we may be feeling, knowing that he cares for us.  1 Peter 5:7 

Self-adjustment requires personal determination and effort.  Adjusting the way we use our physical, mental, emotional and/or spiritual resources can help keep our life in balance.  When we have reasonable expectations and set reachable goals, our activities bring us deep satisfaction and joy.

“Always rejoice in the Lord. Once more I will say, Rejoice! Let your reasonableness become known to all men.”  Phil. 4:4,5

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light.
Amen

Manifesting Hope

A strong desire for something, coupled with an expectation of obtaining the object(s) of our desire, constitutes hope . Hope is the belief that our present day desires will, in fact, manifest as reality at some point in the future; it is a universal blessing.

While we look forward to the manifestation of something we are waiting (hoping) for, it serves us well to wait patiently and confidently. In Hebrew, the word for hope is confidence; it implies a confident expectation of the future.

As long as we maintain our hope, that our desire will, in fact, be attained, and we realize that it must be delayed for a certain period of time; we can wait patiently for the manifestation process to complete itself. As long as we sustain hope and patience, we can overcome obstacles and endure trials and pain, no matter their severity or intensity.

When we have a strong desire without a corresponding expectation of obtaining it, we tend to become impatient. Without hope, the darkness of desperation and anguish result.

”But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” Romans 8:25

The more that we believe that our hope has a high probabiltiy of being attained, the easier it will be for us to endure any tribulation that comes our way while we are patiently waiting for our hope to manifest itself. Prayer helps to strengthen our faith that our hopes will indeed eventually manifest; prayer raises the vibrational frequency of our hopes.

"In hope, rejoicing; in tribulation, enduring; in prayer, persevering." Romans 12:12

The ability to bring energy/light into form is a great spiritual gift and challenge. By manifesting, we are in active alignment with our spiritual selves, the Divine Light (Jesus), and the Creator (God).

“To each person has been given the ability to manifest the Spirit for the common good. “ I Corinthians 12:7

Energy follows thought; therefore, what we think about is extremely important, not only for ourselves but for the universe at large. Thought creates feelings (emotions). Doubt weakens or completely nullifies our ability to manifest. Therefore, it is important for us to identify any/all possible reasons (fears and doubts) which might prevent us from manifesting what we desire.

Desire provides the fuel to power the thoughts we project. The more desire we have, and the more we believe that our desires will manifest, the more successful we will be.

“And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship the Creator (God), and report that the Creator (God) is in you of a truth.” 1 Corinthians 14:25

When we let go and trust that the universe will provide what we need, exactly when we need it, we begin to attract support. Visible and invisible support not only helps move our manifestation process forward, but also help us gain the courage we need, to take, and continue taking, the steps we need to take.

That which we wish to manifest already exists; every possible outcome, conceived of in our thoughts, is already accomplished. When we recognize and are grateful for this knowledge, and expect our manifestations to come into being (form) they will; gratitude greatly accelerates the manifestation process. It may take a little time before our desire to manifest appears; it requires patience to sit back and wait. Our ability to remain patient is in direct proportion to how happy we are.

Manifestations that align our desires with our own individual Soul’s purpose manifest quite easily. Likewise, manifestations that are in alignment with our own, individual Ego, face many obstacles and stumbling blocks along the way. If we keep hitting a brick wall, we may want to turn around and take another path. Manifestation works best when we manifest selflessly, for the greater good; correct alignment of our will brings more energy/light to ourselves and others.

We can only manifest things that are in alignment with our belief that we are worthy. In other words, we can only manifest what we believe we can have. Our ability to be willing and open to receive the gift of manifestation, greatly affects what we manifest; we will only rise to the level of our own resistance.

"It is for this very purpose that I have lifted you so high--that I may make manifest in you My power, and that My name may be proclaimed far and wide in all the earth." Romans 9:17

So it is, sealed in trust, faith and truth, in the Sacred Divine Light.
Amen