THE COMFORT OF THE SERENITY PRAYER

By Vernalee

Somewhere in time, I am sure that you have heard or recited the Serenity Prayer. "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change; Courage to change the things that I can and Wisdom to know the difference."

The Serenity Prayer continues: “Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next.” Amen. With this prayer, we realize that: Acceptance is not laziness. Hardships present opportunities for growth and learning. It takes courage to change. Surrendering is an act of faith and trust. Happiness is attainable and can be claimed as yours. Serenity, courage, and wisdom are “comfort food” for our souls!

We all need to hear these refreshing words from time to time. They help us with adjustments to everyday life occurrences.

Happy Sunday!

Blessings! Photo credit: www.aahistory.com; Source – Huffington Post

I'M NOT LETTING YOU HOLD ME DOWN

By Vernalee

There are always obstacles and deterrents. Roadblocks do exist. Troubles will arise. There have been those who have created interference in my game plan. But I am determined. I might “give out,” but I will not ”give up” on my dreams and goals. People and things have turned me around and upside down, but I refuse to let them pull me down. Do know that I am not “all that!” Like most people, I have fallen by the wayside; not once, but many, many times! I have picked myself up and I have been picked up. So many hands have lifted me! Let me confess; right here and now! I have a secret weapon, the spirit and power of The Lord! With God by my side as a resource and guide, I continue! I stand! I rise! Photo credit: Kason Reeves

A PRAYING FAMILY

By Vernalee

Communicate with God. Read the Word. Pray incessantly. Teach your family how to pray and pray with them. Sometimes, it’s important to “go back to the old fashioned stuff.” My Mother taught me and my siblings how to pray. We saw her get on her knees by the side of her bed. Before long, we did the same. She always reminded us, “Don’t forget to say your prayers.“ When we sat at the table, you didn’t pick up your fork before grace was said. These were values being taught before our very eyes; values that were ingrained in us; habits that I would take with me when I left the soils of Mississippi; lessons that I passed down to my family. Nothing and I mean nothing beats sound generational family values. I learned to put God first. Though I cannot "sing a lick," I also learned to praise him with my voice of familiar hymns. I remember my Mother singing gospel hymns while she cooked. Her emotions were reflected in every word as she bellowed, “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; “Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!”

Memories help position us where we need to be. They keep us grounded.

If our heads swell to make us think that we know it all and that we do not need anyone,

it is then that we need prayer the most.

It is then that I am reminded of the old folks' sage wisdom. "Come down off your high horse! You need God in your life. You need his guidance and direction not just today but everyday. Child, life is so much easier when we follow his Word. We can’t do it on our own." As a family, we should pray together when there is opportunity. Family prayer not only shows love; it unifies us as we honor God by putting him first. Yes ... A family that prays together, stays together! Happy Sunday! Blessings. Photo reprint: www.musefinds.co