Have you ever desperately cried out “change me, Lord?” I have.
I vividly remember a time I said this many years ago. Challenges had piled up. Demands were high. Expectations even higher. I was pulled in too many directions. And I felt overwhelmed.
Hope is so important, don’t you agree? Sometimes it seems hope just . . . disappears! Or – you can barely it see through a pinhole of hope. Regardless, just like –
Life-saving fluids enter your body through a “pinhole” of an IV needle.
– so the “pinhole” of hope gives you a more realistic view of life. This is critical – especially during difficult seasons.
This is #2 in a series on hope. I’m excited about this series. I hope you will be, too.
I’m thinking of a specific person. Actually, a remarkable person. As I got to know and interact with them, I realized they are the perfect example of what we discuss today – well-thought, well-spoken, well-lived. Over time, I came to deeply respect this person because they represent a very well-lived life!
Who comes to your mind as you consider today’s content?
The highest motive is often identified when a person, family, community, or country is under duress. For instance, both world wars gave the global public – and nations – opportunities to choose motives that are honorable despite risks, sacrifices, and cost.
Incidentally, it’s helpful to know your personal highest motive. Additionally, to let it propel you into opportunities each day. Also, this gives you influence and purpose.
President Zelensky said – Read More …
A couple of decades ago, there was a commercial for Coca-Cola that claimed – “It’s the real thing.” If this is before your time, just google it. There was another trend during those years. Basically, how to be real. I also recall another phrase – “It’s the real deal.” Incidentally, that phrase inspired marketing strategies, shareable images, at least one podcast, creative pictures, and use in daily conversation.
Essentially, it means – “the real thing, genuine, not fake, not imitation, not a copy.”
What’s the theme of your life? Have you thought about it? Some people target a theme and work toward it for years. Others simply live – and notice a theme forms over time. Interestingly, if you engage some strategy, you can maneuver – and even change – your life theme.
Hope and opportunity are always available to help you move forward. Let’s explore.
You’ve heard the illustration of standing in front of several doors, having to choose one without knowing what’s behind each. Similarly, doors you choose for your life become your reality. This can be exciting. Contrastingly, some doors bring great sadness. Nevertheless, you discover new things behind doors. And new experiences can provide hope – if you hold God’s hand while you open and close doors of your life.
OK! Think WINTER! Freezing cold. You feel exposed – at risk. Plus – you’re shivering! Next thing you know, someone offers you a soft, comfortable, big blanket. Plus, it’s an electric blanket, already plugged in – cozy and warm. This word picture shows what it’s like to be covered by God’s love. Particularly in the cold of the world where you are sometimes exposed and at risk.
Back in the year 2000, in the Disney movie, “The Kid,” two grown-ups have a conversation about growing up. One of them, Amy, says, “Well, we can’t go around anymore talking about what we’re going to be like when we grow up. We are up.” Basically, she’s saying – it’s time to live grown up.
So, let’s explore what it means to live grown up.
In your opinion, what are the most important 3 things to care about? Do you have a list? For the record, I have a list. Interestingly, the things we care about most – directly influence how we live each day.
