Celebrate Discipline – REACHING HURTING WOMEN MINISTRIES

IN OUR CELEBRATE DISCIPLINE COLUMN EACH MONTH WE ARE LEARNING A NEW SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE, HOW TO APPLY IT AND HOPEFULLY GROW INTO THE PEOPLE GOD WANTS US TO BE.

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES: habits that nurture spiritual growth; exercises unto godliness.

CELEBRATION: actions that turn our spirit toward worship, praise and thanksgiving.

It seems odd to think of Celebration as a Spiritual Discipline. But if it weren’t for Celebration and the joy that feeds it our spiritual life would be drudgery. The Bible tells us that the joy of the Lord is our strength so that means if we don’t find time to celebrate we will run out of energy to function.

During the holiday seasons it is difficult for many to join in the spirit of celebration. Cloudy days and my husband’s demanding work schedule leave me sad and lonely much of the time. I am having to make a decision to find joy in the midst of these oppressive feelings.

The best thing that helps me is to put on some worship music, to search the Internet for an uplifting music video. I sometimes even get up and dance along. That’s sure to change my mood!

If you can’t see the video screen below Click Here for a beautiful example of Celebration and Worship!

IN OUR CELEBRATE DISCIPLINE COLUMN EACH MONTH WE ARE LEARNING A NEW SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE, HOW TO APPLY IT AND HOPEFULLY GROW INTO THE PEOPLE GOD WANTS US TO BE.

SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES: habits that nurture spiritual growth; exercises unto godliness.

GRATITUDE: a thankful and loving response toward God for His presence with us and goodness to us; joy in our heart in response to someone for who they are or something they have done.

For years we’ve heard the saying, “Have and attitude of gratitude.” But I’ve come to learn that being grateful is more than an attitude. It’s a practice. You can have an attitude about something without acting on it. Not until we begin practicing gratitude consistently will we see real change in our lives.

How can we practice gratitude?

Gratitude starts first with a change of heart. Only when look beyond ourselves and see the good around us, in other people, in nature, in our pets, can we begin to walk in gratitude each day.
For me keeping a gratitude journal has been helpful. Taking a few moments before bed to reflect on the good things of the day. I’m not as faithful to it as I’d like to be. But at least I’m making the effort to start.
Making a conscious decision to thank others. So many times we get lazy and overlook the kindness of people around us. You will make someone else’s day better by noticing them.

Gratitude enhances satisfaction and balances greed and entitlement. And is so lacking in today. It starts with us. We must make the effort, to take the first step. It can change our world!