Our encouraging word for today is discipline, especially as in spiritual discipline. Merriam-Webster defines discipline as “orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior; self control; a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity.”1 And in her Spiritual Disciplines Handbook, Adele Ahlberg Calhoun writes, “Spiritual Disciplines… simply put us in a place where we… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #7: Discipline

Today’s encouraging word is contribution. Merriam-Webster includes these definitions of the word contribute: “to give or supply in common with others; to play a significant part in bringing about an end or result…”¹ In these last months, I have enjoyed spending time with our grandchildren while our daughter, a psychologist, uses video calling to visit… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #6: Contribution

Today’s encouraging word is recollection. Recollection is defined as “the action or power of recalling to mind; something recalled to the mind,” but also includes the blessings of “tranquility of mind” and “religious contemplation.”1 Our recollections can become precious gifts for us now, and for all of our days to come. With each passing year,… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #5: Recollection

Today’s encouraging word is peacefulness. Merriam-Webster defines peacefulness as: “a state of tranquility or quiet; freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; harmony in personal relations.”¹ I have been really feeling the need for peacefulness this week. Most of the time, I can keep in mind that life is still quite good, our family… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #4: Peacefulness

Our encouraging word for today is gentleness. The synonyms listed in the Microsoft Word Thesaurus include such lovely meanings as mildness, calmness, kindness, tenderness, quietness, softness, lightness, restfulness, and peacefulness. How might we need a little gentleness today? ~ Perhaps we need a reminder to be gentle with one another… Along with the stresses of… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #3: Gentleness

Today’s encouraging word is resilience. Resilience is “the power or ability to return to the original form, position, etc., after being bent, compressed, or stretched; elasticity; ability to recover readily from illness, depression, adversity, or the like; buoyancy.”¹ In what areas might you need resilience today? Are you feeling pulled in a direction you would rather… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #2: Resilience

In my journal-prayer time each morning, I often ask God for particular strengths to help with the day ahead. For example, if I am facing a busy day, I may ask for stamina. If I am feeling inner tension, I will ask for peace. I also hope that God will reveal to me what I… Continue reading An Encouraging Word #1: Encouragement

Habakkuk 2:20 (NIV) The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Holy and Infinite God, You are so much beyond my knowing! Each time I try to name or define you, I limit you to my own understanding. Job 11:7-9 (NIV) Can you fathom the mysteries of… Continue reading A Prayer in the Fog