Stress Management.
Self-Care - Exercise
We are currently talking about the importance of self-care in stress management. In human beings, an interpretation of an event or circumstance, which is understood to be a threat can be referred to as stress. It is a normal emotion. Managing stress is important in order to avoid becoming over stressed. This is where self-care comes in. Last week I talked about diet and how it is related to stress. Today I will talk about the importance of exercise in your self-care program.
Exercise can improve your health and longevity by strengthening your immunity to colds, the flu and other minor illnesses, helping you to enjoy a healthier and longer life. Research suggests those who get more exercise may become less affected by the stress they face. So, in addition to all the other benefits, exercise may supply some immunity toward future stress as well as a way to cope with current stress. Exercise can decrease stress hormones and increase your body's ‘feel-good’ chemicals, thus improving your mood naturally.
The Apostle Paul acknowledged that there is some benefit in physical training, “For physical training is of some value…” 1 Timothy 4:8.
Here are some suggestions for physical exercise that can help you manage stress and improve your physical fitness. This can contribute to spiritual, emotional and physical wellness.
It is suggested that you take 5 to 10 minutes before and after each program to stretch your muscles.
· Walking is one of the best fitness activities. People who take brisk half-hour walks every day reach a good level of fitness.
· Swimming.
· Jogging.
· Cycling.
· Sports.
Cardiovascular exercise 4 – 5 times a week for between 30 – 45 minutes each session from the above activities, is very effective in getting rid of the stress chemicals such as, cortisol and adrenaline that are produced in times of adversity and stress.
Why not join a health club or a community centre that offers fitness activities.
Before beginning any fitness program you should consult with your Doctor.
Your comments, questions or observations on this topic are welcomed. Can you suggest any exercise that you have found to be helpful in managing stress?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
Self-Care
One of the greatest threats to spiritual and emotional wellness as well as physical health , is stress. Self -Care is necessary to avoid becoming a casuality of stress. Today's topic on spiritual and emotional wellness is Self-Care. It is about what we eat and how it can be associated with stress.
I recently read an article in the Globe and Mail about a lady who experienced, loss of sleep, loss of appetite, anxiety attacks and a rash around her neck and on her hands from the stress of losing her job.
Stress affects us all, some to a greater degree than others and for different reasons. You maybe affected by stress more than you think. It can affect you spiritually, emotionally and physically. You need to identify stress and learn to manage it. There are some simple things that you can do in managing stress. I will share them with you over a short series of articles on the subject beginning with food and eating habits.
1. Food and Eating Habits.
We need energy to complete daily tasks. Energy comes from the food we eat; therefore a balanced diet based on the Canadian Food Guide is important. However when we are under stress we consume energy more quickly and our ability to function properly is impaired. A common response to stress by some people is to turn to fast food; the quick sugar fix offers them comfort at the expense of their emotional and physical well-being. So, before rushing off to the nearest fast food establishment or to the refrigerator for processed food, cake, chocolate and pop, ask yourself do I really need this or is it a psychological need for comfort?
Foods that are healthy for the body are also the foods that release chemicals in the brain, which help you to be calm, such as good diet of fruit, whole grains and protein that are also helpful in reducing tiredness.
Some experts say eating smaller portions of food more frequently is healthier than consuming two or three large meals a day. You should also include an intake of up too two litres of water in your daily diet.
If you are finding that your energy level isn’t sufficient for you to accomplish your necessary tasks during the day, you should check out your stress level and examine your diet.
By the way, the article I referred to at the beginning, I read it while at “Diary Queen”. Before I am judged a hypocrite, allow me to explain. It was my day off and treating yourself once in a while is also good for stress reduction and I also walked five kilometres in the rain after to burn off the unnecessary calories. Exercise is also helpful in stress management. We will deal with that in a future article. Remember, scripture tells us “ your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit”. It is important for you to take care of yourself.
One of the greatest threats to spiritual and emotional wellness as well as physical health , is stress. Self -Care is necessary to avoid becoming a casuality of stress. Today's topic on spiritual and emotional wellness is Self-Care. It is about what we eat and how it can be associated with stress.
I recently read an article in the Globe and Mail about a lady who experienced, loss of sleep, loss of appetite, anxiety attacks and a rash around her neck and on her hands from the stress of losing her job.
Stress affects us all, some to a greater degree than others and for different reasons. You maybe affected by stress more than you think. It can affect you spiritually, emotionally and physically. You need to identify stress and learn to manage it. There are some simple things that you can do in managing stress. I will share them with you over a short series of articles on the subject beginning with food and eating habits.
1. Food and Eating Habits.
We need energy to complete daily tasks. Energy comes from the food we eat; therefore a balanced diet based on the Canadian Food Guide is important. However when we are under stress we consume energy more quickly and our ability to function properly is impaired. A common response to stress by some people is to turn to fast food; the quick sugar fix offers them comfort at the expense of their emotional and physical well-being. So, before rushing off to the nearest fast food establishment or to the refrigerator for processed food, cake, chocolate and pop, ask yourself do I really need this or is it a psychological need for comfort?
Foods that are healthy for the body are also the foods that release chemicals in the brain, which help you to be calm, such as good diet of fruit, whole grains and protein that are also helpful in reducing tiredness.
Some experts say eating smaller portions of food more frequently is healthier than consuming two or three large meals a day. You should also include an intake of up too two litres of water in your daily diet.
If you are finding that your energy level isn’t sufficient for you to accomplish your necessary tasks during the day, you should check out your stress level and examine your diet.
By the way, the article I referred to at the beginning, I read it while at “Diary Queen”. Before I am judged a hypocrite, allow me to explain. It was my day off and treating yourself once in a while is also good for stress reduction and I also walked five kilometres in the rain after to burn off the unnecessary calories. Exercise is also helpful in stress management. We will deal with that in a future article. Remember, scripture tells us “ your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit”. It is important for you to take care of yourself.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
Loving Well is the theme of the Christian life. To love well is to love God, ourselves, and others. In order to love well as Christians we must have an emotionally healthy spirituality. I have already stated, “transformation is produced by applying the Holy Spirit’s power to emotional healing. This power is released through Biblical meditation. The end result is Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
Emotionally healthy spirituality is not just an abstract concept. It is something that can be seen in a life that is anchored in the love of God, free from the illusions of performance, possessions and popularity and balanced between doing and being.
To be emotionally healthy we need to get a glimpse of the Love of God and to know we are deeply loved by God. God loves us as sons and wants us to experience the full rights and privileges that come with it .We need to experience this infinite love in our heart, not just in our head.
The Key to emotionally healthy spirituality is to be anchored in the love of God
“ That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (Eph 3:17-19.)
Jesus is the prime example of what emotionally healthy spirituality is.
· He was anchored in the love of God. Matt. 3:17
· He was free from illusions of performance, possessions and popularity. Lk. 4:1-12
· He was balanced between doing and being. Jo. 6:15.
A secondary example is Mary of Bethany. ( Luke 10: 38-42.)
· Sitting at the feet of Jesus.
· Listening to His words.
· “Mary hath chosen that good part….”
Martha on the other hand was:
· “distracted- performance driven- much serving.
· “worried”.
· “troubled about many things”
· tried to use Jesus to have things done her way- she wanted to change others.(jealousy, self-pity, complaining, manipulative.)
· Martha was the one desperately in need of change.
Many of us like Martha need to slow down, sit at the feet of Jesus (Biblical meditation) and take a deep look inward to know our true self in Christ that we might know the Lord better and His purpose for our life. Only then can we experience emotionally healthy spirituality.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
A Biblical Meditation On Overcoming Negative Influences On Your Journey.
Negative influences from your family of origin, people in authority, and Satan contribute to your emotional brokenness and the development of a false self. David is an example of how knowing yourself and knowing God can give victory over the negative influences of family, authority figures and the enemy.
1. Overcoming negative messages from family.
And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. 29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? 1 Sam 17:28-29 (KJV).
“What have I done now?” – apparently David was accustomed to abuse from his family. He is the victim of an angry outburst, misunderstanding, put down, and slander. The message- “loser.” Maybe you can identify with David here. However, David is able to cut through this family dynamic. He knew himself and he knew God. Certainly his meditations while tending his flock must have been a contributing factor.
2. Overcoming negative influence from people in authority.
And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. 1 Sam 17:33 (KJV).
David experiences another put down this time from a man of experience. But David knows God.
David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. 1 Sam 17:37 (KJV).
Since David is so confident based upon his knowledge of God, Saul responded:
“…go, and the LORD be with thee. 38 And Saul armed David with his armour, and he put an helmet of brass upon his head; also he armed him with a coat of mail. 39 And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him.” 1 Sam 17:37-39 (KJV).
Saul wanted to change David into someone he was not. David overcomes Saul’s influence and trusts in who he is and in his” gift”.
“And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.” 1 Sam 17:40 (KJV).
David was skilled in the use of the slingshot. This skill was developed over time in his life as he cared for his father’s sheep. This was his gift. Armed with his gift and confidence in God, David confronts the enemy.
“And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: “ 1 Sam 17:42 (KJV).
Another put down. This time from a giant followed by a serious threat;
And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 44 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 1 Sam 17:43-44 (KJV).
Neither the put down or the threat left David paralysed with fear because he knew God and he knew himself.
Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; 1 Sam 17:45-46 (KJV).
David’s “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” is seen in what motivated him to be the man God wanted him to be.
This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 1 Sam 17:46 (KJV).
David is blessed with commonsense. He’s not going out there being dependent on
doing the right thing, so people will love him. David’s not doing it out of guilt and sorrow for Israel. David’s not doing it to keep the peace and make everybody happy saying, “Okay, I’ll sacrifice myself. I’ll be the one who dies for everybody else.” David’s not saying I must succeed, so I will get my name written in the history books, so I’ll finally make an impact in life and my life will be worth something. David’s not saying I’ll do this so I don’t look stupid or so I can finally achieve something. No, his motive is absolutely pure; there is not a trace of pride here. He is totally transparent. It is clearly stated what his motive is, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 1 Sam 17:46 (KJV).
This is why David was able to fulfil God’s purpose. He functioned with integrity, out of a true self who knew God.
David is a prototype of Jesus.
-- David’s the savior. David’s the deliverer. David’s the warrior. David’s the anointed one. Jesus is our Savior. Jesus is our deliverer. Jesus is our warrior. Jesus is our anointed one.
The real Goliath is Satan. And Jesus came to earth to conquer Satan in death. Jesus fought the giant and brought him down. He rose from the dead and gives to us salvation. He gives to us forgiveness. He gives to us the Spirit that lives inside of us by grace. And so now like the Israelite army, we can get out of our trenches and go fight the enemies and the giants in our lives because Christ has gone before us. Because David defeated Goliath, the armies of Israel followed. Because Jesus has defeated the powers of darkness, God enables us to get up and actually defeat that which lies in front of us and become whom God called us to be. However we have to exercise faith and courage like David and get up. We can’t do this till we are right with God. It’s all by grace that we can get up and move out. We have to be honest about who we are and who God is.
I encourage you to continue to meditate on 1 Samuel 17 and as the power of the Holy Spirit is released from the Word of God, apply it to some area in your emotional brokenness that needs healing. Allow transformation to occur as you continue your journey to Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
Negative influences from your family of origin, people in authority, and Satan contribute to your emotional brokenness and the development of a false self. David is an example of how knowing yourself and knowing God can give victory over the negative influences of family, authority figures and the enemy.
1. Overcoming negative messages from family.
And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. 29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? 1 Sam 17:28-29 (KJV).
“What have I done now?” – apparently David was accustomed to abuse from his family. He is the victim of an angry outburst, misunderstanding, put down, and slander. The message- “loser.” Maybe you can identify with David here. However, David is able to cut through this family dynamic. He knew himself and he knew God. Certainly his meditations while tending his flock must have been a contributing factor.
2. Overcoming negative influence from people in authority.
And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. 1 Sam 17:33 (KJV).
David experiences another put down this time from a man of experience. But David knows God.
David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. 1 Sam 17:37 (KJV).
Since David is so confident based upon his knowledge of God, Saul responded:
“…go, and the LORD be with thee. 38 And Saul armed David with his armour, and he put an helmet of brass upon his head; also he armed him with a coat of mail. 39 And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him.” 1 Sam 17:37-39 (KJV).
Saul wanted to change David into someone he was not. David overcomes Saul’s influence and trusts in who he is and in his” gift”.
“And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.” 1 Sam 17:40 (KJV).
David was skilled in the use of the slingshot. This skill was developed over time in his life as he cared for his father’s sheep. This was his gift. Armed with his gift and confidence in God, David confronts the enemy.
“And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: “ 1 Sam 17:42 (KJV).
Another put down. This time from a giant followed by a serious threat;
And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 44 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 1 Sam 17:43-44 (KJV).
Neither the put down or the threat left David paralysed with fear because he knew God and he knew himself.
Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; 1 Sam 17:45-46 (KJV).
David’s “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” is seen in what motivated him to be the man God wanted him to be.
This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 1 Sam 17:46 (KJV).
David is blessed with commonsense. He’s not going out there being dependent on
doing the right thing, so people will love him. David’s not doing it out of guilt and sorrow for Israel. David’s not doing it to keep the peace and make everybody happy saying, “Okay, I’ll sacrifice myself. I’ll be the one who dies for everybody else.” David’s not saying I must succeed, so I will get my name written in the history books, so I’ll finally make an impact in life and my life will be worth something. David’s not saying I’ll do this so I don’t look stupid or so I can finally achieve something. No, his motive is absolutely pure; there is not a trace of pride here. He is totally transparent. It is clearly stated what his motive is, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 1 Sam 17:46 (KJV).
This is why David was able to fulfil God’s purpose. He functioned with integrity, out of a true self who knew God.
David is a prototype of Jesus.
-- David’s the savior. David’s the deliverer. David’s the warrior. David’s the anointed one. Jesus is our Savior. Jesus is our deliverer. Jesus is our warrior. Jesus is our anointed one.
The real Goliath is Satan. And Jesus came to earth to conquer Satan in death. Jesus fought the giant and brought him down. He rose from the dead and gives to us salvation. He gives to us forgiveness. He gives to us the Spirit that lives inside of us by grace. And so now like the Israelite army, we can get out of our trenches and go fight the enemies and the giants in our lives because Christ has gone before us. Because David defeated Goliath, the armies of Israel followed. Because Jesus has defeated the powers of darkness, God enables us to get up and actually defeat that which lies in front of us and become whom God called us to be. However we have to exercise faith and courage like David and get up. We can’t do this till we are right with God. It’s all by grace that we can get up and move out. We have to be honest about who we are and who God is.
I encourage you to continue to meditate on 1 Samuel 17 and as the power of the Holy Spirit is released from the Word of God, apply it to some area in your emotional brokenness that needs healing. Allow transformation to occur as you continue your journey to Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
The issue then is how to remove the fig leaves of the false self and allow the true self in Christ to emerge. Transformation can begin in your life as you apply these four principles:
1. Pay Attention To Your Interior in Silence and Solitude. (Biblical meditation.)
· Like Martha in Luke 10 we become distracted, which keep us from listening to our feelings, our desires, our dreams, our likes and dislikes.
· There are Martha(s) in our lives who would like to fix, save, advise and set us straight into becoming the people they would like.
· We need to be alone with God so we can listen.
· Silence and solitude are foundational to emotionally healthy spirituality.
· We observe this from Moses, to David to Jesus and to all great men and women of the faith who have gone before us.
2. Find Trusted Companions.
· You need trusted companions to help you shed the fig leaves of your false self in order to let the true self emerge.
· In the Church Community we are alone together, a community of solitudes.
· Trusted companions could include mentors, spiritual leaders, counsellors or mature friends.
· Pray and ask God to send someone alongside to walk with you in this season of your life.
3. Move Out Of Your Comfort Zone.
· Dying to your false self and allowing your true self to emerge can be scary.
· For example: For some of us giving or receiving a compliment feels wrong. Others have a violent reaction to being in the presence of angry people. For some to enter into conflict feels like death. To some asking for help feels like complete failure. Thinking about disagreeing with a friend can give some sleepless nights. (These are all physical signs of unhealthy emotions.) To address these and begin to do things differently, especially in the beginning, will feel very awkward. Changing the way we have lived for years is nothing short of a revolution.
4.Pray for Courage.
· Be willing to tolerate the discomfort necessary for growth. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s power to continue.
Being aware of your true self is directly related to your relationship with God In AD 500 Augustine recorded this prayer in his writings, “Grant, Lord , that I may know myself that I may know thee”.
The challenge to remove the fig leaves of the false self in order for the true self to emerge strikes at the very core of emotionally healthy spirituality. It requires nothing less than transformation, which can only occur as the power of the Holy Spirit from biblical meditation is released and applied to emotional brokenness.
1. Pay Attention To Your Interior in Silence and Solitude. (Biblical meditation.)
· Like Martha in Luke 10 we become distracted, which keep us from listening to our feelings, our desires, our dreams, our likes and dislikes.
· There are Martha(s) in our lives who would like to fix, save, advise and set us straight into becoming the people they would like.
· We need to be alone with God so we can listen.
· Silence and solitude are foundational to emotionally healthy spirituality.
· We observe this from Moses, to David to Jesus and to all great men and women of the faith who have gone before us.
2. Find Trusted Companions.
· You need trusted companions to help you shed the fig leaves of your false self in order to let the true self emerge.
· In the Church Community we are alone together, a community of solitudes.
· Trusted companions could include mentors, spiritual leaders, counsellors or mature friends.
· Pray and ask God to send someone alongside to walk with you in this season of your life.
3. Move Out Of Your Comfort Zone.
· Dying to your false self and allowing your true self to emerge can be scary.
· For example: For some of us giving or receiving a compliment feels wrong. Others have a violent reaction to being in the presence of angry people. For some to enter into conflict feels like death. To some asking for help feels like complete failure. Thinking about disagreeing with a friend can give some sleepless nights. (These are all physical signs of unhealthy emotions.) To address these and begin to do things differently, especially in the beginning, will feel very awkward. Changing the way we have lived for years is nothing short of a revolution.
4.Pray for Courage.
· Be willing to tolerate the discomfort necessary for growth. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s power to continue.
Being aware of your true self is directly related to your relationship with God In AD 500 Augustine recorded this prayer in his writings, “Grant, Lord , that I may know myself that I may know thee”.
The challenge to remove the fig leaves of the false self in order for the true self to emerge strikes at the very core of emotionally healthy spirituality. It requires nothing less than transformation, which can only occur as the power of the Holy Spirit from biblical meditation is released and applied to emotional brokenness.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
EMOTIONAL BROKENNESS.
Based on the validity of the Word of God we can go back to the Garden of Eden and discover how brokenness entered our world and us as individuals.
When Adam and Eve were together in the Garden before sin, they were totally the same on the outside and on the inside. But then, they rebelled against God and sinned. In Genesis 3, we see that the integration and the unity of inside and outside have been broken. We see them putting on masks and blaming. Their true authentic self in God is now shattered. The image of God in them becomes marred and they begin to construct an imposter, a false self. They’re not living God’s original intention for their lives.
Because of this fall we were born into a broken world and do not know the true self that God created, but have come to accept who we are by learning from the world around us, which is often a distortion of the true self, creating confusion and the inability to hear the truth. Like our first parents ,we try to hide from God and cover ourselves with the fig leaves of a false self. (things like fear, guilt, blaming.) We also start out in life not living God’s original intention for our lives.
However, when a person comes to Jesus and s/he gives their life over to the process of transformation by the power of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, the distortions, lies, and false messages of sin can be removed so that the person can know their true self and function out of their true self in Christ and can fulfill the purpose for his/her life. Emotionally healthy spirituality is possible as a result of transformation that can take place at the intersection of emotional brokenness and biblical meditation. It is here that the power of the Holy Spirit is released, illuminating our minds to understand the meaning, significance and personal application of biblical truth (2 Tim. 2:7 -; Eph. 3:14-21).
We all experience emotional brokenness to one degree or another by virtue of the fact we are broken by sin and that we are born into a broken world. Our efforts to love well as God desires- Lk.10. is hampered or impaired by wrong thinking, which generate wrong feelings and produce wrong behavior. At the intersection of emotional brokenness and biblical meditation this can be corrected, as we repent or change direction, through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
The following list, although not exhaustive, identifies some areas of emotional brokenness that need to be biblically addressed so that emotional healing can take place. They are the fig leaves of a false self.
1. Am I the kind of person that says “yes” when I really
mean “no?”
2. Do I get depressed when people are upset with me?
3. Do I have a need to be approved by others to feel good
about myself? Each of those is a symptom of something larger
and deeper going on inside of you.
4. Do I act nice to someone on the outside, but on inside I
can’t stand them?
5. Do I often remain silent in order to keep the peace?
6. Do I believe that if I make mistakes myself, I am a
failure?
7. Do I criticize others in order to feel better about
myself?
8. Do I try to avoid looking weak or foolish for not having
the answer?
9. Do I have to be doing something exceptional to feel
alive?
10. Do I have to be needed to feel alive?
11. Am I fearful and unable to take risks?
12. Do I do what others want, so they don’t get mad at me?
13. Do I use knowledge and confidence to cover my feelings
of inadequacies?
14. Do I want my children to behave well, so others will
think I’m a good parent
15. Do I compare myself to other people?
These are just symptoms that indicate that you are probably living a lot more out of a false self than out of your authentic self in God.
When biblical meditation and emotional brokenness intersect, the power of the Holy Spirit is released to bring about transformation in a person’s life. Let me emphasize that biblical truth must be applied to our emotional brokenness for emotional healing to take place.
Transformation, is a difficult process, change is not easy. When you change what you do, you will change what you get. Until the pain of remaining the same becomes greater than the pain to change it is not likely that you will want to change. But when you do, knowing yourself that you may know God is really the first step.
The issue then is how to remove the fig leaves of the false self and allow the true self in Christ to emerge. This will be the topic of my next post.
Based on the validity of the Word of God we can go back to the Garden of Eden and discover how brokenness entered our world and us as individuals.
When Adam and Eve were together in the Garden before sin, they were totally the same on the outside and on the inside. But then, they rebelled against God and sinned. In Genesis 3, we see that the integration and the unity of inside and outside have been broken. We see them putting on masks and blaming. Their true authentic self in God is now shattered. The image of God in them becomes marred and they begin to construct an imposter, a false self. They’re not living God’s original intention for their lives.
Because of this fall we were born into a broken world and do not know the true self that God created, but have come to accept who we are by learning from the world around us, which is often a distortion of the true self, creating confusion and the inability to hear the truth. Like our first parents ,we try to hide from God and cover ourselves with the fig leaves of a false self. (things like fear, guilt, blaming.) We also start out in life not living God’s original intention for our lives.
However, when a person comes to Jesus and s/he gives their life over to the process of transformation by the power of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, the distortions, lies, and false messages of sin can be removed so that the person can know their true self and function out of their true self in Christ and can fulfill the purpose for his/her life. Emotionally healthy spirituality is possible as a result of transformation that can take place at the intersection of emotional brokenness and biblical meditation. It is here that the power of the Holy Spirit is released, illuminating our minds to understand the meaning, significance and personal application of biblical truth (2 Tim. 2:7 -; Eph. 3:14-21).
We all experience emotional brokenness to one degree or another by virtue of the fact we are broken by sin and that we are born into a broken world. Our efforts to love well as God desires- Lk.10. is hampered or impaired by wrong thinking, which generate wrong feelings and produce wrong behavior. At the intersection of emotional brokenness and biblical meditation this can be corrected, as we repent or change direction, through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
The following list, although not exhaustive, identifies some areas of emotional brokenness that need to be biblically addressed so that emotional healing can take place. They are the fig leaves of a false self.
1. Am I the kind of person that says “yes” when I really
mean “no?”
2. Do I get depressed when people are upset with me?
3. Do I have a need to be approved by others to feel good
about myself? Each of those is a symptom of something larger
and deeper going on inside of you.
4. Do I act nice to someone on the outside, but on inside I
can’t stand them?
5. Do I often remain silent in order to keep the peace?
6. Do I believe that if I make mistakes myself, I am a
failure?
7. Do I criticize others in order to feel better about
myself?
8. Do I try to avoid looking weak or foolish for not having
the answer?
9. Do I have to be doing something exceptional to feel
alive?
10. Do I have to be needed to feel alive?
11. Am I fearful and unable to take risks?
12. Do I do what others want, so they don’t get mad at me?
13. Do I use knowledge and confidence to cover my feelings
of inadequacies?
14. Do I want my children to behave well, so others will
think I’m a good parent
15. Do I compare myself to other people?
These are just symptoms that indicate that you are probably living a lot more out of a false self than out of your authentic self in God.
When biblical meditation and emotional brokenness intersect, the power of the Holy Spirit is released to bring about transformation in a person’s life. Let me emphasize that biblical truth must be applied to our emotional brokenness for emotional healing to take place.
Transformation, is a difficult process, change is not easy. When you change what you do, you will change what you get. Until the pain of remaining the same becomes greater than the pain to change it is not likely that you will want to change. But when you do, knowing yourself that you may know God is really the first step.
The issue then is how to remove the fig leaves of the false self and allow the true self in Christ to emerge. This will be the topic of my next post.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
The Dynamic of Biblical Meditation in Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
One of the keys to transformation is biblical meditation. Meditation is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world and is often referred to as “spiritual” meditation , which is not to be confused with biblical meditation. Rather than spending time on discussing what biblical meditation is not, I chose rather to describe what it is.
Before I do I would like to point out that mindful awareness of which meditation is one method, has been scientifically proven to enhance our physical, mental, and social well being.
Meditate- means, “to engage in deep mental exercise directed toward a heightened level of spiritual awareness.” (Webster’s New Explorer Dictionary.)
Biblical is a reference to “God’s Word.”
Therefore biblical meditation is using the bible to engage in deep mental exercise directed toward a heightened level of spiritual awareness. This practice is not only spiritually beneficial, but according to scientific evidence it should also benefit our physical, mental and social well- being.
Before engaging in biblical meditation it is important to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Why biblical meditation you may ask? My response to this question is because the bible is the word of God and is sufficient to fill the heart with all that is needed for living. Psalm 119 is devoted to praising the virtues, merits, and sufficiency of the Word of God and demonstrates the author’s total commitment to it. One verse that is representative of all 176 verses in this Psalm, is verse 11: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
To hide the Word of God in our hearts is to be totally captivated by it, committed to it, and controlled through it. Further, to hide God’s Word in the heart is to recognize that it is sufficient to fill that heart with all that is needed for living. It is also important for us to know why we believe the bible and what is the biblical view of truth before we engage in the practice of meditation.
Why do we believe the Bible?
(2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21)
The Christian claim that the Bible is inerrant and infallible is not a claim that all of our opinions and interpretations are infallible. Rather the text itself is.
The Biblical view of truth
(John 8:31, 32; 17:17).
Why does it matter?
Example: The Bible says, “God is love.” This is a statement about God, not about how my idea of God makes me feel.
This matters because truth sets us free and lies enslave!
There are also experiential ,historical , philosophical and scientific evidence to support the Bible’s claim.
Psalms 1:1-3 David “delighted in” the word of God and “meditated on it day and night.”
Peter Scazzero gives an excellent example of biblical meditation as technique.
I encourage you to practice this exercise until it becomes a habit in your life. It is a helpful skill for the art of biblical meditation.
“And I’d like to invite you to listen deeply to the voice of God as we meditate. We will use the Scripture, “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” And when we come to these words of the Bible, we’re not speed-reading. It’s not like reading the paper in the morning. We’ll let the words of God wash over our soul. I’m going to read it three or four or five times. And you may want to keep your eyes open. You may want to close them. You can look at the text or just close your eyes and listen. And you want to let God bring to you, to make alive to you, a phrase or a word. It may be the word “guide.” It may be that you see God pulling you, guiding you. Or “He guides me in paths of righteousness.” You may be contemplating the words “paths of righteousness.” Wow, God’s got a path for me. It’s a path of righteousness. It’s not a superhighway. Maybe you’ll see it as a narrow path in the woods. But it’s a path he’s got for me. He guides me! And maybe the word “me.” You’re that important. You need to know that you’re so important that He guides you! And you really feel the love of God. You may think, I don’t know where I’m going, but he’s got something for me! He’s going to guide me in a path. Me. “Me” is what you’re going to be and what you’re going to get. God’s going to just stop you on that one. Or maybe “for his namesake.” God’s so concerned about his name and his glory that He’s going to get this through my thick skull! And maybe this is to be for his namesake. So let God, the Holy Spirit just lead you into pondering one phrase. But question - What does God have for you today from of this message in this text behind me? So I invite you to close your eyes, if you like. Keep them open if you want to look at the text or go back and forth to Psalm 23 in your Bible, and let these words wash over you. “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” Listen to the text again and notice where you receive - what you hear; where it touches you as you open yourself up to receive God in the depth of your being. “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” As I read it again, let whatever God’s doing inside of you with this passage continue - interact with God, talk to God about your concerns or your conflicts or your worries, your ideas. “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” As I read it this last time, just rest in God’s embrace and love for you that this is true for you, even you, through the grace and mercy of Jesus. “He guides me in paths ofrighteousness for His namesake.”
This technique can be used with any verse in the bible that you would like to meditate upon.
In my next post we will explore , “emotional brokenness.”
One of the keys to transformation is biblical meditation. Meditation is becoming increasingly popular in the Western world and is often referred to as “spiritual” meditation , which is not to be confused with biblical meditation. Rather than spending time on discussing what biblical meditation is not, I chose rather to describe what it is.
Before I do I would like to point out that mindful awareness of which meditation is one method, has been scientifically proven to enhance our physical, mental, and social well being.
Meditate- means, “to engage in deep mental exercise directed toward a heightened level of spiritual awareness.” (Webster’s New Explorer Dictionary.)
Biblical is a reference to “God’s Word.”
Therefore biblical meditation is using the bible to engage in deep mental exercise directed toward a heightened level of spiritual awareness. This practice is not only spiritually beneficial, but according to scientific evidence it should also benefit our physical, mental and social well- being.
Before engaging in biblical meditation it is important to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Why biblical meditation you may ask? My response to this question is because the bible is the word of God and is sufficient to fill the heart with all that is needed for living. Psalm 119 is devoted to praising the virtues, merits, and sufficiency of the Word of God and demonstrates the author’s total commitment to it. One verse that is representative of all 176 verses in this Psalm, is verse 11: Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
To hide the Word of God in our hearts is to be totally captivated by it, committed to it, and controlled through it. Further, to hide God’s Word in the heart is to recognize that it is sufficient to fill that heart with all that is needed for living. It is also important for us to know why we believe the bible and what is the biblical view of truth before we engage in the practice of meditation.
Why do we believe the Bible?
(2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21)
The Christian claim that the Bible is inerrant and infallible is not a claim that all of our opinions and interpretations are infallible. Rather the text itself is.
The Biblical view of truth
(John 8:31, 32; 17:17).
Why does it matter?
Example: The Bible says, “God is love.” This is a statement about God, not about how my idea of God makes me feel.
This matters because truth sets us free and lies enslave!
There are also experiential ,historical , philosophical and scientific evidence to support the Bible’s claim.
Psalms 1:1-3 David “delighted in” the word of God and “meditated on it day and night.”
Peter Scazzero gives an excellent example of biblical meditation as technique.
I encourage you to practice this exercise until it becomes a habit in your life. It is a helpful skill for the art of biblical meditation.
“And I’d like to invite you to listen deeply to the voice of God as we meditate. We will use the Scripture, “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” And when we come to these words of the Bible, we’re not speed-reading. It’s not like reading the paper in the morning. We’ll let the words of God wash over our soul. I’m going to read it three or four or five times. And you may want to keep your eyes open. You may want to close them. You can look at the text or just close your eyes and listen. And you want to let God bring to you, to make alive to you, a phrase or a word. It may be the word “guide.” It may be that you see God pulling you, guiding you. Or “He guides me in paths of righteousness.” You may be contemplating the words “paths of righteousness.” Wow, God’s got a path for me. It’s a path of righteousness. It’s not a superhighway. Maybe you’ll see it as a narrow path in the woods. But it’s a path he’s got for me. He guides me! And maybe the word “me.” You’re that important. You need to know that you’re so important that He guides you! And you really feel the love of God. You may think, I don’t know where I’m going, but he’s got something for me! He’s going to guide me in a path. Me. “Me” is what you’re going to be and what you’re going to get. God’s going to just stop you on that one. Or maybe “for his namesake.” God’s so concerned about his name and his glory that He’s going to get this through my thick skull! And maybe this is to be for his namesake. So let God, the Holy Spirit just lead you into pondering one phrase. But question - What does God have for you today from of this message in this text behind me? So I invite you to close your eyes, if you like. Keep them open if you want to look at the text or go back and forth to Psalm 23 in your Bible, and let these words wash over you. “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” Listen to the text again and notice where you receive - what you hear; where it touches you as you open yourself up to receive God in the depth of your being. “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” As I read it again, let whatever God’s doing inside of you with this passage continue - interact with God, talk to God about your concerns or your conflicts or your worries, your ideas. “He guides me in paths of righteousness for his namesake.” As I read it this last time, just rest in God’s embrace and love for you that this is true for you, even you, through the grace and mercy of Jesus. “He guides me in paths ofrighteousness for His namesake.”
This technique can be used with any verse in the bible that you would like to meditate upon.
In my next post we will explore , “emotional brokenness.”
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Role Of Christians in the Transformation Process.
Spiritual and Emotional Wellness
Transformation @The Intersection of
Emotional Brokenness and Biblical Meditation.
Transformation occurs when you apply to emotional brokenness the power of the Holy Spirit, which is released through biblical meditation. The outcome is "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality."
In other words, transformation is produced by applying the Holy Spirit’s power to emotional brokenness. This power is released through biblical meditation. The end result is Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
On this journey we will travel the road to emotionally healthy spirituality, experiencing the dynamics of transformation.
Before we can reach our destination, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, we need to stop at the intersection of emotional brokenness and biblical meditation to get directions on how to experience transformation, which must take place in an individual before s/he can experience emotionally healthy spirituality.
Webster defines transformation from the theological perspective as, “A change in disposition, heart, character, or the like; conversion. [1913 Webster] .
In the biblical sense it involves primarily changing the way we think, as Paul states in Romans 12:1 (….”transformed by the renewing of the mind.”-).Transformation is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit and The Word of God. All Christians can experience transformation and can help others to experience transformation . You do not need to be a professional counsellor to help facilitate this work in the life of an individual. However there are exceptions , in some cases mental heath issues require professional help.
Every follower of Christ is called to the ministry of counselling to some degree. Unfortunately the Church today is guilty of referring almost all counselling needs to professionals. The major obstacle to being involved in this ministry seems to be a feeling of inadequacy. Although it is true that we may be inadequate, yet God has provided the resources for us to be able to help people to become transformed. Christians need to be educated in how to use these resources. The Church should be training them to become effective in this desperately needed ministry.
In the New Testament words for counselling are addressed to all Christians.
Parakaleo (107 times in New Testament): encourage, comfort, exhort
See 1 Thessalonians 5:11 and Hebrews 10:25 for this as an important ministry all Christians.
Didasko: (97 times in New Testament) teach, instruct (formally or informally)
See Colossians 3:16 for this as an important ministry all Christians.
Noutheteo (11 times in New Testament): admonish; counsel
See Romans 15:14 and Colossians 3:16 for this as an important ministry all Christians.
Elencho (17 times in New Testament): reprove, expose, convict, refute
See 2 Timothy 4:2 for this as an important ministry all Christian workers.
Epitimao: (33 times in New Testament) rebuke, warn, tell sternly
See 2 Timothy 4:2 for this as an important ministry all Christian workers.
In summary, Who does this? All Christians
The goal? Transformation
The content? The Word
The context? The Christian Community
The resources? Prayer, Bible, Holy Spirit, Professionals.
The Outcome? Emotionally healthy spirituality.
In the next post we will explore Biblical Meditation which is one of the keys to Transformation.
REMEMBER: It is better to meditate than to medicate, but if you must ,be sure not to take pills without skills.
Medicine will address the symptoms but Skills will address the problem. They work together for a better outcome.
Transformation @The Intersection of
Emotional Brokenness and Biblical Meditation.
Transformation occurs when you apply to emotional brokenness the power of the Holy Spirit, which is released through biblical meditation. The outcome is "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality."
In other words, transformation is produced by applying the Holy Spirit’s power to emotional brokenness. This power is released through biblical meditation. The end result is Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
On this journey we will travel the road to emotionally healthy spirituality, experiencing the dynamics of transformation.
Before we can reach our destination, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, we need to stop at the intersection of emotional brokenness and biblical meditation to get directions on how to experience transformation, which must take place in an individual before s/he can experience emotionally healthy spirituality.
Webster defines transformation from the theological perspective as, “A change in disposition, heart, character, or the like; conversion. [1913 Webster] .
In the biblical sense it involves primarily changing the way we think, as Paul states in Romans 12:1 (….”transformed by the renewing of the mind.”-).Transformation is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit and The Word of God. All Christians can experience transformation and can help others to experience transformation . You do not need to be a professional counsellor to help facilitate this work in the life of an individual. However there are exceptions , in some cases mental heath issues require professional help.
Every follower of Christ is called to the ministry of counselling to some degree. Unfortunately the Church today is guilty of referring almost all counselling needs to professionals. The major obstacle to being involved in this ministry seems to be a feeling of inadequacy. Although it is true that we may be inadequate, yet God has provided the resources for us to be able to help people to become transformed. Christians need to be educated in how to use these resources. The Church should be training them to become effective in this desperately needed ministry.
In the New Testament words for counselling are addressed to all Christians.
Parakaleo (107 times in New Testament): encourage, comfort, exhort
See 1 Thessalonians 5:11 and Hebrews 10:25 for this as an important ministry all Christians.
Didasko: (97 times in New Testament) teach, instruct (formally or informally)
See Colossians 3:16 for this as an important ministry all Christians.
Noutheteo (11 times in New Testament): admonish; counsel
See Romans 15:14 and Colossians 3:16 for this as an important ministry all Christians.
Elencho (17 times in New Testament): reprove, expose, convict, refute
See 2 Timothy 4:2 for this as an important ministry all Christian workers.
Epitimao: (33 times in New Testament) rebuke, warn, tell sternly
See 2 Timothy 4:2 for this as an important ministry all Christian workers.
In summary, Who does this? All Christians
The goal? Transformation
The content? The Word
The context? The Christian Community
The resources? Prayer, Bible, Holy Spirit, Professionals.
The Outcome? Emotionally healthy spirituality.
In the next post we will explore Biblical Meditation which is one of the keys to Transformation.
REMEMBER: It is better to meditate than to medicate, but if you must ,be sure not to take pills without skills.
Medicine will address the symptoms but Skills will address the problem. They work together for a better outcome.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Spiritual & Emotional Wellness @ Pastor's Inn
Spiritual & Emotional Wellness @ Pastor's Inn
Transformation through Biblical meditation &emotional healing.
Transformation producing emotionally healthy spirituality is facilitated by the release of the Holy Spirit’s power at the intersection of Biblical meditation and emotional brokenness.Emotionally healthy spirituality is manifested in a life that is:
· Anchored in the love of God. Matt. 3:17.
· Free from illusions of performance, possessions and popularity. Lk. 4:1-12.
· Balanced between doing and being. Jo. 6:15.
· Jesus-Prime Example
As an Ordained Minister and a Registered Professional Counsellor my main concern is spiritual and emotional wellness. In addition to being the Pastor at Bethel Assembly in Woodstock New Brunswick, my wife and I operate Pastor’s Inn as a part of Pastor’s Inn Ministries. This ministry is approved by the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, Maritime District, however, it is available to all denominations. Below you will find our Vision statement and Mission statement.
Pastor’s Inn Ministries.
Mission Statement
To provide ministry for wholistic transformation in a safe, confidential and relaxing environment through retreats, competent professional counselling , coaching, and educational presentations in person and online..
Vision Statement
To facilitate wholistic transformation of lives through a process of Biblical meditation and emotional healing.
More details concerning Pastor’s Inn can be found at http://www.pastorsinnministries.com./
hdluff@nb.sympatico.ca
Transformation through Biblical meditation &emotional healing.
Transformation producing emotionally healthy spirituality is facilitated by the release of the Holy Spirit’s power at the intersection of Biblical meditation and emotional brokenness.Emotionally healthy spirituality is manifested in a life that is:
· Anchored in the love of God. Matt. 3:17.
· Free from illusions of performance, possessions and popularity. Lk. 4:1-12.
· Balanced between doing and being. Jo. 6:15.
· Jesus-Prime Example
As an Ordained Minister and a Registered Professional Counsellor my main concern is spiritual and emotional wellness. In addition to being the Pastor at Bethel Assembly in Woodstock New Brunswick, my wife and I operate Pastor’s Inn as a part of Pastor’s Inn Ministries. This ministry is approved by the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, Maritime District, however, it is available to all denominations. Below you will find our Vision statement and Mission statement.
Pastor’s Inn Ministries.
Mission Statement
To provide ministry for wholistic transformation in a safe, confidential and relaxing environment through retreats, competent professional counselling , coaching, and educational presentations in person and online..
Vision Statement
To facilitate wholistic transformation of lives through a process of Biblical meditation and emotional healing.
More details concerning Pastor’s Inn can be found at http://www.pastorsinnministries.com./
hdluff@nb.sympatico.ca
Monday, October 12, 2009
The Church and Mental Illness
Spiritual & Emotional Wellness
“LIGHT IN THE NIGHT.”
“The Lord turns my darkness into light.”2 Samuel 22:29
According to Frank Stirk in an article published at
http://www.canadianchristianity.com/ A recent study by Baylor University in Texas found that out of 293 church members who asked their pastors for help with their own or a family member's diagnosed mental illness, 32.4 percent were told they "did not really have a mental illness, and that the cause of their problem was solely spiritual in nature (eg., personal sin, demonic involvement)." They were also advised to stop taking their medications.
Now, I advocate, “ it is better to meditate than to medicate”, but to advise people to stop taking their medicine in my view is extreme. What do you think?
The study clearly points out just how wide spread the notion is that mental illness is solely connected to a spiritual problem.
The article quotes Warwick Cooper, pastor of counselling and family ministries at The People's Church in Toronto.
“Perhaps the biggest obstacle the mentally ill in the pews face is the persistent and widespread belief that their problem is essentially spiritual. "Most churches just [assume] that if you read your Bible and pray and go to church, that surely is all you need to do," he said "But it's not helping."
I agree with Cooper. I would be interested in hearing your view.
If you would like to respond to this post or any post with a question concerning Spiritual and Emotional Health, I will do my best to give you an answer.
“LIGHT IN THE NIGHT.”
“The Lord turns my darkness into light.”2 Samuel 22:29
According to Frank Stirk in an article published at
http://www.canadianchristianity.com/ A recent study by Baylor University in Texas found that out of 293 church members who asked their pastors for help with their own or a family member's diagnosed mental illness, 32.4 percent were told they "did not really have a mental illness, and that the cause of their problem was solely spiritual in nature (eg., personal sin, demonic involvement)." They were also advised to stop taking their medications.
Now, I advocate, “ it is better to meditate than to medicate”, but to advise people to stop taking their medicine in my view is extreme. What do you think?
The study clearly points out just how wide spread the notion is that mental illness is solely connected to a spiritual problem.
The article quotes Warwick Cooper, pastor of counselling and family ministries at The People's Church in Toronto.
“Perhaps the biggest obstacle the mentally ill in the pews face is the persistent and widespread belief that their problem is essentially spiritual. "Most churches just [assume] that if you read your Bible and pray and go to church, that surely is all you need to do," he said "But it's not helping."
I agree with Cooper. I would be interested in hearing your view.
If you would like to respond to this post or any post with a question concerning Spiritual and Emotional Health, I will do my best to give you an answer.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Secrets to Emotional Health
Obviously this would be a subject of interest to me as a Minister and a Counsellor. Nevertheless I believe it is an important subject for everyone. In the workplace for example the three major areas of concern as far as emotional health is concerned are,depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Julie Spain has created a web page http://www.secretstoemotionalhealth.com./ This site offers some great advice. She also offers a mentoring program. If you should happen to suscribe to her program please pass on that you learned about it from me.
Another great site is http://www.drgrantmullen.com./ Stay healthy.
It's better to meditate than to medicate
Another great site is http://www.drgrantmullen.com./ Stay healthy.
It's better to meditate than to medicate
Friday, August 7, 2009
Retreat
Hi,
Before getting into your Fall schedule it might be to your advantage to take some time just to rest and relax. Check out www.pastorsinnministries.com it may be just what you need.
Before getting into your Fall schedule it might be to your advantage to take some time just to rest and relax. Check out www.pastorsinnministries.com it may be just what you need.
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