We as members of the CCM counseling center team were given this prompt to reflect on and respond with how we cope and managed in 2020. My video response and a link to CCM website is below to share with you all:
“We would like to invite you to redeem the challenges of this past year. Read Joshua 4: 1-9, and find a stone to use for the following activity.
This stone ties back to the scripture to the right and is a symbol for God’s promise to you. What has God revealed to you and your family in 2020? Over this holiday season, we encourage you to sit with your family and reflect on this year – the struggles and surprises, the joys and sorrows, the grief and goodness. Invite God into this time. As you each hold the stone, share how God has made Himself known to you in 2020.”
Yes, Yes, Yes… I know I may seem to be oversimplifying a huge scientific concept with basic ideas but I believe it works.
In my opinion, science is starting to get a glimpse of what the Bible taught us many years ago. I found a whole page of renewing verses but here are the best if you ask me:
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Science Catching On with the Bible
Over 20 years ago, the world of neuroscience provided significant breakthroughs to support our understanding… we now understand that we have the ability to renew our brains. Scientists like Daniel Amen and others have used brain scans to illustrate how what we do on a daily basis can change our minds. Other thought leaders like Dr. Caroline Leaf and Dr. Curt Thompson are digesting these truths to reintegrating science and the Bible as it started historically.
Since brain / mind renewal is a lifetime process that comes up often… I want to share a few resources I like to use to help me cope with the daily stressors of life if you have others please add them to the conversation in the comment section:
The Bible.
While it’s all good I tend to “hang” in Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah, the Gospels, Ephesians or James.
If I am sad or disgusted = Psalms. David was a man after God’s heart. They were close and when David had problems he transparently beefed with God and did not hold back. Yet he honored God in the process even though he screwed up often.
“Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God.
For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; He guards the paths of justice, And preserves the way of His saints.
Then you will understand righteousness and justice, Equity and every good path.
When wisdom enters your heart, And knowledge is pleasant to your soul,”
I was about to “jump out of my skin” one day after watching a brief video on Peter meeting Jesus on my YouVersion Bible App on my cell.
This was quite a feat considering it was still the wee hours of the morning and I was seriously struggling to wake up and get my day started.
I carried this “lesson” in my belly for a week now.
No. First I tried to share with my sleeping husband…screaming with excitement as I showing him.Yes, it was the wee hours. He said something like “that’s nice dear”. LOL
I am thrilled that God wants to get involved in our lives even when we are frustrated or weary as Peter was. Peter used his professional skills and talents to work diligently to no avail. He had a right to be discouraged in my opinion.
Are you frustrated or tired?
That’s when Jesus asked to get in his boat. I LOVE Peter’s realistic reply. No roses and harp music… just curious resistance that he let go to cooperate.
Just like for Peter, God can add His abilities to our sticky situations.
I know this may seem like an oversimplification but I noticed that kids “get it” when I tell them.
Jesus teaches frustrated and disgusted Peter about real life…
I recorded my 2 minute commentary above just before my trauma classes I attended at the American Bible Society in Philadelphia (historical Christ Church in background). I tried to behave and appear calm and civilized in the streets of Philly and skipped the scream =)
I initially shared this clip with my Propel Powerspeak family because God had on my heart to encourage someone. I do not know who.
Is it you who needs God’s extra help?????
I knew someone out there needs access to God’s supernatural power right now…
besides me LOL. I’m tackling grad school, homeschool with 4 kids left, children & youth ministry, missions, speaking and… counting on His grace.
If it is you, please let me know! What’s your story?
I grateful that God is shaping and forming willing individuals to become His world changers for the Kingdom of God. Like the humble people I met at the Global Community of Practice trauma classes who are changing lives one at a time around the world. (But that’s another post.)
You can reach out in the comments or use the contact form to share some details.
