Fall of Man and Choices We Make

I’m honored to be one of the Hosts of @BibleMemCoins Mike Kelly’s Bible Chats on Twitter. #MKBibleChat Has several chats going on through the week and even if you can’t attend one live via twitter, then you can always click the hashtag and view at your leisure.

Here is a list of the Chats

I’m going through the Bible and touching on all the main stories each Monday night at 6pm EST.

Our last discussion was on the Fall of Man and the results of our choices. Here is what we discussed. Please, feel free to continue the discussion in the comment section below.



The Fall - Genesis 3

Welcome to #mkbiblechat where we are discussing the major stories of the Bible each week. This week, the fall of man.

Life is awesome and wonderful for Adam and Eve and then Satan enters and first thing he does is to cause Eve to doubt God

That lie of the devil is still widely used. When we doubt, we get fearful. Fear brings hopelessness which leads to discouragement

If the Christian is discouraged and DOING NOTHING, then there is no impact for the Kingdom of Heaven and satan has us in his grip

Depression and discouragement are the toughest things to overcome as satan wants us focused on our fears and not our Father.

As a Christian we need to remain close enough to God that the lies of satan stick out like a sore thumb. How are you doing this?

We need to remember that just because it looks good and our heart desires it…doesn’t mean it won’t be harmful Gen 3:6

Our lives are filled with so many wonderful things and people, that we don’t have to run to or desire the things that hurt us most

Eve had a choice. She chose to ignore the voice of God and did what she wanted. Her choice affected more than she ever knew

WARNING: Our wrong, sinful choices will hurt more than just ourselves. It will hurt those closest to us&those we may never meet

It is never a wise thing to ignore God’s word. It will work out so much better for us if we simply choose to follow the Lord.

Some people blame Eve. Some people blame Adam. My next few statements will discuss both roles. What do YOU think?

Adam, Adam, Adam. He was with Eve &didn’t step in, didn’t try&stop Eve&didn’t say that they should listen to God, not the serpent

EVE, Eve, Eve. She should have waited to at least hear what her husband had to say about the fruit before jumping the gun & eating

Ladies, learn from Eve. YOU have the responsibility to follow your husband as HE follows Christ. Not the other way around.

Guys, learn from Adam. If your wife is not making wise choices, wrap her in prayer & approach her the right way, with right spirit.

everyone blamed everyone else! no one "owned" their mistakes. reminds me of today. own up!! fess up & then pray up.

Adam had a horrible choice to make after Eve took the fruit. He could have chosen NOT to eat the fruit&remain perfect

My sappy heart wonders if he deliberately made the choice to eat because he LOVED her so much & didn’t want to be without her.

Adam’s act of love reminds me of Christ doing WHATEVER it takes to make a way for us to get into heaven. HE CHOSE TO DIE.

Adam didn’t have to eat, but chose to for her. He demonstrated how much HE loved her by taking that fruit and future punishment

They heard God walking in the garden and hid. Even though God knew, he asked where they were and how they knew they were naked.

RED FLAG: Pay attention to the questions God asks. Throughout the Bible, those questions are for YOUR benefit.

Think of the punishment in the Garden of Eden. PAIN. We only see the desirable part of sin, not the price it will COST US

We HAVE to endure pain in childbearing. Christ CHOSE to endure the pain and suffering of the cross

We HAVE to endure the pain of separation as our children grow up and leave. Christ CHOSE to endure the pain of separation for US

Sin forever changed the way we were SUPPOSED to be as humans. Sin will cost us far more than we will ever want to pay

Adam and Eve lost the PERFECT fellowship with God, the pleasures of the Garden of Eden & will have a life time of pain

God now had to provide a perfect, holy sacrifice so that we may the hope of an eternity with HIM in Heaven.

Let’s bring this topic right down to where we live. What about our choices? What can we learn from this week’s lesson?

Never think that when you choose to do wrong, you’ll only hurt yourself. You’ll hurt far more people than you’ll ever know

Made in HIS Image

Come...chat with us....

I'm honored to be one of the Hosts of @BibleMemCoins Mike Kelly's Bible Chats on Twitter. #MKBibleChat Has several chats going on through the week and even if you can't attend one live via twitter, then you can always click the hashtag and view at your leisure.

Here is a list of the Chats

I'm going through the Bible and touching on all the main stories each Monday night at 6pm EST.

Last week we talked about being made in God's Image.

Here is what was discussed:

On the 6^th day God created the animals and man = Gen 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:

God saved the best and most precious creation for last. Order is important to the Lord. It matters.

God said “let US make man in OUR image” – who is the “us” and “our” represented?

How do you describe the Trinity to a child/unbeliever?

I liken it to an egg. 3 parts to the egg (shell, white&yolk) but simply one egg. Trinity is 1 person Father, Son&Holy Spirit

I realize we are just sinners saved by grace, but humans didn’t start out that way. We were&ARE Gods most precious creation

Consider this: Even though we come from the dust of the earth…not worth anything at all, God formed us&breathed life into us

Ponder this: Nothing else is made in God’s image. Nothing. That is just how SPECIAL YOU are!

Gen 1:26 goes on to say that God gave us the rule over every living thing. Fish, birds, cattle etc.

The Lord set the order in this fashion to tell us just how precious in HIS sight we are.

He cherishes us to this very day! God doesn’t simply look back and think that pile of dirt was useless. He delights in us!

What is your favorite verse that reminds you about how much God loves you?

As our Heavenly Father, He wants us as children to want to be with him, not just listen, honor & obey Him.

Imagine a moment how you’d feel if your child did absolutely EVERYTHING you requested, but never spent any time with you

You, as a child of God can simply obey….but so much of the relationship is lost when you don’t just schooch in close to HIM daily.

We have all of the qualities we need to reflect the Lord, to be LIKE Him since we are made in His image

What are you reflecting? What image of the Lord are we showing to others?

Creation can show us how majestic God is, how Awesome HE is, but it is not an image of God like we are

The Image of God is the Source of all Dignity via @BillMounce – OUR sense of worth comes from God our creator

Society wants us to measure our self worth based on their standards. We need to remain focus on God's Standards

We shouldn’t even compare ourselves to other Christians. If you want to see how you measure up, compare yourself to Christ

James 2:2&3 asks are we partial to those that look nice, dresses nicely or do we welcome everyone with compassion like Jesus did

We need to continue in our growth so that we continue to truly be in Gods Image. Daily allowing God to transform us

As painful as growth can be, there is JOY in the morning and if we are faithful and faint not, God’s image will shine through us

Keep your eyes on the prize. Keep traveling by faith. Keep clinging to that blessed hope of eternal life with God forever

Then and only then (in Heaven) we will be like HIM, because we will see HIM face to face.

God wants us to remember that we are precious to Him. We are HIS treasure.

Bring this home… how can we be more like the image of God each day?

Daily dying to self will allow others to see HIS reflection clearly

Christian – as you make your way through the day, remember that YOU are reflecting “something”

Lastly, remember God loves us just as we are, but His desire is for us to daily strive to be just like HIM

Verses of Encouragement

Here are some of my favorite Bible verses.

I hope that this list will be something that you turn to when someone in your world needs some encouragement or when your heart needs a pick me up.

Use them in cards, post on facebook walls etc. Several have links to some original photos that were made using those verses. Share freely, knowing you are spreading joy!

What is your life verse?

What is your favorite verse in times of heartache?

Let us know in the comment section below.

1. Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God…..


2. Genesis 18:14 Is anything too hard for the LORD


3. Exodus 14:14 – The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace


4. Deuteronomy 6:5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.


5. 1 Samuel 2:2 – There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none besides thee: neither is there any rock like our God


6. 1 Kings 10:9a – Blessed be the LORD thy God which delighted in thee


7. 1 Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever


8. 2 Chronicles 20:15b – Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is NOT yours, but God’s


9. Nehemiah 8:10 The Joy of the Lord is my strength


10. Psalm 29:11 The LORD will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with strength


11. Psalm 27:14 Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.


12. Psalm 34:7 The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them


13. Psalm 40:1 I waited patiently for the LORD and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.


14. Psalm 41:1 Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble


15. Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble


16. Psalm 46:5a God is in the midst of her…


17. Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God


18. Psalm 56:3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee


19. Psalm 62:5 My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him


20. Psalm 85:10 Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other


21. Psalm 103:8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and plenteous in mercy


22. Psalm 107:2a Let the redeemed of the LORD say so,


23. Psalm 124:8 Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.


24. Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend


25. Proverbs 29:7 The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.


26. Proverbs 31:20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.


27. Jeremiah 10:10 But the Lord is the true God, He is the living God and an everlasting King


28. Jeremiah 29:13 And ye shall seek me and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart


29. Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me and I will answer thee and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not


30. Lamentations 5:19 Thou, O LORD, remainest forever; thy throne from generation to generation


31. Joel 2:21 Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things.


32. Malachi 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not;


33. Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.


34. Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.


35. Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.


36. Matthew 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled


37. Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy


38. Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God


39. Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God


40. Matthew 5:10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven


41. Matthew 5:11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake


42. Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (my life verse)


43. Matthew 10:30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.


44. Matthew 11:28 Come unto me , all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.


45. Matthew 16:15 He saith unto them, But Who say ye that I am?


46. Matthew 18:2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them.


47. Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.


48. Matthew 19:14 Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for such is the kingdom of heaven


49. Matthew 19:26 With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible


50. Matthew 21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive


51. Matthew 25:40 Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. (This is one of the reasons WHY I love spreading JOY)


52. Mark 6:31 Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while


53. Mark 11:22 Have faith in God


54. Mark 13:31 Heaven and Earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away


55. Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible


56. Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.


57. Luke 2:19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.


58. Luke 6:28 Bless them that curse you and pray for them which despitefully use you


59. Luke 6:36 Be Ye therefore merciful as your Father also is merciful


60. Luke 12:34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also


61. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.


62. John 10:10 I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.


63. John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me


64. John 14:2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you


65. John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also


66. John 16:33 In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world


67. Acts 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.


68. Acts 20:35 It is more blessed to give than to receive


69. Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of oGod unto salvation to everyone that believeth


70. Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us


71. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose


72. Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved


73. Romans 12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good


74. Romans 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost


75. Romans 15:32 That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.


76. 1 Corinthians 1:4 I thank my God always on your behalf for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ


77. 1 Corinthians 3:23 and ye are Christ’s and Christ is God’s


78. 1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ


79. 2 Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness


80. Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.


81. Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think


82. Ephesians 6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might


83. Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again, I say, Rejoice


84. Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God


85. Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus


86. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me


87. Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus


88. Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful


89. Colossians 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not unto men


90. 1 Thessalonians 2:19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?


91. 1 Thessalonians 2:20 For ye are our glory and joy


92. 1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice Evermore


93. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing


94. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you


95. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil


96. Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ


97. Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need


98. James 4:8 Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you


99. 1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people: that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.


100. 1 Peter 2:17 Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king


101. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faith and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness


102. 1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God and knoweth God


103. 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.


104. 1 John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us


105. 1 John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us


106. 3 John vs. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth


107. Jude vs 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life


108. Jude vs 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference


109. Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come Lord Jesus

Awesome Friend

Wise Words

Huge Heart

Tender Soul....

Awesome Friend!

Whatever the Day May Bring

Whatever your day has brought you - PRAISE HIM!

If it brought you sun, praise HIM - If it brought you rain, praise HIM

If it brought you a bonus, praise HIM - If it brought you an unemployment check, praise HIM

If it brought you a new car, praise HIM - If it brought you news you need a new motor, praise HIM

If it brought you warm hugs and kisses, praise Him - If it brought you despair and grief, praise HIM

If it brought you a trip to your favorite place, praise HIM - If it brought you to the hospital or doctor office, Praise HIM

If it brought you gladness and smiles, praise HIM - If it brought you tears and sorrow, praise HIM

If it brought you peace and harmony, praise HIM - If it brought you uncertainty and fighting, praise HIM

If it brought you encouragement and direction, praise HIM - If it brought you discouragement and road blocks, praise HIM

If it brought you good news of promotion or healing, praise Him - If it brought you heartbreaking news or disease, praise HIM

If it brought you smiles and laughter, praise HIM - If it brought you anger and yelling, praise Him

Whatever this day has brought you, place your hope in the Lord and simply praise HIM

Psalm 9:2
I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.

Psalm 34:1
I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

ABC's of Making A Difference

A – Aware – Be aware of your surroundings. Many people that you pass by are hurting and your bright smile will probably bring them peace, joy and hope.

B – Believe – Believe that no matter how small your gift or act of joy is that it matters and it makes a difference.

C – Cheerful – Your attitude is contagious, so make sure you are cheerful today!

D – Delight – Delight in the joy and success of others. There are so many negative things that we face each day which makes this gift is priceless

E – Encourage – This is the easiest way to make a difference. No special talent needed, anyone of any financial level or position can do this.

F – Find – FIND the resources that you have. Making a difference doesn’t have to break the bank. You’ve got what you need right where you are.

G – Goals – Set goals for making a difference. Decide that you’ll do one or two things a day. Choose to trade a coffee, manicure or lunch and donate those funds to a charity, like Spreading Joy.

H – Hear – Your family, friends and those you work with are speaking about their likes, dislikes and troubles. Hear what they are saying and act on it.

I – Ignore – Ignore those negative feelings that try to convince you that you are not making a difference. Every single act of JOY you do for someone is making a difference.

K – Kindness – Kindness matters to everyone. Sprinkle a little bit everywhere you go!

L – Laugh – Laughter is the best medicine. Find things to laugh about and share!

M – More – Do a little more today for others, than you did yesterday.

N – Notes – Send out note cards and letters telling someone – THANK you for making a difference in my life! Leave sticky notes of encouragement where your friends, family or co-workers can find them.

O – Outstanding – Tell someone what an outstanding job they’ve done. Your cashier, your bank teller, your husband/wife and child!

P – Passionate – Be passionate about what you do. The joy you feel will be undeniable and others will want to follow suit.

Q – Quality – Do your best, give your best and know that in doing so you’ll enhance the quality of your life.

R – Remember – Remember that you matter and you are unique….just like everyone else.

S – Speak – Say it today! Don’t wait. Speak your heart to those special people in your life.

T – Thanksgiving – Don’t just practice an attitude of gratitude during one month a year. Thanksgiving is something we should be doing each day.

U – Useful – Help someone. Don’t just hope that someone else will do it, YOU do it.

V – Valuable – What is valuable to you? Things, stuff or money? Try valuing respect, honor, truth and love more. Priceless gifts.

W – Whimsy – Add a little whimsy to your day and to those around you. The fun sprinkled through your day will widen the already existent smile!

X – Xcuse me? – Don’t tell me you can’t make a difference! Everyone can! Here are 50 ways to do so without spending a penny – AND – if that isn’t enough, here are ANOTHER 50 ways!

Y – Yourself – Fearlessly be YOURSELF. You are amazing and we need you to be you.

Z – Zany – Be a little zany, silly and carefree. Be positive and run the negativity out! Enjoy each moment and let your heart smile!



Spreading Joy and Making a difference is easy!

Talk to me....what do you think? Can you do this?

Here is a free PDF of this post!

Priceless Gifts

We all love giving and making a difference. Spreading Joy is what I love to call it. The problem is that many of us look at our giving in the wrong fashion. We look at what we can’t do, don’t have or dwell on the huge things that we may never be able to do.

There are so many gifts that are given to us and we treasure them, but when WE give them back to others, we often miss the value of what we are giving away. We feel small and worthless because we can’t do more. These gifts are priceless and should be given freely and often.

Let’s look at some examples together:

The Gift of Strength – Women are strong. We’ll step in between danger and our children in an instant and think nothing of it. We’ll face monsters that lurk in the dark, giants that terrorize our kids and a million other things that make our children and families feel weak and defeated. Men will think nothing of protecting their family and closest friends, even if they are facing certain death. When you strengthen another by lending a hand, agreeing in prayer or simply being their rock in times of deep sorrow and pain, you are giving those people the strength to take the next step, to put one foot in front of the other. You know what it feels like when your world has been shaken to the core and then how wonderful it is when a friend steps up to encourage you. During those times when your world is falling apart, a true friend to strengthen you is priceless. Value this gift more as you are that friend that steps in when it seems the world has stepped out.

The Gift of Time – In this hurry up society where the elderly are pushed aside, kids are sat in front of the TV and there is never enough time for anything or anyone anymore, this gift is more valuable than we seem to realize. I love family gatherings, I love girls’ night out and I love one on one time with my kids. That phone call out of the blue is often a ray of hope. Give the gift of time, knowing that this gift will always be treasured.

The Gift of Love – Unconditional love is simply amazing. Being loved just for you is a priceless gift we all desire. We feel like we have to prove things to others, be something that we are not or have the nicest things before “others” will love and accept us. Knowing that we are loved when we are whiny, bratty, disobedient, fearful, doubtful and even when we build walls, shutting out our friends is a precious gift. Why, then, do we not value it more when we give this gift away? You don’t just love your friends that live in the fanciest of homes, drive the best cars and provide the best dinner parties. You don’t just love those family members that never cause you grief or always are helpful. You love your family and friends unconditionally and in doing so; you make a huge impact on each of those hearts.

The Gift of Peace – When the tears are flowing, uncertainty and anxiety are bursting from your heart, then a precious friend steps up, puts a loving arm around us and reassures us, it will be ok. We don’t have to go through things alone. When we have a friend that will hold our hand as well as touch our heart with kindness as we are going through the valley brings us amazing peace because we know someone cares and is willing to help us get through. This gift allows us to take one more step, knowing that it’s truly going to be ok. I pray you use this gift often as you wrap your arms around someone hurting and assure them that “it” will be ok while you listen to them, allowing them to empty their heart of pain.

The Gift of Prayer – When we pray for others, we are sometimes guilty of thinking “I wish I could do more.” Well, I do that occasionally. Praying for someone is absolutely the greatest gift ever! I’m boldly going before the throne of grace on their behalf and asking God the Father to find favor with them. I’m going before the One that knows their pain, feels their grief and is right in the midst of their trials. I’m seeking help from the One that can help when no other can. The gift of prayer is perfect as one size fits all and anyone can do it! I don’t know about you, but when I wake up to an email or message that says “I’m praying for you” my heart immediately smiles because I was being wrapped in prayer while I slept. I have a policy that I never break. My mind is usually running everywhere, so when someone pops into my mind and on my heart, I’ll say a prayer for them. I do this, knowing that God placed them there for a reason since it was out of the blue. I do try and contact them to let them know, but sometimes that just doesn’t work out. Give the gift of prayer, without feeling like you should do more.

The Gift of Forgiveness – Pain is pain, regardless of who caused it, where it comes from and how deep it cuts to our core, it hurts! There are some that choose to hold a grudge and will simply not let go and they refuse to give the gift of forgiveness. As long as we are in this earthly body, WE will hurt others. We will disappoint, discourage and cause pain and have to ask forgiveness of those we cause this hurt to. Remember that when someone has to ask you to forgive them. Think for a moment....who do you need to forgive? Give this gift freely, without the give and take of reminding and remembering the pain.

The Gift of Courage – Standing alone is so frightening. We all feel uncomfortable and so very alone when all eyes are on us. When you step up, stand up and lead the way, you may never realize it, but you are giving someone else courage to do the same. Many do not want to stand alone and are fearful, so your simple act of leading the way empowers others with the confidence to do the same. Step up, speak up, stand out! Go…boldly so!

The Gift of Compassion – When you give the gift of compassion you instantly make a difference. Be compassionate, even if you don’t understand what is going on or how someone could have gotten into “that” situation. Be compassionate with your family, friends and co-workers as you may not realize what sadness or discouragement is running through their heart. Be compassionate…period. Many people are hostel and indifferent to those who are facing hard times. Your gift of compassion is received with a grateful heart and will be passed on. Someone will remember this gift and pass it to another that is facing difficulty. Look through the eyes of compassion today, as you never know when you’ll need others to look on you with compassion.

The Gift of Hope – All the resources are gone…. there seems to be no job, no money, no family members that will come to the rescue…no hope. You see the need, you do what you can to help as well as do what you can to show them other resources and avenues that can be taken. You give hope that tomorrow will be better, you inspire them to keep going, keep looking and remind them that someone cares. There’s nothing like the gift of hope. May I remind you to keep doing what you can with what you have and inspire others to do the same! The gift of hope is amazing.

The Gift of JOY – Joy is contagious! Don’t you just love being around people that are happy, joyful and that just seem to enjoy each moment of life? I love watching people like this! You can be going through a sad time, times of trials and discouragement and when someone like this comes your way, you can’t help but to smile by simply being around them. I love giving the gift of joy because this gift gets passed around easily! Giving out smiles, looking people in the eye and being super friendly is something that we all are capable of doing. Create JOY!



These are priceless gifts that we treasure when we get them from others! Why do we not see the value in them as we give them away to others?

I hope this encourages you to re-think your gift giving, refocus your values on these kinds of gifts and that it reminds you that you are awesome at spreading joy! I hope you’ll remember these gifts as you thinking about giving to others.

One of my goals is to make sure that I’m spreading joy daily and I hope that you’ll make that as your goal as well!

For ideas on making a difference without spending a penny – click here:

50 Ways of Making a Difference without Spending a Penny

Need more still? Another 50 ways right here!

One more?

Making a Difference is as Easy as ABC….

This post was adapted from a guest post that I did for the Women's Bible Cafe.

To see the Biblical application, click here.

I Resolve To

We all waltz into the New Year thinking of things we want to accomplish during the year.

I hope that my list of resolutions will inspire you to boldly resolve to make resolutions that truly matter.

Doing this will inspire you as well as those around you.



I resolve to make the best of whatever comes my way each day

I resolve to smile daily, even if it's through tears

I resolve to encourage my family to be their best, even when the worst is flooding our world

I resolve to enjoy the success of others and encourage them to keep pursuing their passion

I resolve to treat others the way I want to be treated, no wait... BETTER than I want to be treated

I resolve to be kind to those who are the meanest

I resolve to listen to my heart and not feel guilty for doing things for myself

I resolve to do what I can with what I have and enJOY it

I resolve to read a book a month (or listen...as I love audio books)

I resolve to be a positive force

I resolve to use my strengths without worry about how my weaknesses may come across

I resolve to allow my heart to sing freely

I resolve to find beauty in the Ordinary

I resolve to laugh daily....regardless (hey, if I'm gonna cry often, I may as well laugh even more)

I resolve to hug freely

I resolve to say thank you to someone daily

I resolve to learn from my mistakes

I resolve to face difficulties with courage

I resolve to let those in my world know just how important they truly are

I resolve to continue to be Matthew 5:16

I resolve to be compassionate

I resolve to let the hurt & disappointment that surrounds me to make me more determined

I resolve to keep taking the next step, even when I can't see the path

I resolve to love, and do so freely

I resolve to celebrate the good, forgive the bad and enjoy the moment

I resolve to change what I can, fix what is wrong & find the good in the rest

I resolve to reflect on the blessings of the day at the end of the day

I resolve to celebrate small victories and push onward through challenges

I resolve to be content with what I have, while striving to improve where I can

I resolve to not allow circumstances to dictate HOW I live

I resolve to not allow guilt to eat at my heart

I resolve to stop and smell the roses when I'm near them

I resolve to believe that I'm enough and not compare myself to others



What are some of your resolutions? Please encourage others by sharing them below.



Here is a free PDF of this article.

Boldly Face Tomorrow

Trials WILL come; it’s just a matter of when.

Tears WILL fall; it’s just a matter of how long.

Your Heart will break; it’s just a matter of how many pieces.

I understand this isn’t spreading joy, but it IS truth.

We can boldly face another day with a little preparation; after all, it is just a matter of time before we face storms and trials.

I believe I can say for certain that each one of us will face the following things:



Uncertainty:

You don’t know what you’ll be facing. You don’t know what situations will arise that are beyond your control. You don’t know about job issues, medical bills and other things. You don’t know what you’ll be facing. Choose to focus on the facts, not the uncertainty. Look at the facts and allow that to help give you direction. Sometimes all it takes is looking at things from a different view point. Don’t allow your emotions to drive you. Emotions are a tricky beast and can have our minds full of fear and doubt. Even when facing uncertainty, choose to maintain a good attitude while fixing what you can and working around the rest.



Disappointment:

I wish that you didn’t have to face disappointments, but the truth is that you WILL face it. Prepare for it in advance by looking for the good in the disappointment. It’s an old saying, but still rings true today, look for the silver lining. It’s always easier to see the negative, but if we teach ourselves to see the positive, it will get easier to find through each disappointment. I’m not telling you to ignore your hardships, I’m simply instructing you to look beyond them at what treasure may be forming because of the hardship.

The positive things are there, you have to look for them!



Fear:

Fear will consume us. You’ll be so afraid to do anything, to make decisions or even just take the next step if you are not aware of just how consuming fear is. Set your fears aside and focus on the truth of what is going on. The truth is that YOU are strong and you will make it through this. The truth is that you have people that care about you and will help you through it. Focus on the truth! Find the resources that are available and see if those will lead to more resources. As things start to fall into place, you’ll notice the fears subsiding. Let me encourage you to step out into the unknown. When you do, you’ll feel the courage coursing through you and that will give you the ability to take the next step, and the next one and the next one.



Difficulties:

When you are facing difficulties, you don’t have to face them alone. There are people who have been where you are and they are willing to walk with you. There are people who have been where you are going, they will help you out!

When we face difficulties, we clam up and withdraw and then try and face them alone. This is the time that we need to reach out so that we don’t have to battle the depression alone. Find a friend to share your fears and difficulties with and divide the pain and in doing this, you will also double the joy you share.

When you are facing difficulties that lead to depression, may I suggest you pour yourself into “others.” Regardless of the finances, we can all make a difference for others and that act alone will help bring deep down joy that no one or nothing can steal from you.

Here are 50 Ways to make a difference without spending a penny. YOU can make a difference!



Sorrow:

Facing sorrow is not easy. When someone is struggling, spend time with them, chat with them until they laugh. It doesn’t take a special talent, lots of money or gifts galore. It only takes a willing heart. Be sensitive to others when sorrows arise. Don’t assume someone should be over the grief they are going through. Don’t assume someone shouldn’t be hurting “over that situation.” We all deal with grief, pain and sorrow differently. Be sensitive and kind to those facing sorrow. If you are in the midst of sorrow or grief, know that it’s ok. There is no right way to grieve. Sometimes writing out your feelings – the good, bad and ugly is a way of releasing them. Sometimes, it’s a matter of sharing them verbally or counseling. Some may even need medical help. Whatever your means of facing your sorrow, remember YOU have friends and family that will help you face them. Don’t withdraw and try to go it alone. That’s what WE are here for.

Regret:

This is the ONE thing we can choose NOT to face. Regret. Regret will break us. The guilt of regret will weigh our hearts down and beat us.

We all have made bad decisions.

We can learn from our bad choices, we can decide that yes… I did “that” but I will NOT allow myself to be in that situation again. Don’t let regret keep you from boldly making a change in your life. Don’t let guilt keep you down when you are capable of doing so much for you and your family. Don’t let regret win. You are strong enough to use it, learn from it and then beat it.

Think about this:

If we are living in the past and worried about the future, how can we be effective today?

It’s simple - - - We can’t. Choose NOT to regret. Put those past mistakes to good use by learning from them and sharing what you’ve learned with others.



Emptiness:

There are times that you’ll feel empty, alone and like you don’t matter. It’s going to happen, it is just a matter of when. When you face this, once again I have to insist that you go on fact instead of feelings. Feelings are so tricky and emotional roller coasters are not very fun.

Here are the facts:

• YOU Matter – Not only do you matter, but you matter a LOT. You are the world to someone!


• YOU Make a difference – in so many ways. You feel as though you do nothing special and you are nothing special, but THAT is what MAKES you special. No one can make a difference like YOU do. NO one!


• YOU will make if past this – and when you do, you’ll soar to new heights that you didn’t even know existed.

Use this time of empty feelings to focus on making a difference for others instead of dwelling on how you feel. It can be as little as giving your children their favorite cereal for dinner, coloring with them in their coloring books. It could be something like telling an older friend thank you for helping to shape our world into what it is today and taking some time to hear how they did it. It could be something like extending patience to the cashier that is experiencing one rude customer after another. Take your mind off of the emptiness that is flooding your heart and place your focus on those around you. You’ll soon find the emptiness filling up with amazing JOY.



Overwhelmed:

Even the calmest person I know will face times when they are overwhelmed. It’s at this point that you simply can’t afford to feel guilty for stopping and doing something for yourself.

STOP right here, pull yourself away from everything for a little bit. Go outside, stretch and take 5 minutes to soak up the outdoors. When you can, take an some additional time to just step away from all that is pulling at you.

If you have young children, it may need to be for 15-30 minutes after they’ve gone to bed, but STOP and do something for yourself.

It doesn’t have to be expensive, it just needs to be done and done without guilt.

Read

Write in your journal

Gaze out the window

Listen to the sound of the rain

Take a nap on the couch – set a timer so you don’t over sleep.

If you don’t pull yourself out of the situation for a little bit, it will only get worse.



How are you boldly facing tomorrow? What other tips would you share with others?



To Hear an audio version of this, please click below:

25 Ways To Show Love

**This was originally published before Valentine's Day over on our MAIN Site - http://www.spreading-joy.org You can remove the follow from here & follow there to stay up to date :)

Valentine’s Day is typically the day that couples express their love for one another. Many single people have grown to dislike this day and sadly some have even come to despise this day.

May I challenge you to show those in your world that you care? Don’t give thought to if you are a couple or not.

Think of your friends that you have fun with, your cousins that you rarely get to see, that high school friend that you chat with on Facebook.

Those are the ones that you can tell how you care…after all, who doesn’t need to know that they are cared for?

Every one of us, right down to the smallest of us, need to know we are loved. Take the time to show some love today. Here are some easy peasy suggestions.

I know there are a BAzillion other ways, but I’m trying to REMOVE all excuses by using the K*I*S*S method – Keep It Simple Sweetie - since I’m married, we’ll start with the husbands and wives.

Husbands/Wives:

1. Breakfast in bed – I bet the scene of “one serving the other” just ran through your head and you are thinking “what about me?” See, I KNOW how you are. Actually, I was thinking – 2 cups of coffee/juice, 2 bowls of cereal or favorite oatmeal and sitting close and comfy with each other in the bed, slowly starting the day. Remembering, giggling, and gazing into each other’s eyes as you talk. Nothing fancy is needed as the time together is the best part.
2. Divide and conquer – Divide up a few chores so that you’ll have more time to spend with each other. Ladies, invite your husband to share in the dishes. Ask him if he’d come, stand behind you with his mighty arms wrapped around you while you wash. Here, it will go something like this – you - “Honey will you help me?” Him – grunt/groan You- “pleeeeeeease, it will only take 10 minutes or so” (draw out the please) Him - *sigh* ugghh – ok. He comes to you in the kitchen, you take his arms, wrap them around your waist from behind you, pull him close and proceed to do the dishes. You – “Thank you for helping with the dishes! It’s such a chore alone. You are such a hero!” Him – to busy kissing your neck to respond. Make sure you are wearing some sweet perfume so that he will be helping you by nibbling on your neck. I hate washing dishes, but if I were engulfed in my husband’s arms and he was “helping” that way, I would not mind doing the dishes at all. Guys…. HELP with any household chore and it will free up your wife to do other things. **Side Note: I have NOT tried this, but will let you know what happens when I do**
3. Hold hands – such a lost art of love between husbands and wives. Simple, sweet…effective.
4. Leave notes for each other – Leave notes for each other. Ladies, don’t expect the guys to acknowledge that he received it. He got it AND smiled. I use to struggle with this as I do it often, but trust me… He GETS it. Guys, this is such a SIMPLE way to your gal’s heart. She will BEAM with JOY when she finds the note you left her. Get creative, have fun and smile…knowing you are loved.
5. His/Her night with no guilt – He is watching TV in the living room while SHE is reading a book in the bedroom. ONE of YOU schooch right up beside the other and keep doing what you were already doing. He can watch TV while you read (or play angry birds, words with friends, tweet or facebook) and just enjoy being beside each other. Who cares if SHE doesn’t watch TV with you, she IS WITH you. Who cares if HE doesn’t like sappy romance books (or angry birds, words with friends, twitter or facebook) HE is with you. Got it? good!
6. Date Night – I don’t care if the budget is tight, there are things that the two of you can do together. Walk in the park or by the lake. If you have physical issues, sit in the garden together or enjoy sitting at the park watching the sun set. Go to McDonalds and share an order of fries. Or, go big and go to Outback Steak House or even bigger with a posh downtown restaurant. The thing is… GO ON A DATE. Monthly if at all possible.
7. No Complaining Night – This is exactly what it says. Gals, if your guy doesn’t help don’t complain. Guys, if your wife doesn’t do the dishes after dinner, don’t complain. Gals if you don’t like how HE folds the clothes – keep it to yourself. SIDE NOTE: [whispering] wives, if your husband helps you with laundry, dishes, vacuuming, dusting, kids – ANYTHING…never ever EVER complain… don’t do it. You will DISCOURAGE him, make him feel like he can’t do anything right and stop doing it. Guys – if she doesn’t listen to me and complains anyway – walk over to her EACH time she complains and take her in your arms and smother her with kisses. Hmm, ladies….on second thought, if he starts doing this when you complain… complain all you want to.
8. Honest Communication – Ladies, WE are the worst about this. I can NOT read your mind and neither can he. If you want something say – that would make a nice birthday gift. If you don’t like something, kindly say. If you say NOTHING is wrong, EXPECT the conversation to end. If you say you don’t want anything for Christmas – expect NOTHING. Being honest is the best. Yes, he has and will make you angry. YES YOU have and will make him angry…but telling everyone but him/her won’t fix things.
9. Gadgets – Don’t you just love technology? I do. Find out what is something they’d like to have. Often if you simply listen to them in conversation, they will tell you. I’m already looking into a gift for my husband for Christmas this year. HE will love it….I Know he will, cause HE SAID he would, just in passing.
10. Pal Around – Share the fun things, the bad things and everything in between. Be their best friend. Laugh together, cry together and know that no matter what you face, you are facing it together.
11. Slow Dance – turn on some sappy music to play in the background and when he/she walks buy take their hand and slow dance for a song. Look into each other’s eyes and enjoy the song.
12. Say I LOVE you – tell him/her that you love them. Tell them why. It doesn’t have to be poetic or rhyming. Tell why from your heart.
13. Love yourself – YOU are special, you mean the world to your spouse…love yourself, regardless of how you feel you look. Ladies, we struggle with this more than some guys do. Society has us blinded to true beauty. We feel we have to be a size ZERO to be gorgeous. I have a pretty smile and an ok face, but not much else going for me. When my husband takes me in his arms, kisses me and tell me I’m beautiful to him… I BELIEVE IT and I feel it. Guys, when your wife tells you what a sexy hunk of man you are… Believe her and BE HER sexy hunk of man.
14. Focus on the Positive – negative things are going to arise in a marriage. I know this and many times I’m the cause of it because I just don’t realize that I’m getting on his nerves. Focus on the positive things that you love about each other, while honestly communicating about the negative and work on those. For instance: I like to chew my ice. Steve hates it. When I’m around him, I really try to NOT do the things that he hates. I don’t point out his flaws and DWELL on them because if I’m honest with myself, HE could POINT out my flaws for days and years. Enjoy each day.
15. Ask for Help – Ladies, our guys love to come to our rescue. Seek out your hero! Guys, sometimes we simply need a hero…be there!
16. Special Date – Gals, you know the way to your man’s heart is through his stomach as well as sex. Romantic dinner, awesome dessert & TLC afterwards = priceless. Don’t have the time/money to get away for a special night. Let me help you with that.
    1. Dinner – Use your best dishes. Lettuce wedge with a sliced tomato, bacon bits and dressing for appetizer. Rotisserie Chicken, mashed potatoes or other veggies from the deli and special dessert
    2. Setting – home – arrange for kids to be gone, candles, soft music. If your husband has a job where he is sweaty when he comes home, set everything out while he is in the shower. He will be delighted when he see this set up.
    3. Meal – don’t be in a hurry. Enjoy each other’s time and company. Everything else is out of sight and mind. Just YOU and HIM.
    4. TLC = Gals, NOTHING in this area of sex has changed about your guy since you married him. Nothing. Justsaying. Let the evening naturally flow, spoil him and enjoy him.
17. Special Date – GUYS, see number 16 but change up a few things. After the meal, have her remain at the table, while you light candles, turn on soft music and run her a hot bubble bath. Tell her to simply relax in the bath. While she is doing that, take the time to clean everything. [nods] yes…all of IT. Once the wrinkles have set in and the water is cold, bring her favorite thick, warm comfy pj’s to her. Her idea of TLC = schooch in close, wrap your arms around her. Kiss her goodnight and stay awake, watching her…protecting her while she slowly drifts off to sleep in your arms. She will sleep peacefully knowing that her hero has her. AND – if her idea of TLC is the same as YOUR idea, well then… stillwrap her close afterwards….watching, holding…protecting. Allowing her to fall asleep in your arms.

Friends/Family need to be shown love too

1. Text – Technology is an amazing thing. Text pictures, hugs, laughs and smiles to tell someone you care!
2. CALL – still a good old fashioned way of communicating to your friends and family.
3. Mail a CARD – While I do love technology, there is nothing like receiving a card in the mail with a special note written inside.
4. Plan Something Fun – Schedule some time for friends and extended family. Even if there are no birthdays or anniversaries, just go and have fun.
5. Star Gaze – take your kids outside one evening and just look at the never ending galaxy of gorgeous stars. Allow them to bring their favorite pillow, stuffed animal and spend some time talking about what they see in the stars. You might just be amazed.
6. Brag on Them – go ahead and talk about them behind their back…as long as it’s positive, uplifting and encouraging. While you are at it, TELL them how wonderful they are!
7. Fun Breakfast – still have kids at home? Regardless of their age, they will love some homemade chocolate chip pancakes or muffins. Use fruit to make a cute face or put some out and tell them to make a face with it. Enjoy the laughter.
8. Free to be Themselves – Make your home a haven. Regardless of who is there and when, allow their personalities to shine through, all them to be who they are without apology and build on their strengths. Don’t always point out the negative things about them, focus on the things that you love and adore about them.

There you have it, 25 fun things to do to show love. Am I a counselor? No. Do I have the perfect marriage/family? No, and I never will. Can I work on these things just like you? YES…and do.

But, just like you, I find time, finances and other “things” to get in the way. I’m working on pushing past those things and showing love where and when I can.

There are things on these 2 lists that you can do to show love as well. These items do not cost a single penny. List 1 &List 2

Life is short…spread some joy and show some love!

I’m a sappy gal… what can I say?

YOUR turn.

We are looking for easy peasy ways of showing those that we love them, just how much we love them. Share your ideas in the comment box below.

The Priceless Things I Love About You

I wrote this poem in October 2009, shortly before our 20th Anniversary. It started out as a list of “I miss how you DON’T” because my heart was thinking of “how we never….. anymore.” After looking deep within my own heart and realizing how I was at fault as well, I turned the list into the priceless things that I loved about him. Instead of dwelling on what I didn’t have, I started focusing on what was still there and remembering, with joy, what we shared.

If you are feeling a little lost because of “use to’s” – do what I did, write out why and give it to him/her over a nice dinner. I printed it on heavy card stock and laminated it. When he first started reading it, I could tell that he thought I had purchased it. What are the priceless things you love about your spouse?

The Priceless Things I Love About You

I love how when you leave first in the morning, that you wake me to give me a gentle kiss. I fall back asleep easily with such great tenderness.

I love how when you see me for the first time after a long day that you take me in your strong arms, hold me, kiss me and look me in the eyes and ask – how are you?

I love how you come up behind me – even when we are just in the store, waiting in line – or at the kitchen sink and just wrap your arms around me, showing me that you love me – still. I’m safe there, and I never want to leave from that feeling of being protected by the hero that I love.

I love how even though we don’t like to watch the same TV shows, that we can sit quietly beside each other – while you watch TV and I watch a movie and still be closely knit together.

I love how when we pray that you always hold my hand – and not just let my hand lay in yours, but you hold on to me. You have me and again, I am reminded that you are my protector, my guy – my warrior.

I love how when we pray at the alter together or on our bed at home that your arm is around me and you hold me close when we are talking to our Lord. I am reminded that you go to the Father on our behalf, on our families’ behalf.

I love how you leave things for me to find – a card on my steering wheel after you know that I’m not going back out, a full tank of gas when I have forgotten to let you know that I’m almost out of gas and the cute little poem, waiting on my pillow before I come to bed.

I love how when you get out of the shower that even though we have no plans that you apply polo – simply because you know I love sniffing you. Sniffing you reminds me that you are mine and I can have you anytime I want.

I love reading the Bible with you at home. I love listening to you read Gods word out loud to us. I love following you as you follow the Lord and I’m better for it.

I love listening to you pray for our children for I know that the prayers of their Father weigh heavily on the heart of an almighty God – who wants to give you the desires of your heart.

I love how you support Spreading Joy. You allow me to follow my dream, encourage me to keep working towards my goals and remind me that with God, all things are possible!

I love how you help around the house with the dishes that I despise so and when I don’t get to the household duties, you never complain. Never.

I love how you call me for no reason at all, just to say hello and to remind me that you love me. I also love when you call, to ask me out on a date. My giddy, sappy love song lover self floats through the remainder of the day, on cloud nine!

I love sitting in the bookstore with you. Drinking coffee, thumbing through the endless supply of books that I so love while you look through the mountain of magazines. I look over the top of my book and catch you watching me read – and smile, knowing that you are there – making sure that I’m having fun and that I’m safe.

I love going to the movies with you. I know the horror flicks are not what you prefer, but you tolerate them – because of your love for me. I know you love me deeply because we do things for those that we love before doing things for ourselves.

I love how you put up with the never ending supply of singing that seems to come out of me….as well as the not knowing what the song will be. It might be praise, it might be a sappy love song, it might be big band music – or even Heffalumps and Woozles from Winnie the Pooh – but you listen – and let me free the child that is in me if necessary.

I love how when we have game night and I’m losing and feeling whiney – that you just let me whine – and don’t get angry with me and quit because you are so aggravated by the whiney silliness that is oozing out of me.

I love the tenderness that you show me when you embrace me and hold me for as long as you do. I love the fact that you have no problem, just holding me…. stroking my cheek or hair until I peacefully fall asleep – in your arms under your watchful, protective eyes.

I love the gentleness that you show me when you come to me softly in the night. You reassure me that you love me and only me – no matter what. No matter the wrinkles, no matter the gray hair, no matter the frumpiness. I am safe there, with your strong arms wrapped completely around me, tightly, yet gently holding me as you remind me how much you truly do love me.

I love all of these things about you – my hero, my warrior. The job does not make the man – the check does not make the man. The mercy, love, guiding and tenderness make the man. The heart for the Lord makes the man. The prayers for the weak by the strong – make the man.

I love you Steve and all of these wonderful, priceless things about you.