thoughts by Mike Woodard Archives - Page 2 of 6

Published May 8, 2022

A Lesson from Mom

I grew up on a small farm, the youngest of four in a 2 bedroom log house. For most of my growing up years we had an outhouse, no phone. Cold snowy winters outside were warmed by a pot belly wood stove inside. Alcoholism made a huge impact and shaped all this. My mother was a strong woman. She lived through World War II and the Great Depression. Life seemed to have given her a harsh edge. Empathy was not a strength. Yet there was this tender side I discovered late one night. I’d been sick. After going to bed, mom, thinking I was asleep, gently ran her fingers through my hair. This act of tenderness was repeated in my growing up years. This tenderness showed me a side of my mom that was not often evident but yet very real. It gave me a greater confidence and security in my relationship with her.

At times my view of God has lacked an understanding of His tenderness. My understanding has been shaped by a couple of verses…

“He (God) tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” – Isaiah 40:11 (NIV)

The context of this passage is a description of God power that shapes the universe, the nations and the rulers of the world. Yet in the middle of this is the snapshot of His tenderness…

“You (God) have also given me the shield of Your salvation, and Your right hand upholds me; and Your gentleness makes me great.”
–Psalms 18:35 (NASB)

Gentleness in the context of strength is a profound contrast and gift. My mom gave me the first glimpse of this. As I have embraced God’s gentle touch in the circumstances of life it has brought healing, security and comfort. Allow God to carry you today.

~ ~ ~ ~

Would you like to know Jesus and have the peace and comfort that only he can give?

If so, why don’t you pray this prayer and invite Jesus into your life:

Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make the kind of person You want me to be.

If you sincerely expressed that prayer to God, you can know that you have a personal relationship with Him. He will be your comfort in these troubled times. God promises us “peace that passes understanding” in other words peace in a world that doesn’t make sense. You can know peace and hope even when your world is in turmoil. God does not change. Ever.

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

Warning Lights

Let worry be a warning light! Go to God in prayer to exchange your worry for his supernatural peace!

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

When a warning light flashes in my car, I give it my full attention, especially if it is the brake light or the oil indicator. Not responding can be dangerous or lead to costly repairs. So I act quickly to investigate and solve the problem!

Worry has become a warning indicator light in my life. When I start to worry, I realize I’m starting down a road of self-dependence or self-reliance. I’m focused on the problem and how I will handle it. The weight of responsibility and worry often leads to unhealthy physical and emotional side effects that can be dangerous and lead to costly repairs!

Thinking of worry as a warning light has helped me. God, in his wisdom and love, commands me to do things that will protect me and provide a good future. Being obedient to his instruction to pray with an attitude of thanksgiving in the difficult circumstances is a step of faith that moves my focus from self and the problem to God and his resources.

Prayer affirms that God is totally adequate for every possible life circumstance. Praying moves my focus from self to seeking God resources to face the challenges and worries of each situation. Plus, prayer allows me to exchange worry for a peace that is beyond understanding. It’s a peace that only God can provide — a peace that will protect my heart and mind.

God, I confess I often worry about many things. Thank you that you have commanded me to bring all my worries to you. Nothing is too big or too small for you! Amen.

Let worry be a warning light! Go to God in prayer to exchange your worry for his supernatural peace!

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

The Gift of Anticipation

Could it be that growing up in my crazy family molded me in a way that would allow God to uniquely use my experiences to help others?

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NASB)

Having grown up in an alcoholic family, I have often looked at “normal” families and thought, “If only I could have been born into that family…,” or “Why me, why did I have to experience the madness of life with a really messed up family?” This pity party only led to sadness. I was good at keeping the doors closed about these private thoughts. Most people did not know about this lingering disappoint; it was like a shadow over my world.

This darkness lingered until it was displaced by anticipation. I finally became convinced that God had a plan and purpose for my life. A statement from the book of Romans was instrumental: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Could it be that growing up in my crazy family molded me in a way that would allow God to uniquely use my experiences to help others? I concluded that the answer was yes. It was like a switch was flipped. Instead of looking back with regret I began to look forward with anticipation. The past did not disappear or become less painful, but it was no longer my focus. I’ve realized it’s hard to walk forward when looking backwards. Each day, I trust that God has a good plan.

God thank You that You are good and wise. I trust that You can cause all things to work together for good, even the things that seem hurtful, sad and disappointing. By faith I look forward to how You will work in my life and through it according to Your good plan in the days ahead. Thank You for Your presence and power each step of the way. Amen.

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

Your Map is Putting You in Danger!

What map are you using for your life journey? Is it an old map that seems to be putting you in difficult, even dangerous situations? Is it time for a new map?

When my daughter was 16, she and I decided to do a 7 day backpacking trip on the West Coast Trail of Vancouver Island. I had a very old map of the trail, and being very frugal, I decided that the cost of a new edition of the map was not a necessary expense. What I did not know was that since the last printing of the map, several parts of the trail along the ocean had changed!

On the second day, we found ourselves in difficult, if not dangerous situations two different times, because the old map we were using was not accurate. At one point, we had to climb a rock face to get off the beach to escape the rising tide. As we described our day and showed the cuts and bruises we had to show for our climb to another hiker he commented, “Your map is putting you in danger!” He and his friend had two current maps, so they insisted we take one. They in fact, ended up joining us for the rest of the hike. I’m not sure if it was because they liked our company or were worried about our safety? I’m happy to report that with the new map, we successfully completed the trail and created many memorable moments.

What map are you using for your life journey? Is it an old map that seems to be putting you in difficult, even dangerous situations? Is it time for a new map? Maybe it’s also time to find someone to walk part of the trail with you!

The Bible is a wonderful blue print for life. When one become a Christ follower, God gives his Spirit to direct and empower his followers. I have become convinced that success in life is only really possible by knowing the author of life who designed us in the first place and who knows all the secrets of life. Following His loving direction is a good choice. The path is far too complicated to complete on my own without a good map and guide.

“A person’s steps are made secure by the Lord when they delight in his way. Though they trip up, they won’t be thrown down, because the Lord holds their hand.” – Psalms 37:22-24 (CEB)

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

A River Runs Through Me

“Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” By this He spoke of the Spirit.” John 7:37-39a (NASB)

I drove through an arid and dry landscape marked with sagebrush. A large and swift river ran through it. All that water! But the land remained parched. Then, in the distance I could see blocks of green like the squares of a giant patchwork quilt. As I got closer it became clear that irrigation lines were giving life to otherwise barren fields.

What a vivid picture of our lives! Every person has a deep thirst for health, purpose, and meaning. Yet there is a void, a dryness that touches the remote regions of each person. Just as the spring rain brings some level of relief, a project or a goal might bring life for a season. But a shower of self-effort will only bring temporary results. The dryness and thirst return. The cry of the heart resurfaces: There must be more to life than this.

Only when we are connected to God, the ultimate source, is our deep thirst satisfied and rich fruitfulness the result.

God’s Spirit in the believer brings “rivers of living water” that are unlimited and give abundant and eternal life. Just as the river runs through a dry and thirsty land with little noticeable impact, in the same way, the Spirit in our lives can have limited impact without our daily yielding to His power and influence. The rich fruitfulness of God’s Spirit in someone who yields to Jesus daily is in stark contrast to the barrenness of the Christian who lives a dry and self-reliant existence.

Lord Jesus, I yield each area of my life to You and confess my self-effort as pride. Direct and empower my actions today. May your Spirit create a profound transformation in my life resulting in the fruit of Your Spirit being displayed in my life. Amen.

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

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Transplant

Published June 9, 2021

Transplant

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!: 2 Corinthians 5:17

December 1967, history was made when surgeon Christiaan Barnard performed the first heart transplant in South Africa. Since then, science has advanced and the list of transplant options has grown. The science of and frequency of joint replacement has also advanced. What’s next?

What if you could have a character transplant? Who in history would you like to emulate? I’ve always been drawn to strong leaders: Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Moses and Jesus. I admire each of these men.

But wait, a character transplant is not something of the future, it already exists! This is the real nature of being a Christ-follower. It’s not an attempt to emulate Christ through self-effort but it is a spiritual relationship with God where the Spirit of Christ comes to dwell in persons who place their faith in Christ. This character transplant happens as we allow God’s Spirit, the master surgeon, to remove our anxiety and replace it with peace, take our sadness and replace it with joy. The Bible has a list of transplant options. They are described as the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Just as in physical surgery, our part is realizing our need, being willing to change and trusting the surgeon’s skill. A difference is that we have 24-hour, 7-day-a-week access to the master transplant specialist, who responds to our willingness immediately. He promises to continue the work of transformation till we see him face to face!

Lord Jesus, I want to be like you. I know I need your skilled work in my life to transform my character to be like yours. Thank you that you are not only capable of doing so, but love me and desire to grant me the blessing of your continual attention each day, each moment. Thank you! Amen.

Is there an area that you would like to see God’s Spirit change? An area you know needs the touch of his skilful hands? Invite him to do a transplant. Read The Spirit Filled Life.

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

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Beyond Your Limits

Published May 22, 2021

Beyond Your Limits

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen” Ephesians 3:20-21

“The Christian Life is the supernatural life, a life where we live beyond our natural limits.” I heard these words during university about 45 years ago; they still inspire me. Think about it! The God of the universe lives inside each Christ-follower. The moment we embrace Christ through faith, God’s Spirit comes to dwell in us. In fact, Jesus told his disciples that it was good that he was leaving them because the Spirit would replace him in their lives (John 16:7-15).

I remember, as a student, how easy it was to call out to God when an exam was coming. But I was convinced I could manage my dating relationships without God’s assistance. Very quickly, I realized inviting God into each area of my life was a good decision. God provides resources I do not have. No matter how good I am in any area of life, God is better, WAY better!

God does not push his way into the center; we have to allow him access. I realized I can only step into the realm of the “beyond my limits” life when I am willing to trust God and put my confidence in his unlimited resources. I often picture myself approaching God with a box in my arms. I declare, “God, please take charge of this. I have been so foolish to attempt this on my own.” At that moment, I begin to anticipate that God will do immeasurably more than all I ask or imagine according to his power that is at work within me, to his glory.

Father God, I invite you to show me any area of my life where I’m not fully trusting in your presence and power. Thank you that you can do immeasurably more than I can in any area of my life. I desire to live in the realm of your supernatural resources today. Thank you for your Spirit’s presence in my life. Amen.

What areas of life are you finding hard to entrust to God? Ask yourself why. Think about how big or difficult the challenge is. Now reflect on God’s power, wisdom, and love. Can he handle it better than you can?

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

A Grumbly Heart

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” Philippians 2:14-16a

The decision did not make sense to me. “What were these people thinking? They’re leaders; they should start acting like it!”

It was a time in my life when I was not happy with the decisions that were being made around me.

I had a grumbly heart!

In an early morning prayer group someone started to pray about the very situation that was giving me a grumbly heart. As I listened to that prayer, I was so convicted by an attitude of faith and obedience. In that moment, it was as if God gave me a glimpse of what was in my heart. My grumbling was taking me down a path of discontent, irritation, anxiety, and criticism. The prayer of my friend reminded me of another path; a path that would lead to peace beyond human understanding.

Paul, in his letter to the Philippians says,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

I suddenly realized if I chose a path of prayerful trust instead of grumbling that I would not only experience God’s peace but also a transformation toward becoming a “blameless and pure child of God, shining like a star in the night sky!”

I made a decision. I chose the path to peace.

Father God, thank you for your Spirit’s convicting work in my life. I give you my grumbling and complaining. I long to walk the path of humble prayer in faith and obedience that leads to your perfect peace and transformative work in my life. Amen.

Ask God to reveal to you what’s going on in your heart. Is there grumbling and complaining? Can you trust God to work in and through today’s circumstances for his purposes? If not, invite the Spirit to change your heart.

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

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The Package

Published February 21, 2021

The Package

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

Recently I got a package notice from the post office. Because I was not expecting a package, I thought, “Oh no, it’s probably a package from some company that I will not want, so I will have to go to the trouble of sending it back …”

Later that day a good friend mentioned to me that I should be getting something in the mail from him. Well, my attitude about the package waiting for me at the post office changed immediately because I now knew who had sent it! I was excited to see what it was, so I went expectantly to the post office as soon as I could. I was delighted to get a set of stainless steel pots for backpacking as a thank you from some friends I had recently taken on a backpacking trip! I fired off a thank you note that night.

Later that evening I had a thought … In life there are many unexpected packages. Some I like and others I don’t. I have come to realize that no matter what comes, God is in control.

Even in moments of bewilderment or despair in the past, when I would have loved to have written, “RETURN TO SENDER”, I have survived and even come to a point of anticipating the future because I chose to focus on the Sender, and on the knowledge that God does love me and really does know and care about my life’s circumstances. Sometimes I have doubted but in those moments I always come back to the cross as the ultimate proof of God’s love. Jesus died for me, he proved his love. The words of Romans 8:28 are profound: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose.”

What are the packages you hold today? Can you trust that God does have a plan? The nation of Israel was dealing with the reality of being in captivity, and in Jeremiah 29:11 God reassures them by saying,

“For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.”

Question: Can you trust Him? What about writing Him a thank you note?

by Mike Woodard
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Danger of Self Reliance

Published February 8, 2021

Danger of Self Reliance

“My do it!” were the words he repeated over and over.

I was hiking on a very challenging trail along the southwest coast of Vancouver Island. My almost three year old grandson was with me.

At least one section of the trail could possibly be described as dangerous, but it definitely was a combination of easy and difficult stretches. I carried him on some of the easier sections of our 8 kilometre hike but for some reason along this particularly dangerous section, he was determined to walk on his own.

I was very vigilant in my coaching. At times I would pick him up and lift him over difficult sections. Each time his response was, “My do it.” At one point some other hikers passed us. For some reason he was convinced that he should try to keep up with them and started going faster. I glanced behind me for a split second and when I turned back to look at him, my heart missed a beat!

My small apprentice had slipped, and was hanging over the ocean, holding onto a tree root while his feet were swinging in the air. A 5-meter drop to the water and rocks below awaited him, if he let go of that root. I grabbed his arms and lifted him to the trail.

He had no idea of the danger that he had just faced. He simply said, “Thanks, Papa.” and on he went. I, on the other hand, have relived that moment many times since!

As humbling as it might seem, we are all like a two year old in our strength, knowledge and wisdom when compared to God. Just as it is dangerous for a two year old to be on his own, even for a split second sometimes, because they just do not understand the dangers, so it is with us. Just as we don’t allow a two year old to hike a challenging trail on their own, we also were never intended to go through life without someone to watch over us. We are invited, but not forced, to journey with God.

There are areas of my life where I like to say, “My do it!” When I try to do it on my own, I miss out on God’s strength and wisdom. Here is a prayer from the writer of Psalms 139 that helps to motivate me to move from self-reliance to God dependence.

“Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong, then guide me on the road to eternal life.” Psalm 139:23-24 (The Message)

By Mike Woodard
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Lessons from Odd Places: Ingredients

Published December 4, 2020

Lessons from Odd Places: Ingredients

Ingredients are important!

My daughter once attempted to make a cake with a cup of baking soda rather than a cup of flour. Needless to say the result was disappointing. Good relationships have several ingredients in the recipe. One ingredient that seems to come to the top of the list by many relationship experts is kindness. They suggest simple acts of kindness can build a strong fabric in a relationship.

Let’s start with a definition:

Kindness – the tendency to be sympathetic and compassionate, an act that shows consideration and caring. (Encarta Dictionary)

I’m sure we all can remember a simple kindness that meant a lot. I was on a trip, working in a coffee shop between appointments. The waiter went out of his way for me. All I bought was a cup coffee and a danish but I left him a $20 tip. Why? It was because that day his simple kindness touched me. (I have never left a $20 tip before or since.)

Today think of ways you could add kindness to the fabric of your relationships. Maybe it is an expression of appreciation through a simple thank you. Maybe it’s a helping hand. It could be a small but thoughtful gift. Coffee or chocolate always works for me.

“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” St. Paul – Ephesians 4:32

By Mike Woodard
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Words

Published November 10, 2020

Words

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29

“You are a good boy.”

These words caught my attention because they were new words. I don’t remember if I verbalized it, but in my mind, I thought, “Really, am I really good?” You see, no one had ever described me in this way. My parents had few words of affirmation for me. For my teacher, an important adult in my world, to describe me in this way, made a significant impact on how I viewed myself!

Every day we send and receive many messages that shape how we view ourselves and the world around us. What does God say about me? He says I’m loved, forgiven, valuable, and created by him for a purpose. And there is more. He sent his Son to die for me, and he invites me to be part of his family.

Understanding “God’s words” has made an important impact in two ways. It has given me the ability to be confident when faced with messages that were not true. Secondly, this knowledge has allowed me to bring words of healing to others. I can look in a mirror and repeat what God says:

“I am God’s workmanship, and I’m fearfully and wonderfully made for a special purpose that God has determined for me” (Psalm 139:14 and Ephesians 2:10)!

An added benefit is that God’s Spirit lives in me to give me wisdom and insight on how to speak in a way that pleases him and is a blessing to others!

Father, may the words of my mouth and the thoughts in my heart be acceptable to you. Plant your words in my speech so that I can bring encouragement and hope to others. May I have a deep understanding of what is true about me and about everyone in my world. Thank you for your love and work in my life. Amen.

Throughout the day, invite the Spirit to show you if your thoughts about yourself and those around you are consistent with God’s Word. Ask him to show you how your words could bring grace and blessing to others today.

By Mike Woodard
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Inconvenient Truth

Published October 21, 2020

Inconvenient Truth

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” Matthew 7:24-25

The thought behind the expression, “inconvenient truth,” is that truth can be conflictual to our desires and plans to the point of stirring up feelings of discomfort. Regardless of how we feel, it is still the truth.

An inconvenient truth to an impatient teenager seeking freedom is that until they reach a certain age, they cannot legally drive a car. For an aging adult, the inconvenient truth is that their body may no longer have the strength to accomplish what it once did. The mind can make commitments that the body cannot keep!

Spiritually we can also grapple with some inconvenient truth issues. Throughout the Bible, a principle that seems to be consistently communicated is that people who follow God’s wisdom will experience his blessings. As suggested in the verses today, their lives will stand against the storms of this life.

I recently heard someone expressing anger toward God because they were charged with a DUI for drinking and driving. They commented in anger, “Couldn’t God have given me a break?” God says, “Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path” (Ephesians 5:18 TLB). Here’s another way to think about it — is the policeman at fault for ticketing someone for breaking the law?

God gives us his commands for two positive reasons — to protect us and provide for us. He loves us! The inconvenient truth is that God is not at fault when we disregard his wisdom.

Dear Father, I know you are good and you do love me. I want to trust you, and do what you ask. Please give me the strength to resist temptation. I want to apply your wisdom to my life and be like the person whose life is built on the rock. Amen.

By Mike Woodard
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All I Can Say is ‘THANK YOU’

Boy to his Grandfather: All I Can is THANK YOU

Published September 12, 2020

All I Can Say is ‘THANK YOU’

When I was putting my grandson to bed, I asked him if he would like to pray. In a distressed voice he said, “All I know how to say is thank you!” We prayed together, and I kissed him good night. Walking away, I could not get his words out of my head. Such a simple thought but so profound. We have so much for which to thank God every day.

The Bible encourages us to be thankful in our prayers:

“Pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, NIV)

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV)

A thankful attitude emerges when we’re grounded in faith. If I really believe that God is in control, I can indeed thank God always, even in the middle of circumstances that are not to my liking. I must trust that He loves me and I must rely on His promise to make “all things work together for good.” (Romans 8:28)

When I choose to thank God for every circumstance in my life, good or bad, it causes me to anticipate the future positively—to look forward to how God will work through the situation rather than vex over the problem at hand. Praying with thankfulness also leads to peace! Some poor souls have spent their whole lives and fortunes, but have not found the peace for which they have longed. God offers His peace freely if we are willing to trust Him.

‘Only knowing how to say “THANK YOU!” is not a bad place to be!

Lord, help me to be thankful in all circumstances that You walk me through in this life. Help me to continually have gratitude upon my lips. Thank You for all You have done and all that You are doing. Amen.

Question: Are you practicing thankfulness today?

by Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

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Words that Saved My Life

Published September 2, 2020

Words that Saved My Life

When I was about ten years old, my older brother and I were riding our bikes on a trail that was the “back way” to a small store in order to avoid the main route that was along a busy highway. One section of the trail was a narrow path that ran along the edge of the bank of a river.

My bike had the old-fashioned saddle bag wire baskets on either side of the back wheel. I had a six pack of pop in one basket that gave me a slight sensation of being off balance. The path that ran so close along the river made me nervous without this added challenge of weighty cargo in my basket.

Well, as you may have guessed, the bike, pop and I ended up sliding off the path and falling over the bank into the river. The drop down to the water was about a meter and a half. My bike got caught on a root so did not get washed away.

I had also landed in the water and was thrashing around yelling, “Help, I’m drowning!” My brother yelled back at me, “Stand up.”

While I had fallen into deep water that was over my head, through my thrashing I had moved to a place that was not. To this day I wonder if I could have drowned in the shallower water if my brother had not told me to stand up.

Words are powerful for good or for destruction. Words can bless or wound deeply.

“A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.” Proverbs 25:11-12. (NIV)

There may be someone around you who is thrashing in the currents of life and is in need of some life giving words today, a word of encouragement to help them see how to extricate themselves from an overwhelming situation. Or, you, yourself may need a life giving word from someone close to you, who sees a bigger picture than you do.

For all who wrestle with seemingly life threatening challenges, God’s word, the Bible is his love letter to us. Open it often and listen to God’s instructions, drinking deep because it is the source of true and life giving words.

By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission

Category: <span>thoughts by Mike Woodard</span>

Further Reading

Let worry be a warning light! Go to God in prayer to exchange your worry for his supernatural peace!

Further Reading

Could it be that growing up in my crazy family molded me in a way that would allow God to uniquely use my experiences to help others?

Further Reading

What map are you using for your life journey? Is it an old map that seems to be putting you in difficult, even dangerous situations? Is it time for a new map?

Further Reading

Further Reading

Follow Us On:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!: 2 Corinthians 5:17

Further Reading

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

I had a grumbly heart!

I made a decision. I chose the path to peace.

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

Ingredients are important!

FURTHER READING

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“You are a good boy.”

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

Follow Us On:

FURTHER READING

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