For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Do not hesitate to do good for others. But sometimes it will do you good to hesitate long enough to pray so the good you do for others is not really all about you. Sometimes do-gooders are really haters in disguise or denial.

If you are spending a lot of time complaining you may not be spending enough time praying and planning.

Set your intention on good. Intend to manifest good and prepare to receive in return goodness overflowing.

What does God want for Christmas? Amos 5:21-24 (MSG)

“I want nothing to do with your religion projects, your pretentious slogans and goals. I’m sick of your fund-raising schemes, your public relations and image making. I’ve had all I can take of your noisy ego-music. When was the last time you sang to me? Do you know what I want? I want justice—oceans of it. I want fairness—rivers of it. That’s what I want. That’s all I want.”

It can be irritating and even down right frustrating when in a stressful situation the people around you are optimistic and level headed. Although joining my pity party may temporarily feel better it is not nearly as helpful. Thank God for the positive people in your life.

We say that everyone is entitled to their opinion. But this does not give us a pass on seeking to understand someone else’s opinion. Be open to a perspective different from your own. It may bring into view options you had not previously considered. There really is more than one way to skin a chicken!

Sometimes it is the smallest ordinary things in life that can be our greatest blessings. Slow down in your day enough to see the simple things and be grateful.

Changing harmful habits and behaviors can be difficult. Sometimes it is only when our present behavior becomes painfully undesirable that we find the strength to change.

Silence is not golden when your voice can set someone free. Love enough to speak the truth to provoke liberation.