Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts: 2011

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

MARRIAGE: Forgiveness

I assure you that you will have conflict in your marriage. It is inevitable. The keys to resolving conflict are humility and forgiveness. Humility means thinking of yourself as lower than others. It is the opposite of being prideful. God says he gives grace to the humble but opposes the proud.

Forgiveness means forgiving another no matter what they did or how many times they’ve done it. God forgave us of our many sins and will continue to do so because of his unconditional love for us. We all need to forgive and ask others to forgive us when we hurt them.

If you want a successful marriage, commit to walking in humility and forgiveness. Be quick to forgive your spouse and ask for forgiveness when necessary. Don’t bring up past offenses as this will only cause further conflict. Walk close to God as he will help you and your spouse to reflect God’s love in your marriage.

MARRIAGE: A prayer for marriage

Lift your marriage and your spouse up every day in prayer. If you are not sure what to pray, begin by praying the prayer that follows and ask God to help you learn how to pray according to his will.

“God, we submit to you wholeheartedly. We come before you and thank you for blessing us with such an incredible love for each other. We delight in you as well as each other. We ask that you continue to bless our lives as we bless and serve you. Help us to honor and cherish each other. Help us to walk in love, humility, and forgiveness. May we shine bright with your love wherever we are and be a reflection of your awesome glory. Amen.”

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

LIFE: Humbling yourself.

God is also serious about me setting my heart on spiritual matters and not the fleeting shallow temporary pleasures of this world! God’s Spirit can sustain me; give me life, love, joy, peace, and so much more! Why why why do I continue to look elsewhere for these things???

Humanity struggles with this: self vs. spirit. But let’s encourage one another to remain spiritually minded and deny self. Let’s love and serve others, animals, and our planet instead of just caring about “us four and no more.” James says God gives grace to the humble. What is grace? Unmerited favor. We don’t deserve it, but God gives it when we are humble and our heart is concerned about pleasing God and living compassionate and loving lives here on this earth.

I know for myself I’m going to make more time to get quiet before God. Let God’s spirit refresh and renew me. Take a deep breath and contemplate what is really important in this life. Be grateful. Accept the peace and joy God has so freely given.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

WORK: Women

Have you ever known a very productive woman? I mean someone who is a very hard worker and takes pride in her work no matter what kind of job it is. I think of Mother Teresa often and what a diligent worker she was for God. She did not care about money or status, she simply wanted to please God and love people.

Proverbs 31 teaches us that a godly woman uses her skills and talents and works vigorously. It talks of her taking care of her husband and children, even rising before the sun to begin preparations for the day. It also states that she works with her hands and sells various items to help provide for her family. Furthermore, it declares that she is strong and secure in her God. She takes time to strengthen her relationship with God and this directly affects her role as a wife and mother. I encourage you to read Proverbs 31 and ask God to reveal to you how you can become more of a godly woman.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

HEALTH: Discipline

Our physical health can affect other areas of our lives such as career and family. If we are not feeling well or are battling sickness and disease, it affects not only us, but those around us.

God has given us the best diet plan in the Bible. If you will read Leviticus and Deuteronomy, you will find a diet blueprint that will help you walk in optimal health. Walking in good health requires discipline and commitment. You might not feel like eating fruits and vegetables over cookies and hotdogs, but the rewards of feeling energized and fully alive are well worth the effort. Educate yourself on how you can live a healthier lifestyle and share your good news with others.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

WORK: Being excellent

I normally take my car to a certain tire repair shop and I’m normally pleased with their services. One day, though, my tire was going flat so I took it to a local store that would patch it while I shopped. The man that took care of my tire was astounding. He was professional, courteous, and very enthusiastic about his job. He won me over and from now on I will take my car to him for any tire needs.

Are you good at what you do? Do you excel or just do enough to get by? Is customer service your number one priority? If your aim is to be excellent at your profession, chances are people will want your services. Excellent customer service sells and you may even find yourself getting promotion after promotion. God tells us that whatever we do, we should do our best for him and not for man. (Colossians 3:23) Make the extra effort and go the extra mile. God is watching.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

MARRIAGE: Vulnerability

Vulnerability is a precious thing and necessary for a beautiful relationship. In a day and age where vulnerability may be viewed as being “weak”, it is important to learn the value of being vulnerable in your relationship.

Vulnerability means letting your guard down and letting your spouse into the depths of who you are. It means giving them complete access to your heart, even if you fear getting hurt.

Listen to this quote by Joyce Brothers: “Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you. When you dare to reveal yourself fully. When you dare to be vulnerable.”

Open your heart and let your spouse in. As you do, your level of intimacy will increase and your marriage will bear greater fruit and bear greater witness to God’s love.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

LIFE: The Truth

Telling the truth has become important to me. I value the truth and I want to be a positive example to others. Lies corrupt, deceive, and hurt. The truth can hurt as well, but I would rather hurt someone telling them the truth than deceiving them.

It's easier to lie, let me assure you. I do not like confrontation so the temptation to lie is great when asked a question that telling the truth could land me in such. I remember a day last summer when I lied to avoid confrontation. It weighed heavy on me for about an hour and then I went ahead and told this person I had lied and apologized. It was very hard to do! I do not want the weight of lies and I do not want to hurt people!

Read this quote by Charles Edward Montague: "A lie will easily get you out of a scrape, and yet, strangely and beautifully, rapture possesses you when you have taken the scrape and left out the lie."

Did you get that? Rapture, or joy, possesses you when you tell the truth instead of lying? It's called honesty and integrity. Doing the right thing and feeling GOOD about it! It is not going with the status quo and not doing it because "everyone else does it".

I challenge you to make a decision to tell the truth. Live a life of honesty and integrity and let others know it's not alright to lie and deceive.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

MARRIAGE: Purity

God thinks it very important to have a pure heart and to keep your marriage pure. In Hebrews 13:4 it states that, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” God does not even want a hint of sexual immorality. (Ephesians 5:3)

What does it mean to be pure in your marriage? Be faithful to God first as well as your spouse. Don’t entertain impure thoughts. Refuse the temptation to daydream about intimacy with others, look at pornography, or let your eyes wander. If you keep your eyes on God and live according to his word, you can remain pure. (Psalm 119:9)
It’s not easy, but anything of great value is not easy. We live in a society that bombards sensuality and lust as a commodity, but you do not have to allow it in your mind or home. Honor God. Honor your spouse. Be strong and courageous and go against the status quo, for it is the pure in heart that shall please God.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

HEALTH: Learn the art of meditation

Various cultures and religions have used meditation for healing for thousands of years. Studies have revealed that mediation can help those who suffer from stress, pain, depression, and high blood pressure, as well as an assortment of other ailments.

Meditation calms the mind and allows individuals to learn to take back control of their lives. There are various meditation techniques used throughout the world. The bible explains that if one meditates and follows God’s word continually, then he/she will have success. Take some time to learn about mediation and commit to spending time each day in prayerful meditation.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

LIFE: Purpose

Finding a meaning or purpose in life is important to us, although it’s not always easy to do. Some struggle their whole lives trying to find a sense of purpose.

Discovering one’s purpose takes effort. It takes taking time to pray and discern what gifts, talents, and passion one has. Once this is done, it takes effort and action to begin walking it out.

One way to discover purpose is by serving others. Start with your family and friends. It doesn't matter a bit if you are on your way to saving the world if you are neglecting your immediate family. Spend quality time with them and educate yourself on how to be a better spouse, partner, mother, father, or friend. If you feel you have this area down pretty well, volunteer in your community. There are plenty of non-profits in your area needing help. Do the footwork.

Be aware that finding your purpose is not a one day thing. We are on a journey and we may have many "aha" moments toward living out our purpose. All we have is today and I encourage you to use this day to pray and contemplate your purpose. It's not supposed to be complicated. I could not sit and tell you every single purpose of my life, but I do know that it involves loving and helping others person by person, day by day.

You're on a path to purpose. Smile.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

WORK: What does God think about work?

What does God think about work?

Have you ever wondered what God thinks about work? Do you think he wants us to work or not? Let’s take a look at what he says in Genesis. God created the earth and that act was his very first “work”. The Bible records that he thought his creation was, “very good.” (Gen. 1:31) History tells us that after Adam disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden, God put a curse on him and put him to work taking care of the earth. Because of this, some view work as a curse, but God’s intention was for Adam and Eve to tend the Garden of Eden even before the Fall, so work afterwards would not be considered a curse. After all, who would take care of our precious earth if it weren’t for Adam?

God is a Creator. He created us to help take care of the earth as well as to use it as a blessing. Even if you are not a farmer or tending the earth, you bring God glory by using your talents in some way, shape, or form. We are partners with God and whether your job is sacred or secular, God loves it when you have a good attitude toward work.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

WORK: Laziness a curse

If there is one thing I wish I could drill into the youth these days, I would impress upon them the blessings of having excellent work ethics and the curse of laziness. In a world of facebook, television, and video games, it seems much of our younger generation has become less concerned with getting out to “work” and more concerned with their social status.

Proverbs 14:23 states that, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” It is important that the youth learn that hard work will bring them the necessary means to pay their bills and that too much time doing recreational activities may cause them to be unfruitful. Let’s encourage the younger generation to diligently follow God’s design for productivity and someday they may just thank us.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

HEALTH: Determination

Hippocrates said, “Let our medicine be our food.” What this means is that when we are not feeling well, the food that we decide to eat plays an important role in our recovery and general function of our bodies.

Ensure that the foods that you are eating are beneficial to the body. Take time to evaluate what you have been eating, Make a list and replace the foods that are not healthy, such as high sugar sweets, chips, and soda, with healthy alternatives such as water, fruits, and vegetables. It will take effort and determination, but the rewards will be well worth it. Your physical health will improve and your energy level will increase.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

MARRIAGE: Partners

You and your spouse are partners and you are called to join together to fulfill the purposes that God has laid out for you. As God told us in his word, when two people are married they are no longer two, but become one flesh.

Two individuals unite to love, honor, and cherish God and each other. Marriage is a partnership that involves husband and wife fulfilling their duties inside the home as well as outside the home. Balance is essential. The next time you feel alone, know that God has given you a partner to face life with and journey together through the good and the bad, relying on God for strength and wisdom.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

WORK: Personal and Spiritual Development

I’ve heard it said that today’s action becomes tomorrow’s habit. What actions are you taking daily toward your personal and spiritual development? How about toward your career?

Success in your career will have a direct correlation with your success in personal and spiritual development. Growth is a process and we ought to challenge ourselves to continue growing all the days of our lives.

Developing growth plans in various areas of your life will benefit you incredibly. Take some time and create a spiritual, personal, and career growth plan. Don’t settle for mediocrity.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

WORK: Discipline

The current recession has affected many families. The unemployment rate has been at an all-time high. Sometimes it is inevitable that lay offs will occur but there are some things you can to do help you keep your job.

Take your job seriously. Be on time, be polite, and be passionate. Become an expert in your field by continuing your education. You can also ask your boss for extra projects or hours. Let management see what a hard worker you are and what a wonderful attitude you have. Go the extra mile for customers. You can win over customers easily by displaying a positive and cheerful attitude. Let them know how much you appreciate them. Ask God for wisdom and do your very best at your work tasks. Who knows, you may even find yourself getting a promotion instead of a lay off.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

LIFE: Take control of your thoughts

Refuse to let negative thoughts rule your life. Our thought life controls us more than we’d like to admit, and if you are allowing negative thoughts to rule, then you will struggle with low self-esteem and living a life of disappointment and frustration.

God wants our minds to be at peace and full of good, positive, confident thoughts. God wants our thoughts to be full of faith and love and he tells us to take control of our thoughts. He tells us in the bible to renew our minds with the word of God and take every negative thought captive and make it obedient to what God has to say. 2 Corinthians 10:5

Thursday, September 8, 2011

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Wednesday, September 7, 2011

LIFE: Love

When asked the famous question, “What is love?” I always refer to what Paul stated in 1 Corinthians 13. If everyone could live according to these admonitions, the world would be such a loving and joyful place.

“Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn't want what it doesn't have. Love doesn't strut, doesn't have a swelled head, doesn't force itself on others, isn't always "me first," doesn't fly off the handle, doesn't keep score of the sins of others, doesn't revel when others grovel, takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, puts up with anything, trusts God always, always looks for the best, never looks back, but keeps going to the end. Love never dies.”

In a world where we see more than we’d like of selfishness and hatred, we need to strive to walk in love daily and be an example of God’s character. Love really does make a difference.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

WORK: Action

In order to achieve your goals, having faith that you will attain them is important, but belief alone won’t get you very far. You need to take action as well. Think of your goal as being the top step of a ladder. To get to the top step, you must walk up one step at a time. The same goes for your career destination. Every day perform actions and take steps that propel you forward. By doing so, you’ll be creating and flowing in forward momentum and before you know it you will have reached your goals.

A wise person is determined to succeed. Growth and advancement will come as you do your part. Obstacles may come, but you have what it takes to overcome.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

MARRIAGE: Make God’s word our guide, not our feelings

Sometimes we just don’t feel like being nice to our spouses or sacrificing for them. Sometimes the feelings of love and intimacy just aren’t there. We have a bad week, the kids are driving us crazy, and our spouse’s character defects seem to be out of control. Relax. Sometimes this happens in relationships and it does not mean it’s the end.

The Word of God tells us to walk by faith and not by sight, or feelings. (2 Corinthians 5:7) If we are led by our feelings, we will encounter more trouble than we’d like. Make God’s word your guide, not your feelings. God tells us to love, even when we don’t feel like it. God tells us to honor one another above ourselves, even when our spouse is driving us crazy. God tells us to love him and others, even when we are depressed, angry, or hopeless. Faith is a decision, not a feeling.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

HEALTH: Spiritual appetite

Eating to satiate our physical need happens frequently. We feel hungry so we grab something to eat. We need food in order to live. But what about our spiritual appetite? It hungers as well. Do we feel our spirits stomach growling in hunger? Are we aware that our spirits need fed?

Our physical health is important, but our spiritual health is more important. If we are sick spiritually, it affects every aspect of our being. God wants us to feed our spirits with him. Whether it is through reading his word, or directly communing with him in prayer, it is important to take time daily to satiate spiritual hunger. Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:18 to be filled with God’s spirit. Take time today to fill yourself up with God.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

MARRIAGE: Covenant

In the Old Testament, God made a covenant with his people. A covenant is a promise or agreement. God thought it important to make an unbreakable covenant with the Israelites because he loved them and wanted to commit to them and have an intimate relationship with them.

Marriage is founded on the same principle. A marriage covenant exists between two people who have agreed to partner together for life. Marriage is a covenant that allows a couple to become one flesh and is a commitment to love, honors, and serve one another all the days of their lives. (Ephesians 5:31)

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

WORK: Tree of abundance

We have a choice every day to either live according to God’s ways or man’s ways. We can choose to delight in God’s word and trust that following it will bring us peace, joy, and success, or we can choose to trust in man’s ways, which oftentimes lead us to sin.

Psalm 1 explains that the blessed and successful are those who delight in God’s word. It says that they will be like a tree planted by a river that brings forth abundant fruit, no matter what the weather is like. This is good news. My advice to you is to stay away from those who discourage you or ridicule you for your faith in God. Live according to God’s counsel and watch and see blessings come your way.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

LIFE: Habits

In order to create a good habit it has been said that you need to do it for 21 days straight and those who take the time to develop good habits state that it is worth the time and effort. Good habits such as eating healthy, creating goals, being on time, doing chores, and so on seem to make life go smoother and increase self-esteem.

Bad habits can be procrastinating, nail-biting, being late, over-spending, yelling at your children, and so on. If you find yourself stuck in bad habits, sit down and write down what they are. Then create a plan to change the negative habit into a positive one. For example, if you are continually getting to work ten minutes late, set your alarm to go off fifteen minutes earlier and consistently make the extra effort to get there on time. The more you do this the easier it will become.

Take the time to invest in good habits. Feodor Dostoevski speaks volumes when he said, “The second half of a man’s life is made up of nothing but the habits he has acquired during the first half.”

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

HEALTH: Eating healthy

Eating healthy is important, but try not to become stressed out if everything you eat is not considered healthy. Balance is key. Sometimes we cannot afford to buy all organic foods and that’s alright. Inorganic foods have nutritional value as well.

I Corinthians 10:31states, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

Making the effort to change your eating habits from unhealthy to healthy is wonderful, but be careful not to go to the extreme. God tells us that whatever we eat or drink, do it for his glory. If you are only able to eat inorganic foods, or you eat foods that aren’t very healthy once in awhile, don’t give yourself a hard time. Be thankful for the food, ask God to bless it to your body, and be sure to give God thanks.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Growing....

This ministry was founded to help people from all walks of life and backgrounds. The unconditional love and hope we aspire to is found when you are open to a higher power. We are all children of the same God.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

HEALTH: Diet

God created us and as our Creator, it makes sense that He knows what is good for us physically. In the Old Testament, God made laws concerning the body and food and commanded the Israelites to follow them. God knew that by abiding by His laws, His people would live in optimal health.

God laid out a diet for his people in the Old Testament. He instructed them to eat such things as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains. (Genesis 1:29, 2:16, 3:18)

Doctors affirm that this type of diet is beneficial to our health and many diseases are attributed to poor eating habits. Make the effort to introduce these healthy foods into your diet. Look up recipes with these ingredients and try out various meals. You will learn to love eating healthy and feel better physically and mentally.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

WORK: Your career

In the book of Deuteronomy, we find God telling his people that if they will keep his commandments he will make all of their work plentiful, increase their cattle and cause abundant fruit to grow. (Deut. 30:9-10) Though this was thousands of years ago and God was talking about farming, we can still apply the same principle to our careers today.

If we will put God first, learn and obey his word, he will bless whatever we put our hands to. He didn’t say abundance would come quickly or easily, but he did promise to bless. I encourage you to study God’s Word and apply the principles he has laid out for us in his word.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

MARRIAGE: Obedience

Ephesians admonishes husbands to love their wives as Christ loved his people as well as how a man loves his own body. Jesus loved his people so much that he sacrificed his life. Men ought to love their wives with the same intense love.

The relationship between Jesus and the church mirrors the relationship he wants between husbands and wives. How did Jesus love the church? He sacrificed and served out of love and a passion to please God. He also protected the church and took time to teach and pray as well. If your aim is to please God and be obedient to him, you’re more likely to have a more fulfilling and long lasting marriage.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

LIFE: Dreams/goals

If you stopped and asked ten people on the street today what their dreams and goals are, most of them would not be able to give you a detailed answer. Most people think about their dreams every so often but tend to stay in the “dream mode” instead of actively making the effort to attain their dreams.

You may hear things like, “I want to lose thirty pounds,” or, “I want to be an architect,” or even, “I want to be financially sound,” but what you might not hear is the steps they are taking to fulfill these dreams.

Dreams create passion and passion causes action. Begin writing out your short term and long term dreams and begin taking action toward them. Ask God to help you and don’t be afraid to dream big.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

HEALTH: Faith

Faith plays an important role in healing and walking in divine health. Many doctors admit that their patient’s faith plays an important role in their recoveries. Those with great faith usually recover faster and have a better attitude than those with little or no faith.

In the New Testament we read about a woman who suffered from a health problem for 12 years. She heard about Jesus and his desire to heal people and she believed that if she simply touched him, she would be healed. She pressed through the crowd and as she touched his robe, she felt healing power surge through her. Jesus looked at her and said, “Your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” (Luke 8)

Where is your faith today? God wants you well. Between faith in God and the various medicines available today, you can be live in divine health.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

WORK: Struggling financially

If you are struggling to make ends meet, perhaps it’s time to sit down and have a heart to heart with yourself and God. Ask God to reveal truth to you concerning your finances and career (or lack of career). Honestly ask questions such as, “Am I spending money on unnecessary things? Am I working as hard as I can? Should I get a second job until I get caught up?”

If you have been slack on financial responsibility, you may be frustrated and disappointed with yourself. Perhaps it’s time to seek a financial counselor or someone you can be accountable to regarding your finances. Sometimes financial problems arise due to issues deep within such as low self-esteem or vanity. Get to the root of the problem and begin making changes immediately.

God wants his people to be financially responsible. How can we bless others when we swamped with debt? Romans 13:8 tells us to owe nothing to anyone--except for your obligation to love one another. Begin making changes today.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

LIFE: Abundance

If you’ve read the Old Testament, you probably noticed that God blessed and took care of the Israelites. He abundantly blessed them as long as they were obedient to His ways. He told them that they would have great success and prosper if they learned and followed His laws. (Joshua 1:8) They prospered in wealth, health, relationally, and spiritually.

God wants the same for us. Jesus states that God’s will is that we have and enjoy abundant life and that God will supply all of our needs. (John 10:10, Philippians 4:19) Abundance is not measured solely by money, but also one’s spiritual and emotional success, as well as love, peace, generosity, and health. God told Joshua if they learned the Word of God and followed it, they would prosper and God wants us to do the same today. Take the time to learn God’s word and principles for life and be assured you will prosper and live in abundance in your life as well.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

MARRIAGE: Don’t be shallow

If you know anything about wells, the depth of the well is important. In order to get pure water, your well must reach a certain depth. A shallow well will not produce pure water.

Shallow thinking is not pure either and may be dangerous. With depth comes clarity. A shallow relationship will not produce the fruit that God would like to see. Challenge yourself and your spouse to explore the depths of each other. As you dig to the core of each other, you will find treasures and a purity that God has placed there.

Begin digging today. (iching)

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

LIFE: Determination

John and Washington Roebling are two of the most determined men ever heard of. John was inspired in 1883 to build a bridge that would connect New York with Long Island but his engineering peers thought he was crazy and that I couldn’t be done.

John convinced his son, Washington, that it could be done and they began building the bridge. After a few months, there was a traffic accident on the bridge and John was killed. His son suffered partial brain damage and could not talk or move.

Washington did not let this tragedy keep him down. He was determined to see that bridge built. Eventually he could move one finger and he learned how to communicate with his wife using a code of communication using his finger. For 13 years he used his finger to tap instructions to some engineers and the result was the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge. Washington, despite many odds, never gave up and allowed his determination to overcome a monumental obstacle.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

MARRIAGE: Putting children in their place

When a married couple has children, things change. Life sometimes becomes more about taking care of the baby than taking care of each other. It’s more difficult to find quality time to spend together and if you are not careful, conflict can arise. Wives need to especially be sensitive here because if your life becomes totally consumed with the children and you neglect your husband, you may notice changes in him.

When a wife puts her children ahead of her husband, it tends to make him feel neglected, lonely, disrespected, unloved, and even resentful. It is understandable that children require a lot of time and energy, especially when they are young, but to completely neglect your husband or relationship is not God’s will. The key here is balance.

Remember to take time to invest in your marriage. Hire a babysitter sometimes and go out on a date, or take the children to a friend’s house and have a nice, romantic evening at home with your spouse. Leave him little love notes or buy him little tokens of appreciation. Be open and communicate with your husband about this. Come up with various ways to keep the romance alive despite the extra time spent raising the children.

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

WORK: Pursue your dreams

Do you have a dream job? Have you pictured yourself working in a career that you absolutely love? Most of us have but the sad news is that the majority of people are working in a job that they do not like. For various reasons, they continue on day after day, countless hour after hour, in a job that they dread getting up in the morning for.

I challenge you to pursue your dream job. Stop the excuses and begin taking the necessary steps toward your passion. Dedicate yourself to doing what it takes, whether it is going to college, sending out resumes, or relocating. Get momentum going and challenge yourself.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

LIFE: Motivation

Have you ever met someone that was always motivated? It seemed like they were always doing something to achieve their goals and with great passion. If I had to guess why they were so motivated, it was because one, they were passionate about their goals, and two, they found ways to keep themselves motivated.

If you’re finding yourself unmotivated, I encourage you to form some goals. You also may find it helpful to read inspiring and motivational literature. Look up some quotes on success, motivation, and passion and print them out and read every day. Use positive affirmations such as, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

Think of motivation using this analogy. An airplane is powerful and has plenty of potential, but unless there is a pilot to start it up and actually fly it, it just sits there, not moving. The pilot is the motivation to get that plane off the ground and you have incredible potential as well and motivation is that internal drive that will activate it.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

HEALTH: Being healed

Jesus was an extraordinary man. He spent a great deal of his time going from city to city not only teaching people about God, but also praying and healing people. There are many references in the New Testament of healings and miracles taking place. In Matthew 8:16-17 it speaks of Jesus driving out demons from people that were brought to him and healing all that were sick. Matthew 11:5 states that the blind could see, those who were lame could walk, and the deaf could hear.

If God’s son, Jesus, was so concerned about healing all the sick, then it’s safe to say that God wants us healed and whole also. God wants us in optimal health. God laid out a diet plan in the Bible and if we heed God’s instructions, we will be able to walk in better health to enjoy this awesome life we’ve been blessed with.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

MARRIAGE: What do you focus on?

In any relationship, focusing on the positive instead of the negative is helpful when it comes to having a joyous and satisfying relationship. Oftentimes, when couples are struggling it is because they are putting too much emphasis on the character defects of their spouse and not enough emphasis on the positive qualities.

We must consciously make an effort to focus on our partners good qualities and appreciate him/her because of them. God gave your partner to you as a gift and it is important to be able to treasure your spouse despite their character defects.

©2010-2011 Minister Claretta Taylor Pam, Global Ecumenical Ministries Inc. and Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts. All Rights Reserved

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

WORK: Hard work

Being successful in any area of life requires hard work, especially when it comes to your career. You must work hard and not be afraid of failure. Many successful men and women have failed over and over but they continued to get up and continue on, learning what they could from their failures. Hard work and determination are necessary for success.

An excellent quote regarding hard work comes from Norman Vincent Peale. “Nothing of great value in this life comes easily. The things of highest value sometimes come hard. The gold that has the greatest value lies deepest in the earth, as do the diamonds.”

Hard work brings prosperity but being lazy brings about poverty. (Proverbs 28:19) If you have struggled with being a hard worker, make a commitment today to make a change. Challenge yourself to put forth your best effort every day.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

LIFE: Gratitude

Sometimes we get to feeling down in life, or tend to overlook the positive and focus on the negative. I remember going through a particularly difficult season of my life and it seemed like every time I would go to my best friend about my problems, she would tell me to make a gratitude list. I didn’t want to. A big part of me just wanted to stay on the pity-pot, but I knew deep down she was right so I sat down and made a list of all the things I was grateful. I posted it on my wall and looked at it frequently.

I realized that I was blessed beyond belief and I was allowing one or two things to distort my perception of my life. I began saying thank you often and learned to cultivate an attitude of gratitude and foster a grateful heart. Zig Ziglar nailed it when he said that, “Of all the attitudes we can acquire, surely the attitude of gratitude is the most important and by far the most life-changing.”

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

WORK: Most productive hour of your day

While reading about successful business owners, I have noticed that the majority of these men and women have learned an important principle for success. It’s quite simple yet so many aren’t willing to utilize this technique.

It is simply taking time each day (a good rule of thumb is 1 hour) or when making your weekly schedule and making a list of the top priorities to accomplish for the next day and beginning your business day ACTUALLY DOING THESE THINGS.

Now during this hour, it is very important to turn your telephone off and don’t allow any other distractions. That means no texting, emailing, or surfing the internet.

I suggest you make it your goal to accomplish this in the morning before you begin other activities, but you can schedule this hour at anytime during your day. Make sure it is a quiet place. Bring a cup of coffee or water and learn to love this time. It just may double your productivity!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

HEALTH: Stress

Stress affects such a high population of America that the U.S. Public Health Service has made decreasing stress a high priority. Stress has a tremendous impact on our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Disorders such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and strokes are at higher risk for those whose stress levels are high.

There are various ways to reduce and manage stress. Doctors recommend various techniques such as exercising, eating healthier, getting plenty of sleep, prayer, and meditation to alleviate symptoms of stress. God does not us walking around all stressed out. In Matthew 6:34 we find the writer admonishing his readers to trust God and stop being anxious about the future. Worrying about things does not help matters. Live one day at a time and allow God to take care of your needs just for today.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

MARRIAGE: Change

Sometimes when a couple gets married, things begin to change. There is not as great an effort at winning over the other and little by little, time spent together may decrease due to jobs, kids, and other responsibilities. With a divorce rate at more than 50%, it is important to understand that relationships need to be continually nourished in order to be fruitful.

Don’t stop nourishing your relationship just because you are married. Take time to stay connected and keep the love alive and fresh. Marriage requires many ingredients to be successful, but quality time and effort are extremely important. This will also help your relationship to grow and deepen.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

LIFE: Hope

Are you tired, frustrated, disappointed? Are you in a tough season of life and ready to give up? Have you tried just about everything to get through, fill the void, and find some peace? Listen to a quote found in Isaiah 40:31:

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength."

Perhaps your hope has been in something different. Your job, your partner, your kids, etc. but this says that those who hope in God will have their strength renewed. That’s great news. When we are hopeful, it helps us get through adversity.

As the Psalmist declares that his hope is in God and he waits expectantly for Him, so shall we hope and anticipate in God, who always has our best interest at hand.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

LIFE: Success

Everyone wants to be successful, but many do not find it or feel very successful in their lives. Success is defined differently by people, but it is generally thought to be a desired outcome For one, success may be

Regardless of what one terms successful, finding it is not accidental. It requires knowing where you are and where you want to go. It requires coming up with goals and making a step by step plan to achieve them. 95% of people do not take the time to create goals in their lives, thus they don’t have a plan. The chances of being successful, whether it be spiritual, financial, relational, and so on, increase dramatically when the time is taken to devise goals and a plan. If this is something you cannot do on your own, ask a friend to help you or hire a Life Coach. The Apostle Paul stated that faith without works is dead. He meant that we can sit around believing all day, everyday for our goals and dreams to come true, but if we don’t take action, it cancels out our faith. Take action today by writing down your goals and creating steps to achieve them.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

WORK: Working Hard

We live in a society that puts a lot of status on vocation. The typical motto is: “Work hard, make lots of money, and accumulate all you.” In other words, go after the American Dream even if it stresses you to the max!

I do believe God is concerned about our vocation and wants us to be productive no matter what role we find ourselves in, but God also tells us to set our hearts on what is in heaven, not on what is here on earth. (Colossians 3:1-3) Yes, careers are great, and money is a necessity for paying the bills, but to be obsessed with earthly things, or neglect our family for more material possessions, is not God’s will.

God wants us balanced. Ask God to help you be balanced with your time and energy regarding your career and know that your spirituality is not separate from your work. You can be spiritual at your job as well as at home. Ask God to help you perform your job with a good attitude whether it be at home with the family or at work with the boss.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

HEALTH: Optimal health

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

God wants what is best for us. It is necessary to believe that our physical, spiritual, and mental health is important to God and he has provided means for us to have optimal health in all areas. God’s word is our guidebook toward a healthy and prosperous life.

When you get frustrated or disappointed, have faith that God knows your struggles and will be with you as you walk through them. He has a plan and he sees the big picture, whereas we only see the present situation. Believe that all things will work out for your good and God’s glory.