Universal Life Church Monastery of Massachusetts: July 2016

Sunday, July 31, 2016

LIFE: Influence

You choose the company you keep, and no matter how much people deny it, they are influenced in some way or the other by the people around them. Usually it is the norms of Society that decide what is right or wrong for the person. There will always be a spark of individuality in everyone, but to some extent, the morals of the person are determined by the company he keeps.

To spread awareness of this phenomenon, in Psalms 1:1 it says “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers”. The more you stay away from people, who indulge in sin, the more likely you are to keep on the path of righteousness.

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

HEALTH: Being tired

As we age, we tend to become more and more tired. Perhaps we are not getting enough sleep, or are overly stressed, or haven’t taken care of our bodies very well. Whatever the reason, fatigue can set in. When we find ourselves in seasons like this, it is important to first, be sure to drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods. Along with exercise, your physical body will be restored.

Second, ask God to restore you physically, mentally, and spiritually. In the book of Isaiah we read, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even the young grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like an eagle; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:28-31 NIV
Rest assured knowing that as you do your part by taking care of your body, God will renew your strength and restore you.

Thursday, July 14, 2016

LIFE: Circle of life

The disasters and happenings over the course of the past century, whether man made or cosmic, have shaken and shattered the belief of man in himself, his being, the creator, convincing him firmly of the frailty of human life, and the ultimate futility of human endeavor.

Yet, we go on. In the words of the Ecclesiastes: ‘One generation passeth away, and another cometh; but the earth abideth forever…and the sun also rises’, reflecting upon the ever abiding nature of this life: despite our unshakeable belief in the fragility of our existence, the consequential dogma of living in the present moment, and the death of life as we know it, life carries on, the same as before.

Thursday, July 7, 2016

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.