Positive Attitudes – Page 2 – Bejoy Peter's Public Speaking ®

October 24, 2022January 7, 2024

Be Still As Your Success Mantra

“Be still” as your success mantra is easily said than done. Being still is not about switching off one’s mind and thinking; but bringing God into the driver’s seat of one’s mind. It is not a one-time action; but a constant attitude that shows reliance and dependence upon God and his wisdom in the affairs of our lives.

“Be still” is a command God gives and is much more than just a success mantra. He expects us to pause our worries and trust him for results. Obeying the command “be still,” is like a farmer having done all his hard work and waiting for the crops. There is nothing to do but trust that all will come out well.

“Be still” is however difficult to obey because we always like to be part of the action. But God knows that there are situations where the best thing for us to do is NOT to interfere in what he is trying to do. God’s delays might be to prepare us for the blessing ahead. But if we act without being still; it can be like a child splashing paint on to the canvas on which his Artist Dad has almost completed a perfect work of art.

“Be still” is also difficult for us because we do not trust God’s goodness. We do not wish to put our entire reliance on God. It is like God sending us an aircraft to fly. But we prefer to drive a car the whole way because we simply find it hard to believe that God is keenly interested in leading and guiding us in ways that are best for us.

Finally, let me conclude by saying that the ability to “be still” leads us to know God better. Let me also remind you that being still is not passive waiting. Instead it is an eager expectation on our part to see God act on our behalf. At the same time we should avoid to engineer people or situations in our human wisdom which can easily fail to see God’s higher purpose. Therefore a success mantra you can trust is to “be still.”

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This post is inspired by the Bible verse where God speaks saying, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10a)
You can read the article Be Still as Your Success Mantra on LinkedIn

August 15, 2022August 15, 2022

When Problems Appear Bigger to You Than They Really Are

We have, it seems, an in-built microscope which magnifies problems to make them look bigger than they really are. Let us look at some simple steps to zoom them out to normal sizes.

First of all, problems appear big because we despair and give up hope easily. Problems look big because we look at it in fear. Instead look at problems as opportunities to make you strong in your character. This change in outlook can make a positive difference.

Secondly, problems appear big because you think on it all the time. Probably you are unable to share them with anyone. If that is the case, engage in any activity, hobby, or work that will give you relaxation and joy. The idea is to have something creative to do.

Thirdly, problems appear big because we fail to look to Jesus. The look doesn’t take problems away. But what it does is, the more we focus on him, the more God will appear big to us as he truly is. The more we look, we start to experience the peace of God.

This peace of God is beyond human understanding or logic. Like special security personnel or military forces standing guard, so God’s peace will guard your mind from all anxious thoughts invading your mind or making you to run away from facing problems.

So instead of taking a microscope to look at problems in a magnified way look to Jesus. And as St. Paul wrote: “Do not be anxious about anthing, but in everything, 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 minds in Christ Jesus.” ¹

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¹ Philippians 4:6, 7 Bible NIV 1984.

August 3, 2022October 11, 2023

A Short Speech on Greed

Hi friends,

We all know the story of the greedy fox. Therefore, today, let me tell you something about greed. [Click this link to listen to the BPPS Podcast of this speech on YouTube.]

First of all, greed makes you blind to true love. When greed takes over; people become willing to tear apart blood relationships. Remember this is just for some material gain, wealth, money or inherited property. What a sad situation it is!

Secondly, greed makes us worship money and wealth. Dear friends, only God alone is worthy of our adoration, praise, and worship. But greed makes us forget that. And we start to bow down in front of greed.

Thirdly, greed can make you grab all you want; but at the end of the day you’ll be left with nothing. Remember, how Alexander the Great had the wisdom to ask his friends to put two holes in his coffin through which his empty hands could be put outside of it for all to see and think. He had conquered a large part of the world. But he was taking absolutely nothing with him when he died.

Finally, greed can make you a monster. Many angels at heart have become ruthless when they had allowed greed to take control of their lives. Values like love, compassion, mercy, and kindess disappear from the lives of those who are greedy.

Therefore my friends, stay away from greed. Let the story of the greedy fox remind you to stay away from greed. Let me conclude with the words of Jesus Christ: “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”¹

Thank you.

¹Luke 12:15 Bible NIV 1984.
Featured image courtesy: Amanda Frank (Unsplash)

August 2, 2022August 2, 2022

Put Off Your Old Attitudes and Put On New Attitudes

Attitudes influence our behaviour. It cements our character. And it can determine our ultimate destiny too. Therefore you need to learn to put off old attitudes and put on new attitudes.

Anything negative, anything dealing with darkness and evil, anything that is self-defeating, anything that is shameful; all come under old attitudes. But whatever is of the light, whatever is positive and creative, whatever builds you up and does not tear you down comes under the colourful umbrella of new attitudes.

Looking at life, we find negativity everywhere. No doubt, we are influenced by how those close to us look at life. Some of their old attitudes do create dents in our life and we too follow their thinking patterns and even the way they speak.

But life can be approached on another plane too. It is an invitation to rise up and fly high in the skies. Instead of the drag of negativity of old attitudes; you find lift in the positivity of new attitudes.

Without doubt, this freedom and joy of new living is God-initiated to those who choose to have it that way. But to continue in that attitude of positivity; you need to be watchful and you need to be in an attitude of constant improvement. If you neglect your part of the deal; if you become slack; if you become lazy; then like weeds overrunning a neglected garden; so will negative attitudes make a rush in. So be alert.

On the other hand, by welcoming change, by making efforts to conquer bad habits, by mingling with friends who demand that you be at your best; new attitudes do take hold of you. Then you can take off old attitudes; discard them, and put on new attitudes like you put on new clothes. It requires a renewing of the mind.

Yes, the mind is where the battlefied is. Your mind is often taken a prisoner in battle. And you think, speak, and do, what you don’t like. When you find that happening, intensify your efforts to seek after the good, the lovable, the excellent, and whatever spurs you on to have new attitudes that spell life, and joy and the radiance of shining light.

You Can Make Winning in Life a Seven-Step Habit!
Top Ten Attitudes That Will Make You a Winner in Life
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Inspired by Ephesians 4:22–24 Bible.

July 31, 2022October 11, 2023

Try Again and Again Until You Succeed

There is no success, no movement forward, no progress, no growth, and no development if you don’t try. So it is popularly said, “Try again and again until you succeed.” But the question is how should you try. Here are a few ways in which you can and should try.

First of all, you should try again and again with enthusiasm. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Don’t let anything discourage you. Interestingly, the word “enthusiasm” comes from the Greek words “en” and “theos”; and it means “in God.” So when you are full of enthusiasm it will be like you are energized with the joy of God.

Secondly, you should try again and again with persistence. It simply means to keep on doing and keep on moving. Many give up after they try a few times. A last final try is built upon many earlier attempts; and all of them go into the making of success. As Former U.S. President Calvin Coolidge said: “Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence.” He added that talent nor genius nor education can take the place of persistence. So persist.

Finally, you should try again and again with hope. There is much in this world that can cause despair. But as R. L. Stevenson said, “To travel hopefully is better thing than to arrive.” You should never give up hope. You should hope for a better tomorrow, always. You should hope that there will be light at the end of the tunnel. You should hope that love and truth will win over hate and lies. You should hope that your attempts will end in success. So journey in hope.

To conclude, think of what the motivational speaker Nick Vujicic said:

“I am gonna try again and again, because the moment I give up, is the moment I fail.”

Therefore try again and again with enthusiasm, persistence, and hope. Victory is near!

Read Try Again and Again Until You Succeed on LinkedIn

July 29, 2022September 14, 2023

If Faith Moves Mountains, Then I Can! The Power of Belief!

There is great power in belief, especially the belief, “I Can!” And there is great danger too in the belief that faith in “I Can” is a kind of a magic wand that can bring rabbits out of an empty hat. But still we need to look seriously at what Jesus said: “I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to the mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” ¹

Now let us look at some of the fascinating lessons the small mustard seed size of faith offers us.

First of all, look at the contrast. The mustard seed is small. The mountain is big. Moving something huge like a mountain with something small the size of a mustard seed is improbable. Jesus was talking about you facing difficulties that look imposing like a mountain in your life. The key is not to look at the mountain but to look at what you have; even it be the size of a small mustard seed. Let that look be one of belief; one of faith; and with that stance of undoubting trust. Then mountains will move.

Secondly, look at faith itself. Faith as I said earlier is no magic wand. It cannot operate on its own. It needs an object. See, the point is, your faith can be as small as a mustard seed. That doesn’t matter. It can still move mountains if that faith, even when small and looking seemingly insignificant, is placed in God who is able to move mountains. So what Jesus meant is not us doing some magic; but what he meant us to understand is where or upon whom to place our belief on. Our faith should be in God himself.

Three, look to God who moves mountains. There will be plenty of mountains to be removed in the lives of each one of us. No doubt they will look threatening and impossible to overcome. Do you know why they are there? Do you know why God doesn’t take them out of our way? Surely there has to be a purpose! They are there to help us exercise our faith; to make us come out of struggling with the clouds of doubt to the sunshine of faith in God who is the God who makes the impossible, possible.

To conclude, let me spell out the mighty lessons of faith contained in this statement Jesus made. Jesus wanted us to know that faith, even when small like a mustard seed, can accomplish great things even when facing mountains of difficulty when that faith is in God for whom the impossible is always possible. Therefore, you too can say with St. Paul, “I can do everything through him [Jesus Christ] who gives me strength.”²

Therefore, do not look at your faith that is small like a mustard seed and feel insignificant and weak; but be made strong in faith by looking to God and expecting him to move the mountains for you. It is not the popular positive thinking mantra, I can, but instead it is, “With God, I Can!

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Four Reasons Why Your Prayers Can Go Unanswered!
¹Matthew 17:20 Bible NIV 1984.
²Philippians 4:13 Bible NIV 1984.

July 26, 2022July 27, 2022

Build Healthy Relationships Says School Leader in an Inspiring Speech

Hi friends,

It is time once again for the flowers to bloom and the song of the birds to make music in our ears. Our hearts are again in spring time and we look forward to yet another year of friendship and laughter and healthy fun. As leader of the school, I wish to present before you a few thoughts on how to build healthy relationships.

At a time when relationships are crumbling everywhere; when relationships are characterized by what one can get and grab; when relationships are based more on money power and social status than on values like honesty, integrity and faithfulness; there is much to be said about building healthy relationships especially in our schools where boys and girls study together.

First and foremost, all healthy relationships are built on trust and mutual respect. Trust does not happen overnight. It is a sacred responsibility that is an outflow of good character. Trust once lost; it almost impossible to regain it. Therefore, guard it carefully. Respect each other and give each other the private space needed; not only physically but also emotionally too. Trust never crosses boundaries and does not trespass on the other’s personal space.

Secondly, all healthy relationships are built on encouragement and mutual support. When you encourage your friend to be his or her best; when you give a listening ear when your friend would like to share life’s burdens with you; when you rejoice at the academic and co-curricular achievements of your friend; and when you correct with honest intent so that your friend does not end up a loser by taking the wrong path; you are building a healthy relationship.

Finally, all healthy relationships have to be maintained. At a time when mobile phones and social media are relied upon to maintain relationships; do not mistake them for the reality of keeping in touch in flesh and blood. Lending a helping hand when needed; encouraging to hold on and not give in to life’s troubles; connecting and networking with others and speaking a good and timely word for your friend; all will go a long way in maintaining healthy relationships.

Let me conclude reminding the words of Jesus who said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.”¹ As far as healthy relationships are concerned, we need to watch out against people and evil forces who want to destroy good and healthy relationships. They spell death but we need to choose life deliberately, time and again, and strive to build healthy relationships.

We do not live in isolation. And none of us can afford to be lonely. We have families; but we also need healthy relationships with our friends; with both boys and girls. When greed and selfishness and cut-throat competition have become the dominant and aggressive mindset of the 21st century; let us strive to be unselfish and pray for the best for our friends. In that way we can truly be the salt of the earth by building relationships that abound with life and joy.

¹John 10:10a Bible.
Featured image courtesy:Prawny (Pixabay)
A Student’s Inspiring Election Campaign Speech for the Post of School Leader!
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Growing Up! A Motivational Speech for School Students!

July 25, 2022September 29, 2023

World Records Are My Favorite Food: Featuring Sydney McLaughlin

At the World Athletic Championships Oregon 2022, the mascot, Legend the Bigfoot, photo bombed Sydney McLaughlin while holding a sign saying: “World records are my favorite food.” She had won with an incredible time of 50.68 seconds in the 400 metres hurdles which people have compared to the legendary Usain Bolt’s World record of 9.58 in the 100 metres. McLaughlin had earlier said during her Tokyo record-breaking olympic win in 2021 that: “What I have in Christ is far greater than what I have or don’t have in life.”

Gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin: ‘What I have in Christ is far greater’ than anything else

Having said that let me just sketch how records are born.

Records as favourite food don’t happen without hard work, sacrificing a lot, avoiding distractions, a coach’s help, and training till you think you can do no further.

Records as favourite food do happen when you focus on giving your best, aspiring to better your performance, and looking forward with eagerness to face the fiercest competitors you have in the field.

Records come and go, and you create a legacy by breaking records and making new ones. But when you see them in the perspective of eternity; such glories are for the moment and they will fade away with time. There are things that matter most and that is what Sydney McLaughline referred to; having a personal relationship with Jesus and knowing him as Saviour and Lord.

It makes sense when one sees life as a race and your goal is to finish well. For that matter, how many world record holders do you remember from former years? Very few; is it not? That’s all about earthly fame and glory. But earning praise from God at the end of your life’s race is to get a crown that will not perish, spoil or fade. So do not run aimlessly, but run so as to win the prize.

Featured image courtesy: Athletic Federation of India Tweet
Read also on Sydney’s struggles with fame and her triumph through her faith in God in this article in the Indian Express: Sydney McLaughlin and the Toxicity of Fame

A Champion’s Mindset: Raise Your Game to Highest Performance

Tailpiece: When 400m hurdles for the first time was introduced in the Olympics at Los Angeles in 1984, the Malayali P. T. Usha from Kerala, India, known also as the “Payyoli Express,” lost the bronze medal by 1/100th of a second. It was a race which all Indians remember for that heart-break. In that race the runner who came first was Nawal El Moutawakel from Morocco and she had won gold after clocking 55.42 in that race. 38 years later Sydney McLaughlin’s time is 4.74 seconds better.

July 20, 2022July 22, 2022

Search Me, O God, and Know My Heart!

“Search me, O God, and know my heart,” is a prayer that should rise out of every sincere heart. There are several possibilities of this prayer.

One, there might be hidden sins in our hearts that only God’s penetrating search lights can reveal. It will give us a chance to confess and renounce them and find God’s mercy.

Two, there can be worries and anxieties in our heart which shows lack of trust in God, our Heavenly Father. When God’s search brings them out, it gives us a chance to ask God to give us grace to believe in his goodness and care towards us.

Three, there can be burdens which weigh heavily in our hearts. They sap our strength and kill our joy. The searchlights of God will spotlight them. Then we get a chance to pray to God to carry those burdens for us, which he does daily for those who love him.

Therefore “Search me, O God, and know my heart,” is a prayer that requires honesty as well as courage. It demands a willingness to change and also take action. It also shows trust in God who knows all about us—all our innermost secrets, fears, worries and hopes.

So let us too pray in the words of the Psalmist David,

“Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.”

— Psalm 139:23–24 Bible NIV 1984.

July 13, 2022July 14, 2022

Do You Need To Be a Millionaire to Make People Happy?

You need not be a millionaire to make people happy. You can simply make a difference by saying a timely word.

Let your timely word come straight from the heart. In other words, let it be sincere. The words “Children are enjoying your class,” are simple and down to earth. But the happiness it can bring to a teacher’s heart is immense.

To say a timely word, you should learn to appreciate others. It is simply an expression of your genuine wish to see others do well and succeed. “You sounded very confident when you gave your speech today,” will boost the speaker’s confidence and esteem still further. Without doubt it will make him or her happy. And you need not be a millionaire to do so.

Finally, saying a timely word can be that ray of hope which can illumine the darkness in a person’s life. Often God uses people to say a few words that might give others much needed wisdom and guidance at that point in time. “Don’t get discouraged. Your failure today can turn out to a blessing in disguise,” is an example of your timely word becoming a blazing torch of hope to someone ready to give up.

Let me conclude. You can live a life of purpose by speaking a timely word. Speak straight from your heart, appreciate with sincere words, and be a tool in God’s hands to light up the hearts of others with happiness. And let me remind you once again that you need not be a millionaire to spread happiness all around, wherever you are!

JOY Is a Gift; Happiness an Attitude!
2 Minute Speech for School Children on the Pursuit of Happiness

“A man finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!”

— Proverbs 15:23 Bible NIV 1984.

July 7, 2022May 10, 2023

End Your Guilt Trip! Come to the Fountain!

You might be suffering from guilt. Now how can your guilt be taken away? Will due punishment take it away? It cannot! You still will hear accusing from your conscience and often from the devil himself. Is there an escape? Oh yes, there is! Come to the fountain!

What is this fountain? It is the blood of Jesus Christ shed on the cross. The Bible says the blood of Jesus is a fountain of cleansing. All our sins, when we confess them before God and repent of them with sincere and true and broken hearts, are forgiven. Its shame and guilt is taken away. So come to this fountain.

Come to this fountain with all your failures, mistakes, and sins. There you will find pardon and forgiveness in abundance. For God is compassionate and merciful. He is ever willing to forgive when you come to him broken. He does not want you to live in guilt and shame. Therefore come to this fountain.

When God forgives, he also restores. He brings you back to a right relationship with him. He brings you out of darkness into his light, from death to life, from lies and deception to truth, and from despair to healing.

Therefore do not lose your life to guilt trips. But find God’s unconditional love and forgiveness by coming now itself to the fountain of cleansing from sin and impurity. End your guilt trip today. Come to this fountain!

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References: Zechariah 13:1 1 John 1:7

June 7, 2022November 25, 2024

Unloved | Rejected | Confused | Life Can Get Better!

If you are young and probably in your teens, life can turn difficult from being rosy as quickly as lights are switched off. You can feel unloved, rejected, and confused. The longing for acceptance can be met with scorn. People can even make fun of you. But let not your hopes be dashed: Life can be better!

The question is whether you should allow negative feelings to determine your worth? If you allow others to decide how you should feel; then all through your life you will be at other people’s mercy. Your trying hard to please everybody and saying yes to everything will surely create unpleasant experiences for you.

There are no simple solutions I have to offer when you feel unloved, rejected, and confused. The only thing I can remind you of is hope. Hope in God comes first and following that hope of a better tomorrow. You might wonder how God fits in to the whole situation you are facing. Probably you are feeling like a failure already and doesn’t want God to come to play the game of your life.

But let me tell you a simple reason why you should consider God. He is someone who is willing to accept you just as you are. What does that mean? It simply means that God loves you the way you are right now. He loves you even when you feel unloved, rejected, and confused. He does not find fault with you for your doubts. He is not angry when you rebel against him; but is patiently waiting for you to come to him. For he believes that your life can be better with better hopes, better dreams, and better tomorrows.

Remember, darkness simply does not go away. As Amy Carmichael said: “God is willing to enter into the heart, as light is willing to flood a room that is opened to its brighness.” So simply open the doors of your heart and let the love of God pour in. God specializes in those who think themeselves failures and in those whose friends and family have labelled as failures!
Read Sunday Sermonettes #013 for more on Rejection.

May 26, 2022October 4, 2023

Distractions Drug You to Lose in Life

Usain Bolt, one of the greatest sprinters the world has seen, wrote in his autobiography¹: “Distraction for one hundredth of a second might be enough to lose a race.” In this modern world of gadgets when most of us spend too much time on our mobiles, distractions, especially caused by time spent on social media can drug you to lose in life.

Why do I use the word drug? Because drugs cause addiction. And who will disagree that social media is so addictive that you simply cannot control the urge to check and recheck and scroll through the reels and trolls and status updates.

Now the impact of distractions can be felt in a few areas: Losing focus, losing a sense of priorities, and losing the sense of responsibility are some of those.

First of all let me talk about focus. Take the example of a student preparing for the upcoming exams. Think about the student having books on one side and chatting on the mobile at the same time. It is like trying to pilot a plane while also trying to drive a car.

Secondly, let me talk about losing a sense of priorities. Time is limited. So not one of us can accomplish anything worthwhile in life without establishing priorities. That tells us what is urgent, important, can wait, and not needed. But distractions often make us spend valuable time on minor things, things that don’t matter, and what is frivolous.

Thirdly, let me talk about losing the sense of responsibility. Take the example of a mother of school kids and also a professional. If the mother spends long hours with her mobile, she is not doing justice to her prime responsibility of caring for her children. And one cannot find fault if her kids too just snug her and watch all that she is watching.

Let me conclude. My dear friends, life is short. And today, distractions are stealing away much time from your life. You are losing focus, losing a sense of priorities and also the sense of responsibility. So say no to distractions and avoid being drugged to lose in life. The decision is yours. Take it now!
Clip on Distraction from Malayalam Sermon on the Blood of Jesus

¹Usain Bolt | Faster Than Lightning | My Story | Published by Harper Collins

May 24, 2022May 26, 2022

Short Speech on the Importance of Hiding God’s Word in Our Hearts

Hello Everyone,

The Bible says: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119 verse 11.

We live in a world where we face a lot of temptations. Our hearts and minds are not strong enough to resist them. We need God’s help. At the same time, we need to store up and hide God’s Word in our hearts. Why?

Because God’s Word is living and active. It is sharper than any double-edged sword. God’s Word is like fire and a hammer that breaks a rock into pieces. Therefore, storing it within our hearts gives us a fighting chance and resisting power against sin. God will bring to our minds the right word at our time of need.

Therefore, let us try to memorize God’s Word and hide it in our hearts. Yes, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119 verse 11. Amen.

May 11, 2022October 4, 2023

The 10th Commandment: You Shall Not Covet!

Times have changed. Centuries have passed by. Empires have risen and fallen. From the man who walked all the way; we have come to a point when man travels to Space as a tourist. But man has not changed. His heart is having the same makeup and is prone to get corrupt. It is not virus free; not at all. Therefore let me talk about one of the viruses that plots evil in the human heart—the breaking of the 10th Commandment which God gave the world through Moses the prophet: You shall not covet!

Coveting is essentially an yearning to possess something which is not rightfully ours. It can be anything that you set your desire on. For a child it can be a pencil, a toy, or even a sweet his or friend has. For a man or woman it can be things much larger and more prized than all these. Coveting is a desire that crosses boundaries God has kept for our own safety. It is like ignoring the red lights and pressing on the accelerator of your car. You might succeed to get, to grab, to hold, and to possess. But it destroys everything that we cherish in life in that process:

Relationships turn murky. There is heartbreak and sorrow. Justice is upset. Wrong is done. There is violation of human dignity. The tales of misery and sorrow do not end; it continues in the family. The results of breaking the 10th Commandment which says, you shall not covet, is terrible.

So is there a checklist I can refer to in order that I might not violate the 10th Commandment? It is a good question. The starting point is, do not covet anything that belongs to your neighbour. The wise King Solomon made the point: “All labour and all achievement spring from man’s envy of his neighbour.”¹ We compare and contrast with what our neigbours have. Then we start to covet.

Be thankful for what you have. Get rid of that sense of dissatisfaction in life. Serious consequences that can plague you lifelong accompany the violation of the 10th Commandment, you shall not covet. At the end of the day you and me are answerable and accountable to God when we stand before his judgement seat. Not one of us can stand before his wrath. So let us not covet.

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The 10th Commandment is found in Exodus 20:17 and Deuteronomy 5:21

¹Ecclesiastes 4:4 Bible

March 29, 2022July 23, 2022

The Art of Patience

Patience is a kind of outdated word in today’s busy world. When everything happens instantly at the touch of one’s finger on the mobile, people have lost the art of waiting.

Almost all good things in life can come with patience. A child might yearn to grow up and achieve great things. But that happens only as years pass by. There is no way this process can be made to run fast.

Patience is part of achieving spiritual growth too. The Bible says that patience is a fruit of the Spirit. It means that patience seen in the life of a man or woman is a sign of spiritual maturity.

Why is this important? Waiting patiently for Gods answers to prayer runs contrary to worldly wisdom which says when God doesn’t answer prayers quickly, he is denying you your request.

The truth could be otherwise. God is helping you grow strong by patient waiting. His delays are not denials, but grand designs of his wisdom in your life.

A patient man or woman will not easily get angry. He or she will be quick to listen but slow to speak; doing so only after thinking through.

On the other hand, God is very patient too. He is showing mercy to all by delaying judgement on man’s sin and rebellion against him.

To conclude, patience is not weakness but strength clothed in meekness.

March 19, 2022July 23, 2022

Low Self-Esteem and 3 Things to Remember

You are reading this probably because you are going through a period of low self-esteem. It can happen due to a lot of reasons. But it need not stop you from moving ahead successfully in life.

There are many external causes for low self-esteem. Being unable to do what you are good at, lack of finances, words of criticism, emotional or physical abuse during childhood, rejection from loved ones, breaking up of relationships, ill health; can all contribute to low self-esteem.

The chances are, low self-esteem you feel is based on others’ negative opinion and false estimates about you. When someone says, “You’re an utter failure,” or “What benefit do you get when you help others?” it is bound to make you feel low and down.

But are those estimates true? Maybe that’s how someone feels about you. Their ideas of success might be totally different and influenced by the crowd they mingle with.

Whatever it be, feeling low on self-esteem is painful and can take away the enthusiasm to do anything purposeful. There are three things you should keep in mind when you go through a period of low self- esteem:

One, God values you and sees infinite worth in you so much so that he sent his one and only Son Jesus to shed his blood on the cross and die for you. Believe God’s truthful estimate about you.

Two, patiently keep doing your good work knowing that its fruit and reward will come someday without fail. Do not mistake slow-moving phases of life as failure.

Three, the pain of low self-esteem can make you a better person. It can make you more creative, more compassionate, and more humble before God. In due time, God will exalt you. Trust in his perfect timing for you.

So when low self-esteem troubles you, pour out your sorrow before God. He will listen to you, for he is compassionate. You can lean on him for strength in times of low self-esteem. The night is darkest, as it is said, just before dawn!

March 16, 2022July 23, 2022

Make Me a Channel of Your Peace Speech

Make me a channel of your peace is the first line of a famous prayer. I would like to share a few simple thoughts on it:

Each one of us is confronted with choices everyday—to be contributors to peace or let go of opportunities to make peace. It is easy to think, “Why should I bother?” But remember Jesus said in his Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”¹ So make an active effort to create peace and be a channel of peace wherever you get a chance.

Again, in contrast to this, many people take away from the possibility of creating peace by mocking others, slandering them, and spreading gossip. Such people never think of the pain of being the cruel victim of jokes and stories which have no basis on facts or truth. What if you heard someone telling false tales about to another and having a wicked laugh about it? Refraining from being a listener to taleberaers will itself make you a channel of peace.

Finally, it is easy to break relationships. One word from you can break years of friendship. On the other hand your words to promote peace and understanding can save families from breaking apart and friendships from being destroyed. Show initiative to be a channel of peace to restore strained relationships.

So my dear friends, join hands with God in creating peace on earth and reconciling people to each other. There is much hate and war in every heart, but you can pray to God to make you a channel of his peace.

—
Note: This prayer has been attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, but in all possibility the author is someone else. See the history of this hymn.

¹Matthew 5:9 Bible

March 8, 2022November 30, 2022

Positive Thinking

Positive thinking is much talked about because most of us think negatively all the time; isn’t it? We worry too much and get stressed when we face problems. And therefore it is not surprising that so many motivational books on positive thinking have been and still are best sellers.

Let me try to say a few thoughts on positive thinking:

First of all, positive thinking is a deliberate act of the mind. It doesn’t happen naturally as most of us seem to be wired to be negative thinkers. Thinking positively is like switching on the lights so that the darkness of negative thoughts cannot stand before the light.

Secondly, positive thinking is about choices. It is about choosing to keep your mind focused on good things. For there are lot of negative suggestions that bombard your mind from external sources all the time—even as you walk the streets, listen to conversations, or watch something on television or YouTube. So choose life instead of death, dreaming instead of defeat, hope instead of despair, and light instead of darkness.

Thirdly, positive thinking is about trust in God. There are realities of life which we cannot ignore or close our eyes to. No amount of positive thinking can change or reverse certain situations. It is during those times you need to rely on the promises of God like, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,”¹ or “I am with you always,” or “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” as written in the Bible.

Finally, positive thinking is about looking ahead with hope. There are definitely bad days in each of our lives. Days in which we make mistakes, commit blunders, lose our temper, say things which we regret, entertain lots of bad attitudes in our minds and so on. In spite of all that, it is about believing that God has not given up on on you. There is his mercy and compassion ever available to you. So have hope even when all else seems lost.

So my friends, life can throw a lot of changes especially as the world is nearing its end. The moment I say this, negative thoughts might have clouded your minds. That is why positive thinking is needed even when the world is about to end.
—

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

— Philippians 4:8 Bible NIV

—
¹Jeremiah 29:11 Bible 1984

March 4, 2022September 16, 2023

The Role of Sports and Games in the Life of Children

Sports and games are good for children. They help children to have fun, relax, and socialize with other children.

Sports and games provide an opportunity for children to have physical activity. It is a great way to stay away from the mobile or computer.

Another important element about sports and games is that it helps children to have a healthy competitive spirit. They learn to succeed as well as fail without losing heart; thus learning sportsmanship.

Then there is the benefit of developing teamwork. In a world where team playing abilities play a crucial role in determining success in one’s career, having a background of sports and games will be an asset.

Perhaps a lesser known benefit of playing sports and games is that children learn discipline. They learn to play according to the rules. Also, they learn that all sports and games have a playing field where the game happens within predefined boundaries.

Again, playing sports and games enable children to respect authority. Each of the sports and games has a referee or umpire who decide on all the important matters related to the play. No matter how great a player is individually, he or she has to obey those decisions.

Finally, sports and games help develop leadership skills. We know of captains who have shown great leadership skills. For many children, playing sports and games give them a chance to step into leadership roles and excel in exercising leadership.

To conclude, every child should explore the possibilities of sports and games. They are fun and they are healthy. They make one’s childhood and teen years colourful and memorable.

March 4, 2022July 1, 2023

A Short Meditation on the Precious Blood of Jesus

A meditation on the precious blood of Jesus can bring you near to the presence of God. For the blood of Jesus removes all barriers and opens the way for you to come to the presence of God. So come boldly and with confidence that Jesus himself is bringing you near to God by his precious blood shed on the cross of Calvary.

Come to God with a heart that is truthfully and sincerely hurt by all your sinful attitudes, thoughts, words, and actions. Ask God to help you turn away from all that is wrong in your life. The Bible calls that repentance, and it is godly sorrow that leads you to repentance.

Seek God’s cleansing in your life through the blood of Jesus. This is another point for meditation. Yes, the blood of Jesus has the power to cleanse and purify you from all your sins. It has the power to make you stand before God having your past wiped clean.

The forgiveness and pardon you get through the blood of Jesus is so real that you stand before God as if you never ever sinned against him. It means that God will never use those sins that were forgiven, to punish you. The Bible calls this justification. It is a kind of legal term showing that you stand acquitted before the court of God.

Another thought for meditation is how God becomes friends with you through the blood of Jesus. See, when you trust his blood for your salvation, sin that separated you and God is removed. The shame and guilt of sin is also taken away. That brings you into close connect and fellowship with God. Instead of enmity with God, there will be peace with God. The Bible calls that reconciliation.

God has also brought you out from Satan’s dominion and darkness and evil and given you the power to lead a life that becomes increasingly holy. See, Jesus took the punishment for sins that should have come upon you and me on his body broken on the cross, to set us free! The Bible calls that redemption.

A sinless life might not be possible, for we all sin against God from time to time knowingly or unknowingly. Therefore we need repeated cleansing by the blood of Jesus from day to day and moment by moment. So when you allow the blood of Jesus to operate in your life and submit to the powerful influence of this cleansing fountain, there will be a gradual dying to all the wrong desires as God gives you a stronger desire to be holy like him. The Bible calls it sanctification.

This happens only through the blood of Jesus which gives you a new desire to say NO to temptations. The battle is the Lord’s and the victory over the devil is through the blood of Jesus. Hallelujah (that means Praise the Lord.)!

Let me end by saying that you might not understand all about how the blood of Jesus works effectively in your life to save you completely. But just like you drive a car effectively without knowing all about its mechanical or electrical functioning; just like you use a computer without knowing much about chips, algorithms, processors, artificial intelligence and so on; you can meditate or think much on the precious blood of Jesus, and God will draw near to you.

Take a few moments deliberately while you work, play, study, or are busy in the kitchen, or driving to think on the precious blood of Jesus. I can say with full assurance that this meditation will help you know God’s everlasting love for you and make God’s joy complete in your life.

—

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.”

— I Peter 1:18, 19 Bible NIV 1984.

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March 1, 2022October 11, 2023

A Speech on the Benefits of Travel

Travelling is a passion for many. It is a hobby for others. Millions follow travel vloggers and enjoy the experience they present. Some like to travel alone. Others like to go with friends and family. The benefits of travel are many. In this short speech let me highlight a few of them.

First benefit of all is that travelling is a way to relax one’s mind. It brings a refreshing change from one’s daily routines at home or office. The anticipation of going places is huge with children. And the sense of togetherness is great when traveling with loved ones.

Secondly, travelling gives you a chance to experience new cultures, food, languages, manners and customs. In that sense it expands your mind to think beyond the limited perspectives you have in life. This is a great benefit as it helps you to go beyond mere textbook knowledge of people and places.

Thirdly, travelling teaches you to be resourceful. When traveling, one of the principles to follow is to travel light. You learn to adapt and adjust to new situations and environments. You learn to manage with limited resources available. The benefits include learning to plan and coordinate; learning to manage with a limited budget and learn to cope with surprises that can come your way.

Finally, travel reminds us to have the attitude of a pilgrim. It reminds us that all of us are on the journey of life and one day we have to depart and travel alone to face or meet God and carry nothing with us.

To conclude, perhaps one of things you never forget is the experience you have with people you would have never met otherwise. I think that it is one of the richest experiences anyone can have in life. So get ready for your next travel. Exciting moments ahead.

February 27, 2022November 13, 2023

A Speech on Kindness

A world in which people are becoming more self-centred and busy, kindness holds a miracle-working power. Possibly kindness is a kind of tender-hearted and compassionate love in action. The Bible calls kindness a fruit of the Spirit; meaning that God makes that quality grow in us as we increasingly connect with him like a branch in a tree.

Regarding kindness, I wish to share with you four quick thoughts:

One, kindness begins with an attitude. It begins with you and me having open eyes and ears to see and listen to others. Most people are hurting in one way or other. They need a listening ear. They needed someone to tell them that there is hope ahead so as to help them find strength in God.

Two, kindness is also action-oriented. It can be the gift of a smile, a loving and understanding touch, a phone call or a message to cheer up a heart. Some need help in material ways like money for education or hospital expenses. Seeing someone in need and then not helping when it is in your power to act is quite the opposite of kindness.

Three, kindness has to be cultivated. As said earlier, it is a fruit. When we show kindness we reflect that quality in God who is compassionate and showed tender-hearted kindness to us when he gifted Jesus his Son to come to this earth and bleed to death on a cross. So kindness is about showing love in action to those who might not even deserve it. It is not easy. It requires a spirit of sacrifice and often a forgiving spirit too.

Four, kindness is often shown outside but absent within our homes. It has been often pointed out that we show kindness to everyone but often forget to show it those who are our loved ones at home. This is a serious neglect we need to address. Home becomes a light of joy when kindness is shown to each other. For example, not shouting at your loved one when a mistake is made is an act of love and kindness.

So my dear friends, let me conclude saying that kindness is a much needed virtue in today’s world that is increasingly busy, driven by artificial intelligence, and powered by selfish attitudes. Kindness can be that one thing which will bring a miracle of love, affection, friendship, and joy being restored in your homes too. May God give you the strength and courage to exhibit kindness to all; especially to those who are close to your heart.

See the fifth point on kindness at work on LinkedIn

February 21, 2022October 4, 2023

A Short Speech for Students on Punctuality

It is said that “Punctuality is the politeness of kings.” No one expects those in authority who exercise power over others to be on time. But if they are punctual, it is one of the ways in which they show respect for others.
Lack of punctuality can be due to lack of attitude, lack of discipline, and lack of preparedness.

First of all, lack of attitude. Those who don’t care for others are not punctual. They don’t think it is a problem to keep others waiting. But think about how many hours are wasted when hundreds of people are kept waiting. So esteem others and value others’ time.

Secondly, lack of discipline. Getting up early can make a whole lot of difference to one’s day. But many neglect this. Also, spending time on distractions especially on social media makes people lose sense of priorities. So important things are left undone. Therefore promised delivery of services and products and assignments get delayed.

Thirdly, lack of preparedness. Tardiness, the opposite of being punctual, is often a result of not being fully and thoroughly prepared. It is clearly seen that those who try to gather together the needed resources, equipment, or accessories at the last minute often keep others waiting. A day or event begun with full preparedness has a ring of confidence to it.

To conclude, just imagine a busy airport. Think about the huge delays that can occur if planes were kept waiting for all those who are delayed. When it comes to serious things like catching a plane, people show attitude, discipline, and preparedness to be on time. So it is possible to be punctual if you will it with your full heart and mind.

December 9, 2021November 9, 2022

Even When Others Might Call You a Failure

Even when others might call you a failure; God doesn’t call you so. For the blood of Jesus shed on the cross was to give you a new beginning in life. So, thank God for all your failures.

Believe that God can use all your failures to make you a better person. A broken and contrite heart; and humility often comes as a result of failure.

God looks at your heart and your motives more than your failure; whatever that be. Therefore, if at all you have failed, do not give up hope.

For stars in the heavens still twinkle at night. And no failure in your life is final; if you can accept God’s help to rise up once again.

Link Page to Read Along Motivational Sermonettes and Speeches

Link to post Short speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks! — Short Speeches of Introduction, Welcome, Felicitation, Vote of Thanks!

November 3, 2021November 8, 2024

Praising God for Your Failures Is the Surest Road to Victory

Praising God does not come naturally to any one of us. We are reluctant to give God, praise. And when it comes to our failures which certainly includes mistakes made; there is no chance or even a remote thought of praising God. Even if we try, it is going to be painful. But praise has got power. It has the power to change us and transform us. Let us look at how it does so.

Praising God simply takes the burden of failures off our back. When we praise God we are saying that our analysis of our failures is not going to help us beyond a certain point. When we praise God, we are saying that we are already in the pit of self-pity by brooding over our failures and we want to get out of it. Praise puts us on the gear forward to victory.

Praising God is one of the best ways you can tell God that “I give total control of all circumstances that I find myself in to your hands.” You can now confidently expect God to carry your burdens. When you praise God, you can look forward to God making your failures work for a good purpose in your life. You may not understand how; but even the storms obey his will.

Praising God defeats all spiritual forces of darkness. One thing you can be sure of: You cannot fight spiritual forces of darkness with weapons of your making. Logic, intellect, or academic brilliance will not help in any way. But praise turns the battle around. In the midst of your greatest failure; start praising God for who he is—God Almighty; full of goodness, compassion and mercy. It is then the battle turns around to give you victory over all that has been troubling you.

Praising God can open doors that were closed. It can bring down barriers and make a road for you even in the wilderness. It does not matter how long you’ve stayed defeated; what matters is whether you can start to praise God with unending enthusiasm. As I said at the beginning, praise does not come naturally to any one of us. But music helps. If you can sing a song of praise; then the language of praise will start to overflow from your hearts and lips.

Praising God is the best way to overcome the spirit of despair that often pulls you down. Jesus came to set captives free. And he does so by giving you the garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. So just put on praise. It simply is a joyful lifting up of God’s holy name. Then failures will yield you greater returns because praise changes doom and gloom into joyous shouts of victory.

Finally, praising God shifts your focus from your failures to God himself. It is such a liberating truth. Suddenly you’re free of the burden of shame of your failures. So go ahead and praise God for all your failures and he will fight for you for the battle is the Lord’s and victory rests with him.

Read Praise God for Your Failures on LinkedIn

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October 19, 2021July 22, 2022

Students, Stop Saying These Little Speeches That Pull You Down!

Words do have the power to hurt. Therefore speeches that do not build you up can pull you down. Surprisingly, most of these speeches originate with you; and you do not even know it. But students need to be aware of this in order to avoid these dangerous little speeches.

What are these little speeches and how do they hurt? And how do they pull you down? Let us try to find out.

First of all listen to all the I can’t speeches you tell time and again. Without knowing it you are creating a belief for yourself that you are not capable. The truth is that you fear failure. Therefore you do not want to try. Failure is Ok; but saying I can’t is not Ok.

Secondly, listen to all the negative stories you tell. They might be true incidents when people might have hurt you, criticized you or made fun of you. The more you tell those stories the more you believe that you are helpless and a victim of circumstances. Is that true? I doubt. With trust in God, can you not rise up above all that pulled you down in the past? Yes, you can.

Thirdly, listen to self-deprecating comments that you make. Occasionally that can be part of humour. But if you use that constantly, it can be an indicator of the struggle you have with your sense of self worth, esteem and significance. Therefore cut off that kind of talk. It only pulls you down.

Finally, listen to little speeches of despair that escape your lips. You might have never noticed it. But after spending time with you; your friends will leave with their hearts heavy, with lack of happiness, and clueless why their minds are feeling drained. It is because of the pessimistic, no-hope-ahead, kind of talk you might be tempted to speak. Avoid that at all costs or you’ll lose your valuable friendships before you know it.

To conclude, let me say that identifying these four kind of speeches and avoiding them is not enough. You need to start thinking differently. St. Paul tells us: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”¹ When you do so, quite naturally, you will learn to speak words that, instead of pulling you down into a spirit of despair, will build you up.

What Better Hope in Life Do You Have Than This?

—
Prophet Isaiah predicted that Jesus came, “to bind up the brokenhearted . . . to comfort all who mourn . . .” and to give them “a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” (Isiaah 61:1–3).

¹ Philippians 4:8 Bible NIV 1984.

October 11, 2021October 11, 2023

Growing Up! A Motivational Speech for School Students!

Hi Friends,

Today is different from yesterday because each one of us is growing up. I am fascinated by the change that is happening. And as you might have guessed by now I am going to talk to you about growing up.

First of all, growing up is an essential part of life. Not one of us can choose to remain a baby or a toddler. Our parents found joy in each stage of our growing up. When we turned over the first time, the first baby steps, the first words, our first day at school and so on.

But our joy came in a different sense. It came as new discoveries about ourselves and the world around us. It is this sense of awareness that makes growing up a joy.

Secondly, growing up is about freedom and responsibility. When we were young, we had to depend on our parents for everything. Slowly but surely as we started growing up, each one of us became independent in varying degrees. There is a tendency in our teens to rebel and look down on others as we exult in our new-found freedom.

But that is being short-sighted because there is a long journey ahead of each one of us and in a short time we will learn that we have to depend a lot on others to succeed in life.

So freedom is to be used with restraint and caution and also with a sense of responsibility. Let us remind us ourselves of Nehru’s words in his Tryst with Destiny speech that rang out in that midnight hour of freedom where he said: “Freedom and power bring responsibility.”

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Thirdly, growing up is about leaving things behind. No one else said it more poetically than St. Paul who said, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.”¹

Yes, there is a lot of emotional and childish habits, reactions, and behaviour that we need to leave behind. That is a sure sign of growing up and becoming a man or woman in a true sense of what that means.

Fourthly, growing up is about coping with and adapting to changes. There are changes that affect our physical appearance, emotional make up and thinking patterns. These are needed to make us ready for our life ahead. Some of us might find these changes delightful, others may find it a bit uncomfortable especially when it comes to becoming self conscious in front of others.

Some of us shy away from the limelight; others are daring in their adventures. Yet the fun of it is learning to cope with change.

Finally, growing up is about looking ahead with hope. The future is uncertain. In spite of careful planning, things can go wrong. But even when darkness falls; you can trust God with your future. I cannot stress that thought enough: the antidote to fear of the future in an ever changing world is trust in an unchanging God.

Let me conclude. Growing up is an exciting part of life. Along with new discoveries can come new interests, hobbies, peer pressure, and new temptations. There can be the pressure of expectations of parents, teachers, and friends. There can be the challenge of making mistakes and facing criticism for our failures too. But none of these things need to discourage us.

For as the poet Robert Browning in his poem Rabbi Ben Ezra says,
Grow old along with me!
The best is yet to be,
The last of life, for which the first was made:
Our times are in His hand
Who saith “A whole I planned,
Youth shows but half; trust God: see all, nor be afraid!”

Therefore this is my call to you today my friends. Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be!

¹1 Corinthians 13:11 Bible NIV 1984.

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April 1, 2021August 21, 2023

Joy Getting the Better of Fear is What Public Speaking Can Be to You

Joy getting the better of fear is what public speaking can be to you. A right perspective about you the messenger, about the message, and about the audience will help you to get rid of stage fright and speak with joy.

One, joy is about the messenger. That is you. You might have thoughts of unworthiness and insignificance. Others might remind you of your smallness and that you are good for nothing. Let them do so. But when God values you as an individual and loves you; you can rise above the negative evaluation others make about you and deliver your speech with conviction, clarity, confidence, and impact.

Two, joy is about the message. You cannot speak well without a solid message. There is no style without substance and style can never compensate for lack of substance. So go for an all out preparation and get ready material for your speech. Let it be interesting, informative, and inspiring. In certain situations it has to be persuasive or entertaining. Unless you are convinced about what you speak, you cannot expect the audience to be moved by what you say.

Three, joy is about the audience. Many fear to look at the audience, be it big or small. Others worry about, “What will the audience think about me? You have to believe that the audience is for you and eager to listen to you. There will always be a few in any audience who are bored. Do not focus on that minority. And do not fear criticism. If you do anything worthwhile it will come. Remember, without the audience, there is no public speaking.

The messenger, the message, and the audience make public speaking happen. It can easily be, in the words of John Keats, a thing of beauty and joy for ever.

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March 25, 2021July 27, 2022

My Grace Is Sufficient for You!

Grace is often described as the favour of God which we do not merit or deserve. On one occasion the LORD Jesus said to St. Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”¹

Paul was praying to God for having a difficulty in his life removed. He prayed thrice. This man through whom God had done many miracles was given an emphatic NO in answer to his prayer.

But the real answer given was a greater lesson. “My grace is sufficient for you. ”

Now what does that mean? It means that God knows that we are weak vessels. He knows that we carry the treasure of God’s wisdom in jars of clay.

We can be easily cracked and broken in the daily situations of life. We are bound to make mistakes in spite of our best efforts. And often we fail.

Yet God does not give up on you and me. He looks ahead at what he is going to do in your life. He is never discouraged. His focus is on you crossing the finishing line strong.

So he gives you grace to stand up under pressure. He brings consolation to your soul when you have great anxiety.

He shapes your character when you pass through troubles and difficulties; and you then emerge as gold passed through and tested in the fire.

When troubles sustain, God’s grace sustains us all the more. When we are truly weak; our pride is kept in check, and God’s power is perfected in us.

In other words, we are kept humble and all the more dependent on God. There is less burden on our hearts and minds this way than if we tried to live our lives in our own wisdom and strength.

This is God’s grace. The ability and enabling he gives is sufficient to meet our pressing needs. In other words, you will not lack the supply of his grace. He will hold you by his right hand.

Yes, God’s grace is sufficient for you and for me.

—
¹2 Corinthians 12:9 Bible NIV 1984