How often do we use lack of time as an excuse for not accomplishing all that we desire? Let us know right here and now that there is plenty of time for everything we need or want to do.
We must, however, use our time wisely. Every minute spent in negative thinking is a wasted minute. Time used in criticism is needlessly squandered. Time spent complaining, doubting, or in useless busyness is wasted time.
This is not to imply that every minute should be structured and physically active. We need free moments to gaze at a sunset, admire a tree in blossom, or study a blade of grass. We need time for deep meditation and communion with God. We need balance—periods of constructive thinking and times of action.
We have all the time we need. As we become aware of that which takes up time for no real purpose, and then eliminate those things, we will see our time of good expand. Time is a gift of God. Give thanks for it, cherish it, and use it wisely.
Let us acknowledge and accept the idea that God is working in and through us, that God’s good is being established in our mind, body, and affairs.
As we affirm divine order, we allow the fullness of all life, all light, all good to come to us. Divine order in mind, body, and affairs means freedom from negative thinking—a mind that is peaceful and poised. It means freedom from ill health—a body that is whole and well. It means freedom from want and lack—a life established in plenty. We take a positive step toward these blessings when we pray for divine order.
If it seems that your dreams, goals, and desires are far beyond your reach, and you are tempted to give up and give way to self-pity, bring yourself back to the present. Today is the only day with which you need to be concerned. These twenty-four hours are important. God is with you and will give you strength to make the best possible use of them.
Instead of thinking of yourself in a limited way, think of yourself as you are right now. Right now you are a child of God—a beloved child of God. Right now God is with you to strengthen and guide you, to help and to inspire you.
If you think more about the past than the present, shake yourself free. Live effectively and constructively now. God is giving you all the strength of mind and body necessary for your success.
How do you handle disappointment? Problems in our love life, a health challenge, the loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or an unexpected disaster can disrupt our dreams.
Some people try to deal with disappointments through alcohol or drugs. Although this may seem to temporarily lessen the anguish, the relief is short-lived and may lead to greater problems.
Others respond to the let downs of life with resentment and self-pity. These attitudes serve only to make one miserable and unpleasant to be around.
There is a better way to deal with disappointment. That is, to use it for good—through God’s help. So often we can look back at disappointment and say as did Joseph to his brothers, “You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good.” Often, an apparent loss points the way to something much more wonderful than ever dreamed of.
You can triumph over disappointment. Dedicate all that you have and all that you are to God. In spite of what has happened in your outer world, know that “all things work together for good to those who love God.” As you respond in this way to God’s purposes, paths of peace and victory will open to you.
One of the qualities of Jesus that so impressed people was the way He spoke. His words had authority, conviction, and power. Jesus was bold and definite in speaking words of Truth. As a result of His words, people were healed, substance was multiplied to feed the hungry, and all sorts of other miracles took place. The words of Jesus were so filled with Spirit and life that people’s needs were met simply by contact with Him. Jesus expressed no doubt or indecision as He spoke clear, concise, and definite decrees of good.
Should we accept a lesser standard? Speak words of Truth. Speak good words. Speak them with power and authority in order that you too might experience your good. Charge the atmosphere with your positive assertions of Truth for yourself and others. Jesus said that as He did, so should we do also. Let us speak words of love, peace, prosperity, health, and happiness with power and authority. Let us give voice only to that which we wish to experience.