The Power of Words: Spreading Love, Not Fear

On September 13, 2023September 10, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In our journey as ambassadors of Christ, we often find ourselves in situations where our words hold immense power. We’ve all been there, uttering statements in the heat of the moment that we later regret. But as representatives of Christ, it is our duty to ensure that our words are guided by the spirit, not dominated by the flesh.

One concerning trend we see today is people telling others that they are destined for hell simply because of a difference in opinion or belief. It’s essential to recognize that no human possesses the authority to determine another person’s eternal fate. When we pass such judgment, we are essentially laying stumbling blocks on our own path.

The reality is, none of us can fully comprehend another person’s journey with Christ. Rather than assuming that our unkind words will act as a wake-up call, we should consider the potential harm they may inflict on someone’s spiritual path. Feeling judged and shamed by others is not our role as followers of Christ; it’s the Holy Spirit’s job to guide us when we stray.

Some individuals might hide behind the notion of “telling the truth in love.” However, it’s crucial to scrutinize our motives when sharing our beliefs. Are we genuinely concerned for the other person’s soul, or are we seeking to feel superior to them? Are our words driven by love or condemnation? Examining our hearts for our true intentions is essential.

As Christians, our primary calling is to spread the good news of Christ. Threatening someone with the prospect of hell is not good news. Our words and actions can either draw people closer to Christ or push them away from the gospel. It’s disheartening to hear non-believers say, “If being like you is what it means to be a Christian, I’d rather go to hell.” Such a statement should serve as a wake-up call, a reminder that we may not be reflecting Jesus as we are called to do.

We must remember that the core message of Christianity is one of love, redemption, and salvation. It’s about extending a hand of grace, not casting stones of judgment. Our role as ambassadors of Christ is to demonstrate love, compassion, and understanding to those around us, regardless of their beliefs or opinions.

In conclusion, let us strive to be vigilant in ensuring that our words and actions align with the teachings of Christ. We must refrain from pronouncing judgment upon others and instead focus on spreading the message of love, hope, and redemption. After all, our purpose is to bring people to Christ, not repel them from the gospel. In this way, we can reflect Jesus in the way He has called us to, shining His light and love in a world that desperately needs it.

My book, The Road Home, speaks about how sometimes we forget where we came from once we start our journey with Christ and forget to extend grace to others.

Until next time, Be Blessed

Remembering 9/11: United We Stand

On September 11, 2023September 10, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the most significant terrorist attack on American soil, a day etched into the collective memory of our nation. On September 11, 2001, we watched in disbelief as the Twin Towers crumbled, a plane struck the Pentagon, and Flight 93, with brave passengers on board, plummeted to the earth. These tragic events shook our nation to its core, but they also revealed the indomitable spirit and unity of the American people.

Coming Together in Crisis:

Amidst the horror and chaos of that fateful day, something extraordinary happened. People from all walks of life and corners of the country came together to offer their assistance. Strangers became heroes as they rushed to the disaster areas, risking their own safety to save lives and provide support. The tragedy forced us to confront our own mortality and reevaluate our priorities.

Rediscovering Faith and Family:

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

In the wake of 9/11, many turned to faith for solace and understanding. Houses of worship saw an influx of people seeking comfort and guidance. Families, separated by time and distance, reached out to one another, not just to check on their well-being in affected areas but also as a profound reminder of the fragility of life.

The Divisions That Have Emerged:

Over the past 22 years, our nation has weathered many storms. However, we’ve also witnessed a troubling trend of division and discord. Our differences have taken center stage, overshadowing our commonalities. It’s time to remember the unity we once found in the face of adversity.

Seeking Common Ground:

We may not always agree on the path forward, but we must remember that we all want the same thing: a better future for our nation. It’s crucial to set aside our differences and engage in constructive dialogue. We should return to the table, identify our shared goals, and work together to find common ground.

A Nation Under God:

In a nation as diverse as ours, we must cherish the values that unite us. It’s time to put aside division and embrace cooperation. Together, we can ensure that the sacrifices made on 9/11 were not in vain, and we can build a brighter future for all Americans. United we stand, divided we fall—let’s choose unity.

The idea of America being a Christian nation is a topic of debate. However, if we truly believe that we are one nation under God, then we should have no trouble finding ways to compromise for the greater good. A house divided cannot stand, and it is our duty to ensure our nation remains united and strong.

As we commemorate the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, let us not only remember the lives lost and the bravery displayed that day but also the unity and resilience of the American people. We should never forget the lessons we learned on that fateful day, lessons of coming together in times of crisis, rediscovering our faith and family bonds, and seeking common ground despite our differences.

Happy Grandparents Day!

On September 10, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Grandparents hold a unique and irreplaceable place in the family structure. They are the keepers of traditions, the bearers of wisdom, and the storytellers of our family histories. The value of grandparents extends far beyond simply being older family members; they are the embodiment of love and experience. Grandparents provide a sense of continuity and stability in a rapidly changing world. They offer a perspective that bridges generations, reminding us of our roots and where we come from. Their unconditional love and guidance shape our values and contribute significantly to our emotional development. As they share their life lessons, they impart not only knowledge but also resilience, patience, and the importance of familial bonds. Grandparents are a source of comfort, a refuge from life’s challenges, and a wellspring of support for both their children and grandchildren.

In the grand tapestry of life, grandparents play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation. They offer a wealth of experience and an abundance of time to spend with their grandchildren, forging deep and meaningful connections. The value of grandparents in a child’s life cannot be overstated. They provide a safe space where children can explore their identities, ask questions without judgment, and receive invaluable life advice. Grandparents often become cherished role models, instilling values, ethics, and traditions that shape their grandchildren’s character. Moreover, the relationships formed with grandparents create lasting memories that are treasured throughout one’s lifetime. The laughter shared, the stories told, and the unconditional love received from grandparents create a profound and enduring bond that enriches not only the lives of the grandchildren but also the entire family unit.

Today we celebrate you! Happy Grandparent’s day!

Finding Life Balance

On September 6, 2023 By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

After looking into the things that deplete us in our post yesterday, I wanted to talk about finding balance in life. From a Christian perspective, the pursuit of balance is not merely a secular concept but also a spiritual imperative. The Bible offers valuable guidance on how to find equilibrium in our lives while remaining true to our faith.

Prioritizing Faith and Relationship with God

At the core of Christian living is the relationship between individuals and God. Finding balance begins by prioritizing your faith and nurturing your connection with the Creator. Regular prayer, reading of Scripture, and participation in spiritual practices such as attending church services, fellowship with other believers, and worship can help you establish a strong foundation.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on God for guidance in every aspect of our lives, which is crucial in achieving balance.

Balancing Work and Rest

In our modern world, work often consumes a significant portion of our time and energy. While it’s essential to work diligently, Christians are also encouraged to find a balance by observing the Sabbath, a day of rest, reflection, and worship. The Sabbath is a reminder of God’s command to rest, as He rested on the seventh day of creation.

Exodus 20:8-10 (NIV) states: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” By setting aside a day for rest, we honor God’s design for our well-being and remind ourselves that life is not solely about work and achievement.

Cultivating Healthy Relationships

Balancing our relationships with family, friends, and the broader community is another crucial aspect of Christian life. The Bible emphasizes the importance of love, forgiveness, and compassion in our interactions with others. In doing so, we maintain harmony in our relationships and reduce the stress that can arise from conflicts and misunderstandings.

Colossians 3:13-14 (NIV) instructs us: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” These verses emphasize the need for forgiveness and love as foundational principles for maintaining healthy relationships.

Pursuing Physical and Mental Well-being

Taking care of our physical and mental health is essential in achieving balance. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and we are called to steward them well. This means maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and seeking mental and emotional well-being through prayer, meditation, and seeking professional help when needed.

Finding balance in life from a Christian perspective involves prioritizing faith, work, rest, relationships, and self-care. By following the guidance of the Bible and drawing strength from our relationship with God, we can navigate life’s challenges while maintaining a sense of equilibrium. Remember that balance is not about achieving perfection but about seeking God’s guidance and living in alignment with His will as we journey through this earthly life.

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As always, be blessed.

The Weight of Lethargy: How It Affects Our Spiritual Life

On September 5, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In our fast-paced world, where the demands of daily life often leave us drained and depleted, it’s not uncommon to experience bouts of lethargy. Lethargy, defined as a state of tiredness or lack of energy, can have a profound impact on various aspects of our lives, including our physical and emotional well-being. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is its effect on our spiritual life. We will explore how lethargy can affect our spiritual journey and offer strategies to combat its negative influence.

The Connection Between Lethargy and Spirituality

Hindered Meditation and Reflection Lethargy can hinder our ability to engage in meditation and reflection, two essential practices for nurturing our spiritual selves. When we lack energy and motivation, it becomes challenging to sit quietly, clear our minds, and connect with our inner selves. Our minds may wander aimlessly, making it difficult to find inner peace and spiritual insight.
Weakened Sense of Purpose Spirituality often revolves around a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Lethargy can dull this sense, leaving us feeling adrift and disconnected from our spiritual path. When we lack energy, it’s easy to become complacent and lose sight of our spiritual goals, leading to a sense of spiritual stagnation.
Reduced Empathy and Compassion A vibrant spiritual life often involves feelings of empathy and compassion toward others. Lethargy, however, can make us more self-centered and less inclined to reach out and help those in need. This can weaken our connection to our fellow human beings and hinder our spiritual growth.

Strategies to Combat Lethargy and Nourish the Spirit

Prioritize Self-Care To counter the effects of lethargy on our spiritual life, we must prioritize self-care. This includes getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. Taking care of our physical well-being can provide the energy and vitality needed for spiritual practices. Always remember that taking care of ourselves is not selfishness, we can’t take care of others until we take care of ourselves.
Establish a Routine Creating a daily routine that includes time for prayer, bible reading and meditation can help us overcome lethargy. Consistency is key in maintaining a strong spiritual connection, and a routine can provide the structure needed to stay on track.
Seek Inspiration Engage in activities that inspire and uplift your spirit. Reading spiritual texts, attending church services or events, or spending time with like-minded individuals can provide motivation and counter the effects of lethargy.
Practice Gratitude Cultivating a sense of gratitude for the small blessings in life can help shift our focus away from lethargy and toward a more positive outlook. Gratitude practices can open our hearts and nurture our spiritual well-being.

Lethargy is a common challenge in our modern lives, and its effects on our spiritual well-being should not be underestimated. However, by recognizing the connection between lethargy and spirituality and taking proactive steps to combat it, we can nourish our spirit and continue on our spiritual journey with renewed energy and purpose. Through self-care, routine, inspiration, gratitude, and mindfulness, we can transcend the weight of lethargy and experience the profound benefits of a vibrant spiritual life.

Be blessed!

Labor of love

On September 4, 2023September 3, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Have you ever thought, how no matter what job you have you’re doing a service onto others?

On a day like this we honor those that are contributing to society. The reality is that there are many ways to provide that contribution. We only think of work or labor as a typical job, but there are many unsung heroes who give time, energy, and effort to our society.

No matter what cog in the machine you play. If you work taking phone calls, lifting boxes in a warehouse, raising children at home, or volunteering your time for others you are providing labor to our society; and with your labor and sacrifice you are bringing value.

As a person of faith, I think every act of labor is an act of worship. If you believe in a higher power, you should consider even the most mundane task to be an offering. It’s hard to see sometimes, but it should feel our hearts with gratitude when we get the opportunity to serve. In one way or another we’re all serving.

The bible tells us on Colossians 3:23 (“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men”)

When we look at our labor as a sacrifice of love for those who we serve and those whom we love, the burden gets lighter. We understand that our actions have a higher purpose than the report we’re writing, the food we’re cooking or the floor we’re cleaning.

Today we celebrate the fruits of our labor. The hard work we have been entrusted and the reward beyond finances that a well-done job does to our soul.

Happy Labor Day!

Addicted to Jesus

On September 3, 2023August 31, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Talking to someone yesterday, they said that they were addicted to Jesus. I’m sure that the person meant that Jesus was the most important person in their life, but personally I don’t like this concept.

Addiction is defined as the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma. We are supposed to be dependent on God and Jesus, but enslaved goes against everything God wants for our lives. Psalm 119:45 “I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts”

God gave us freedom to even choose to be with him or not. Choosing to live for God is a choice of love and love resurrection doesn’t enslave. The relationship between a slave and his master is one of dominance and fear. 1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love”

The other part about this definition that caught my eye was “habit or practice”. God wants a relationship with us, not a practice or a habit like the Pharisees. Doing things out of habit doesn’t necessary mean that you’re engaging in the love relationship that Jesus wants to have with us.

So I know that the comment was well intended, but be careful not to bind your relationship with your words. Enjoy the freedom of loving Jesus. Be in love with Jesus instead of addicted to him

Blessings

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The puzzle of life

On September 1, 2023September 1, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

I really do not believe in coincidences. I do believe in a masterplan, which is like a puzzle with many pieces that need to fall into place for the complete picture to come together. Here are some of the issues we face when we are trying to complete the puzzle.

Too many pieces

When we look at all the things that we are juggling we become overwhelmed. How is this going to happen? How is that going to happen? It can be overwhelming. But just like a puzzle, you can only put one piece at a time together. The same way, start with the corners. In real life, the corners are those small tasks that make it easy to check off our lists. It will give us a sense of accomplishment to have something done.

I am currently helping homeschool one of my nephews. It is a lot of material that I must review every week to make sure that he has all the lessons he needs to complete. It is also a lot to review afterwards. I made a spreadsheet. That is my way of organizing my pending tasks. I have all the subjects we need to cover with the dates that we will be working. Every week I go cell by cell of that spreadsheet, adding each task that he needs to complete per subject. If it gets to be too much, I do something else and come back to it.

I printed all the worksheets and literature that he will be reviewing this semester and it is in piles in my office. Once I schedule on my spreadsheet the tasks for the week, I go to my piles and pull out those sheets, then I put them in a binder for him.

If I were just looking at the piles of work that needed to be completed, I promise you that I would freeze and get nothing done.

It does not fit

Many puzzle pieces look alike, and we do not understand why this one is not fitting in place. We can be exceptionally good at trying to get a square peg in a round hole and get frustrated of why is not working. When something is not working, it is time to take a step back. Are you trying to do something that is not beneficial to you? Are you trying to go about something the wrong way? Are you trying to take a shortcut when the only way to get to the goal is by following the steps? Stop, see what you are doing and why are you doing it? Be honest with yourself. Talk to someone you trust about this roadblock. Sometimes another set of eyes can help you see where that piece fits, or if that puzzle piece is not part of your picture at all.

I have tried several business ventures. Aside from writing, I would like to be an entrepreneur, but not all business models are right for me. They do not fit my schedule, my personality and/or my values. I have had to take inventory when things are not working and realize that is not lack of dedication or motivation. This one is not for me. That is ok, not everything is for everyone.

Communicating, writing, interacting with people, that, is my gift. Selling products is not.

It is taking too long

I complete puzzles every day for fun. I do it on a mobile app. The game allows you to do as many pieces as you want. The same puzzle can be divided from 36 to 400 pieces, your choice. My usual setting is 144. The smaller numbers are too easy and boring. The larger numbers take me too long, usually more than one day and I want to see at least one complete puzzle a day. But the game has events that include puzzles of all sizes, you cannot customize those. I am not going to lie; I live the 400 pieces one for the end. It takes too long! But if I do not complete it, I cannot complete the event and get my reward.

The same happens to our daily life. The constant pressure can be paralyzing and give you the desire to give up. Sometimes it is ok to take a break and then come back to the task. Giving up is not a choice if you want the reward. Stopping and restarting is not failure, not continue to try is. Of course, that is if it is not something harmful that you need to stop altogether.

I hope this motivates you to go on today.

Blessings

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A moment at a time

On August 31, 2023August 31, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Are you having a rough day today? I know we’re all going through something. Don’t allow anyone to minimize how you feel. Yes, sometimes looking around and realizing that there’s people around us whose misfortune looks a lot more severe helps us put our problems in perspective. That doesn’t make your problems any less real or important.

Phrases like:

Those words, even if you believe them, do not bring immediate comfort to your anxiety. You think, how can I see that it will be ok, when I can’t get past right now. The great thing about faith and history is that they can reframe our anxiety.

Stop to think, when have you been in a similar situation and how it was resolved. Did God come through for you? I’m sure he did. Because even when the answer to your prayer may have been “No”, with time you have come to realize that it was best for you. Faith is the ability to trust what we don’t see. Are you able?

Amid storms, it’s hard some time to step out of the boat and walk on water. It’s sometimes even hard to breathe.

Let me tell you a story of something that happened to me some years ago. I honestly can’t remember why I was anxious that day. I had a lot going on, but I do know how I got through that day and made it.

There’s a portion of the extended serenity prayer that says: “Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time”. That day I focused on that verse. I remember I was on my way to work when I became overwhelmed with anxiety due to whatever circumstances I was dealing with. I told myself that there was nothing I could do while sitting in my car. I decided to focus on driving.

Photo by Aayush Srivastava on Pexels.com

It was the morning rush, so you can imagine the amount of traffic I was facing. Sometimes when my anxiety levels are very high, I can’t even listen to music; any noise annoys me. In other occasions, is the opposite, I start playing music and sing very loud. I don’t care if I’m ridiculously dancing. It gets the anxiety kicked out. This particular morning was one of those where noises were not part of the plan. Focusing on traffic was not going to help, but there was nowhere to go. So, I focused on my surroundings.

How many times have you driven down a road without noticing things? We’re going so far and focused on our destination that we miss a lot of what’s around us. That day I saw businesses that I didn’t know where on my commute. I noticed trees and trash on the highway. I wondered, how and when that trash would be picked up? By the time I made it to work, I hadn’t resolved a thing, but I could think more clearly. I have also gained insight into things I hadn’t noticed before.

So, if you’re having the kind of day where you can’t get past the next five minutes, DONT. Don’t think about what is going to happen five minutes from now. Focus on what’s immediately in front of you. After that, focus on what’s immediately in front of you at that time. Do tasks one at a time. You may think that you’re slowing down, but the reality is that you’re accomplishing something that you were not doing at all, while paralyzed with anxiety.

Take a breath, what haven’t you noticed around you. It may or may not have the answer to your problem, but it could give you a new perspective.

Photo by Jean van der Meulen on Pexels.com

Want to share with us your moment of stress or ways in which you have battled your own moments of anxiety. Feel free to comment below.

If you want to do so privately, feel free to email me at @therisingmuse

Blessings!

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Let’s get reacquainted

On August 23, 2023April 19, 2024 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts, Worship3 Comments

“Cough” “Cough”. Oh it’s so dusty in here! I can’t believe I’ve been away for so long.

There’s much to update my readers on. Looking at my last post it’s amazing of all the changes in my life, that somewhat have kept me away. My last post was posted on 8/4/2020. I’m sad to announced that was the day before my beloved mother passed away. I will go into more details later.

If you go back, I was recovering from surgery after that. Good news, I’ve recovered well.

There’s a little person in my life. That’s another story in itself. It’s also another reason why I haven’t thought of butt to chair in a long time.

I’m currently between jobs, which was the last time I launched a book. I think everything happens for a reason.

I think what I miss the most is sharing praise and worship music with you.

It’s good to connect again. Let me know what’s going on with you.

And here I leave you with a song that the Lord placed in my heart.

Be Blessed.

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