Prayer Is Life-Changing

Pray without ceasing

I don't know about you, but at times in my own life, I forget to pray first before doing anything else, when things go awry. When negative, difficult or challenging things start to happen in my life, I may pace, begin to worry, knit, sew, call a friend, or run an errand, anything to distract myself rather than sit quietly and prayerfully ask for God's help in the name of Jesus Christ.

There is unlimited power in prayer. Prayer has the capacity to change all things for the better.

 Highlights

By Chaplain Adele M. Gill, RN, BSN, CC

Catholic Online (www.catholic.org)

LOS ANGELES, CA - Perhaps I have in the past been easily distracted from prayer, but in recent years, I have learned a new perspective and way to deal with the rigors of daily life. I have learned that there are some simple things that I can do, that can make any circumstance more manageable, through prayer. In fact, through reading and studying the Bible, I have discovered a Systematic Scriptural Approach to dealing prayerfully with the ups and downs of daily life. This 7 point system has changed my life in all the best ways, and I am confident it could do the same for you!

1)  Pray Without Ceasing
The Holy Bible tells us to, 'Pray without ceasing' for whatever you need. [I Thessalonians 5:17] In that way, we are able to stay closely connected to God in every circumstance. Some people are so busy, they must relegate prayer to the morning or the evening. Others pray when outside in the beauty of nature, yet others solely pray in times of desperation or when in Church. This Scriptural prescription suggests we need to make God an ever present part of our day, rather than an afterthought. When we pray and get into His Word unceasingly, we are focused on the Lord throughout the day, and it is helpful in growing in gratitude to God for our abundant blessings.
'Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.' I Thessalonians 5:16-1

2) Read the Bible Daily

When you read the Bible daily, you soon find that what was written some 2000 years ago is truly relevant and important today in daily life. One of the mysteries of the Bible is the understanding that it is a tremendous vehicle to hear the Word of God in the here and now. In actuality, I often experience God speaking to me in a sort of dialogue through Scripture. I like to pray to God through Jesus Christ, then read my Bible and the answers to my prayers often leap off the page. Many report that reading the Bible makes them feel like God is talking directly to them... And He is, as Scripture has the potential to be life-changing... 

3)  Where Two or More are Gathered

In the Bible in the New Testament, Jesus tells us, 'Where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.' [Matthew 18:20] This Bible promise actually lets us know that uniting in prayer with others is a powerful way to approach prayer. Whether in person, or even via the phone, it is possible to pray together with others fervently, with the understanding that Jesus is with you, He is truly present in your time of need.

4)  In The Name of Jesus

Though prayer need not be comprised of eloquent speech, I have found that praying to God, in the name of Jesus, is vitally essential. For the Bible tells us in Colossians 3:17, 'Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.' That is, we are to pray fervently to God, in the name of Jesus Christ, with petitions, praise and thanksgiving

5)  Believe: I can do all this through 'Jesus' who gives me strength.

When you pray through Jesus Christ, you begin to grow in a life-changing, personal relationship with Him. You come to the realization that you are never alone, despite how you may feel, and that He is there for you to help you at every turn simply for the asking. You are able to grow in contentment in your daily life, and with the quiet knowing that Jesus Christ is at the helm, in control of your life, as you place it squarely in His loving hands.

'For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.                                                       I can do all this through [Jesus] who gives me strength.'                                                                        Philippians 4:11-13

6)  Time to Celebrate: The Joy of the Lord IS my Strength!

This Scripture is tantamount to Nehemiah 8:10: "The Joy of the Lord IS my Strength!" It is pure joy knowing that your strength is from the Lord. Even and especially in times of weakness, this truth stands. Alone, we can do nothing. We are nothing. We have nothing. The Lord is everything to me. Omnipotent Friend, Almighty, Healer, Provider, Comforter, Protector, Savior and Lord. With Him at our side, we are able to pray with great confidence, as Scripture tells us we can move mountains with faith the size of a mustard seed!

'Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'  [Matthew 17:20]

7) Pray the Rosary

 

As Christian Catholics, we have a treasure trove of time tested prayers to choose from at our disposal. Specifically, praying the holy Rosary is a deeply powerful way to pray to God through Jesus, and ask for Mary's intercession. This form of prayer may be done alone or with others, and has been credited with many miracles.

Yes, there is unlimited power in prayer as it has the capacity to change things for the better. Whether you are a new pray-er or a lifelong prayer, following these 7 easy steps will bring you closer to The Lord, and prepare you to serve Him as a fervent prayer warrior, an evangelist, if you will, as it enhances your faith life and promotes a strong and lasting personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. 

© 2014 - Distributed by THE NEWS CONSORTIUM / Catholic Online

4 Powerful Steps to Prevent & Ease Depression

^“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. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”  

Philippians 4:8-9

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In recent years, it has been reported that there are 20.9 million Americans in the US that live with various forms of depression including Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic-depression, and major depression. Depression may be caused by a difficult situation or circumstance, the loss of a loved one, a chemical imbalance in the brain, a negative side effect to some medications, a medical condition such as thyroid disease or multiple sclerosis or MS, or even by a genetic predisposition.

However, clinical depression is when a person has experienced untreated depression for three weeks or more, lending to chemical changes in the brains neurotransmitters or serotonin levels in the brain. Since the mind and body are so closely connected, untreated depression may present as sadness, teariness, sluggishness, fatigue, malaise, deep muscle pain, or even as a physical problem such as gastric upset or even migraines. People with depression sometimes experience difficulty with relationships, memory, focus and slowed cognition, as well as, accompanying anxiety. Manifestations of depression may be subtle, or easily recognizable as when someone talks about thoughts of suicide. The continuum for depression is broad, but the need for help is there either way.

With depression so prevalent in American life—the likes of epidemic proportions-- perhaps it is time to really look at our lives and make some positive, life-giving changes that will improve quality of life for those living with depression and for their loved ones. Here are some things one can do to prevent and/or ease the impact of depression:

Embrace the Power of Positive Thinking

Today’s Scripture reminds us that we are in control of what we think about. Even when experiencing depression, each of us has the power to consciously ‘change the channel’ on his or her thinking, redirecting their thoughts, if you will. By so doing his/her part to help promote inner peace and well-being, despite feelings of depression. This Bible passage, Philippians 4:8 advises us to focus on:

^“8 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. ⁹ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” 

According to this Scripture, the outcome of shifting one’s focus to what is noble, right and true replaces what is worrisome or anxiety provoking with positive thinking, brings great inner peace. Personally, when I worry, I like to envision being at the beach. I find it extremely relaxing and it has even helped lower my elevated blood pressure!

Exercise and Diet

Be sure and eat a well-balanced, nourishing diet, drink plenty of water, and exercise daily. Exercise is important to get the most out of the chemical endorphins found in your body that provide depression and pain relief.

Reach Out to Others

We were born to serve God through others. As Christians, we are taught to prioritize our lives…God is first, family is second, work and Church are third, and everything else comes after that. Reaching out to those in most need among us is a wonderful way to move in a positive direction, stemming the ebb and flow of depression, and serving God. Through random, and not-so random, acts of kindness, we are able to extend warmth and care to friends, family and others, thereby also benefiting oneself by expanding our sphere. Reaching out to others is a Win-Win. Becoming involved at Church in various ministries is just one way to enhance one’s mood through helping others, and volunteering in one’s community is another way.

Seek Medical Care

Sometimes, despite ones best efforts, the blues persist. In the event that you or a loved one experiences sadness or depression for three weeks or more, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible from your primary care doctor or a psychiatrist. Additionally, if you have any thoughts of suicide, it is important that you go to the closest emergency room and tell them how you are feeling. In this instance, above all, safety always comes first.

Most of all, as you seek medical help, stay calm and try to be kind and gentle with yourself. Antidepressant medications may be ordered by the physician, and you will feel relief from depression soon. Before you know it, you will be feeling your old self again!

Copyright 2014 Adele M. Gill / Distrubuted by News Consortium / Catholic Online

Jesus' Great Invitation - 'Come Unto Me All Who are Weary'

By Chaplain Adele M. Gill, RN, BSN, CC

10/1/2014 (Now)

Serve God by embracing Jesus with both arms.

Have you ever met someone who you just know is a Christian? Of course you have. They are the ones who consistently personify and exhibit abject peace, love, joy, forgiveness, goodness, faithfulness, constancy and steadfastness. They are the ones you turn to when you are hurting, your 'go to' person in times of need. They are the people you know you can trust when times get tough; those who you can share your brokenness, imperfections and shortcomings with. 

When we become humble enough to accept our imperfections and frailties, we become strong in Jesus.

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LOS ANGELES, CA - Sometimes life gets complicated, and we all get bogged down in a myriad of life's challenges. Failing health, protracted disability, aging, job stress, dwindling finances, turmoil in relationships, marital discord. And the list goes on and on. Regardless of the specific challenges you are facing, we as Christians are called to live out the Gospel messages to the best of our abilities, to put aside our plight(s) and to love God and one another without reservation.

Jesus has so much in store for each of us, as Jeremiah 29 tells us in Scripture, that He has a blessed plan for each of our lives - For us to prosper, not for woe. He not only has a plan, but he walks with us through 'learning times' - spent in the Valley of Darkness, every Dark Night of the Soul, and returns us over and over again back into The Light. In that way, growing in faith is the remedy to poverty, infirmity, fear and anxiety, isolation, and feelings of depression in this world.

Please Get Involved NOW - Give hope to Persecuted Christians in Iraq and Syria

The Great Companion, Friend, Healer, Provider, Comforter, Protector, Savior and Lord, Jesus will never interject Himself into your life against your will; rather, He accompanies us through this life through the power of the Holy Spirit, for the asking. The Bible tells us we must simply ask for Him to be with us, and follow His ways to reap the benefits of being a part of His Kingdom right here on Earth. Ever the gentleman, Jesus will never impose Himself on you or subjugate your God-given free-will. Rather, He stands in wait for your outstretched hand in times of need.

All who come to Jesus will be saved.

By prayerfully accepting The Great Invitation of Jesus Christ, 'Come unto me, all who are weary, and I will give you rest.' we open ourselves up to receiving the fruit and the gifts of His Holy Spirit. When we become humble enough to accept our imperfections and frailties, we become strong in Jesus. When reach for His hand in times of need, we reestablish the bond between ourselves and our Savior, re-igniting the flames of the Holy Spirit within. In essence, we become what we seek, and are, thereby, able to serve God by embracing Jesus with both arms, and through reaching out to others in need. Through acts of service, praying, walking in the Word, and growing in wisdom, we are able to exemplify Jesus through our humanity, thereby helping the broken among us heal. 

For to be a Christian is really all about love. In a word, love is how we can readily recognize other Christians. As followers of Christ, Christians are able to humbly bring strength in times of weakness and weakness in times of strength. They are able to look for the silver lining when all seems lost, and shake the dust from their feet when rejected, before moving on. They are able to pray in times of struggle, and dependably, get what they need from God to press on through any circumstance. 

Most of all, Christians know where their security and strength come from. Even in these harrowing modern times, Christians can have awe-inspiring clarity and peace, as they stand for what is biblically good and right, noble and true.

                     © October 1, 2014 - Distributed by THE NEWS CONSORTIUM /Catholic Online