Sharpen the Iron Podcast with Sam Fischer: Recent Episodes
Sam Fischer
Welcome to Sharpen the Iron Podcast where it is my job to share with you tools, lessons, inspiration, and ideas using the Bible to help you sharpen your Iron Mind. Empowering you to go out and walk with God day by day to maximize your life. A Blacksmith was asked, "How do you know when the iron is pure?" He replied, "When I see my reflection in it." When you've been refined by trials, people can see Jesus' reflection in you.
God is not a destination to arrive at, He is not something we achieve, or a mountain to climb. God is here, now, His kingdom is at hand.
In this podcast we lay out two ideas, "it is the fact that you asked" and the importance of asking others challenging, thought provoking questions.
For me, a "silver bullet" is a clean kill. And in life, there does not seem to be too many of these. The decisions we make, the things we choose to do, the places we go, all have their ups and downs. Find peace in the fact that there are no silver bullets.
"The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding," Chris Williamson. I often think of this quote when it comes to creating this podcast or posts for Instagram. It is simply a reminder to show up and do the work, that is the bottom line because that is where the magic happens.
In this episode we discuss the self-seeing bias, the victims mindset, our illusion of virtue, and following Christ.
If you knew what the journey entailed you may never heed the call. If you knew what some days would being you may never leave your bed.
There is the world's truth and God's truth. Often the word of God is drowned out by the sheer volume of worldly advice and advertisement. Prodding the narrative can help us discern between the ways of the world and the ways of God. We can challenge others and our own stories and beliefs that we live out.
Silence in a world full of stimulation is hard to sell. Technology is a great servant, but a controlling master. We must work to become conscious of using our phones and making an effort to slow down, be silent, and listen.
“There are two days in my calendar: this day and that day” (Martin Luther). This idea can help us in our walk of faith as we work to make the most of the gift of today by allowing the return of Christ to guide us in thoughts, words, and actions.
"Whatever you do, do it wholeheartedly as though you were working for your real master and not merely for humans. You know that your real master will give you an inheritance as your reward. It is Christ, your real master, whom you are serving" (Colossians 3:23-24). Your attitude and effort bring glory to God.
Action comes at a cost, but I am not so sure that inaction is cheaper than action. I urge you brothers and sisters to take action, to put yourself out there, try the thing, just start somewhere, and see what the mustard seed may grow into.
Brining our words and actions into alignment is much easier said than done, but it is one of life's greatest undertakings. Your integrity is slowly built and quickly burnt.
The Region Beta Paradox can be defined as the phenomenon that people can sometimes recover more quickly from more distressing experiences than from less distressing ones or that difficult events create better outcomes over time.
In this episode we discuss the Matthew Effect and how advantage begets father advantage.
"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus," Philippians 2:5. In this episode we discuss the power of prayer and how it changes how you see.
In this episode we discuss the dualistic mind and non dual thinking. "Nothing lasts forever and ironically that is the beauty of it." Every sword is double edged.
In this episode we discuss theories from social psychology, cognitive heuristics, and Jesus Christ.
So don’t bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you. But correct the wise, and they will love you (Proverbs 9:8). In this episode we discuss the two ways you can respond when someone reveals to you a crack in the foundation of your belief system.
In this episode we unpack the idea of, "discipline = freedom." In doing so we discuss the paradox of choice, what discipline looks like, and the importance of structure.
In this episode we discuss attribution theory and the importance of being aware of its affects on our perception of ourselves and others. Attribution theory is concerned with how people explain the causes of behavior within themselves and others.
Where you find yourself, your identity, and self esteem is where you have placed your treasures. In this episode we discuss a quote from Ernest Becker, along with your self-concept, and the importance of finding ourselves in Jesus Christ.
Living in an imperfect world requires humility, forgiveness, acceptance, and love. This is our duty as Christians. In having a genuine experience of God's love you can begin to share this love with the world.
"Behold, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake, keeping his garments on, that he may not go about naked and be seen exposed!” Revelations 16:15
You are both the lab rat being tested and the mad scientist conducting the experiment. Through this lens you can practice exposing yourself to different, uncomfortable stimulus and see how you respond. A simple idea that can be applied to help you discover something about yourself, gain confidence, and push back against your fears.
"Transformation only takes place in the presence of images, not concepts," Carl Jung. The image of the serpent and the dove is a powerful, transforming image that Christ says should be alive within you.
Life is not about getting somewhere, it is about being here. The journey along the way and the path you are walking is what it is all about. The climax and destinations are bittersweet, but the journey is the reward.
In this episode we discuss two ways to view the world and others. One through the lens of ego, competition, and fear or through the lens of soul, love, and family.
Learning is not exposure to information, but the changing of behavior as a consequence of exposure to information. It is moving what is in our heads to our hearts. The journey of aligning your beliefs with your behaviors is the challenge of a lifetime.
Alchemy is the practice of taking ordinary metals and attempting to turn them into gold. God is the Alchemist and we can actively participate in the renewing of our minds through Him. This is the inwardly journey we are called to participate in on this earthly pilgrimage.
You reap what you sow, an idea so simple, yet so complex. It applies at every level, everywhere in our lives. In this episode we take a stab at the greater implications of what it means to reap and sow.
In this episode we discuss the successful first hunt paradox. This is something you may have or will experience in your life and is useful to stay aware of.
In this episode I share a story about a humbling lesson I had to learn. This lesson is one you can carry with you. It will be a guide for you along your life's path and spiritual journey.
Every moment in your life can become an opportunity to grow deeper in communion with God. The highs, lows, and all that is in-between serve as entry points to help you turn to God, become aware of His presences, and grow your relationship with Him.
In this episode we discuss the importance of articulating your "why's." Our "why's" offer a solid foundation to build upon and are constantly evolving with time.
In this episode we discuss a life lesson I learned from biology class. Tying in ligers, the Israelites, Friedrich Nietzsche, and the eternal pattern of life, death, and rebirth. If you enjoyed this episode would love for you to share and let me know. Happy Listening!
Not always, but from time you may experience a whisper, a little nudge to do something. It may be reaching out to someone, sending a text or making a phone call, writing a letter. These nudges from the Holy Spirit are beckoning to you, follow the voice and forgo the comfort for the adventure.
In this episode we discuss how our idea of sacrificing the present for the future can be flipped upside down, but fulfilled through this. I share two examples of the times when this idea doesn't apply in its obvious form.
The process of sanctification is a slow, spiritual journey. A journey that entails allowing Jesus into all corners of your life, allowing the light to shine in on all things. This is a humbling, yet freeing journey that can be done through prayer and in conversation with others.
The all or nothing mindset is a subtle, prideful, and stubborn mindset I've fallen victim to. We often see the world as black or white. However, through awareness and time we can work to choose to do, "the next right thing."
As soon as you begin to walk a path or practice a discipline you realize how far behind you are and how little you know. There is irony in the fact that you're proud of your progress, but also dissatisfied with how far behind you feel. Awareness of this inner struggle can lead to newfound perceptive and freedom.
A simple idea and tool we can use to change our lives. Who enjoys their food more, someone going through the drive through for the fifth time that week or the monk who is about to eat a piece of bread after fasting for three days? It's emptying of our cup that leads to its filling.
It's not about a change of structure, but a change of your heart, your attitude. The ego blinds us and leads to self delusion. However, no external thing can hold power or weight over you when you change HOW you see it and your attitude towards it. This takes humility and discipline, applicable tools we can use daily.
When we look down upon ourselves we overlook not only the good, but also the evil within. You are the common denominator between all your interactions. You have the power within to change the world, to bring heaven down to earth and offer earth up to heaven.
In this episode I make a case for the importance of memorizing one verse of scripture a week. Every man needs direction in this life. The word "sin," is an archery term that means, "to miss the target." The road that leads to life is narrow, without this guidance and direction we wander aimlessly. And the wages of sin is death.
It's not what you do, but how you do things. It comes back to what's in your heart, your attitude and effort towards the task before you. We must remind ourselves that that which we believe we are above will make us look foolish. "Don't work only while being watched in order to please men, but work wholeheartedly fearing the Lord. Therefore, whatever you do, do enthusiastically as something done for the Lord and not for men. Knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ," Colossians 3:22-23.
"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves," Viktor Frankl. Paradoxically the stumbling stones become stepping stones as we navigate our way through life. This is a heavy, but freeing cross to bear and a spiritual discipline we can work at daily.
We have a finite amount of attention, with limited perspective and knowledge, in a world with an infinite amount of things to look at and directions to go. We are lost sheep who need a Shepard to show us the straight and narrow way. We need a guide, an example of not just what to believe in, but showing us how to act in the world. Because life is suffering and death, we need something that makes life worth living.
God and man. King and criminal. Savior and servant. Free and slave. Christ, the Son of God reveals knowledge as He shows us God's plan, wisdom, and the how to put His plan into practice, understanding. This is the ultimate goal of man, to offer earth up to heaven and bring heaven down on earth.
We often think of comparison as the thief of joy and it is. However, by changing how we compare, our eyes are opened to the riches in our life. This is a simple, applicable tool that can be used daily and hourly to free and humble the individual.
If you do not go within, you go without. Looking in the mirror is humble, disciplined work. The problems you encounter in the world and with others are a reflection of yourself. When we point the finger we are chained down by our egos, but when we go within we discover the truth. Where you stumble, dig for treasure.
You have a finite amount of attention in a world with an infinite amount of things to give your attention to. Paradoxically as your vision/aim become narrower and more focused, it also broadens becoming more inclusive through understanding. This reality is alive within you.
God tells us He has a plan for good, not for disaster with our lives. These words become our bread of life that sustain us. They bring us hope as we cling to them in the darkness. Taking this stance changes the way we see and act in the world, which changes the world.
The flood is coming, it's inevitable. Death and trials are our destiny. Will you be prepared when the storms come? Daily awareness of this truth gives us an eternal perspective on life.
In this episode we will be diving deeper into some thoughts and ideas I've shared on Twitter. Things I've been thinking about from conversations, books, podcasts, videos, and life in general.
As children we are bold and fearless little creatures. However, over time we develop the habit of timidity, backing down, and avoid confrontation at all costs. To become whole we must work to integrate this childlike spirit back into our lives. We can practice this daily by confronting the things we fear, through this process we become braver, we fear less. It's a beautiful inner journey we can all embark on and there is no limit to how far we can take it.
Begin to pay attention to how easily you're affected by the emotions of others. Through awareness we can learn to detach and take a step back. It's a cool journey to embark on as you begin to learn the art of not taking things personally.
Life is a double edged sword. Within everything there are dual elements working in creative tension. Awareness of these dual elements gives us a broader understanding of life and ourselves. There is no limit to self understanding, these ideas aid us on our journey to, "Knowing thyself."
In this episode we explore the 6th Law of Power: Create an Air of Mystery. We also discuss the paradoxes that are alive within you. And how through awareness we can harness these paradoxes in a creative way to create an, "air of mystery."
The change you want to see out there always begins within your own heart. When you begin to get yourself straightened out, facing the dragons in your own life, you become braver and stronger. When you're at your best you're better for the world around you. There is no limits to how far you can take this.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Sow a thought and you reap an action; sow an act and you reap a habit; sow a habit and you reap a character; sow a character and you reap a destiny.” Your habits, the micro, add up and create the macro, who you are. It's small taps on the rudder that either lead to life or death, it doesn't happen overnight.
Within you, the individual, there are dual elements battling it out. The higher parts of your being, the traits of God and Fruits of the Spirit going to war against your earthly, fleshly nature. The line between good and evil runs not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either — but right through every human heart.” Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. It's all within, the change we want to see out there begins in your own heart.
Pay attention to how the spirit and energy of the group/individuals evokes different parts of you. We as humans like to think we are in conscious control of our every move, but that all goes out the window when we observe what happens when we are around other individuals and in groups.
While setting to bar too high, trying to take on too much at once because of our pride we often are crushed by the self delusional weight we put on ourselves. If the bar is set too low we don't ask enough of ourselves, so we never are challenged/forced to grow. It is finding the optimal sized dragon to slay in our own lives that keeps us in touch with ourselves and reality.
Your triggers are your problem. By taking responsibility for what tiggers, upsets, and annoys us we can heal within. Through this process we discover more about ourselves. Our hearts are opened as God uses our triggers to teach us how to love.
The hardest part is getting started and breaking through that mental resistance. However, once you're in, you're in. In life there is never going to be a "perfect" place to begin. By embracing and accepting this we can find the courage and freedom to just start.
God is always present, the only thing absent is our awareness. The more we see Him in our everyday lives, in the little things, the more He reveals Himself to us. This is a spiritual muscle of discipline, an iron we can constantly work to sharpen.
Seasons of life are built in features, not bugs. Nature goes through a cycle of seasons and the same pattern is played out in our lives. It is during this winter seasons that we have an opportunity to surrender and go into deeper communion with God. In this space we must learn to love and accept ourselves. Who will you be through the winter seasons of life?
In life at some point we will find ourselves wandering the desert. A winter season, a time of transition, where we feel stuck in the middle. Between who we were, our old ways, and who we are becoming. This isn't a bug of life, but a feature. These transition times become an opportunity to grow in faith and our relationship with God.
"You live what you've learned." I heard this in a song a few months back and have been wrestling with this idea for awhile. Most people are living out what they've learned, what they know best, so instead of judging we can work to go deeper. In this space we find freedom, more understanding, and can put on "heartfelt compassion, humility, kindness, gentleness, and patience towards one another," Colossians 3:12.
Our lives are like trees because within one life we live many lives through the changing of the seasons. Being able to recognize this pattern being played out within can bring us a better understanding of life, which helps us find peace through the changing of seasons.
In this episode we explore the importance of slowing down, looking at the bigger picture, and how comparison only leads to self delusion and emptiness.
People, they are what make life worth living, what life is all about. They are our greatest source of love, laughter, life, and joy. But on the other hand it is people who have caused us the deepest hurts, frustrations, tears, pain, annoyances, and anger. It is easy to love someone who loves us, but what about those who we see as burdens. In this episode we learn how to turn these "burdens" into blessings.
Resistance ails us all, it makes us feel like David standing before Goliath in the face of our challenges. Through awareness, surrender, and showing up we can break through the lies of resistance. In this space we can learn to trust God at a deeper level, finding more peace and freedom.
When dealing with difficult people it will either harden our hearts or open us up. The former keeps us stuck in our ways, but the latter is slowly teaching us how to love. We can use these people to help transform ourselves inwardly, which makes them a blessing not a burden.
When you can't change something externally you're forced to change internally. Painful as it is, it leads to new life, and true transformation. This is the ongoing miracle of life, death, and rebirth. We are redeemed and born again into new creations.
The end of the world is always at end. The only way to get a better view on the mountain is to let go of our current view. This is embracing micro death daily in our lives, which is essentially the secret to life.
The speck we find in another is only a reflection of the log within our own eye. By taking the time to reflect and look in the mirror we humbly find that we are no better than anyone else. We aren't the self-righteous saints we thought we were. This is a hard and humbling, but freeing and heart opening truth, which helps change the way we see ourselves and others.
Death, our inevitable destiny. Something we shouldn't fear, but embrace because death brings us closer to life. Dying daily and acknowledging death change the way we see the world, which changes the world.
Reactions leave us at the mercy of the external. We have the power and the freedom to go within and choose our response. True transformation is happening within when we stay centered and choose a response instead of unconsciously reacting.
The speck we find in another only goes to reveal the log within. By being strict with ourselves we can be the change we want to see in the world. Our tolerance with others helps us embrace each others weaknesses and frees us.
The ego loves taking thing personally. To the ego everything is an insult, directed to tear you down, it believes the world and others are out to get you. This leads to a lot of self delusion, so in this episode we dive into being able to see through the BS.
Where attention goes energy flows. When we choose to focus on all that we do have vs what we don't it changes the world within, which changes the world around us. Living in a state of thanksgiving is a practical and applicable tool we can apply to our lives.
In this episode we will be diving deeper into some thoughts and ideas I've shared on Twitter. Expect to learn about awareness, seeing through someone, what happens when we point the finger, and more.
What's inevitable? Change. What holds us back from change? Focusing on problems, moving from the ego, dwelling on the past. By working to become solution focused people we open our hearts up to change and to the new things God is doing in our lives.
By changing not what we see, but HOW we see, we come to find that weakness are truly disguising themselves as opportunities. It is paradoxically only through weakness that we find strength.
What ails every man? Resistance. The force that is always against you. Beyond it lies all that you could be, all your limitless potential. In this episode we talk tools to become aware of resistance and how to break through it.
Eventually the water will taste the same. We must work to find happiness in what we have, here, and now. Outsourcing our lives and happiness will forever let us down. Humbly embracing the present moment because its the only place you'll find His Presences.
What creates pain? Resistance to what is. Our expectations and desires hold life and others to a standard that isn't always met. Without awareness of the expectations and desires we are holding it can lead to internal pain and resentment. Through awareness we can work to let go of ourselves, find peace, freedom, and receive everything.
Through awareness of our problems and struggles we can use them to help us grow even stronger and more dependent in our relationship with God. They become the entry point into deeper communion, peace, and trust in Him. He brings purpose out of our problems and uses them to transform our hearts.
Life is a circle. An ongoing cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This is how the game works, the more we know and understand the game, the better we can become at thriving within the game.
In this episode we explore how important our attention is, why we need a guiding force in our lives, and the meaningful adventure we are all seeking.
The point, the center, is within. Everything else is out of our control. The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves, which is within because that's where God resides.
All truth is within. It takes a lifetime of purification and refining for us to see and know that which God has planted in our hearts. If we do not go with, we go without because God resides within.
In this episode we explore how our mental health issues arise from feelings of separateness and isolation, essentially feeling distant from God. However, if we know His hand in everything, what is there to fear?
"I'd rather be whole, than good," from Carl Jung. In this we discuss and explore finding wholeness, blindness, the balance between light and darkness within you, and the balance between being malleable and molded.
When we look externally for validation, love, and reassurance we lose touch with our souls. It is through going within that we discover ourselves and the inner reaches of outer space.
Human instinct is to trust appearances and we do. However, appearances conceal more than they reveal. Paul urges us in 2 Corinthians 4:18 to, "Not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 1 Peter 3:3, "Your beauty should not consist of outward things like elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold ornaments or fine clothes. Instead, it should consist of the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very valuable in God's eyes."
God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Embracing humility opens us up to Gods grace. Humility is practical and applicable in each moment of our lives.
"Modern man can't see God because he doesn't look low enough," Carl Jung. If you can find God in it all, then what is there to be afraid of?
“Love thine enemies because they are the instruments of your destiny,” Joseph Campbell.
If fear, doubt, worry, anxiety holds you back from being present and all that you could be then surrender is a tool to help you overcome this inner turmoil. The only place you'll have find God is here, NOW. Surrender helps us let go of what ails us, which leads to peace.
In this episode I go over 8 reasons why you should memorize at least one verse of Truth a week.
What would happen if we said "Yes" to it all? How would it change the way you see everything?
The death and resurrection of Jesus isn't a one time thing. It's an ongoing miracle that is played out in everything. It is what unites all of life. You can find yourself participating in this miracle each and every day of your life. Sharpen the Iron.
You are a center of the universe. Overlooking ourselves leads to us overlooking the impact we have in this world. Bearing this weight is a burden, but it's also freeing.
Humility is a practice I've found that has helped me tremendously in my life. What ails me most is my pride. My inability to let go of my "small self," my ego, my way. Through humility we can work to let go of ourselves and allow God's will to be in control. It may seem like weakness, but within humility lies great strength and peace. It's never easy, but embodying humility is a powerful tool we can use and consciously walk in awareness of. Sharpen the Iron.
It's not what you know, it's what you believe. The universe is either against us, neutral, or for us. What you believe is what you'll see and find.
In a world that praises success, money, power, control, positions, career, materials it is easy to believe this is all life has to offer. It is not the final answer. Only through and with God will we truly find a rich, fulfilled life.
There is a misconception that true and total freedom is limitlessness, but God reveals to us that freedom is actually defined by our limits.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
“Love is patient; love is kind. Love does not envy; is not boastful; is not conceited; does not act improperly, is not selfish, is not provoked, does not keep a record of wrongs. Finds no joy in unrighteousness, but rejoices in the truth. Bears all things. Believes all things. Hopes all things. Endures all things. Love never ends” 1 Corintihians 13:4-8
“Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails” Proverbs 19:21
**“Jesus said to his followers, “Go everywhere in the world, and tell the Good News to everyone” Mark 16:15
“Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not envy; is not boastful; is not conceited; does not act improperly; is not selfish; is not provoked; does not keep a record of wrongs; finds no joy in unrighteousness, but rejoices in the truth. Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-8**
“Your lives are echoing the Master's word… The news of your faith in God is out. We don't have to say anything anymore – you're the message” 1 Thessalonians 1:8
“The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me” Acts 20:24
“I am with you; that is all you need. My power shows up best in weak people” 2 Corinthians 12:9
"Whoever wants to be great must become a servant" Mark 10:43
"You can tell what they are by what they do" Matthew 7:16
"Since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, lets just go ahead and be what we were made to be" Romans 12:5
What you are is Gods gift to you; what you do with yourself is your gift to God - Danish proverb
“You shaped me first inside, then out; You formed me in my mother’s womb” Psalms 139:13
“It is God who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping other” Ephesians 2:10
“Remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it” 1 Corinithians 10:13
“Happy is the man who doesn't give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get at his reward for the crown of life that God has promised those who love him” James 1:12
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” 2 Corinthians 4:17
It is the fire of suffering that brings forth the gold of godliness - Madame Guyon
“God’s… gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need” Acts 20:32
“We look at this Son and see God’s original purpose in everything created” Colossians 1:15
“You are joined together with peace through the Spirit, so make every effort to continue together this way” Ephesians 4:3
“Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony” Colossians 3:14
“God has restored our relationship with him through Christ, and has given us this ministry of restoring relationships” 2 Corinthians 5:18
“You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor” James 3:18
“Each one of you is part of the Body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace” Colossians 3:15
“You are a member of God's very own family, citizens of Gods country, and you belong in God's household with every other Christian” Ephesians 2:19
“No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I am bankrupt without love” 1 Corinthians 13:3
“Love means living the way God commanded us to live. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is this: Live a Life of Love” 2 John 1:6
“See how very much our Heavenly Father loves us, for he allows us to be called his children and we really are” 1 John 3:1
“The Lord has hidden himself from his people, but I trust him and place my hope in him” Isaiah 8:17
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” Mark 12:30
“Since we were restored to friendship with God by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be delivered from eternal punishment by his life.” Romans 5:10
“Give yourselves to God… Surrender your whole being to him to be used for his righteous purposes” Romans 6:13
“Everything comes from God alone, everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory” Romans 11:36
“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeting away.” Psalm 39:4
“Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones” Luke 16:10
“You, Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3
For everything absolutely everything above and below, visible and invisible,... everything started in him and finds his purpose in him.” Colossians 1:16
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” 2 Corinthians 4:17
“God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again.” Philippians 1:6
“And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life?” Matthew 6:27
“And the Lord your God will clear out those nations before you, little by little, you may not consume them quickly, lest the beast of the field increase among you.” Deuteronomy 7:22
“So be patient, brethren, (As you wait) till the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits expectantly for the precious harvest from the land. (See how) he keeps his patience over it until it receives the early and late rains” James 5:7
“There we saw the Nephilim (Or giants), the sons of Anak, who come from the giants; and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so were we in their sight.” Numbers 13:33
How do you see yourself? Are you playing small? Have you been looking down on yourself? Don't tell God how big your storm is, tell your storm how big your God is.
Struggling to live in the present moment? Do you spend a lot of time and energy dwelling on the past? God is calling us to let go and let him go to work. He is doing some amazing things in your life right now, today. Spending too much time dwelling on the past strips us of our control in our lives. What has happened, happened and it didn't happen any other way because it wasn't supposed to happen any other way. Focus on what's in your control. Sharpen the Iron.