Anne Pate discusses making good decisions through values-based decision making and spiritual freedom. She notes that cultural assumptions emphasize self-determination and unlimited choices, but research shows this can make outcomes harder to live with. Instead, she advocates making decisions grounded in one's values and in collaboration with God through Ignatian spirituality. She provides examples from the Bible of being spiritually free to follow God's call despite attachments. When we lack freedom, we can pray for transformation by honestly naming attachments and holding ourselves as already spiritually free.
Revolutionize your devotional life by writing with God and letting Him teach you.
For more information, see my book, "Journaling with Jesus on Amazon" or hissparklinggems.com
As creatives we always are measuring ourselves. Measuring against other churches, against measuring against other creatives and sometimes we get stuck because we feel we don’t measure up. Our lives are shaped by how we choose to spend our time and energy each day. Measuring can help us spend that time in better ways, more consistently. But we must measure the right things. Greatness in any field comes from taking a novel idea and pushing it to its logical conclusion, redefining the medium in the process.
Revolutionize your devotional life by writing with God and letting Him teach you.
For more information, see my book, "Journaling with Jesus on Amazon" or hissparklinggems.com
As creatives we always are measuring ourselves. Measuring against other churches, against measuring against other creatives and sometimes we get stuck because we feel we don’t measure up. Our lives are shaped by how we choose to spend our time and energy each day. Measuring can help us spend that time in better ways, more consistently. But we must measure the right things. Greatness in any field comes from taking a novel idea and pushing it to its logical conclusion, redefining the medium in the process.
Pastor Oyakhilome of Christ Embassy is one of the most vibrant, dynamic and successful ministers of the gospel Nigeria. Pastor Chris is a man of God who obeys God’s instructions with great regard and joy. Pastor Oyakhilome words are filled with love and sympathy and are highly effective enough to heal even emotional wounds. Listen to Pastor Oyakhilome minister videos and experience the power of God. Visit to our websites for more information.
Part 3 Encourage to Be Encouraged by Lorelei Torinoloreleitorino
We are to be good stewards and encourage one another. It's called Reciprocity the exchange. There are examples in scripture of the Bible that demonstrates God's promises. There is HOPE.
Slides for a talk given at Blazing Fire on July 20, 2019. Welcoming Holy Spirit to fully access our heart. Here is the link to the podcast: https://www.podbean.com/eu/pb-t2b8u-b89896 God's "hesed" love for us, the work of Holy Spirit in our hearts, the problem of being "stiff-necked"/narcissistic, and the challenge of loving our enemies.
Slides from an all-day retreat for the Benedictine Oblates of St. Scholastica Monastery in Duluth, Minnesota. Using the tools of Ignatian discernment, but adapting them to Benedictine spirituality. http://duluthoblates.org
Pastor Oyakhilome of Christ Embassy is one of the most vibrant, dynamic and successful ministers of the gospel Nigeria. Pastor Chris is a man of God who obeys God’s instructions with great regard and joy. Pastor Oyakhilome words are filled with love and sympathy and are highly effective enough to heal even emotional wounds. Listen to Pastor Oyakhilome minister videos and experience the power of God. Visit to our websites for more information.
Part 3 Encourage to Be Encouraged by Lorelei Torinoloreleitorino
We are to be good stewards and encourage one another. It's called Reciprocity the exchange. There are examples in scripture of the Bible that demonstrates God's promises. There is HOPE.
Slides for a talk given at Blazing Fire on July 20, 2019. Welcoming Holy Spirit to fully access our heart. Here is the link to the podcast: https://www.podbean.com/eu/pb-t2b8u-b89896 God's "hesed" love for us, the work of Holy Spirit in our hearts, the problem of being "stiff-necked"/narcissistic, and the challenge of loving our enemies.
Slides from an all-day retreat for the Benedictine Oblates of St. Scholastica Monastery in Duluth, Minnesota. Using the tools of Ignatian discernment, but adapting them to Benedictine spirituality. http://duluthoblates.org
How do you make good decisions as a Christian who earnestly wants to collaborate with God? In this presentation, Anne Pate explores what the Ignatian tradition of Christian spirituality has to say.
In the June issue of Heartfulness Magazine, we explore the intrinsic goodness of the heart through meditation. You will find articles on integrating the heart and mind, learning by example, stillness, gratitude, attitudes towards parenthood, yoga, and an experiment over 100 days of meditation practice. We also have an interview about how to bring expanded consciousness to the workplace, and Part 3 of 'The Evolution of Consciousness'.
There is a beautiful photo essay about the wildlife in the national parks of India, and a thought-provoking piece about building awareness of the earth. Our children’s section features a fun game and the final part of the story of Mana the elephant.
We invite your participation in our ‘Wisdom in Daily Life’ project, and look forward to hearing your thoughts and receiving your submissions.
www.heartfulnessmagazine.com
Our world is completely wired and often we cannot see the real connections that seem invisible.And it's not only young people who spend hours using social media every day,but more and more grown-ups are joining social media sites for a variety of motives. Even the Pope tweets. In this presentation I explore questions about social media, faith and education and share two frameworks for evaluating how students, teachers, and others create content and consume it. The T.H.I.N.K. strategy is easy to learn, apply and share with even young children.
Journeying with Students into Healthy Relationships & SexualityMatthew Martin
WHO: youth pastors, youth workers, and campus leaders
WHAT: We'll will explore why and how teens and young adults are struggling with relationships and sexuality, and how as leaders we can journey with them towards greater wholeness and godliness.
TOPICS
• How and why teens struggle emotionally, relationally and sexually
• What's required for healthy relationships and sexuality?
• Addictive behaviour and relationships, strategies for pursuing health and freedom
• Understanding sexual identity and how to help same-sex attracted teens
• Making your youth group a safer place for hurting teens
• The River: components of a curriculum for Christ-centred healing and wholeness
To my siblings -- No One Can Resist Successfully the Doctrine of CompassionArnulfo Laniba
This is personal letter first addressed to my blood siblings, and secondly, to the rest of my human brothers and sisters: THE WAY TO WEALTH IS ALSO (SHOULD BE) THE PATH OF COMPASSION
What Should be the Christian View of Anime?Joe Muraguri
We will learn what Anime is and see what a Christian should consider before watching anime movies? We will also learn a little bit of Shintoism religion and hentai (the craze of internet pornography today).
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 9 - Resisting Temptation Along the Way
SBs – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is hereNoHo FUMC
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
The Book of Joshua is the sixth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament, and is the first book of the Deuteronomistic history, the story of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile.
The PBHP DYC ~ Reflections on The Dhamma (English).pptxOH TEIK BIN
A PowerPoint Presentation based on the Dhamma Reflections for the PBHP DYC for the years 1993 – 2012. To motivate and inspire DYC members to keep on practicing the Dhamma and to do the meritorious deed of Dhammaduta work.
The texts are in English.
For the Video with audio narration, comments and texts in English, please check out the Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zF2g_43NEa0
The Chakra System in our body - A Portal to Interdimensional Consciousness.pptxBharat Technology
each chakra is studied in greater detail, several steps have been included to
strengthen your personal intention to open each chakra more fully. These are designed
to draw forth the highest benefit for your spiritual growth.
In Jude 17-23 Jude shifts from piling up examples of false teachers from the Old Testament to a series of practical exhortations that flow from apostolic instruction. He preserves for us what may well have been part of the apostolic catechism for the first generation of Christ-followers. In these instructions Jude exhorts the believer to deal with 3 different groups of people: scoffers who are "devoid of the Spirit", believers who have come under the influence of scoffers and believers who are so entrenched in false teaching that they need rescue and pose some real spiritual risk for the rescuer. In all of this Jude emphasizes Jesus' call to rescue straying sheep, leaving the 99 safely behind and pursuing the 1.
Exploring the Mindfulness Understanding Its Benefits.pptxMartaLoveguard
Slide 1: Title: Exploring the Mindfulness: Understanding Its Benefits
Slide 2: Introduction to Mindfulness
Mindfulness, defined as the conscious, non-judgmental observation of the present moment, has deep roots in Buddhist meditation practice but has gained significant popularity in the Western world in recent years. In today's society, filled with distractions and constant stimuli, mindfulness offers a valuable tool for regaining inner peace and reconnecting with our true selves. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a heightened awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, leading to a greater sense of clarity and presence in our daily lives.
Slide 3: Benefits of Mindfulness for Mental Well-being
Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improving overall quality of life.
Mindfulness increases awareness of our emotions and teaches us to manage them better, leading to improved mood.
Regular mindfulness practice can improve our ability to concentrate and focus our attention on the present moment.
Slide 4: Benefits of Mindfulness for Physical Health
Research has shown that practicing mindfulness can contribute to lowering blood pressure, which is beneficial for heart health.
Regular meditation and mindfulness practice can strengthen the immune system, aiding the body in fighting infections.
Mindfulness may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing stress and improving overall lifestyle habits.
Slide 5: Impact of Mindfulness on Relationships
Mindfulness can help us better understand others and improve communication, leading to healthier relationships.
By focusing on the present moment and being fully attentive, mindfulness helps build stronger and more authentic connections with others.
Mindfulness teaches us how to be present for others in difficult times, leading to increased compassion and understanding.
Slide 6: Mindfulness Techniques and Practices
Focusing on the breath and mindful breathing can be a simple way to enter a state of mindfulness.
Body scan meditation involves focusing on different parts of the body, paying attention to any sensations and feelings.
Practicing mindful walking and eating involves consciously focusing on each step or bite, with full attention to sensory experiences.
Slide 7: Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life
You can practice mindfulness in everyday activities such as washing dishes or taking a walk in the park.
Adding mindfulness practice to daily routines can help increase awareness and presence.
Mindfulness helps us become more aware of our needs and better manage our time, leading to balance and harmony in life.
Slide 8: Summary: Embracing Mindfulness for Full Living
Mindfulness can bring numerous benefits for physical and mental health.
Regular mindfulness practice can help achieve a fuller and more satisfying life.
Mindfulness has the power to change our perspective and way of perceiving the world, leading to deeper se
HANUMAN STORIES: TIMELESS TEACHINGS FOR TODAY’S WORLDLearnyoga
Hanuman Stories: Timeless Teachings for Today’s World" delves into the inspiring tales of Hanuman, highlighting lessons of devotion, strength, and selfless service that resonate in modern life. These stories illustrate how Hanuman's unwavering faith and courage can guide us through challenges and foster resilience. Through these timeless narratives, readers can find profound wisdom to apply in their daily lives.
4. How do I generally make decisions?
• How have I made significant decisions in my life so far? What has
guided my decision-making?
• Of those significant decisions, how have I made the ones that have
brought me life? Those that have been destructive?
• What does this tell me about the way to make good decisions?
5. One cultural paradigm
Self-determination has become a life mission.
Some (American/western) cultural assumptions:
• If a choice affects you, then you should be the one to make it.
• The more choices you have, the more likely you are to make the best
choice.
• You must never say no to choice, including when it involves life or
death decisions. Research shows that having this choice can make
the outcome harder to live with afterwards, but people in our culture
still want to have the choice.
6.
7. Values Based Decision Making
• Our values shape our decisions about priorities in
daily life.
• Our goals and life purpose are grounded in our
personal values.
• What we value determines what life means to us and
what actions we take.
8.
9. A graced collaboration with God
Ignatian spirituality is taking
your graces,
your inspirations,
your holy desires
to serve God,
and transforming them into action
in everyday life.
10. Becoming more spiritually free
To recognize how God is moving our heart, we need to be
spiritually free, that is, willing to follow God’s call. This freedom is
God’s gift: but we can ask for it and open ourselves to receive it.
Mt 19:16-22 The rich young man
Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the
money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When
the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions.
Mt 26: 39-46 Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane
Then he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake
with me.” And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My
Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.”
11. Becoming more spiritually free
What can we do when we realize our lack of freedom ie. a
disordered attachment which distorts our decision-making?
• Be honest: name and own your attachments
• Hold yourself as if you are spiritually free and the attachment is
removed
• Pray for the opposite, asking God to transform your feelings and
desires
Movement this evening:
Change gear and gratitudes; reflecting on ourselves; some cultural norms; making decisions in collaboration with God; closing with an Examen.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6r0dr_juOiI
Decisions are a continual part of life.
1:13 to 3:54
What influenced his decision not to ‘cut Teddy’?!
Am I a hasty or hesitant decider?
A hasty decider tends to jump too quickly to a decision and without thoroughly discerning.
A hesitant decider drags their feet, usually because the decision requires an uncomfortable choice.
In each case, the ‘bad spirit’ will try to take advantage of my particular weakness.
Note on the meaning of ‘bad spirit’, from https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/making-good-decisions/discernment-of-spirits/introduction-to-discernment-of-spirits
‘Ignatius believed that (our) interior movements were caused by “good spirits” and “evil spirits.” We want to follow the action of a good spirit and reject the action of an evil spirit. Discernment of spirits is a way to understand God’s will or desire for us in our life. Talk of good and evil spirits may seem foreign to us. Psychology gives us other names for what Ignatius called good and evil spirits. Yet Ignatius’s language is useful because it recognizes the reality of evil. Evil is both greater than we are and part of who we are. Our hearts are divided between good and evil impulses. To call these “spirits” simply recognizes the spiritual dimension of this inner struggle.’
See TedTalk by Sheena Iyengar on the art of choosing
https://www.ted.com/talks/sheena_iyengar_on_the_art_of_choosing
Standaert: Our culture of self-determination means that people want to make more decisions themselves; are able to make more decisions; and have to make more decisions. ‘Self-determination has become a life mission’. p35
Choice is seen as central to our identity. It is not universal or the only way. Yet we are invited into a different narrative where we are not alone in our decision-making.
Decision dice – spotted in Readings.
Decision dice: What is your response to this?
At least it attempts to include some ‘ways’ to make decisions. It also shows how much we struggle with decision-making and suggests there is a hunger and desire in our culture to make decisions wisely.
A short video on this is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In8zcAa3jP0
Who do you know who inspires you with how they make decisions and focus their choices?
Ignatius insists that our love for Christ ought to show itself in actions rather than in words [230]. However, we are called to be discerning and to make decisions in collaboration with God.
We are talking here about decisions between two ‘good’ things, not between good and bad. The goal is always to find what is more pleasing to God in my particular case (we are each unique!). We are invited to discover that which is most life-giving for me and for the world.
God wants to be involved in your decision-making. Collaboration with God is key to making good decisions. The Ignatian tradition is concerned with ‘discerning love made concrete in apostolic action that embodies the original spirit, gives flesh to the word’ (Joseph Veale SJ).
The ‘loving collaboration’ model of discernment involves an ongoing and increasing intimacy with Jesus who is active in the world.
Spiritual freedom is when God’s spirit brings us to an affective equilibrium neither to do nor reject some activity unless one recognizes that God’s Spirit is moving us to do this or reject that. We often become aware of our attachments when we are trying to make a decision!
The rich young man
Matthew 19:16-22
16 Then someone came to him and said, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” 17 And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” 18 He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; 19 Honor your father and mother; also, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 20 The young man said to him, “I have kept all these;[b] what do I still lack?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money[c] to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 22 When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions.
Jesus in the Garden
Jesus struggles with his desire to avoid the suffering he knows awaits him but he is able to surrender freely to God. How is this possible? Notice how he wrestles with this in prayer. Notice too that his surrender is not dutiful, without feeling, but emerges from his deep love for the Father and knowledge that he is loved in return.
Matthew 26:36-46
Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and agitated. Then he said to them, “I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and stay awake with me.” And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not what I want but what you want.” Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour? Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Again he went away for the second time and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” Again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. So leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words. Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”
Conversation in groups – what is your response to these biblical stories?
These suggestions are drawn from Ignatius’ wisdom on how we can respond when we become aware of our unfreedom or ‘disordered’ attachments.
Disordered attachments are the things that get in the way of being available to God. See this link for more: https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/25828/what-is-an-unhealthy-attachment
We will return to this theme in September.
Discernment examen from ‘Reimagining the Examen’ by Mark Thibodeaux. Handouts supplied.
Music:
Deep calls to deep, by Mary Kathryn
Lyrics:
Deep calls to deep
And my soul finds no resting place but Him
He is my God
The yearning of my soul His touch can still
And each rare moment
I felt His presence
I shall remember and forever cherish
Deep calls to deep
And at His feast I am a welcomed guest
He gives me food
The hunger of my soul is laid to rest
And each rare moment
I felt His presence
I shall remember and forever cherish
Deep calls to deep
For He created me to be His own
He understands
The joy of pain and life He too has known
And each rare moment
I felt His presence
I shall remember and forever cherish.