Monday, June 23, 2008

Forgiveness


Forgiveness



Forgiveness is a great challenge for humanity, and unfortunately is not an innate part of the frail human condition. Forgiveness can become a long and arduous process for many of us.



The first step to forgiveness begins when we relinquish the thoughts of seeking revenge from those who have wronged us.

The second step begins with us seeing the person who had hurt us in a different light. Your enemy through the process of forgiveness becomes a flawed human being who is a victim of their circumstances.

And lastly the disdain and anger you carry for the person becomes transformed into feelings of empathy . You long for a positive transformation in that person’s life and wish only blessings for them.

For human beings forgiveness is a timely process, and it requires spiritual maturity.

However, our Heavenly Father can forgive within an instant. I must confess because of my human nature this is a hard concept for me to grasp. I know my flaws and weaknesses and they are so unattractive. How can the King of the universe forgive like the Bible states seventy times seventy or bury my sins and mistakes in the bottom of the sea? What type of God is this?

When I studied literature at the university my studies required me to spend a great deal of time studying Greek mythology and their religious system of polytheism.

The gods of ancient Greek sought revenge on those they felt dishonored someone or deemed offensive. One bad mistake and Zeus’ thunderbolts would take you out!


But the Judeo-Christian God states in the scriptures if you confess your sins and have a contrite spirit; having a contrite spirit means that you truly acknowledge your mistakes and make every effort to turn away from the ugliness of your sinful habit. And then His grace….grace…His grace! Will cover you and He is willing to forgive and forget.

Forgive and Forget! Forgive and forget this is what is so beautiful and sweet. You see, I can forgive but I cannot forget. But my Heavenly Father says that He can.

To become spiritually, mentally, and emotionally whole; we must learn how to forgive. Our Heavenly Father has given us a wonderful example on how to begin the process. He has forgiven us, so surely we can forgive others.

Blessings,
Camille Kleidysz

Romans 12:18-21
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written. It is mine to avenge; I will repay.” Says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

The Art of Encouragement



The Art of Encouragement


Encouragement is essential to our very existence. I’m sure we can recall the popular childhood saying. "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me."
I couldn’t disagree with this statement more.

Words are extremely powerful. A stinging blow to your skin will leave a bruise that last for days. But venomous words that are lodged into your soul and spirit can last for a life time.

Poisonous words that were hissed and screamed to us as children from our parents or peers; reverberate throughout our psyche during our life’s journey. The words that were so freely hurled at us begin to create a great void within our souls that helps nurture the ugly wounds of insecurity. Leaving many to question what is my purpose and true destiny on this earth? Am I really good enough?

The quest to seek our authentic selves begins with many of us grasping in the darkness for something authentic and tangible to direct us to our true identity. Many of us stumble along the way trying to find solace in items that only place a band aid on our external.

Cosmetic surgery, a new car, new wardrobe, a fancy condo, a mcmansion, wild sexual escapades, the latest technical gadget, drugs, or alcohol cannot repair a marred soul.

A disfigured soul and spirit can only mend through the divine reunion with our Creator and Heavenly Father. And He will meet you right where you are.

In His presence he can begin to dispel the lies and negative words that have been spoken over many of us throughout our life time.

If you would open your heart and mind you can begin to allow God to repair your heart, soul, and spirit. And He will bestow a new identity and divine destiny.

You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Your Creator had a plan for you on this earth while you were still in your mother’s womb.

When I discovered this great truth; I immediately became excited about my life. I have a purpose and a divine destiny that is designed just for me. And I’m careful to encourage those who are around me because they too, have a majestic plan designed especially for their lives.

You can choose to use words that can shred a person apart, or you can purpose in your heart to use words to uplift and build one to their divine potential.

Blessings,
Camille Kleidysz


Hebrews 3:13
But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sins deceitfulness.

Monday, June 16, 2008

God's Holding Pattern


God’s Holding Pattern


Several years ago I was on a flight to my favorite city in the world, New York City. I was really craving the electric energy of that great metropolis. As the plane was almost set to land the pilot announced that we would have to continue to circle in the air because apparently it was not safe to land.

I was upset! The pilot was messing with my plans I have people waiting for me! There’s no turbulence I just see some clouds what’s the problem.” So I slumped in the seat like a spoiled child. Not giving complete thought to the danger of landing within my timetable. Instead I became very shallow thinking of getting off the plane to see my friends, return to my favorite shops, and not to mention taste my favorite foods that you could only get in the city.

At times our lives appear to be in a holding pattern. We’ve made plans and goals for ourselves and our families that just seem to become stagnant. It seems that what ever we try to do our plans do not progress.

Waiting is not easy. Recently I have had two of my plans come into fruition. The dreams that finally sprung to life; I had been waiting on for quite some time. And my goals manifested themselves in such a way that I am in total awe.

Looking back in retrospect I understand now that if my plans had come to my life sooner it would have disrupted my life in a way that would have been a complete disaster. However, at the time I was unable to see the possible negative outcome.

Be careful not to begrudge your Heavenly Father for ordering your steps to your goals and dreams at His appointed time. His timing is always best. He’s able to see the future when we cannot. His divine timeline keeps us from falling into the unnecessary traps of this world.

It’s okay to wait with Him, because He longs to give us the desires of our hearts. And always remember that He also believes in your dreams.

Psalms 27:13, 14

I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Blessings,
Camille Kleidysz

Just Chill


JUST CHILL


We live in a society that requires us to stay in a perpetual rat race. Some of us constantly strive for the so called American dream. We long for the perfect house, car, white picket fence, 2.5 kids, and the prosperous career. We all want to check out on paper.

Recently I took a hike with my son on the Kennesaw Mountain in Georgia. I was alone with nature. Anyone who really knows me understands that being alone with nature is not exactly my style. But my son loves the outdoors. And I have to say the experience humbled me.

I actually took the time to rest and enjoy my primitive surroundings. I looked up into the sky, and noticed the brilliance of the clear blue sky draping over us. I observed the delicate design of the fluffy clouds. Nothing but thick, lush forest surrounded us. I carefully surveyed the intricate cut of the leaves and watched them gently quiver in the soft, warm wind.

When I became tired I sat on a rock and watched my son leap, and run freely while he giggled. The smile on his face and gleam in his eyes was priceless.

I began to think to myself, “Where are my priorities?” I couldn't remember when I took the time to actually look up and observe the sky.

I’ve become consumed with providing the material items for my son, and didn’t realize that spending time with my child in just a simple setting is more than money could ever buy.

As I walked back I watched my son sprint ahead of me until he finally slowed down. He reached for my hand and said. “Mommy this was the best I loved it!”

Our lives keep us in a constant “crisis mode” leaving us emotionally and spiritually bankrupt.

Take the time today to reassess your priorities.

Psalm 91:1-2

He who dwells in the shelter of the most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord. “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”


Blessings
Camille Kleidysz












Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Words of Blessings


Words of Blessings




Speaking words of encouragement can have a profound effect on one’s life.

Words of affirmation show that you value a person. We often speak loving words to our spouse, children, and close friends. But the challenge presents itself when we have to speak words of encouragement to someone that we do not like or completely lack respect. Why should we put ourselves in a position to show kindness to our adversaries?


Matthew 5:14-16

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your father in heaven.”


As Christians Jesus commissioned us to shine, and demonstrate His ways. Is this easy? By no means! (I can only speak for myself.) But I know when someone offends myself or my family my natural response is to swing the proverbial punch and try to take my adversaries out. However, I have learned that anger and resentment are a consuming fire, and snuffs out the internal light that God has given all of us.

Take on the challenge to go against your natural feelings and begin to practice…..the operative word is practice what our Heavenly Father has commissioned us to do.

Begin to look at people with spiritual eyes and practice loving the way our Creator intended.

It is said that practice makes perfect.Let us practice speaking words of blessings.

Blessings
Camille Kleidysz

In His Presence


In His Presence


Our Heavenly Father needs to be a consistent presence in our lives.
Making time for God within a contemporary society can be a challenge. The wild maze of life consumes; leaving us with emotions of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration.

How can we combat these dissenting emotions as true believers?

We must begin to establish a habit of practicing being in God’s presence-a safe haven of rest. A place where just you and your Heavenly Father can communicate. Through prayers and meditation; He can begin to reveal Himself to you, and pour into you His infinite words of peace, wisdom, and adoration.

His loving Kindness astonishes me. I’m always amazed and humbled by the sweetness of the Holy Spirit. I only began to realize the goodness of the Holy Spirit when I became still; set aside my list of demanding prayers and began listening. I realized when I was unable to forgive myself; the Holy Spirit was there to encourage and love.


This Heavenly love is still a concept that continues to confound me, but allows me to hunger for more. So I fight….I fight daily to make time to meet with my Heavenly Father. I would not be honest if I told you that it is easy. But it is something that I must do.

As modern day Christians are hearts and souls have to begin to ache to be in God’s presence. Everything within our society is designed to tear us away from our creator.

Let us continue to fight the good fight…..

Blessings,
Camille Kleidysz

I Chronicles 28:9
And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.



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