Tag Archives: #community

Spirituality

Small Groups

Since March of 2016 I have led a small group at my church. We meet from 7:00-8:00 am. Usually there are about six of us in attendance. I cannot tell you why I signed up for this, but I am glad I took the plunge.

Our group isn’t what you would call a typical Bible study. We do learn about Jesus and his teachings as well as other books from the Bible. But staying true to my style of leadership, it’s very much an open forum for whatever is on each man’s mind. It works. I call us the “Island of Misfit Toys.”

Each of us has had life experiences that help others. This is one of the strengths of the group. When you see that someone else has been where you are, it provides hope in the darkness. Everything said in the group stays confidential. Another strength of the group.

If you have ever considered joining a small group, my encouragement is to give it a try. Keep checking out different groups until you find your crowd. Then let God take over…

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Spirituality

Online Activities

Our phones are capable of keeping us entertained 24/7 if we allow them to. We can shop, make reservations for restaurants and airlines, and there are tons of games available.

Text and email are accessible through our phones, too. We have more power in our smartphones than NASA used to get men to the moon. But as remarkable as our phones are, I wonder how smart they are.

Playing Spades or Hearts online is fine but it isn’t the same as playing with real people. The social interaction we get playing together has too many benefits to list here. We are hardwired to be in community with others. Taking that away can leave you a shell of a person.

Our phones are great time savers. They are convenient but let’s not make them too convenient. Remember to take the time to show others that you care…

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Spirituality

Talk Therapy

It feels good to get something off your chest. There’s an unseen chemical reaction in our brains that releases endorphins and lowers stress when we talk about the things that are bothering us.

Holding things in can damage us in unseen ways as well. Unresolved tension can cause disease, spikes in blood pressure and inflammation. Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it isn’t happening. I don’t see gravity but I know it’s there and it’s working.

In the beginning of time as we know it, God said it “isn’t good for man to be alone.” We are meant to be in community with others. Having some alone time or solitude is healthy. Isolation can be destructive.

Be sure you are spending quality time with your friends. Be a good friend for them, too. Just like you, they need people to talk to, too…

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#inspiration

Respectful

Our world still has kind, decent and respectful people in it. Most people are good, and oftentimes remain silent so the disrespectful, rude and indecent people don’t shout them down. I will not remain silent.

Recording artist Jason Aldean released a new song called, “Try That in a Small Town.” His message is clear. Small town values reflect our sense of community, our respect for the flag, and our placing law enforcement in a place of honor. We don’t condone spitting on police officers, crime (BLM, Antifa), or flag burning. Community means we come together to help each other, regardless of our politics, sexuality, or religion.

Take a listen to the song. I believe you might love the message…

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