Podcast Episode That Shook Me:
This podcast episode was with a pastor who lost it all in some ways. He and his wife were robbed of the greatest years of their lives by a cruel twist and great mental agony. It’s a very long episode but the understanding of stress-induced health destruction in clergy is shocking. The statistics will grip you. Almost every senior minster I know has either had dementia/Alzheimers or heart trouble. It’s worth listening to for the sake of understanding the value of balance in all things.
Gadget I Can’t Live Without:
I hate rattling keys.
Song I Listen To All The Time:
This song will make you cry. Be careful. It’s so powerful. Sometimes we just need the reminder.
https://music.apple.com/us/album/god-understands/1291933079?i=1291933090
Revelation That Helped Me:
Read Act 12:5-7. Peter was so sound asleep that he didn’t even wake up when the lights turned on.
The two reasons he could go into deep sleep in a prison with a death sentence on him.
the church was praying for him
He’d been through this before, he knew God would deliver him again (Acts 5:17-19)
Oh the peace of knowing we serve a consistent God.
Challenge to try:
Smile more!
(I Kings 10:8, Proverbs 29:2)
Joy is a sign you have a good king! Let your face testify especially when you are at church! Practice Joy!
Reasons to smile more:
1. Stress Reduction: Smiling can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones like cortisol, and even relieve pain by releasing endorphins
2. Mood Enhancement: Smiling can trigger the release of mood-boosting chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, helping you feel happier and more relaxed.
3. Improved Social Interactions: Smiling can make you appear more approachable and trustworthy, making it easier to connect with others.
4. Boosted Confidence: Smiling can help you feel more confident and empowered, especially when you're feeling self-conscious.
5. Enhanced Productivity: Studies have shown that people who smile more are often more productive and effective in their work.
6. Socially Contagious: A smile can be contagious, spreading positivity and happiness to those around you.
7. Longevity: Some research even suggests that smiling may be linked to a longer lifespan.