Climate Influencer

“‘Just a little yeast causes all the dough to rise,’” so even the slightest detour from the truth will take you to a destination you do not desire.”(Galatians 5:9 VOICE)

Weather is the daily variation of atmospheric conditions. Climate is the variation of weather conditions over decades. Weather can change in a few hours. It can be cold and rainy in the morning and warm and sunny in the afternoon. There is nothing I can do to change the weather; all I can do is dress appropriately when going outdoors. Climate, on the other hand, is affected by human activities. Thus, by adjusting my lifestyle choices, I can be a climate influencer. 

Human nature is similar to weather. There is not much you can do to change another person; all you can do is adjust your response and exposure. Human culture, on the other hand, gradually shifts over time. Societal attitudes and practices evolve every few decades. Just as a little yeast causes the dough to rise, each of us has an impact on our surroundings. Honest living makes an impression. Dishonesty also leaves its mark. Even the slightest detour from the truth will take you to a destination you do not desire. Our choices not only affect those around us, but the ripple effect spreads through the community. Thus, we have the opportunity to be cultural influencers--for good or for evil. 

Adjusting Expectations

“For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!” ( John 16:33 TPT)

On winter days, runners know to expect harsh weather. We learn to make necessary adaptations. We put on appropriate winter gear, leaving no skin exposed to frostbite. Ignoring or denying the conditions can cause injury. Thus, we pay extra attention to our surroundings and foot placement--shortening our stride and slowing down our pace. We do not fight the cold or wind or snow, but neither do we withdraw. Persistent runners show up consistently and brave the weather. 

In this world, you will experience trouble and sorrow. Do not be afraid. Learn to make the necessary adaptations. Do not ignore or downplay the harsh conditions. Put on the armor of God, leaving nothing exposed to Evil. Pay attention to your environment and choices. Take small steps and go as slowly as needed. Adjust expectations for progress. Be courageous, but do not indulge in violence. Respond to all trials with Christ-like character. Endure consistently. Press on persistently.

 

Trekking Poles

“With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make.” (Proverbs 3:5 TPT)

Long-distance hikers know that trekking poles can take stress off your joints when climbing and descending. To a novice on a short jaunt, these poles may seem cumbersome and unnecessary. Why would a healthy person need these extra crutches?  Trekking poles can provide stability to a hiker who knows how to lean into them properly. This takes practice on various terrains. These poles can be multipurpose tools on rugged trails. People use them to maintain balance, keep a steady pace, scare away wild animals, test the depth of water crossings, and negotiate all manner of obstacles. 

Leaning on God seems unnecessary and cumbersome when things are going well in your life. However, this is the time to hone your skills. Trust takes time and practice. In order to walk in faith, you must learn to transfer the weight of your concerns unto the Lord. When the climb gets steep, when the slope feels slippery, when obstacles block your path, dependence on God becomes crucial. Keep a firm grip on Him. Rely on Him to guide you, and He will lead you in every decision you make. 

Comfortable Projects

“Break up your hard soil, because it’s time to seek the Eternal.” (Hosea 10:12 VOICE)

On a Saturday morning, I was running through the neighborhood as I do every day. During winter, there are very few people outdoors. There was a dusting of snow overnight. It was sunny and the snow would most likely melt by the afternoon. Thus, I was surprised at how many neighbors were out clearing their driveways. I hadn’t seen this level of eagerness when we had storms that dumped several feet of snow. Why? Because it is hard to shovel unplowed, packed, heavy snow. That day the snow was light and easy to remove. It was a weekend, and there was not much else going on. The weather was nice for a winter day. Clearing a driveway under these conditions was a relatively easy project, and it made people feel useful.

Most of us are eager to do comfortable work that gives immediate satisfaction. However, we are reluctant to tackle frustrating, long-term tasks that bring no recognition or pleasure. We put off difficult conversations, ignore harmful habits, overlook complex issues, and defer unpleasant duties. Why? Because it is hard. Whatever we do is likely to end up feeling unsatisfactory. Thus, we look around and pick something else to do that brings immediate gratification and a sense of usefulness. Unless we break up the hard soil, unless we tackle the uncomfortable parts of our lives, we miss out on that which has eternal value. 

The Luxury of Solitude

“Whenever you pray, go into your innermost chamber and be alone with Father God.” (Matthew 6:6 TPT)

Open concept floor plans have been popular for a few decades. Homes with few walls allow family and friends to be in separate areas and still be able to socialize. Yet, there are a few downsides to living spaces with few walls or doors. There can be a lack of privacy and quiet. It is harder to focus in the midst of hubbub. Smaller rooms are more energy efficient and easier to heat in the winter and cool in the summer. Defined spaces can also feel orderly and calming. 

My home has an open concept floor plan. I can be in the kitchen cooking and talk to other family members in the living room. This setup works well for socializing. It wasn’t until recently that I started appreciating rooms with doors. These days, my bedroom is where I go to think. I can still hear sounds from the living room, but visual and social distractions are minimized. I close the door and draw the drapes over the windows. I sit upright in my bed. I breathe in God’s presence. I read scripture when I feel the urge to do so.  I write down whatever comes to me. I pray silently. I thank the Lord for the luxuries of privacy, quiet, and solitude. 

Call Out Goodness

“Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others.” (Philippians 4:8 TLB)

The Department of Homeland Security uses the slogan ‘If you see something, say something’ to encourage people to report possible terrorist activities to authorities. Unfortunately, what is considered suspicious can be subjective. We tend to notice irregularities in people who are different while ignoring subversive behavior in those who look like us. Although this slogan is problematic, I have found it useful for a completely unintended purpose. 

Here is my modified version: If you see something good, say something.

Most of us are reluctant to call out goodness, especially in strangers. It makes us feel subordinate. Our worth is not diminished by recognizing the wonderful qualities in another. When you see someone behaving nobly, affirm it. When you notice something admirable, acknowledge it. But be sincere. Do not use flattery to curry favor. Instead, uplift virtue even in random strangers. Keep your eyes open for the opportunity to encourage others. It brings joy and empowers goodness.

“Acknowledging someone else’s light doesn’t put mine out. We burn brighter together.” (Bernice King)

Soul Care

“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” (3 John 1:2 NIV)

Once a day, I patiently run my fingers through my long hair and gently break up the knots. Afterwards, I apply some oil and braid my hair. Getting the tangles out of my hair is time consuming and frustrating. However, this small act strengthens me in a way that is hard to describe. Deep within me, I feel cared for and cherished.

While pampering and indulging oneself can be enjoyable, the benefits are often superficial and cosmetic. Soul care goes much deeper. It is protective and restorative. It reduces injury and misuse. It heals invisible wounds. It nourishes the inner being.

Good health encompasses the body, mind, and spirit. It extends to relationships, emotions, and purpose. Soul care is vital to a whole and healed life. It is deeply personal. What works for others may not work for you. Noticing what soothes and strengthens your soul requires intention and attention. Decrease habits that drain you; increase practices that are uplifting. Remember to nourish your soul.