This past year I started a new practice. Before I start to study important information, I now stop first and take a few breaths to calm my mind. Then I pray for guidance to understand and remember what I am reading. The difference in my retention and also "coincidentally" coming across supporting detail in other documents and videos has been striking. I've really enjoyed discovering these wisdom zingers as I've been reading through Psalms and Proverbs. This one reflects my new study habit. The heart…

When you send love to others, it ripples forth like a drop of water in a lake. The effects will ripple farther than you can imagine. How will you send forth ripples of love today?  

As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.  But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;  for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” ~ 1 Peter 1:14-16  

The name of the Lord is a fortified tower;     the righteous run to it and are safe. The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale. ~ Proverbs 8:10-11 Where do you place your trust?  

Within you lies all possibilities. Dream big! Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. ~ Proverbs 16:3  

What is your truth? Would you be willing to die in defense of your truth? Dare to hold your ground and speak with confidence and integrity!  

You, Lord, are my lamp;     the Lord turns my darkness into light. With your help I can advance against an army;     with my God I can scale a wall. “As for God, his way is perfect:     The Lord’s word is flawless;     he shields all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord?     And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength     and keeps my way secure. ~ 2 Samuel 22:29-33  

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. ~ Luke 6:31 Care to share times when you did something kind to another... or when someone unexpectedly did something kind to you. Share your story in the comments below!  

Most wouldn't consider gossip to be evil. Yet, think back through your life when you felt someone was talking bad about you behind your back and how you felt as a result. Were there times when you had a heavy burden of someone's expectations placed on your back? Has there been a time when you said something about someone... only to find out that the person found out what you said? Think about how you felt in these situations. Then do the same, putting the…