Just Do It Embrace Courage and Discipline

Get ready for a revelation. The key to transforming your life is more straightforward than you realize.

There’s a chance it might not work out. It could be more challenging than you anticipated. But how will you know unless you take that first step? Seneca warned that fools hesitate; they postpone action and allow fear or inertia to win.

This is where two vital stoic principles—courage and discipline—come into play. We must find the bravery to confront our fears and possess the strength to push ourselves toward necessary actions. Additionally, a third principle—justice—emerges here.

What you're aiming to achieve could be significant. It might even create a meaningful impact. Yes, it carries the risk of failure, but it also has the potential to benefit others. Yet, here you are, delaying and allowing your fears to dictate your choices.

This indecision comes with consequences, both for you and for others. Don't hesitate to get started. Stop postponing your ambitions. Act now.

Do what you can. Promote goodness. Seneca noted that the most unhappy individual is the one who avoids hardship, as he never has the chance to prove his worth.

How long will you wait before insisting on the best for yourself? As Epictetus questioned: don’t delay any longer. Begin today.

Join thousands across the globe who aspire to conquer their fears, overcome lethargy, and start making a positive impact. Just take action.

Here’s to love and light.

Rev.Leslie C.Bonner

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The Fields Are Already White for Harvest

 The Fields Are Already White for Harvest

Look around, the fields are white for harvest. Life is ripe with possibilities, ready to be embraced. This isn't just a whimsical thought.

It's a call to action, a reminder that abundance surrounds us. We just have to open our eyes to see it. But, we have to believe it to receive it.

Think of a farmer, patient and diligent, tending to their crops. They know that a bountiful harvest awaits due to their dedication and the natural rhythm of life. Our lives are the same.

We plant seeds of intention and nurture them with effort and trust in the growth process. The universe, my friends, is incredibly generous. It wants to shower us with blessings, with joy, with love.

However, there's a catch: we must be receptive. We need to release our doubts, fears, and limiting beliefs.

Think of it like this. You can't hold on to a fistful of sand and expect to catch a precious gem, right? You have to open your hand, be receptive, and have faith that the gem will find its way to you. Life isn't something that happens to us.

It's happening for us. It's happening through us. It's happening in every single moment, in every breath we take, in every beat of our hearts.

Recognize this truth. Life is omnipresent. It's a constant flow of energy, a vibrant dance of creation and renewal.

Now, what does this mean for you and me? It means that we are never separate from this life force. We are never alone, never forsaken. We are always connected to the source of all that is.

Think of a wave in the ocean. It might crash on the shore, seemingly disappearing. But the water is always there, always a part of the vast ocean.

We are like those waves, individual expressions of this incredible interconnected web of life. The universe is constantly conspiring in our favor, orchestrating events, and aligning circumstances to guide us toward our highest good. All we have to do is trust the process.

All we have to do is surrender to the flow. Our minds, my friends, can be our biggest allies and our fiercest adversaries. We get so caught up in our thoughts, our worries, and our endless to-do lists, we forget to simply be.

We forget to trust the wisdom of the universe, letting go of our human reasoning, our need to control, and our desire to figure everything out. That's where the magic happens. It's a leap of faith, a surrender to something bigger than ourselves.

Think about it. Have you ever noticed that when you release the tight grip of control, when you surrender to the unknown, things tend to work out better than you could have planned? That's the universe doing its thing. That's the power of letting go.

It's like trying to hold on to water. The more tightly you squeeze, the more it slips through your fingers. But when you open your hand, and relax your grip, the water rests effortlessly in your palm. Life is like that too.

We live in a world obsessed with doing. Demonstrate your worth. Prove your value. Hustle,

Grind, Repeat. But what if I told you there's another way? A way of being rather than doing.

A way of embodying rather than demonstrating. It's about moving from a place of trying to be to a state of simply being. It's about recognizing that our true essence, our inherent worth, is not dependent on external validation or achievement from anyone.

Think of a seed. It doesn't strive to become a flower. It doesn't read self-help books on how to blossom.

It exists as a seed, holding the blueprint for its full potential. When conditions align, it unfolds, blossoms, and reveals its inherent beauty. We are capable of this as well, my friends.

We don't have to try to be worthy, to be loved, to be successful. We simply are. We are already whole, complete, perfect, just as we are.

Let us learn to find our joy in the stillness within. Amid the chaos and noise of everyday life, there's a sanctuary within you. A place of peace, of quiet joy, of deep connection to something much greater than yourself.

This is the wellspring of your being, the source of your true power. And it's available to you in each and every moment. How do you access this inner sanctuary? Through the practice of stillness.

Through the cultivation of silence. Through the simple act of turning your attention inward. Think of a lake. When the surface is still, you can see deep down, and observe the intricate details of the lake bed. But when the surface is agitated by waves, all you see is a blurry reflection. Your mind is like that lake.

When you find moments of stillness in your day, even if it's just for a few breaths, you calm the waves of your mind. You create space for clarity, for insight, for a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

You are living on holy ground. You don't need to travel to distant lands or climb sacred mountains to find holiness. The truth is, my friends, you are standing on holy ground right here, right now. Your life, in all its messy, beautiful complexity, is sacred.

The essential part is acknowledging it. Consider each encounter, experience, and moment as a chance for growth, connection, and love. Visualize your life as a tapestry, crafted from the threads of your experiences.

The joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures, all contribute to the richness and beauty of the final masterpiece. So embrace the fullness of your life. Live with intention.

Love with abandon. And remember, you are not separate from the divine. You are not separate from the source of all creation.

You are a part of it. You are it. And that, my friends, is the most beautiful truth of all.

May we open our hearts to receive this gift and find peace.

Here’s to love and light.

Rev.Leslie C.Bonner

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For 2025, Bless, Praise, Give Thanks Always

 For 2025, Bless, Praise, Give Thanks Always

We all have the power to bless, praise, and give thanks. These are not just words, they are powerful forces. These forces can change our lives.

When we bless, we send out positive energy. When we praise, we acknowledge the good. When we give thanks, we open our hearts to receive more blessings.

These actions shift our focus. We move from negativity to positivity. We begin to see the good in ourselves and the world around us.

Life is full of challenges. We may face difficulties, setbacks, and even tragedies. But even in the darkest times, there is always something to be grateful for.

When we choose to bless, praise, and give thanks in the face of adversity, we transform our experience. We find strength and resilience. We discover hidden opportunities.

We can express gratitude for our health, our cherished ones, or the very gift of life. Each breath is a blessing, and every moment offers an opportunity for a fresh start.

 There's an old fable about a wise old father and his two sons. The father gave each son a piece of land. One son received fertile land, while the other received rocky, barren land.

The son with the fertile land prospered. The other son struggled. He complained to his father, Why have you given me this misfortune? The father smiled and said, Dig deeper, my son.

There is a treasure buried within your land. The son, though doubtful, began to dig. He toiled day and night, removing rocks and clearing the land.

Finally, he unearthed a hidden spring of crystal clear water. This spring, more valuable than any fertile land, transformed his life. He used it to irrigate his land, which flourished.

This story teaches us a valuable lesson. Within every adversity lies a SEED OF hidden treasure. We must be willing to dig deep, to look for the good, and to give thanks even when it's hard.

This isn’t about ignoring the negative; it’s about opting to concentrate on the positive and fostering a mindset of gratitude.

Start each day with thanks. Find something to be grateful for in every situation. Bless those who challenge you.

Praise the good you see in others. As you practice these principles, you will begin to experience a profound shift. You will attract more blessings into your life.

You will find peace, joy, and abundance in ways you never imagined.

Here’s to Love and Light.

Rev. Leslie C. Bonner

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rev.-Leslie-C.-Bonner/author/B0DGFRMZK8

 

I AM THAT I AM: Embrace Divine Perfection

 I AM THAT I AM: Embrace Divine Perfection

I am that I am. This powerful statement reveals a profound truth. We are all part of one universal consciousness.

Imagine a boundless ocean of pure awareness. This is the one mind, the source of all creation. Within this ocean, we are like individual waves.

Each wave is unique in form, yet inseparable from the ocean itself. Just as the wave cannot exist without the sea, we cannot without the one mind. This is the essence of "I am that I am."

It affirms our inherent connection to the divine source. We are not separate entities, but expressions of the one mind experiencing itself in countless ways. Recognizing this truth dissolves the illusion of separation.

It reveals the interconnectedness of all beings and awakens us to our shared divinity. Imagine the universe as a magnificent tapestry woven from thoughts. Every atom, every star, and every experience is a divine idea held within the one mind.

Just as an artist conceives a painting before it takes form on canvas, so too does the one mind conceive of all creation. We are not merely physical beings inhabiting a material world. We are ideas within the mind of God, imbued with life and purpose.

 

Every thought we think, and every action we take, arises from this field of pure potentiality. Our lives are not random occurrences but expressions of the divine imagination unfolding in time and space. By aligning ourselves with the creative power of the one mind, we tap into the infinite wellspring of possibility within us.

Within the one mind, divine laws govern the universe with perfect harmony. These laws are not restrictive but rather principles of love and intelligence that sustain and nourish all of creation. Just as gravity governs the movement of planets, so too do spiritual laws govern our well-being.

When we live by these laws, we experience greater harmony, abundance, and joy. One fundamental law is the law of attraction, which states that like attracts like.

By focusing on thoughts and emotions that are aligned with love, gratitude, and abundance, we attract experiences that reflect these qualities. As we align ourselves with the universal laws, we become conscious co-creators with the divine. We realize that our well-being is not a matter of chance but a reflection of our alignment with the inherent order of the cosmos.

The world often presents us with challenges and uncertainties. We may face situations that evoke fear, doubt, and anxiety. Yet beneath the surface of appearances lies a profound truth.

Infinite spirit is the only reality. The one mind, the source of all creation, is pure consciousness, infinite love, and boundless power. This divine essence permeates every fiber of our being and extends throughout the entire universe.

When we remember that we are spiritual beings at our core, fear dissipates. We realize that we are eternally connected to a power far greater than ourselves. This understanding empowers us to face life's challenges with courage, resilience, and unwavering faith.

The mind often perceives problems and limitations. We may worry about finances, relationships, or health. However, these challenges are not ultimate truths, but illusions projected onto the screen of our mind.

Divine intelligence, the creative force of the universe, only knows perfection. Just as the sun cannot help but shine, the one mind cannot help but express its inherent perfection in all things. When we shift our perception and view life through the lens of divine perfection, problems begin to dissolve.

We realize that challenges are opportunities for growth and expansion. By surrendering our worries to the infinite wisdom of the one mind, we open ourselves to solutions that we could never have imagined on our own.

The statement I Am is not merely a phrase, it is a powerful affirmation of your divine nature.

Every time you say "I Am," you align yourself with the infinite power and potential of the one mind. When you declare "I Am," you acknowledge your true identity as a spiritual being, an expression of the divine. You claim your inherent power to create, heal, and experience the fullness of your potential.

By consciously connecting with your I Am presence, you tap into a wellspring of wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. You awaken to your divine purpose and embrace your role as a co-creator with the universe. Remember, you are not separate from the one mind but an integral part of its magnificent tapestry.

Embrace your divinity, live from your I Am presence, and experience the joy of being one with the infinite.

 

Here’s to Love and Light.

Rev. Leslie C. Bonner

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Unlocking Inner Peace: A Journey Within

 Unlocking Inner Peace: A Journey Within

Greetings, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.

 This ancient wisdom doesn't mean abandoning critical thinking but surrendering self-centeredness. Stop obsessing over the trivialities of life, such as the weather, the next parking space, or the next business deal. It's all about relinquishing your judgments and preconceived notions.

Understand that your thoughts and abilities alone cannot overcome the world's trials and tribulations. Instead, the key lies in a consistent acknowledgment of God within. Round the clock, every day of the year, this is the true essence of living, of dwelling in the secret place of the Most High.

Have you ever considered that perhaps the greatest journey you can embark on lies within you? Imagine a realm not bound by physical space, but rather a vibrant kingdom within your very being, a place of profound peace and unity. This is the kingdom of God within. It's not hidden far away in some distant heaven.

It resides within each of us, just waiting to be acknowledged and experienced. Here you are one with the divine, fully immersed in the sacred essence of life. This kingdom is not a destination to reach but a reality to awaken within.

Give it your best shot. After all, what have you got to lose? Namaste.

Here’s to Love and Light.

Rev. Leslie C. Bonner

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rev.-Leslie-C.-Bonner/author/B0DGFRMZK8

 

The Profound Implications of the Image of God.

 The Profound Implications of the Image of God.

 Then God said, "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." Genesis 1, 26. We are made in God's image, a concept with profound implications for understanding ourselves and our responsibilities to the world. This image is not a physical resemblance, but a reflection of God's character and attributes within us.

This includes our capacity for reason, creativity, and moral judgment. Every person, regardless of race, gender, or social standing, bears this divine imprint. This understanding should shape our interactions, fostering a sense of our shared humanity.

The image of God in both men and women underscores the principle of equality. Genesis 1, 27 states, So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them," both genders equally bear the divine image. We are all called to be earth stewards, caring for its resources and protecting its vulnerable inhabitants.

This includes not only the natural world but also our fellow human beings. We are called to act justly, love our neighbors as ourselves, and walk humbly with our God. This requires us to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every person and to treat them with respect and compassion. Our actions have consequences, both for ourselves and for the world around us.

 By living in accordance with the image of God within us, we can bring healing and restoration to a broken world. This active participation in God's work is a testament to our unique position as bearers of His image. The image of God concept forms the bedrock of ethical and moral principles.

 If we are all made in God's image, then every person deserves to be treated with love, respect, and compassion. The commandment to love your neighbor as yourself, Leviticus 19, 18, flows directly from the understanding that all people are created in God's image. Loving our neighbor means recognizing their inherent worth and treating them with the same care and concern that we would extend to ourselves.

This principle of love extends beyond our immediate circle of friends and family. It encompasses all of humanity, including those who are different from us, those who hold different beliefs, and especially those who may be considered our enemies. Our ethical actions, guided by the principle of love, are a reflection of the divine image within us.

When we choose to act with kindness, compassion, and justice, we are demonstrating the very character of God. Jesus affirmed and expanded upon the concept of the image of God in his teachings. In Matthew chapter 22 verses 37 to 40, when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus replied, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

This is the first and greatest commandment, and the second is like it, love your neighbor as yourself. All the law and the prophets hang on these two commandments. This highlights the interconnectedness between loving God and loving our neighbor.

Jesus's emphasis on love is a direct reflection of God's own nature. Loving God means seeking to know him more deeply, aligning our will with Him, and living in obedience to his commands. Loving our neighbor means treating them with the same compassion, kindness, and respect that we would extend to ourselves.

By following Jesus's example, we can more fully reflect the image of God within us and bring his love and grace to the world. The prophets of the Old Testament consistently emphasized the importance of justice and mercy as essential expressions of living in God's image. Micah chapter 6 verse 8 asks, He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. True piety is not just about religious rituals, but about living a life of righteousness and compassion. When we ignore the suffering of others, we are dishonoring the divine image within them.

By seeking justice and showing mercy, we are living out the very essence of what it means to be made in God's image.  The concept of being made in God's image also has profound implications for our understanding of humanity's interconnectedness and our role as stewards of creation. We are not isolated individuals, but part of a larger web of life.

We are called to be responsible stewards of the earth, caring for its resources and protecting its biodiversity. This stewardship is not simply about environmentalism, but about recognizing the sacredness of all creation. Our interconnectedness reminds us that we are all part of one human family.

Living in accordance with the image of God requires us to embrace our responsibilities as stewards of creation and to live in the right relationship with one another. By embracing our role as stewards, we honor God's creation and reflect His love for the world.

Here’s to love and light.

Rev.Leslie C.Bonner

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 The Healing Power of God's Light

Have you ever experienced the warmth of the sun on a cold day? It feels like a hug from above. This is a glimpse of God's light. It is a radiant, powerful force that brings life and hope.

In a world often shrouded in darkness, this light shines even brighter. Spiritual traditions across time have recognized its power. It is a beacon of love, guiding us toward truth and healing.

This light is not just an abstract idea, but a tangible presence that can transform us from the inside out. It offers solace to the grieving and strength to the weary. It illuminates our path and gives us the courage to face life's challenges.

We are all drawn to light. It represents hope, guidance, and warmth. In the same way, we are naturally drawn to the light of God.

It speaks to something deep within us, a longing for peace, love, and belonging. This essay will explore the healing power of God's light. We will delve into how it brings comfort and restoration to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

God's light is intricately woven with redemption, salvation, and spiritual guidance in the Christian faith. Through Jesus, God's light offers a way out of darkness. Jesus said, 'I am the light of the world.'

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness." Redemption means being set free from the chains of sin and darkness. God's light offers forgiveness and a new beginning.

Salvation is the gift of eternal life in God's love and grace. God's light serves as our constant guide. It illuminates our path, helping us to live according to His will.

This light is a gift freely given to all who seek it. Life can be painful. We all carry emotional scars from past hurts, disappointments, and losses.

The good news is that God's light can heal even the deepest wounds. His light brings comfort and understanding. It reminds us that we are not alone in our pain.

God sees our hurts, hears our cries, and offers His loving presence to soothe our aching hearts. Forgiveness is an essential part of this healing process. God's light helps us to forgive others just as He has forgiven us.

This releases us from the bitterness and anger that can fester within, allowing our hearts to find peace. Through prayer, we surrender our pain to God, asking for His healing touch. As we open ourselves to His light, it gradually mends the broken pieces, restoring our joy and giving us the strength to move forward.

Grief is a natural response to loss. When we lose someone we love, it can feel like our world has been plunged into darkness. It is during these times that God's light shines even brighter, offering comfort and solace.

God understands our grief. He is close to the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He offers His presence as a source of strength and peace, helping us to navigate through the darkness.

Remembering the good times we shared with our loved ones helps us to find joy even in our sadness. We know that death is not the end. Because of Christ's victory over death, we have the hope of seeing our loved ones again in eternity.

God's light does not erase our pain, but it gives us the strength to endure it. It reminds us that even in death, there is life, and that love never truly dies.

God's light is not limited to emotional and spiritual healing. It can also restore our physical bodies. We believe in His power to work miracles. Throughout history, there have been countless testimonies of people who have experienced physical healing through prayer and faith.

While we may not always understand why some are healed and others are not, we trust in God's perfect will for our lives. Taking care of our bodies is also a way of honoring God. Eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest are all ways to show respect for the temple of the Holy Spirit that resides within us.

Whether we are seeking healing for ourselves or for others, we can always turn to God in prayer, asking for His mercy and grace. There are many ways to invite God's light into our lives. Prayers, Reading, and meditating on sacred texts, deepen our spiritual experience. They remind us of God's love and grace while offering guidance and comfort.

Meditation on God’s word allows God to speak to our hearts.

These practices cultivate a deeper connection with God. God's light is a beacon of hope and transformation. It offers redemption, guidance, and healing.

May we open our hearts to receive this gift and find peace.

Here’s to love and light.

Rev.Leslie C.Bonner

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