Search Results for: reminders

Reminders to Help you Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

June 2, 2020

I can be forgetful. I think that is why I have created so many reminders (sunrays, or memes) for myself over the years. Here are a few of my favorites that help me to remember to treat others with tender loving care:

What are your favorite reminders to treat others with TLC?

Click to see other posts in this series:

5 Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

5 More Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Verses to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Great Reminders to Help with Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 5

April 28, 2020

Over the years I have created close to 300 Sunrays (memes) and this week I thought I would share my favorite ones about stress, anxiety and fear, to wrap up the COVID stress series. Feel free to print these, or keep them as images on your phone or computer. Here they are in no particular order:

Which one is your favorite? Please share! We’d love to hear from you.

Click to read other posts in this series:

10 Verses for When You Feel Stressed or Anxious – COVID Stress Relief, Part 1

Staying Safe From COVID: A Physician’s Practical Tips – COVID Stress Relief, Part 2

The Power of Kindness: COVID Stress Relief, Part 3

More Verses to Combat Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 4

Or click here to see more Belovedlove Sunrays!

Bible Verses to combat negative thinking

April 13, 2021

Voices in my head, part 7

by Lydia Floren

Awhile back, I talked about 11 strategies to overcome negative thoughts. Today, I’m going to share some powerful verses for each of those strategies. So here are some Bible verses to combat negative thinking.

Bible verses to combat negative thinking:

1. Ask God for His perspective

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV.
Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:3 NIV
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6 ESV
Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts. And see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way. Psalm 139:23-24
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. James 1:5 ESV

2. Become familiar with God’s voice.

The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. John 10:3-4 ESV
But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” Luke 11:28 ESV
And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9 ESV / 64 helpful votes
Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Ecclesiastes 5:1-20 ESV
My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart. Proverbs 4:20-21 | NIV
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17 ESV

3. Memorize and meditate on scripture.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 2 Timothy 3:16
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.Psalm 119:105 ESV
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 ESV
I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 ESV
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Matthew 24:35 ESV

4. Ask others to pray for you.

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16 niv
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert andalways keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.Eph 6:18
Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. James 5:14 ESV
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 ESV
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

5. Hang out with positive people.

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. Psalm 1:1-2
Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 ESV
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV
By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35 ESV
Watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. Romans 16:12 NIV
Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing. 1 Thess. 5:11

6. Seek out wise counsel or advice.

Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14
Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.Proverbs 15:22 ESV
Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. 3 John 1:2 ESV
Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8

7. Guard your mind.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh; but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 ESV

8. Cultivate a thankful heart.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” 1 Chronicles 16:34
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” 1 Timothy 4:4-5
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

9. Surround yourself with reminders.

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:1-35 ESV
The Lord Jesus in the night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. Psalm 143:5
Remind me each morning of your constant love, for I put my trust in you. My prayers go up to you; show me the way I should go. Psalm 143:8
Each of you is to take a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of Israel, to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ you are to tell them, ‘The waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters were cut off.’ Therefore these stones will be a memorial to the Israelites forever.” Joshua 4:5-7 BSB

10. Practice forgiveness.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Col. 3:13
Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Romans 8:34 ESV
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 ESV
For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matt 6:14-15
Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” Luke 7:47 ESV
“Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32)

11. Leave the past behind.

Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 ESV
Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 ESV
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1 BSB

What are your favorite Bible verses to combat negative thinking?

Want to read more?

Part 1: Do You Hear Voices In Your Head?

Part 2: What Are Those Inner Voices We Hear?

Part 3: How Satan Works

Part 4: Weeding Out the Lies and Responding With Truth

Part 5: What You Feed is What Will Grow.

Part 6: 11 strategies to overcome negative thoughts

We leak. We need time with God to keep our hearts full

April 5, 2021

Roger Gulick is one of the best pastors I have ever known. He is humble and kind, and a man of deep faith. One of his favorite sayings, (or at least one of my favorites) is this: “we leak.” We are frail, imperfect vessels, and the joy God gives us seeps out. And we need time with God to keep our hearts full. I have found that practicing certain habits, especially time alone with God, fills our cups to overflowing.

Life is hard

Life is hard sometimes, isn’t it? It’s easy to get distracted. Discouraged. Disillusioned. Not to mention just plain exhausted. We can start doubting our identity, our worth. We question whether God is real, and if He really cares. Our anxiety surges, and faith, joy, and love seem to seep away.

What can stem our loss of joy?

What can stem this loss? Certain habits can help us remember the truth and retain perspective of what is going on in the world. For example,

Giving thanks. The practice of giving thanks in all things.
Reminders. Surrounding ourselves with reminders of the truth.
Connections. Hanging out with other Christ-followers.
Meditation on scripture. Planting the truth of God deep in our minds.
Time alone with God. Dedicating a time in the day that we spend alone with God.

Such practices keep us from losing our joy in the daily grind. They plug some of those leaks, and refill our hearts.

The most effective habit

In my experience, the most effective habit we can practice to counteract our leakiness is spending the first part of our day with God—the Person who knows us best and loves us most. Those moments with Him are the green pastures, the quiet waters that restore our soul. In that stillness God whispers words of love. Acceptance. Forgiveness. Hope. He reminds us of who we are and who He is. He lifts our chin, and smiles in our eyes, and sets us on our way once again.

In the quiet morning our Loving Father lifts our chin, and smiles in our eyes, and sets us on our way once again.
Lydia Floren

Do you leak? Do you find your joy ebbing away, crowded out by worries and distractions? Choose to practice habits such as giving thanks, posting reminders, memorizing scripture, and spending time with other believers. And, most important, make time for God.

Take the time

Take the time every morning to listen for God’s voice, and rest in His love. We need time with God to keep our hearts full. Guard and cherish those moments with Him. They will restore your soul, and replenish your spirit, filling it to the brim once again.

Do you find that you leak? What plugs the holes in your leaky cup, and fills you up? What restores your soul? Please share. We would love to hear from you.

Overcoming Negative Thoughts

September 8, 2020

On average 70% of our thoughts are negative. These negative thoughts often come from Satan– and for good reason. Satan hates all humanity—including you, and me. He loves to cause death and destruction in our lives, and his main tactic is deception. God, on the other hand, wants us to experience abundant and fulfilling lives. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit within us counters Satan’s lies with truth, and transforms the way we think. When we let Him. Paul said:

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2

God has given us the power to overcome Satan. The Bible outlines several strategies for overcoming negative thoughts. As we practice these habits, God changes the way we think, and transforms us into new people. Here are some great examples of strategies outlined in the Bible to overcome negative thoughts:

Biblical Strategies to Overcome Negative Thoughts

Ask God for His perspective. When you find yourself in a muddle of negative thinking, ask God for His perspective. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV.

Become familiar with God’s voice. It takes time and practice to discern God’s voice from the other voices in your head. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. John 10:3-4 ESV

Memorize and meditate on scripture. There is no better way to counter negative voices than by planting the truth of God in your mind. Memorizing Bible verses and meditating on God’s word are great ways to do that. I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 ESV

Ask others to pray for you. When you don’t seem to be making headway in eliminating those negative voices—and even when you do–solicit the prayer of others, especially people you know to be mature followers of Christ. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16 NIV

Hang out with positive encouraging people. The people we spend time with influence us both positively and negatively. Hanging out with positive encouraging people will aid in silencing those negative voices in your head. Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 ESV

Seek out wise counsel or advice. It is often helpful to get the perspective of someone who has more understanding or training than you do. This might be a person who is mature in their faith, such as a pastor or spiritual mentor. It could also be a professional, such as a counselor or physician. Sometimes problems go so deep that professional help is needed to combat those negative voices. Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14

Guard your mind. Remember, what you feed is what will grow. Be careful what you expose yourself to, what you allow in your head. What you read, listen to, watch, look at online. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8

Cultivate a thankful heart. The habit of giving thanks is a game-changer. In my post, The Blessings of Giving Thanks, I outline 12 ways that the habit of thanksgiving has changed my life. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Surround yourself with reminders. If you are like me, you forget stuff—a lot. That is why reminders are so important. Reminders can take the form of a card, a post-it note, a symbol, a ritual, or even an app. The main reason I created the Sunrays on our website, and the cards, bracelets, and shell jewelry in our Store is to help people like me remember. My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:1-35 ESV

Practice forgiveness. Giving it, receiving it. Forgiveness is powerful, and life-giving. Jesus died so that we could experience this forgiveness, and He wants us to access it. When we own our faults and failings, He forgives them. He also wants us to forgive ourselves—to quit “shoulding” on ourselves—and to forgive others as well. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Col. 3:13

Leave the past behind. It’s easy to beat ourselves up about past mistakes. But Christ came so that we could be free and look forward to each day with joy and hope. Push the reset button every day. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 ESV

Want to read more?

Part 1: Do You Hear Voices In Your Head?

Part 2: What Are Those Inner Voices We Hear?

Part 3: How Satan Works

Part 4: Weeding Out the Lies and Responding With Truth

Part 5: What You Feed is What Will Grow.

Verses to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

May 26, 2020

It isn’t always easy to remember to treat others with tender loving care. Maybe that’s why there are so many places in the Bible that mention how we are to treat each other. Here are a few of my favorites:

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8

Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way. Psalm 139:23-24

If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Romans 12:18

Be rooted and grounded in love. Ephesians 3:17

Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out. 1 Thess. 5:15

An encouraging word soothes the soul. Proverbs 12:25

A friend loves at all times. Proverbs 17:17

Let all that you do be done in love. 1 Cor. 16:14

Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Psalm 141:3

There is no excuse for passing judgment on someone else. Romans 2:1

Walk in humility and gentleness, with patience, being tolerant of one another in love, diligent in preserving unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3

Speak the truth in love. Eph. 4:15

Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tender-hearted and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9

Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you. Matt. 5:44

However you want people to treat you, so treat them. Matt 7:12

Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way. Romans 14:13

Love your neighbor as you love yourself. Matt. 22:39

If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:25

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32

Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. Romans 12:9-12

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord. “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14-21

What favorite verses prompt you to treat others with tender loving care?

Click to see other posts in this series:

5 Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

5 More Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Reminders to Help you Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

5 More Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

May 19, 2020

When we are under stress, it’s harder to be nice. It’s hard enough to be kind and loving when things are going well. But when tension builds, our tempers fray, and we get more self-focused. And we are much more likely to be rude to one another. So how do we maintain a gracious spirit toward those around us when we are stressed out? Last week I talked about 5 habits that can help you stay kind under stress:

Spend time with God.
Use reminders.
Take a breath before you speak, and ask yourself: Is it helpful? Is it kind?
Leave it unsaid.
Give people the benefit of the doubt.

This week I want to add 5 more habits to this list.

5 more habits to help you stay kind under stress:

Forgive quickly. If someone did you wrong, acknowledge it. And then let it go. In the parable of the debtor, Jesus pointed out that any amount of forgiveness we offer pales in comparison to the degree of forgiveness we enjoy as God’s child.
Think (and speak) positively. Whatever is in your head is likely to come out of your mouth. Knowing this, now, more than ever it makes sense to follow Paul’s advice about focusing on the positive. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8
Laugh every day. Above my kitchen sink sits a little plaque that says “laugh every day,” courtesy of my friend Carol. I don’t know about you, but nothing changes my mood better than a good laugh. After a long day at work, one of my favorite ways to relieve stress is to tune in to Pandora’s Comedy Radio on my way home. More often than not, I’ll walk in the door smiling or laughing.
Learn from/in your mistakes. This is hard to hear, but the best way to learn how to react better under stress is to be in a stressful situation. So when you are tensed up, remember that you are in learning mode. And you are bound to make mistakes. After things settle down, take a little time to ask yourself: “Why did I say/do that? What assumptions or thoughts might be fueling my response?” In addition, ask God to give you His insight. I love David’s prayer in Psalm 139:23-24: Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.
Give yourself grace. You will mess up. Everyone does. When you do, own it. Make amends as best you can. And then let it go, and move on. Don’t keep beating yourself up. If you are constantly putting yourself down, you won’t learn or grow. You will just wallow in regret. Before Paul became a believer, he was cruel and vindictive to all Christ-followers. In order to be effective in the present, Paul had to let go of all those horrible things he did in his past. One way he did this was by continually facing forward. He reminded the Philippians to do the same. “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have laid hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on…” (Philippians 3:13-14)

When we’re under stress, it’s not easy to remember to be kind to folks. And when we aren’t, our relationships suffer. Practicing these habits can help us to build each other up, instead of tearing each other down. It’s a win-win for everyone.

What habits help you to be gracious under stress? Please share. We would love to hear from you.

Click to see other posts in this series:

5 Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Verses to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Reminders to Help you Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

5 Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

May 12, 2020

We are all under a lot of stress these days, aren’t we? And that stress can come out in unpleasant ways. Take me, for example. When I’m on edge I tend to get snappish. I am more irritable, and don’t listen as well. I am likely to be more focused on myself, and less concerned about other people. (My kids, if they’re reading this, are nodding and muttering “You think, Mom?”)

When we are stressed out, good habits of communication can fade, and ugly ones emerge–or reemerge. So how can we avoid this descent into self-absorbed crabbiness? How do we continue to treat each other with Tender Loving Care (TLC) when we are not at our best? Here are some habits that can help:

5 habits to help you treat others with TLC:

Spend time with God. Take time every morning to pray (talking and listening) and read the Bible. This is critical for every believer, especially when we are stressed. When we step back and reconnect with God, it shifts our focus off ourselves and onto Him–His wisdom, His provision, His love, His leading. We realize we are not alone. And we are not on our own. He is with us every minute of every day. And He’s got our back.
Use reminders. Even if we start our day well, we can quickly descend into the worry of the moment. Reminders, such as cards or sticky notes or some sort of symbol we carry, can help us recall and cement truth into our minds. For example, jot down a verse in the morning and carry with you through the day. You could also post reminders in your car or refrigerator, or computer monitor or in your phone. Another way to prompt your memory is to wear or carry a physical symbol of a truth, such as the bracelets, keychains or necklaces in our store. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 says “These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
Take a breath. Instead of saying the first thing that pops in your head, first take a breath. While you inhale and exhale ask yourself: Is it helpful? Is it kind? In her book, 30 days To Taming Your Tongue, author Deborah Smith Pegue gives lots of great tips like this about how to tame your tongue. (I should probably get it out and read it again.) Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. James 1:26
Leave it unsaid. One of my favorite pieces of marriage advice is “leave a few things unsaid.” Some things, no matter how they are spoken, may do more harm than good. Often, the best option is to say nothing at all. “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.”
Give people the benefit of the doubt. Right now, everyone in the world is stressed out. No one is at their best. We would all ease each other’s burdens if we just gave each other extra grace, instead of being quick to take offense or rush to judgment.

What habits help you to continue to be gracious when you are under stress?

Click to see other posts in this series:

5 More Habits to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Verses to Help You Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

Reminders to Help you Treat Others with Tender Loving Care

More Verses to Combat Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 4

April 21, 2020

Our attitudes, and thus the quality of our lives, is determined by our thoughts. And we choose what we think about. If we spend a lot of time worrying, then we will constantly be tied up in knots. But when we focus on truth, our lives will be increasingly free of worry, and filled with peace and joy and hope. Jesus said it best:

And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

With that in mind, I just want to share a few more verses that help combat anxiety and stress. (Also see 10 favorite verses to combat fear.)

More verses to combat fear, anxiety, worry, and stress:

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matt 11:28-30

We get burdened down with fear and worry. God says to come to Him, and leave our worry at His feet. Rest. And then do what He is leading you to do today.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Tim. 1:7

Because God is within us, and His spirit is joined to our spirit, we can claim the power, love and self-discipline that is ours.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

God always has our back. He leaves no man behind.

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Matt 14:27

When we realize that God is in the middle of our storm, we can let go of our fear.

Fear not for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1

Because we are God’s children, we are safe. We have nothing to fear.

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. Psalm 94:19

God’s encouragement and compassion turns our anxiety into joy.

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. John 4:18

God loves us perfectly. We can trust him to take care of us and lead us in the best way. The more we live in this reality, the less anxious we will be.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3

Trust is a choice. And God is trustworthy.

The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? Psalm 118:6

The most powerful person in the universe is with every believer. We don’t have to be afraid.

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. Proverbs 29:25 NIV

Fear is a mind trap we can fall into. But when we trust God, He will keep us safe.

The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1 NIV

God is our place of safety. Our light. Because of Him we have eternal life. We don’t need to worry or be afraid.

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. John 14:1 NIV

Don’t give in to fear. Believe in God’s goodness, His love, His care for you.

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31 NIV

God treasures you. He loves you more than you can imagine. He knows everything about you. he knows exactly what is going on. You can trust Him to take care of you and those you love.

And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? Matt 6:27

Worry does nothing productive.

And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! Matt 6:28-30

God cares for us much more than He does any other living thing on the earth. He takes care of His creation, and He will take care of us even more so.

These, and the ones mentioned previously, are my “go to” verses for fear, anxiety, worry and stress.

What are your favorites?

Click to read other posts in this series:

10 Verses for When You Feel Stressed or Anxious – COVID Stress Relief, Part 1

Staying Safe From COVID: A Physician’s Practical Tips – COVID Stress Relief, Part 2

The Power of Kindness – COVID Stress Relief, Part 3

Great Reminders to Help with Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 5

The Power of Kindness – COVID Stress Relief, Part 3

April 14, 2020

Almost everyone in the world is stressed because of the COVID pandemic. And each person’s situation has its own special strains. You may be stuck at home with preschoolers, trying to work from home while cleaning up messes and changing diapers. Or a small business owner who has been completely shut down. Or a manager at Amazon, stressed out because of the uptick in orders. You might be an extrovert plunged into an introvert world, trying to remain connected with others while also staying safe. Or a healthcare worker facing increasing exposure to disease while trying to adapt to new job duties.

Whatever your situation is, just remember to be extra kind to the people around you. An act of kindness will lighten another person’s load, and often bring a smile to their face.

Kindness can take many forms. For example, kindness is…

…taking the time to learn someone’s name. And then remembering it.

…allowing other people the space they need to grow.

…caring for yourself so that you can care for others.

…giving someone the benefit of the doubt.

…choosing to think the best of someone, and always doing your best to bring it out.

…doing your part, and then some.

Kindness is refusing to hold a grudge.

Kindness is forgiving and forgetting.

Kindness is …

…having a positive attitude.

…not complaining. At all.

…taking responsibility for your own life instead of blaming your problems on someone else.

…keeping a secret.

…refusing to guilt someone into doing what you want them to do.

…tickling someone’s funny bone.

…laughing with folks but never laughing at them.

…choosing to have a thankful heart.

…leaving a few things unsaid.

…refraining from giving advice.

…choosing not to take offense, and try not to give offense.

…a genuine compliment.

…an unexpected gift.

What does kindness mean to you?? Let us know in the comments!

Click to read other posts in this series:

10 Verses for When You Feel Stressed or Anxious – COVID Stress Relief, Part 1

Staying Safe From COVID: A Physician’s Practical Tips – COVID Stress Relief, Part 2

More Verses to Combat Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 4

Great Reminders to Help with Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 5

Staying Safe From COVID: A Physician’s Practical Tips – COVID Stress Relief, Part 2

April 1, 2020

What are the best practical tips for minimizing exposure and spread of the COVID-19 virus?

There is a flood of information out there about what you should and shouldn’t do to stay safe and keep from infecting others. Just reading it all is stressful. How do you sift through it and come up with a reasonable plan for the next several months? A lot of people have been asking me about this, so I thought I would share with you what I am doing personally to stay safe. (Just remember, I am not speaking for any organization. I am simply sharing with you what makes sense to me based on the vast amount of articles I have been reading, combined with my training as a physician.)

Practical tips for staying safe

10 tips for staying safe at home:

Cleaning products: there is a very extensive and confusing list on the EPA website about what products are effective against the COVID-19 virus. (Click here for complete list.) While COVID it is relatively easy to kill, please be aware that some common cleaning products such as vinegar and baking soda DO NOT kill COVID-19. Read your labels, and if in doubt, check the product’s website or the EPA site. Things that work great:

- 60% isopropyl alcohol (or ethanol, 60% or at least 120 proof)
- Bleach solution (1/3 cup bleach per gallon, or 3 tsp per quart. Make sure bleach is not expired.)
- Ammonia
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Standard “disinfectant” products
- Hand sanitizer
- Soap and water (if you scrub for 20 seconds).

Hand washing. For many of us, hand washing at home can pretty minimal. THAT HAS TO CHANGE if you want to rid your hands of any possible COVID-19 germs. You need to thoroughly wash with soap and water. There are lots of tutorials out there on hand washing. Here is a good one.
Daily: Wipe down much used surfaces every day, with something that will kill the virus fairly quickly. (Weak bleach solution, disinfectant wipes or sprays.) Let the product stay on the surface and air dry. Don’t dry off. (Here is a list of what I wash down every day: doorknobs, light switches, lamp switches, toilet seats and handles, all cabinet handles in kitchen and bathroom, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, washer and dryer handles, remote control, cell phones, regular phones, computer.) I also frequently disinfect pens/pencils and eyeglasses (we have a ton of readers lying around).
Weekly: Thoroughly clean the house every week. Vacuum frequently and keep dust to a minimum.
Disinfect anything that comes in the house—anything. If you get a package, open it, wipe down the contents, throw away the outside package (or if you recycle, don’t touch it for at least 1-2 days if it is cardboard, longer if it is other material.) If you leave something in the garage you have not sanitized, write the date that it is safe to touch on it. And leave it alone until then.
Clean air: Open the windows and get fresh air. COVID-19 is much more likely to be IN your home than outside, so when you mix outside air with inside air, your chances of getting airborne COVID go down. If you have an air filter, keep it on all the time. Replace your heating/air conditioning filter if it is old, and get a HEPA filter if possible.
Minimize contact with children. And minimize your children’s contact with other children. Kids get COVID-19 with little or no symptoms, and because they are not very good at social distancing, they are much more likely to spread the virus to others incognito. No play dates at the park. In fact, I would not recommend going to a public playground, unless you plan to first wipe down every surface and forbid any other children to play on it.
Wear outside shoes when you are outside, and inside shoes when you are inside. This will keep you from tracking something from a surface where you have been back into the home. (Wisconsinites are really good at this!)
If you get food delivery, wear a mask when you answer the door (see below), or get the delivery person to leave it on the steps. When you bring the food inside, wipe down and sterilize the packaging. Including what the food is wrapped in. Alternatively, you could unwrap it without touching the food, and place it on a clean plate, and then wash your hands.
If you wear contacts, consider changing to the daily wear type, and throw them away at the end of the day. (I’m switching over this week.)

10 tips for staying safe when you have to go out:

Take hand sanitizer and use it when you get in the car and get out of the car. Wipe down your steering wheel, car handles, and dashboard regularly.
Get some made-at-home masks. Don’t deplete the already limited supply of hospital grade masks out there. Save them for the frontline professionals, who are at highest risk. You can make masks yourself (website tutorial here). There are also lots of people around the country making masks. There is probably someone in your area who would sell or give you a homemade mask. If not, you could follow the instructions from one of the many tutorials, and just use hot glue instead of sewing. This works great, actually. Use fabric that is tightly woven, not knit. And at least 2 layers of fabric. I used some old pillowcases for mine. I personally like the strings better than the elastic, because the fit is tighter. If you don’t have binding to make the ties, strings or ribbons work well.
Wear a mask + eye protection (glasses, goggles) if you are going to be around other people, like at a store, or even a drive through. This may seem like overkill to some of you, but here are the reasons why I do this:
- Other people aren’t wearing masks and eye protection. From what I have seen so far, cashiers and restaurant workers are not wearing face protection. Many times you will get close enough to these people for transmission to occur when you are checking out or being handed your takeout order. Same goes for delivery folks.
- Eyewear and masks will keep you from touching your mouth and eyes with potentially infected hands. Most people regularly touch their face (including either mouth, nose or eyes) several times per hour. And when you are at a place such as a grocery store, you will touch a lot of surfaces other people have touched. The eye and face protection can serve as a barrier to keep you from then transmitting potential infection to yourself.
- Masks also protect you to some degree from possible airborne source of infection. Homemade masks are not ideal for this, but they do help. The ones that are multilayered, and have a place for a filter, obviously will provide better protection than some other styles.
- Protecting others. If you sneeze or cough while out, it will reduce or keep particles from spreading to others. (Always act like you are infected, as well as other people, when you are out.)
Grocery store bags: If you use fabric bags, put them immediately in the wash when you get home. So if you use plastic bags, put them in the trash or clean recycle bin immediately after emptying, and don’t touch them for at least 2 weeks. In one study from a cruise ship, COVID-19 was found on plastic 17 days after exposure.
When you get home: Don’t forget to sanitize keys, credit cards, wallet, purse, or anything else you take in the house. (Think twice about how many things you need to carry with you – the less you bring out of the house, the less you will need to sanitize when you return.) Designate a “dirty” spot where you can dump keys, phone, sunglasses, etc. when you walk in the door. Take your mask off and put it in the wash. Clean your shoes or leave them at the door.
Disinfect your groceries. Wipe down all surfaces that come in the house.
Wash your produce. I soak all my produce in a dilute bleach solution. I let it sit in this solution for at least 5 minutes, and then rinse with tap water. It is quite important to rinse off all produce after soaking for 3-5 minutes in order to prevent potential toxicity. Why? Produce has been handled not only by grocery store staff, but by many people picking something up and putting it back down. In my opinion, it is an overlooked source of infection. And as noted above, I do not recommend using vinegar – it doesn’t kill COVID, and becomes highly toxic when mixed with bleach.
If you work with the public, wear a mask/eye protection and wash your hands frequently.
If you are a health care worker, you may consider extra precautions, such as removing and laundering all work clothes when you get home and immediately taking a shower.
Wear a waterproof watch. I have a Fitbit that I keep on, and when I wash my hands, or get in the shower, that gets washed too. Along the same vein, minimize jewelry, especially rings and bracelets.

So given what I know about the COVID-19 virus— how it spreads, what kills it, and how to minimize exposure, these are the things that I practice at home to minimize infection from the community. (They represent my personal practices, and not any professional association that I am connected to.)

Let me know your thoughts. And feel free to add any great links or websites to your comments.

Stay safe out there.

Lydia Floren, MD

3-31-20

If you would like a downloadable pdf of Staying Safe From COVID: A Physician’s Practical Tips, please click here and sign up for my weekly email.

The views expressed on this blog are my own and do not reflect the views of my employer.

Click to read other posts in this series:

10 Verses for When You Feel Stressed or Anxious – COVID Stress Relief, Part 1

The Power of Kindness – COVID Stress Relief, Part 3

More Verses to Combat Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 4

Great Reminders to Help with Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 5

10 Verses for When You Feel Stressed or Anxious – COVID Stress Relief, Part 1

March 25, 2020

The COVID-19 crisis has placed a lot of stress on everyone worldwide. Every day there seems to be more cause for anxiety. Health concerns, food shortages, travel restrictions, financial worries, unemployment, childcare needs. In addition to all that, healthcare workers experience the added pressure of a heavier work load, higher risk of disease, and changing job responsibilities.

We are not powerless

Even though we are all stressed, we need to remember that we are not powerless. There are several things we can do to lower our stress level in this challenging time, and I will touch on a few in the coming weeks. Today I want to talk about fighting fear with facts. And by that I don’t mean the “facts” that you heard from your brother’s uncle-in-law. I’m talking about facts that have withstood centuries of crises. Facts straight from the source—our loving Creator.

A lot of our lives are lived in our heads. And that’s where the fear or anxiety originates. So what we think about will affect our level of stress. And we choose what we think about. So one way we can abort our tumble into the abyss of worry is to intentionally call to mind the truths of the Bible.

I put together my 10 favorite verses on fear and worry. Print them out. Stick them on your fridge. Memorize them. Immerse your mind in the truth, and it will help to displace your anxious thoughts with powerful facts.

10 Great Verses to Combat Fear

Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid. John 14:27

God has given us His supernatural peace.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4

The reason we can go into this uncertain future free from worry is because God is with us. And He’s got this.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

God—the most powerful person in the universe—is with us. He will give us strength. He will help us. He will encourage us.

For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” Isaiah 41:13

Remember who God is. He is the most powerful and compassionate person in the universe, who cherishes you intimately and deeply. This is the person who is helping us.

So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34

It doesn’t do any good to worry about everything that might happen. Prepare for tomorrow. Focus on today.

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4 NIV

When we seek out God, He answers. He reminds us that we are safe. He frees us from all our anxiety and fear.

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

When we focus on God, everything falls into place. We know that He is in control. And He loves each of us more than we can imagine. He’s got this, and He will see us through.

Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

We can leave all our worries with God. He loves us, and will take care of us.

For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” Romans 8:15

We don’t have to be enslaved to our fear. We are God’s child, and we can shout out “Daddy!” and He is right there.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

When you are worried or anxious, instead of focusing on the problem, choose to pray. Let God know how you are feeling, and what you need. And thank Him. (There is always something to be thankful for.) When you do, His supernatural peace will envelope you like a warm blanket on a cold day.

Come back next week for more tips to manage anxiety and stressed during this challenging time. Or if you can’t wait, click here to jump over to my series on Banishing Anxiety.

What are your favorite verses to help with stress relief? Please share. We would all love to know.

Click to read other posts in this series:

Staying Safe From COVID: A Physician’s Practical Tips – COVID Stress Relief, Part 2

The Power of Kindness – COVID Stress Relief, Part 3

More Verses to Combat Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 4

Great Reminders to Help with Anxiety and Stress – COVID Stress Relief, Part 5