Wednesday, May 8, 2002
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Wednesday, May 8, 2002 |
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Start your day with a 7-Up By JOHN HATCHER The Internet has opened up for the commoner that's me a global library. Right at my very Windows. Gerry Schumacher, my Wisconsin brother-in-law, often sends me via e-mail golden nuggets of wisdom since he has entered the years of wisdom (with about ten more good years to go to hear him put it). Several weeks ago, I took some of his passed-along wisdom to share with senior adults at the Alterra Assisted Living Center in Dunwoody. Because they appreciated these "7 Ups" so much, I thought I would pass them along to you, knowing that I can't claim credit for any of the "ups." These "7 Ups" will change any day and any sorry disposition. Post them on your refrigerator and try to stay up at least for the rest of the week. First, Wake Up! When you get up in the morning, make the critical decision: "I will have a good day." Reference Psalm 118:24, "Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Second, Dress up! The best way to dress up is to slap a smile on your face. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve anyone's looks. Reference 1 Samuel 16:7, "The Lord does not look at the things man looks; man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." Third, Shut Up! Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so he must mean for us to listen twice as much as talk. Reference Proverbs 13:3, "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Fourth, Stand Up! Stand up for that in which you believe. Stand for something or you will fall for anything. Reference Galatians 6:9,10, "Let us not grow weary in well doing; for in the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Fifth, Look Up! We should always look up to the Lord because his Word declares in Philippians 4:13, "I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me." Sixth, Reach Up! Reach for those things that are higher. Reference Proverbs 3:5,6,"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Seventh, Lift Up! Lift your prayers to a God who cares about your every need. Reference Philippians 4:6, "Do not worry about anything; instead pray about everything." The 7 Ups can make a difference! You may never have another down day!
The Rev. Dr. John Hatcher is pastor of River's Edge Community
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