STRENGTHENING OUR CORE

We live at a time when tensions and fear run high. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) classifies the coronavirus as pandemic. In other words, the CDC believes this virus has spread across continents and possibly throughout the world. The U.S. has closed its borders to visitors from some foreign countries. Grocery stores can’t stock their shelves fast enough. The stock market recently has taken significant hits.

So what do we do?

Several years ago, before yoga, pilates, and the barre, the craze sweeping the health and fitness world had to do with core strength training—exercises to strengthen your midsection—your abdominal and back muscles. Why strengthen your core? A number of advocates say a stronger core promotes better balance and stability.

I suggest we go back to strengthening our core. That is, our core beliefs.

The Bible mentions the word fear approximately 500 times. On occasion its use describes the benefits of fearing (respecting, loving, trusting) God. Other times it encourages us not to fear but to place our trust in God.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. (Prov.3:5 NLT)

We have no previous point of reference or historical data for the situation we’re currently facing. We can use good common-sense regarding hygiene (handwashing, covering a sneeze/cough, disinfecting surfaces), drinking water, and travel restrictions. However, there’s only one place our fears belong. Only one power alone can alleviate them.

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

David faced many fear-inducing situations, i.e., a bear, a lion, and a giant. So often he says he prayed and meditated on the Word of God. Consider this:

My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:2 NIV)

The following words were penned long ago by someone God gave abundant opportunities to put aside his fear and strengthen his trust in Him. Moses wrote:

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. (Deut. 31:6 NIV)

It’s time to exercise our core beliefs. Do a search in the Bible for words of encouragement like trust, hope, or strength. I found one hundred references with the word strength without breaking a sweat (pardon the pun!). Another idea—listen to Christian songs with the word strength in them. Hint:  look up top ten Christian songs about strength on www.godtube.com.  May I suggest:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k47xB8eoT5g

Warning:  retaining our core beliefs may involve exercising facial muscles too. Smile. Not because we know what tomorrow holds, but we know who holds every one of our days, and we know He is faithful and just.

Blog post Amre Cortadino

www.merryheartink.com

To leave a comment, please click on the title above STRENGTHENING OUR CORE and scroll down.  Thank you!  🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Mac
Mac
3 years ago

Hi this blog … good. I appreciate it!

Debbie
Debbie
4 years ago

Very inspiring words, Erma. Thank you for sharing your gift with us!!!

Kathy McKinsey
4 years ago

I’m smiling and praying.:)

Jeanne Allen
Jeanne Allen
4 years ago

Beautiful words spoken by someone filled with the Holy Spirit!

Sharon Simms
Sharon Simms
4 years ago

This is so on point! I smiled when you referenced strengthening our physical core and its benefits. Ironic that I’m working on that and my spiritual core at the same time. I believe my spiritual core is stronger!? God bless you for the timely encouragement. I will share this.

Cindy Mcgregor
Cindy Mcgregor
4 years ago

I’m glad I read this before I go to bed. I will sleep better knowing that God is are every day strength. Thank you Erma for reminding me to smile and love that God is in control.

Linda Center
4 years ago

What a comforting post to remind us to grab hold of the anchor of our souls no matter what storms might come our way.
Thanks for sharing.

Robby Kautz
4 years ago

This is such a timely message, and is appreciated!

Ann Malley
4 years ago

Consoling and precisely what’s needed, Amre. Thank you!

Paula Adams
Paula Adams
4 years ago

Erma, with so much negative news I find your comments very comforting. It’s so easy to take our eyes off our Heavenly Father’s promises. Thank you for sharing these wonderful scriptures and your encouraging words.

Peter U
Peter U
4 years ago

Peter. Greek name, Petros (or Petrus): Meaning “rock” or “stone”

I’d say this is a good time for me to stand by the meaning of my name 🙂

Thank you for the wonderful words of encouragement and enlightenment!

Patti Shene
4 years ago

This is excellent, Erma! Thank you so much for sharing!

Lorraine Howe
Lorraine Howe
4 years ago

Foundational words in tumultuous times. Thanks for bringing us back to the solid basics and the one thing we do have control over-
Prayer

Dave
Dave
4 years ago

“Who shall ascend the mountain of the Lord and stand in His holy place?
“The one who has clean hands and a pure heart.”
(Psalm 24:3-4)

Joan Wizner
Joan Wizner
4 years ago

Awesome!! Great reminder that no matter what our circumstances are around us, we can trust Him and rest in Him fully.

Carolee StClair
Carolee StClair
4 years ago

Erma, thanks for this. It has a quieting effect, slows down the fear. God is in charge. Put our faith in Him

Mary Pat Johns
4 years ago

You nailed this one! Thanks for sharing these words of wisdom with us.

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