New from Faith Signal Archives - Faith signal

Tackle 4 Challenges Today

Patrick J — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:57:32 +0000

4 Challenges to Tackle Today: A Faith-Based Perspective

In our journey of faith, we often encounter obstacles that can hinder our growth and potential. Today, I invite you to tackle four challenges that can help you align your mindset with the promises of God. Let’s explore how faith can empower us to overcome these challenges.

1. Rewrite One Limiting Belief

Challenge: Take one thought that’s holding you back and flip it.

Faith Signal: Often, we let our doubts overshadow our faith. For instance, if you find yourself thinking, “I’m not ready,” flip it to “I’m growing into this.” Remember Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Embrace the truth that God is preparing you for what lies ahead.

Your Action: Write down your limiting belief and reframe it with a positive, faith-filled statement.

2. Journal Your Wins

Challenge: Every day, write down one thing you did well.

Faith Signal: Acknowledging our successes, no matter how small, helps us recognize God’s hand in our lives. Psalm 103:2 encourages us to “forget not all His benefits.” By journaling your wins, you cultivate gratitude and a positive mindset, which can enhance your faith journey.

Your Action: Dedicate a few minutes each evening to reflect on and write down your daily achievements.

3. Cut the Negativity

Challenge: Identify one source of negativity in your life and eliminate or reduce it.

Faith Signal: Negativity can cloud our vision and distract us from God’s purpose. Romans 12:2 reminds us to “not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Identify a negative influence—be it a person, habit, or thought—and take steps to minimize its impact on your life.

Your Action: Make a conscious decision to distance yourself from negativity, replacing it with uplifting and faith-affirming influences.

4. Take a Bold Step

Challenge: Do one thing this week that scares you a little.

Faith Signal: Stepping out of our comfort zone is often where we find growth. Joshua 1:9 encourages us to “be strong and courageous.” By facing our fears, we demonstrate our trust in God’s plan for us. Taking bold steps can lead to incredible breakthroughs in our faith and personal lives.

Your Action: Identify one fear you want to confront and take a small step towards overcoming it this week.

By embracing these challenges with YOUR faith-based perspective, we can transform our lives and deepen our relationship with God. Remember, each step you take is an opportunity to grow in faith and strength. Let’s tackle these challenges together and witness the amazing things God can do in our lives!

The post Tackle 4 Challenges Today appeared first on Faith signal.

Risk is not Your Biggest Enemy…

Patrick J — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:29:37 +0000

The Single Biggest Risk of All

And that’s the thing about risk: it isn’t the enemy. Comfort is. We can become snared by the mundane, held in place by habits that give us the illusion of security. But let’s face it: we’re all on the brink of a choice right now. You have a choice: bet on yourself or play safe. Mindset is everything!

The Illusion of Safety

As safe as this might be, it’s deceptive. You walk in quicksand. The less you move, the faster you go. Each second of hesitation is a wasted moment. Consider this: when was the last time you really felt like you were alive? Was it when you threw yourself in front of the crowd or when you jumped off the edge?

The heroes you admire – those who conquered worlds, made families rich, and yes even destroyed lives – weren’t taking things easy. They took calculated risks, driven by their belief in themselves and their mission. They faced uncertainty optimistically, trusting that every small move would get them one step closer to the goal. They waited, knowing that great things require time and patience.

The Power of Faith

“But I trust in you, Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.” — Psalm 31:14-15 (NIV)

Religion can be a transformative force. It’s the idea that despite everything that’s against you, you can make it happen. It’s about believing in yourself and your potential, even if the road ahead seems unclear. When you’re confident, you take more chances because you believe the good will come out.

Think about the journeys of entrepreneurs and leaders. Many of them faced incredible setbacks but their conviction about vision and cause moved them forward. They did not sit and wait for an opening; they made it happen. They knew that if you wait for the “right time” you miss opportunities.

Cultivating Hope

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Hope is what propels us through the storm of life. It’s the promise of the end, the promise of hope. If you’re optimistic, then every failure becomes a lesson. You begin to regard obstacles as bridging rather than blocking your path.

Putting hope into your choices can change your outlook. Instead of getting scared of the unknown, you can approach it with curiosity and enthusiasm. What if this risk creates something spectacular? What if this leap of faith opens doors you never knew you had? So much potential can arise when you allow hope to guide you.

The Importance of Patience

“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” — Psalm 27:14 (NIV)

Faith and hope are necessary, but we need to be patient as well. For those of us in a society that wants things immediately, patience can seem like an obsolete skill. However, great achievements take time. There will be some bumps in your path to reaching your targets and you need to stay strong and patient with them.

If you’re taking a chance, you want to know that it might not be an instant winner. There will be ups and downs and misgivings. But if you wait, you can work around these challenges and keep your eyes open. Keep in mind that any major achievement comes from continual work and determination.

Do It Now!

Why, then, aren’t you taking the leap? It’s time to act! Fear, or insecurity, don’t control you. Don’t shy away from the pain of change and make that leap. Stop saying ‘tomorrow’.

Here’s how you can start:

Identify Your Objectives: What are you really looking to accomplish? Write down your intentions and picture yourself achieving them.
Calculate Your Risks: Assess how much you risk your efforts. Are they calculated? What could go wrong?
Small Changes: Don’t expect big changes overnight. Take small, achievable steps toward your goal.
Surround Yourself with Positive People: Look for people who support you and your vision.
Accept Failure: Realize that failures are inevitable. Use them as tools for progress.
Stay Focused: Commit to your choices and stay connected to your mission.

The post Risk is not Your Biggest Enemy… appeared first on Faith signal.

Sitting Still With It.

Patrick J — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 23:56:40 +0000

Sitting with Our Battle: Keeping Faith Through Obstacles

Hey there, friends! Today, I want to share something personal: how we can draw on faith to sit with our pain rather than run from it. Instead of reaching for a beer, a cigarette, or other distractions, what if we embraced our challenges with faith?

The Power of Presence

Let’s start by emphasizing the importance of being present. It’s crucial to embrace our feelings—even the messy ones. By opening ourselves up to sadness, anxiety, or frustration, we facilitate discovery and healing. Faith can be our best ally on this journey, inviting us to be present and compassionate rather than critical.

Faith as Our Rock

Faith serves as a comforting hug during hard times. It guides us through the storm, providing solace when we need it most. I’ve witnessed this firsthand in my life!

A Little Story Time

Let me share a quick anecdote. Two years ago, I was guiding a class of children at a summer camp. One camper had a troubled history—he was expelled the previous year! I initially felt apprehensive, but we faced some rough patches that week. By the end, I was so proud of him—and he was proud of himself! Years later, he wrote me a touching letter, thanking me for believing in him. He graduated high school with honors and is now heading to college. Talk about a full-circle moment!

How to Avoid the Elephant in the Room

Let’s be honest: while it might feel good to shove our problems aside, this often leads to deeper issues later on. Whether it’s drinking, smoking, or simply running away, these habits can be tough to break.

The Long Game

We should confront our challenges head-on. When we do, we heal and grow. The story of that camper illustrates how overcoming difficulties can lead to phenomenal changes.

How to Sit With Your Worries: Steps for Dealing with Your Concerns

So, how do we come to terms with our difficulties? Here are some suggestions:

Prayer and Meditation

Spend time in your faith daily. Whether through prayer, meditation, or simply reflecting, find what brings you peace. Learn more about the benefits of meditation here.
Journaling
Grab a pen and paper and start writing. Document your feelings and how your faith helps you through tough days. It’s a powerful way to process emotions! Check out journaling techniques here.
Lean on Your Community
Don’t hesitate to reach out! Share your struggles with friends or your church community. Sometimes, talking it through is all you need. Explore community support resources here.

Finding Hope and Growth

We must endure our challenges, as they often lead to profound growth. By facing our shadows, we become more open to connections and wisdom.

A Little Reminder

Remember that camper I mentioned? His journey taught me the importance of small steps. Whether it’s a smile to a stranger or a kind word to a friend, we can all make a difference.

So, let’s commit to sitting with our discomfort instead of running away. Our faith can guide us through life’s roughest moments, helping us heal and reconnect with others. Let’s be grateful for our experiences, no matter how rocky!

Share Your Thoughts!

How has faith helped you navigate life’s challenges? Leave your stories below and inspire each other on this journey!

The post Sitting Still With It. appeared first on Faith signal.

Rollercoaster Of Mental Wellness.

Patrick J — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:58:32 +0000

Supporting Friends Through Mental Health Challenges: A Faith-Based Perspective

Let’s talk about something that’s becoming more and more common in our fast-paced world – mental health challenges. I’ve been thinking a lot about how we can really show up for our friends and family members when they’re struggling. You know what’s amazing? When we combine our faith with our desire to help, we can create this incredibly supportive and understanding environment for those we care about.

The Power of Really Listening (And I Mean Really Listening) I’ve learned that one of the most powerful things we can do for a friend who’s struggling is simply to listen – and I don’t mean just nodding along while thinking about what’s for dinner! It’s about being fully present, letting them know they’re heard without judgment. Think about it – when was the last time someone truly listened to you? It’s such a gift to create that safe space where someone can just… be.

Getting Practical With Our Help Here’s something I’ve discovered – sometimes the biggest way to show love is through the smallest actions. When someone’s dealing with mental health challenges, even the everyday stuff can feel overwhelming. Maybe it’s helping them tackle that pile of laundry that’s been staring them down, grabbing groceries when you’re already at the store, or showing up with their favorite comfort food. These aren’t just tasks – they’re ways of saying “I see you, I care about you, and you’re not alone in this.”

Getting Professional Help (Because We Can’t Do It All) Look, as much as we want to be Superman or Superwoman for our friends, sometimes the most loving thing we can do is acknowledge when they need more help than we can give. I’ve been there – watching someone struggle and wanting to fix everything myself. But here’s the truth: encouraging them to talk to a mental health professional isn’t giving up – it’s giving them another tool in their toolbox. Maybe offer to help them find someone, or even sit with them while they make that first call. Trust me, just having someone there can make that scary first step feel a lot less intimidating.

The Power of Prayer (It’s More Than Just Words) You know what’s beautiful about faith? It reminds us we’re never really alone. When I pray with friends who are struggling, something powerful happens. It’s not just about the words we’re saying – it’s about creating this sacred space where hope can grow. Sometimes we don’t even need words – just sitting together in that quiet moment of connection with God can bring more peace than any advice we could offer.

Faith Can Move Mountains

Looking for faith-inspired decals? Our Faith Can Decal Vinyl Sticker is durable and suitable for various surfaces like cars, trucks, walls, and laptops. With its powerful message “Faith Can,” it’s ideal for those seeking faith-driven inspirational gifts.

faithsignal.com/product/faith-can-move-mountains

Riding the Rollercoaster Together Here’s something nobody tells you about supporting someone through mental health challenges – it’s rarely a straight line from struggle to success. Some days will be great, and you’ll think “We’ve got this!” Other days… well, let’s just say progress might look more like getting out of bed or answering a text. And you know what? That’s okay. Your job isn’t to fix everything – it’s to be that consistent, steady presence saying “I’m here for all of it.”

Building Your Village Remember that old saying “it takes a village”? Well, it’s true! I’ve seen the amazing things that can happen when people connect with others who get what they’re going through. Maybe it’s a faith-based support group, a weekly coffee meetup, or even an online community – the key is finding those people who can walk alongside them (and you) on this journey.

The Heart of It All Let me wrap this up with something I’ve learned through my own experiences as a parent of special needs children: supporting someone through mental health challenges isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up, being real, and letting your faith guide you in loving them well. Sometimes it’s messy, sometimes it’s beautiful, but it’s always worth it.

Remember, every small act of kindness, every prayer, every “I’m here for you” text – it all matters. You might not see the impact right away (trust me, I’ve been surprised years later by how much little things meant to people), but your presence and support can be the light someone needs to find their way through the darkness.

And hey, if you’re reading this while supporting someone through their mental health journey – you are a blessing to them. Faith can move mountains and you may just be that source to help keep faith, there are no mistakes in who you meet.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself too. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup!

The post Rollercoaster Of Mental Wellness. appeared first on Faith signal.

The Ties That Bind: The Wins

Patrick J — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 15:11:52 +0000

Have you experienced that moment when someone reminds you of your birthday without hitting Facebook’s reminder button or the generic posting on Social Media? Or when your friend brings over your favorite cup of coffee just for no reason? These times – it’s just pure magic. They’re the fabrics that knit our friendships together into something truly wonderful, and frankly, they deserve more time than we normally pay them.

Let’s focus on those milestones. We are all well-acquainted with birthdays, but what counts is how we revel in them. Not everything needs to be monumental – there’s nothing quite like that midnight text “Happy Birthday, you rock!”. These celebrations? They aren’t parties – they’re deposits in our bank of friends that continue to yield dividends.

As far as tradition goes, let’s talk about traditions. Whether it’s your annual “Friendsgiving” where everyone brings their greatest culinary disaster, or that monthly lunch where you resolve all the world’s problems (or at least try). They’re not mere routine meetings – they’re your friend’s moves, the gravy that renders your friendship unique. But believe me, these traditions become the stories you’ll laugh about years later.

What about the things we say – or don’t say. “I’m proud of you.” You handled that amazingly. “Your insight is legendary.” Simple? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely. These are not just compliments; they’re verbal high-fives that make someone’s day. And the best part? They’re free!

What we don’t often consider: not all celebrations involve confetti and a party (although, frankly, that would be pretty cool). Perhaps your friend finally decluttered their garage after three years of talking about it. Celebrate it! Or they learned how to churn out the perfect grilled cheese. That’s worth a victory dance! These small wins? They’re the foundations of greater achievements.

And here’s the kicker – when you become that other person who gets people on their pedestal, it works. It spreads. Just like the time you cheered for your friend’s new blog and they’re suddenly supporting their cousin’s art show, who in turn supports their neighbor’s landscape project. You’ve just set off a celebration ripple! Like letting someone out in traffic, it pays forward.

So here is my challenge to you: Be that party starter. Be the friend who sees the silver lining, who delivers the cupcakes by surprise, who sends the appreciate you text. Because in an increasingly burdened world we need more people that can let the light into the good.

But, you know, it doesn’t matter how big the party is – it’s just coming out and saying, “hey, I’m over here, and this is what you’re doing.” Those moments? It is they who transform everyday friendships a solid base brother or sister.

And trust me, just like that letter years later I received from the summer camp camper, you never know how your small gesture of joy might resonate in someone’s life. So don’t hesitate – be that person who makes others happy. More of that kind of pleasure is needed in the world.

You are friends. It is okay to support each other.

P.S. So if you’re reading this and have a friend who you feel has to be celebrated right now – yes, here’s your invitation to text or call. Go spread some joy!

The post The Ties That Bind: The Wins appeared first on Faith signal.

Building One Another Up

Patrick J — Sat, 02 Nov 2024 18:04:54 +0000

Something happened in my neighborhood coffee shop a couple of years back. Two friends turned up at each other’s doorstep every Tuesday morning, notebooks in hand, not to just catch up, but to intentionally invest in each other. It was their “Growth Tuesday,” they said. It occurred to me then how friendship is when we decide to be part of the adventure.

Friendship, after all, is not about finding somebody to do something with(although that is a great thing too). You want to have someone around you who knows you have what it takes, even if you don’t think you do. It’s that nudge when you’re feeling ready to quit, that push when you break through.

Now let’s see how it plays out on the ground. Because, my friend, this is not just theory – here is where the stakes are in our walk with faith our own development.

The Power of Intentional Friendship

First thing’s first: you don’t grow overnight. We, like those coffee shop acquaintances, have to be mindful. And that can look like this:

Monthly Updates: Make sure you have a specific time to speak with each about your spiritual and life plans. It can be weekly, it could be monthly, just stick to it.

Prayer Network: Tell one another about what is going well and what is hindering you and pray for your area of expansion.

Scripture or Life Discussion Commitment: If it is scripture or more casual lifestyle learning discussions (kids, pets, sports, current events…whatever) talk about what you are learning. Those “aha” moments are best with the ones you share!

Set Aim Together: Create BIG SMART dreams, and turn the BIG into SUCCESSFUL steps. When someone goes, “Oh, how’s that going? can be incredibly motivating.

But Here’s the Real Talk…

It’s not always comfortable. Growth rarely is. Be a good friend, too, on the occasion of having to ask: “Well how is your prayer life?”, “How are you feeling about (insert the event)?” or “Remember that thing you did? What’s holding you back?”

I remember Sarah my friend yelled at me for not getting into fights in my relationships. It hurt a little (ok, a lot) but she was so kind to be that she made me grow more than I could have on my own.

Practical Steps for Growth-Focused Friendships

Make Room: Build a foundation of trust by being trustworthy and confidential.
Talk When You Have Something to Say: Sometimes people simply have something to say out loud.
Praise Small Successes: What was their accomplishment this week? That’s worth celebrating!
Be First Afraid: Open the door to others and be vulnerable first.
Follow Up: Don’t let the conversation die in the trash can. Circle back to previous discussions.

Faith Foundation

“As iron works on iron, so one man works on another. And this isn’t just a pretty image – it’s the recipe for good friends. That grinding isn’t always pleasant but it’s the path of progress.

Your Turn to Grow

I invite you to do one thing today to be a growing friend. Or perhaps texting that phone number to solidify a regular coffee catch up. Maybe that’s having that conversation you’ve been waiting for. Regardless of what, always remember: some of the greatest growth takes place in the context of close friendship.

Because in the end we’re not going to go it alone. We’re meant to rally hands, lift each other up, cheer each other on and encourage one another to have faith and not give up.

And isn’t that what friendship is?

The post Building One Another Up appeared first on Faith signal.

When Time Stood Still On Tybee Island

Patrick J — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 21:17:10 +0000

There is a piece of me that never left this beach after that day.

The sands of Tybee Island hold a memory etched forever in my heart. Under the blazing afternoon sun, amid jellyfish-dotted waves, our surfing session ended with quite the spectacle – my quiet, mostly non-verbal son, a patient volunteer surfer, and a wayward surfboard all making an ungraceful landing on the beach. But what happened next stopped time itself.

My son, diagnosed with non-verbal Autism at age 3, was about to show me how God works in mysterious and magnificent ways.

After exchanging warm hugs and enthusiastic high-fives, Ethan settled into the sand. What happened next left me breathless – he began drawing the map of the United States, his finger tracing the coastline as words flowed freely: “We surf here, and here, we surf here, we surf here, and here, and here, Daddy!” Complete sentences, clear and purposeful, tumbling out like they’d been there all along.

In that moment, the power of faith crystallized before my eyes. It reminded me that life’s journey rarely follows our carefully laid plans. Instead, it’s about trusting in something greater, finding peace even when everything seems to be spinning off course.

Six years of struggle, countless doctor visits, missed milestones, and a difficult move away from our support system – all led us to this Georgia beach where my son found his voice in the water. Our path changed forever that day, this time illuminated with hope.

This journey with autism has taught me about consciousness and miracles in equal measure. While my family’s life isn’t always an easy road, it’s paved with hope, resilience, and unwavering belief. It’s about seeing the unlimited potential in every person, regardless of their differences, and working toward a world that embraces neurodiversity with open arms.

As the sun painted the sky in farewell, I felt hope surge anew . Even when time seems to slip through our fingers like beach sand, faith can indeed move mountains. Let’s keep believing and fighting for that better tomorrow.

The post When Time Stood Still On Tybee Island appeared first on Faith signal.

Great Tips to Being a Friend Who Lifts Others Up

Patrick J — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:17:32 +0000

Hey there, faith-filled friends! Today, we’re diving into something that’s close to my heart – being the kind of friend who truly uplifts others. You know, the one who leaves people feeling better than when they arrived? Yeah, that’s the goal!

So, let’s jump right in with some practical tips to become that beacon of positivity in your friendships:

Listen with your whole heart
It’s not just about hearing words, folks. It’s about truly tuning in to what your friend is saying – and what they’re not saying. Put down that phone (yes, really!), make eye contact, and show them they have your full attention. Sometimes, being heard is the greatest gift we can give.

Celebrate the small wins
Life isn’t just about the big moments. It’s those little victories that often need the most cheering. Did your friend finally tackle that pile of laundry they’ve been avoiding? Heck yeah, that deserves a high five! Recognizing these small accomplishments can be incredibly motivating.

Offer genuine compliments
We’re not talking about empty flattery here. Look for the good in your friends and tell them what you see. Maybe it’s their killer sense of humor, their thoughtfulness, or how they always remember your coffee order. Shine a light on their unique qualities – it can work wonders for their self-esteem.

Be the voice of encouragement
When your friend is facing a challenge, be their personal cheerleader. Remind them of their strengths, of times they’ve overcome obstacles before. Sometimes we all need someone to believe in us, especially when we’re struggling to believe in ourselves.

Practice empathy, not judgment
We’ve all been there – a friend makes a decision we don’t quite understand. Instead of jumping to judgment, try to see things from their perspective. Ask questions, seek to understand. Your empathy can be a soft place for them to land.

Show up (even when it’s inconvenient)
True friendship often means being there when it’s not easy or convenient. That 2 AM phone call? Answer it. The friend who needs help moving? Grab those boxes. Your presence in tough times speaks volumes.

Pray with and for your friends (and YES, as much as you do not want to, your enemies, your frienemies)
As people of faith, we have this incredible tool in our friendship toolkit – prayer. Offer to pray with your friends when they’re struggling. And don’t forget to lift them up in your private prayers too. There’s something powerful about knowing someone’s got your back spiritually.

Remember, being an uplifting friend isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present, being real, and being intentional in how we love our people. It’s about creating a space where others feel valued, heard, and supported.

So, here’s my challenge to you this week: Pick one of these tips and really focus on applying it in your friendships. Maybe it’s listening more intently, or perhaps it’s sending that encouraging text you’ve been meaning to write. Whatever it is, take that step. You never know how your small act of kindness might be exactly what someone needs today.

Let’s be the kind of friends who lift others up, who spread joy, and who make this world a little brighter, one interaction at a time. After all, isn’t that what we’re called to do?

What about you? How do you lift up your friends? Share your tips in the comments below – let’s learn from each other and keep spreading that positivity!

Until next time, keep shining that light of yours. The world needs it more than you know!

Patrick

The post Great Tips to Being a Friend Who Lifts Others Up appeared first on Faith signal.

“Iron Sharpens Iron: The Uplifting Power of Faithful Friendships”

Patrick J — Sat, 12 Oct 2024 22:53:34 +0000

The coffee maker decides to quit, your car makes a weird noise on the way to work that the radio will not mask, and your boss dumps a last-minute project on your desk. Yeah, we’ve all been there. On days like these, it’s easy to feel like you’re trudging through quicksand, each step harder than the last.

But then… your phone buzzes. It’s a text from your friend: “Hey, just checking in. How’s your day going?” And just like that, a tiny spark ignites in your chest.

Someone’s got your back…

Folks, let me tell you, having people in your corner can be a game-changer. It’s like having a personal cheerleading squad, minus the pom-poms (unless that’s your thing, then by all means, bring on the pom-poms! ). These are the friends who lift you up when you’re down, who challenge you to be better, and who remind you of your worth when you’ve forgotten. Gratitude abounds and and I for one thankful here!

As I sit here, sipping my (thankfully still functioning) coffee, I’m reminded of a time when my own circle of friends pulled me through various rough, crazy, “I-don’t-want-to-talk-about-it” moments.

Now, let’s talk about this whole “iron sharpens iron” thing. It’s not just a catchy phrase – it’s a powerful concept that’s been around for ages. Sure, it pops up in Proverbs 27:17, but don’t think for a second that this idea is limited to just one faith or philosophy.

Picture this: two swords clashing in an epic duel. With each strike, they’re not just making cool sparks (though that’s pretty awesome too ). They’re actually making each other sharper, stronger, more refined. That’s what good friendships do – they challenge us, push us to grow, and help us become the best versions of ourselves.

This concept isn’t just a Christian thing. It’s a human thing. In Islam, there’s a beautiful saying: “A friend is a mirror.” Meaning, our true friends reflect our best selves back to us, helping us see our potential. In Buddhism, they talk about “kalyana-mitra” or “spiritual friendship” – the idea that our relationships can help us on our path to enlightenment.

Even in the secular world, this idea is everywhere. Think about your workout buddy who pushes you to do one more rep, or that coworker who always asks the tough questions in meetings. They’re sharpening you, making you better, stronger, more resilient. This is something that without it, you can soften, lose effort and not move forward the way you want to spirtually, mentally, and physically.

But that 5 letter word — “TRUST”

Alright, let’s get real for a second. As adults, we’ve all been there – trusting someone only to have them stab you in the back. It’s like taking a sucker punch to the gut. Been there, done that, and let me tell you, it ain’t pretty.

There was a time when I got burned bad by someone I thought was a solid friend. No need for the gory details, but let’s just say it was enough to make me want to swear off friendships altogether (the “I hate people” t-shirts) . For a while, I did just that. Figured it was safer to go it alone, you know? No new friends meant no new chances to get sucker-punched.

But here’s the thing. That lone wolf act? It gets old real quick. It’s not how we’re wired. We need that brotherhood, sisterhood that camaraderie.

Then, out of nowhere, dang, a new friend… Didn’t push, didn’t pry. Just a straight shooter who showed up when he said he would. At first, I kept my guard up. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice? Not happening on my watch.

But this friend proved himself, time and again. He had my back when things got tough. Didn’t gossip about my business. Celebrated the wins and stood by me through the losses.

Slowly, I started to let my guard down. It wasn’t easy – there were times I wanted to bail, to go back to my lone wolf ways. But I stuck it out, and man, am I glad I did.

Opening up to this new friendship? It was like finally being able to breathe after holding your breath underwater. Reminded me that not everyone out there is waiting to stab you in the back.

So, if you’re out there feeling burned, feeling like you can’t trust a soul – I get it. I’ve walked that road. But don’t give up on people entirely. Be smart, be cautious, but don’t close yourself off. That next true friend might be just around the corner, ready to sharpen you like iron sharpens iron.

Alright, now that we’ve covered the tough stuff, let’s talk about how to move forward. Here’s the game plan:

1. Building Trust: It’s like constructing a house – you start with a solid foundation. Be consistent. Show up when you say you will. Keep your word. It’s not rocket science, but it’s powerful stuff.

2. The Power of Your Crew: Having a solid group of friends isn’t just about having drinking buddies(or shopping buddies…whatever works for you, though that’s a nice perk ). It’s about having a friend who’ll call you out when you’re being an idiot, who’ll help you move without complaining (much), and who’ll have your back when life throws you a curveball.

3. Being the Friend You’d Want: Want good friends? Be one. It’s that simple. Listen more than you talk (still working on that one but I do listen!!). Offer help before they ask. And IMPORTANT – if they tell you something in confidence, keep it that way.

4. Strength in Vulnerability: This one’s tricky, especially for guys. We’re taught to be tough, to never show weakness. But here’s the truth – it takes real strength to open up. You don’t have to bare your soul to everyone, but letting your true friends see your struggles? That’s not weakness. That’s courage.

Now, let’s wrap this up:

Look, at the end of the day, we’re all in this together. Life’s too short and too tough to go it alone. Having people in your corner, friends who sharpen you like iron sharpens iron – that’s not just nice to have, it’s essential.

So, take a chance. Open up to that friend that is that friend. Be the kind of friend you’d want to have. It might not always be easy, but I promise you, it’s worth it.

Remember, we’re stronger together. Iron sharpens iron, and a good friend can make you a better person.

Until next time, this is Patrick Jacobs, reminding you to stay sharp and keep good company.

The post “Iron Sharpens Iron: The Uplifting Power of Faithful Friendships” appeared first on Faith signal.

Community Spirit Shines in Chimney Rock Village After Hurricane Helene

Patrick J — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:59:40 +0000

CHIMNEY ROCK VILLAGE, N.C. – The small mountain town of Chimney Rock Village, home to about 140 residents, faces a long road to recovery after Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on September 26, 2024.

Nearly 400 miles from where Helene made landfall in Florida, this North Carolina hamlet experienced catastrophic flooding when a massive wall of water, estimated at 30 feet high by local firefighter John Payne, tore through the valley.

The destruction is extensive. Many buildings along Main Street have been severely damaged or destroyed. The Hickory Nut Brewery collapsed almost a week after the storm. Homes that weren’t swept away now teeter precariously on eroded riverbanks.

Despite the devastation, signs of resilience are emerging. Mayor Peter O’Leary, who has lived in the area since 1990, believes in the town’s ability to rebuild. “Most of these people here, if you look around, almost all of them are from somewhere else,” O’Leary said. “Why’d they come here? They came here and fell in love with it. It gets ahold of you.”

The community’s spirit is evident in small gestures, like the “Chimney Rock Strong” sign painted on a wooden Sasquatch cutout outside a local shop. When park employees raised the American flag atop Chimney Rock on Monday, residents cheered and some wept.

While the path forward remains uncertain, especially for business owners facing insurance challenges, many residents express determination to rebuild. As firefighter John Payne put it, “We’re more hard-headed than these rocks are. So, it’s going to take more than this to scare us off and run us out. It’ll be a while, but we’ll be back. Don’t count us out.”

The recovery process willtake years, but the resilience and community spirit of Chimney Rock Village’s residents suggest they’re ready for the challenge ahead.

The post Community Spirit Shines in Chimney Rock Village After Hurricane Helene appeared first on Faith signal.