God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust (Movie Review and Giveaway)

Hello, Elegant Ones

I pray that you are enjoying this wonderful day God has blessed you with.

God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust, premiering in theaters tomorrow (September 12), parallels what we are seeing in this year’s election – the complex relationship between faith, politics, and our civic responsibilities.Click this LINK for more details on the movie and how to get your tickets.

God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust stars David A. R. White (GOD’S NOT DEAD, Evening Shade), Isaiah Washington (Grey’s Anatomy), Dean Cain (Lois & Clark), Samaire Armstrong (The O.C.), Ray Wise (ROBO COP), Scott Baio (Happy Days), and Charlene Tilton (Dallas), with guest appearances by Governor Mike Huckabee and the Newsboys.

Amid political and spiritual turmoil, Rev. David Hill (White) runs for Congress after an incumbent’s sudden death. Battling against Peter Kane (Wise), who aims to erase religion from policy, Rev. White’s fight becomes a beacon of hope and optimism for people seeking moral leadership in a divided world.

Check out the official movie trailer here:

God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust is more crucial than ever, especially during this election year. If you haven’t registered to vote, please register and vote. Would you believe that a large percentage of Christians don’t vote? In a society focused on democracy, representation, and equality, it’s alarming that 40 million Christians do not vote, 25 million are registered but don’t vote, and 15 million aren’t even registered. If you don’t vote, you don’t have a say in what’s happening in your world. Please vote! Be part of the conversation that’s igniting hearts and minds everywhere.

This movie shows that no one is too small to make a difference in their community. Remember that it’s God working through us, and in Him, we have our being. This is more than a movie; it’s a movement! Most importantly, this film demonstrates that Christians should be optimistic, excited, and hopeful about the future.

Continue to stand and pray for the United States of America and the world.

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 1 Timothy 2:1-2

I like what Kenneth Copeland Ministries said on its website.

“Start praying now about the coming elections. Whether they are small local elections or major national elections, make them a part of every prayer you pray. Then thank the Spirit of God for His wisdom concerning for whom to vote. Thank Him for giving you His wisdom about what to say and when to say it to others. Thank Him for giving you wisdom to declare the Name of Jesus and declare that this shall be a God-indwelt, God-ordained, God-overseen administration.”

“So register. Pray. Vote. Then stand up and be counted by the power of the living God.”

Go see the movie!

Giveaway
In conjunction with the release of God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust, we offer our readers an opportunity to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card.

To enter the giveaway, please comment below, letting us know how involved Christians should be in today’s political races. One comment will be selected randomly, and that person will receive the gift card.

The giveaway runs until Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 11:59 pm, and the winner will be announced on Friday, September 20, 2024.

The giveaway is limited to United States residents. We will submit the winner’s email address to our marketing team, who will send the gift card.

Disclosure:
Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for allowing us to preview the movie and offering this giveaway. Our opinions of the movie are 100% our own.

Finding Meaning in the Chaos: A Guide to Overcoming Stress

Stress has become an unwelcome companion in the lives of many in today’s fast-paced world. You might feel its unwelcome presence in various facets of life, from work to personal finances. This guide is your compass to navigate these turbulent experiences, offering practical strategies to identify and mitigate stressors. You can reclaim a sense of calm and control in your life by implementing these techniques.

Image by 8photo on Freepik

Unraveling the Underlying Causes of Your Stress
Understanding the root causes of your stress is crucial. Take time to introspect and pinpoint the specific sources of your anxiety. Recognizing these triggers is your first step toward managing them effectively, whether it’s a looming deadline or a personal conflict. Doing so will equip you with the knowledge to tackle these stressors head-on.

Cultivating Calm in the Midst of Turmoil
Incorporating mindfulness into your daily life can transform how you respond to stress. Techniques like deep breathing exercises and meditation provide a sanctuary of calm. When stress waves threaten to overwhelm you, these practices serve as an anchor, helping you remain composed and focused.

Navigating the Entrepreneurial Seas
Alleviating stress from work is essential for maintaining your well-being. If you’re in a job that’s too stressful and ready for a career change, consider starting your own business. A well-designed logo for your business can make a solid first impression and build brand awareness. If you’re on a tight budget, instead of paying for logo design services, you can use an online logo maker to design an appealing and creative logo. Simply choose a style and icon, add any text you need, and use the logo generator to view an assortment of logos. You can then adjust the fonts and colors to match your brand.

Boundaries as a Beacon
Establishing clear boundaries is paramount in reducing stress. Whether it’s saying no to extra work assignments or carving out time for self-care, boundaries help maintain a healthy balance. Identify areas where boundaries are lacking in your life and take steps to assert them. This not only reduces stress but also fosters self-respect and healthy relationships.

Shared Experiences in Stress Relief
Never underestimate the power of a supportive network. Talking to friends, family, or a professional about your stress can provide new perspectives and solutions. They can remind you that you’re not alone in your struggles and that help is always available. Sharing your concerns can lighten your emotional load and bring comfort. It can also open the door to advice and coping strategies that you might not have considered.

Mitigating Life’s Inevitable Stressors
While not all stressors can be avoided, minimizing your exposure to them can have a significant impact. In unavoidable situations, practicing acceptance can be a powerful tool for mitigating stress. Recognizing what you can and cannot control is vital in this process. Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation to stress’s effects but rather understanding and adapting to reality. This mindset shift can significantly reduce feelings of helplessness and frustration.

The Revitalizing Power of Physical Activity
Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine is a proven stress reliever. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a workout at the gym, exercise releases endorphins — the body’s natural mood lifters. If you’re looking for a way to track your physical activity and stay motivated, consider using a fitness tracker. It’s a powerful tool to help you monitor your progress, set goals, and maintain a consistent exercise routine. Consistent physical activity improves physical health while enhancing mental clarity and emotional resilience. Think of it as an effective way to break the cycle of stress and recharge your energy levels.

Stress need not be a permanent fixture in your life, and you can significantly reduce its impact by adopting these strategies. Remember that managing stress is a journey, not a destination. With each step you take using these techniques, you move closer to a more balanced and serene life. Embrace these practices and watch your world become more peaceful and manageable.

Memorial Day: It’s Not A Happy Holiday

Hello, Elegant People

We pray that you are having a wonderful day.

On this Memorial Day, we remember and honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country—the heroes who died defending the freedom that Americans often take for granted.

People often say to me and others, “Happy Memorial Day!” However, when you think about it, nothing is happy about this holiday. Mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, and children who are mourning loved ones who are no longer with them. A family member who loved America so profoundly that they served in the highest capacity to make and keep this country the greatest country in the world.

This day is not meant to be light-hearted or happy; remember not to focus only on barbecuing or enjoying a three-day weekend. Take time to think about how to honor our country, our freedoms, and these fallen heroes – who, without them, the United States would not be the country we know today. I believe saying “Happy Memorial Day” diminishes the soldier’s sacrifice and says to that hero’s family, “I hope you enjoy your grilled hot dog.”

On this Memorial Day, take time to reflect on what it means to be an American and remember those who died defending our country. Say a prayer for their family to have God’s peace and love surrounding them.

Let us know in the comments what you are doing to commemorate the solemn day.

 

 

Stand Up! Support Israel! Sign The Anti-Rioting Petition (Giveaway!)

Hello Beautiful People,

If you are not praying for the world, this is a good time to start. I thought I would never see what is happening now, but this is a different world.

“Comfort, Comfort my people, says your God.” Isaiah 40:1 (NIV)

The situation in Israel and the Middle East is complex, with historical, religious, and geopolitical dimensions. Understanding the conflict’s multifaceted nature is crucial, as well as avoiding oversimplification or one-sided narratives that ignore the broader context.

The Victory Channel is an excellent source for giving news updates from Israel. Click HERE for the latest on Israel and the war.

It’s not popular, but we pray for Israel. We pray the innocent hostages are returned to their loved ones. We must remember innocent people are on both sides of this war, so we must be prayerful.

Achieving peace requires a genuine commitment from both sides to recognize each other’s right to exist and to engage in constructive negotiations without violence or terrorism.

Sign the anti-rioting PETITION and support Israel today!

The Giveaway
To show our support for Israel and to put an end to the college campus riots, we are offering our readers a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card. To enter the giveaway, leave a comment below telling us how you support Israel.

The giveaway will be open until Wednesday, May 29th, at 11:59 p.m. (CT). The winner will be selected randomly and announced on Thursday, May 30th.

Disclosure:
Many thanks to Influenceable for providing a sample of the product for this review.
My opinions are 100% my own.

 

9 Ways to Make Your Faith a Bigger Part of Your Daily Life

Those of us who have faith know just how important it is to carry it with us no matter what we are doing. However, sometimes daily life gets in the way, as it has a habit of doing, and thoughts about faith can sometimes take the back burner as a result.

Pexels – CCO Licence

If that sounds all too familiar to you and you want to make faith a more significant part of your daily life again, here are some excellent ways to make it happen:

Get Creative with Prayer
Let’s face it: if you’re just mumbling your morning prayers with the enthusiasm of someone reading the phone book, you’re doing it wrong. Prayer should be like your daily espresso shot for the soul. Mix it up! Sing your prayers, write them down in a journal, or turn your morning jog into a moving meditation. Whatever shakes up the routine and gets you genuinely connected.

Make Church a Regular Gig
Instead of simply going to church at the weekends, get involved! Join a group, volunteer, or even help plan events for the church. Think of it as your spiritual gym where you flex those faith muscles and spend time with like-minded people.

Tune In to Some Holy Jams
Who says the only good beats are played at clubs? Turn your daily commute into a praise party with a playlist filled with your favorite spiritual tunes. Let your faith be your soundtrack, whether it’s gospel, Christian rock, or peaceful meditative tunes. It’s like having a tiny choir in your earbuds, minus the robes.

Read Up and Reflect
Grab that dusty old holy book (yeah, that big one you’ve been using as a coaster) and read a passage daily. But don’t just read—reflect! Maybe even start a blog or a vlog where you share your thoughts and connect with others. It’s like starting your spiritual book club, but you’re also the president.

Serve Like a Boss
Faith becomes real when you put it into action. Find ways to serve within your community that resonate with your beliefs. Whether it’s feeding the homeless, tutoring kids, or planting trees, make your actions reflect your faith. It’s doing good, feeling good, and hey, it’s good karma, too.

Digital Detox for the Divine
Let’s be honest: our digital addiction often drowns out the spiritual whisperings we might otherwise hear. Try a tech fast for a part of your day or week. Unplug, go analog, and see what insights bubble up when you’re not drowning in notifications. It’s like a juice cleanse for your soul.

Prayer Buddy System
Everything’s more fun with friends, right? Partner with a prayer buddy to share insights, challenge each other, and keep the faith flame burning. It’s like having a gym buddy, but instead of spotting you at the bench press, they’re there for your spiritual reps.

Decorate with Devotion
Surround yourself in your living space with symbols that remind you of your faith. Art, icons, scriptures, or even colors that have spiritual significance can turn your home into a sanctuary. It’s like interior decorating but blessed.

Mindful Meals
Before you wolf down that next meal, take a moment to bless it, savor it, and contemplate the connection between your faith and food. Maybe even try fasting from certain foods as a spiritual practice—not just because you read about the latest fad diet. It’s about nourishment for both body and soul.

Faith isn’t just a Sunday thing, so add it to your everyday life!



The Top Four Insecurities: A Human’s Guide to Feeling Self-Conscious

At some point or another, we have all felt self-conscious. Looking into mirrors can bring out our worst qualities while our minds churn with minute evaluations about ourselves, from hair to nails. All our doubts make us unique human beings who can come together through shared feelings of insecurity. But all these insecurities only add depth to what makes us beautiful people!

Photo by Vladimir Fedotov on Unsplash

Physical Appearance: A Skin-Deep Dilemma
Our physical appearance can often be the first thing others notice about us and, unfortunately, something we feel self-conscious about ourselves. From height and weight to skin and nose size, every mirror presents another opportunity for self-scrutiny. Not every day can be easy; life doesn’t make things more straightforward. Glossy magazines and airbrushed images create an illusion of perfection that many of us strive to attain, often forgetting that every freckle, scar, and inch represents who we are as individuals. But visiting a dentist near me for teeth whitening sessions or investing in new skincare products can boost confidence and remind us to accept ourselves for who we are – no matter the appearance.

Intelligence: The Brainy Battle
Anxiety over not appearing intelligent is another common source of insecurity in modern society. Such insecurities often stem from our highly competitive education system or work environment, in which grades, IQ scores, and job titles seem to define us. Minds become battlefields, challenging our intelligence, creativity, and ability to contribute worthwhile ideas. Social media only compounds this issue by encouraging everyone to have an opinion. But intelligence comes in various forms. No matter your intelligence is as individual as a fingerprint. Instead of comparing and competing against others’ strengths, embrace what makes you unique!

Socioeconomic Status: An Invisible Divide
Socioeconomic status (SES) can also be an influencer on self-consciousness. Our society often conflates success and worth with material possessions. External signs of wealth, such as owning the latest tech or wearing brand-name clothing, are often perceived as indicators of someone’s value. This can create feelings of inferiority among individuals who perceive their socioeconomic standing as lower. However, it is essential to remember that one’s worth does not depend on material possessions alone. Wealth does not equal worth; living a fulfilling life involves much more than material wealth – it involves relationships, experiences, and personal growth. A house size or clothing price tag won’t define your journey; your kindness, resilience, and ambition will.

Social Skills: The Art of Human Connection
Poor social skills can be an enormous source of discomfort. In a world where networking and sociability are prized, those on the introverted end of the spectrum or those struggling with social anxiety may feel out of place. People may feel pressured to express themselves in a certain way or worry that they are awkward or boring. Still, it is essential to remember that social skills, like any other skill set, can be developed over time. Individuals possess unique strengths when it comes to human interactions. Some excel at listening, while others excel at empathy and understanding; others may be gifted problem solvers. Even though you may not be the life of the party, don’t think of yourself as not playing an integral role in life’s game!

Wrapping Up: Err is Human, to Feel is Divine
Never forget that human connection lies in our vulnerabilities and insecurities – when feeling insecure, we’re all in good company. So remember, if you feel low about yourself, remember that everyone else experiences similar feelings!