While I don’t consider myself ardently religious, I have always been inspired by the language and metaphor of bible verses. I am spiritually inclined and the beautiful language of scripture has often gotten me through strenuous times. They have also served as a daily anchor to set the tone of my day. I am happy to share some of my favorite verses with you.
“So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets: and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.” -Joshua 6:20
This passage was particularly useful when I’ve come up against resistance to something that I really want. When I was waiting to hear about a new job, I found myself being negative, like the job was just too much of a long shot. It created fear and resistance which was hard to move through. I chose this verse and repeated it continually. From the constant speaking of these words, I felt my resistance release itself; it helped me to relax and visualize the door opening and the possibility of the job coming through. So, like the people who took the city when the wall fell, I was offered my job.
“And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer: and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” – Isiah 65:24
This is a wonderful passage that always reminds me to honor my hunches. At times when I felt like I didn’t have an idea in my head or was able to bring a project to fruition, I remembered that luck has always been my friend when I’ve been awake to my opportunities and intuition. Some years ago, when I was at a crossroads in my life and I couldn’t see a clear path, I had a hunch that I was always able to make my way and that my desires would be fulfilled. This piece of scripture helped my recognize the good fortune I already had, which only brought more good fortune my way.
“The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” – Psalms 23:1
When I was going through a difficult divorce and had a young child, I often felt abandoned and alone. I took great comfort in the beauty of the 23rd Psalm to guide me through. It showed me there is always a someone to guide you.
“Speak unto the children of Israel that they go forward.” – Exodus 14:15
This passage always gives me courage. When I’d taken on a project that seemed to big for me, it was much like crossing the Red Sea. It was easier to stay in doubt and fear than traverse something that seemed impossible. So the message was in order to reach the promised land, it required an act of faith. Jump into the sea and the rest will take care of itself. It taught me that faith will move me forward towards my dreams.
“Choose this day whom ye will serve.” – Josh 24:15
This verse lights my path. It gives me focus for the day. Do I want to serve fear or faith; love or hate; happiness or sadness; trust or distrust? It forces me to make a conscious decision about how I’m going to proceed with my and what outcomes I’d like to achieve because of it. And choosing joy is the best of all.