Action Is a Window to The Heart

You’ve heard the old saying, “action speaks louder than words.”  If you want to better understand someone, don’t buy into what they say, watch how they act.  If you want to better understand yourself, evaluate the words you speak and compare them to how you act. 

As a Christian counselor, I personally believe the Bible has all the resources we need to better understand ourselves and to continually make improvements in the way we live. But, even if you don’t believe in Jesus, God, or the Bible, there’s nothing in the Bible that is contrary to understanding a better way to live.  For example, the Bible teaches to judge not, and you will not be judged. To stop telling lies, to stop letting anger control you, to stop stealing, to not use foul language, and to let everything you say be good and helpful.  It also teaches to get rid of bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.  The Bible also teaches to be kind to each other, tenderhearted, and to forgive one another.  So, whether you believe in Jesus, God, or the Bible, or not, can you find any fault in what it teaches about living better?

So, if someone’s actions reveal a dark, hard, or evil heart, unless that person has a change of heart, you can expect them to continue with the same negative behavior.  The same goes for you.   If your actions reveal a dark, hard, or evil heart, unless you have a change of heart, you can expect your negative behavior to continue. 

Do you like the way you act?  Are you the kind of person other people want to spend time with?  If you want to live a better life, to have more meaningful relationships, and to find more joy no matter the circumstance, then start making better choices. 

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God!  If you have questions you would like to ask Bruce, don’t hesitate to reach out.  Go to the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the “contact Bruce” tab.  Bruce personally answers all questions.

New Year's Resolutions

Yes, it’s that time of the year again.  New year, new beginning, new resolutions.  But wait, aren’t these repeat resolutions?  How many new year’s, new beginnings, old resolutions?  Do you want to break the cycle?  Here’s a thought, there will be no successful resolutions without achievable goals and a realistic action plan. 

For example, instead of saying “I want to lose twenty pounds,” think about an action plan that will result in weight loss.  Action like eating smaller portions, eating because you’re hungry, not because you want to, eating less sugar, going on short walks, start light exercising.   

If you want to quit smoking, start by cutting down first.  Don’t smoke because you want to, smoke only when the craving is unbearable, then smoke half.  Once you achieve cutting down, your body will naturally adjust to less nicotine, and you can build on your success to hopefully eliminate the habit altogether.

Whatever the resolution you want to make, set realistic goals that can result in success.  Setting yourself up for more failure year after year will only result in another defeat, disappointment, and depression.  We don’t need negativity in our lives, we need positivity in our lives.

If you believe in God, then lean into His strength and guidance, after all, according to biblical principle, everyday is a new beginning.  If you’re not a believer, start searching for answers that are much bigger than you are as an individual.

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.  If you have questions or thoughts, don’t hesitate to reach out by hitting the contact Bruce tab on the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com. 

Your Identity

The dictionary defines identity as a condition of character as to who a person or what a thing is; the qualities, beliefs, which distinguish or identify a person or thing.   What is your identity?  What makes you who you are?  What are your qualities?  Your beliefs?  Can you sum up your identity in a word? 

First, every person is a human being, a son, or a daughter.  The family nucleus is responsible for raising a person which produces a wide range of positive and negative emotional stimuli, which shapes our morals and values.  We are so unique and complex, that a simple word could never be a person’s identity. Yet, the world is so quick to sum up a person by a word or a label.  In the same respect, aren’t we embracing this system by identifying ourselves in the same way?

The world has manipulated us into these labeling identities so they can separate, group, then judge. They want to color us with one color that fits all within a group or label.  Everyone is either black, white, brown, or yellow, yet none of us are truly one color.  We are all blended colors.  Then there’s sexual orientation.  Why is the world so fixated on a person’s personal sexual desires?  Why does the world need to know what your sexual orientation is?  Why do we feel the need to share this information?  Again, the world has manipulated us into a particular identity to separate, group, and then judge.  The world uses religious beliefs in the same way.  Christian, non-Christian, atheist, agnostic.  We are all human beings trying to figure life (and death) out as best we can.  I have met people who do not believe as I do, but their most important quality was their kind and loving spirit.  I have met people who profess to be Christian but do not hesitate to hate on people because of these world-imposed labels and identities. 

Here is the crux of it.  Stop allowing the world to group and separate you so they can judge you.  More importantly, stop allowing yourself to group and separate yourself from other human beings.  Focus more on the important things like your profession, how you care for and treat other people.  These are the things that truly shape your condition of character as to who you are as a person, your identity.

Identity (Copy)

The dictionary defines identity as a condition of character as to who a person or what a thing is; the qualities, beliefs, which distinguish or identify a person or thing.   What is your identity?  What makes you who you are?  What are your qualities?  Your beliefs?  Can you sum up your identity in a word? 

First, every person is a human being, a son, or a daughter.  The family nucleus is responsible for raising a person which produces a wide range of positive and negative emotional stimuli, which shapes our morals and values.  We are so unique and complex, that a simple word could never be a person’s identity. Yet, the world is so quick to sum up a person by a word or a label.  In the same respect, aren’t we embracing this system by identifying ourselves in the same way?

The world has manipulated us into these labeling identities so they can separate, group, then judge. They want to color us with one color that fits all within a group or label.  Everyone is either black, white, brown, or yellow, yet none of us are truly one color.  We are all blended colors.  Then there’s sexual orientation.  Why is the world so fixated on a person’s personal sexual desires?  Why does the world need to know what your sexual orientation is?  Why do we feel the need to share this information?  Again, the world has manipulated us into a particular identity to separate, group, and then judge.  The world uses religious beliefs in the same way.  Christian, non-Christian, atheist, agnostic.  We are all human beings trying to figure life (and death) out as best we can.  I have met people who do not believe as I do, but their most important quality was their kind and loving spirit.  I have met people who profess to be Christian but do not hesitate to hate on people because of these world-imposed labels and identities. 

Here is the crux of it.  Stop allowing the world to group and separate you so they can judge you.  More importantly, stop allowing yourself to group and separate yourself from other human beings.  Focus more on the important things like your profession, how you care for and treat other people.  These are the things that truly shape your condition of character as to who you are as a person, your identity.

Identity

The dictionary defines identity as a condition of character as to who a person or what a thing is; the qualities, beliefs, which distinguish or identify a person or thing.   What is your identity?  What makes you who you are?  What are your qualities?  Your beliefs?  Can you sum up your identity in a word? 

First, every person is a human being, a son, or a daughter.  The family nucleus is responsible for raising a person which produces a wide range of positive and negative emotional stimuli, which shapes our morals and values.  We are so unique and complex, that a simple word could never be a person’s identity. Yet, the world is so quick to sum up a person by a word or a label.  In the same respect, aren’t we embracing this system by identifying ourselves in the same way?

The world has manipulated us into these labeling identities so they can separate, group, then judge. They want to color us with one color that fits all within a group or label.  Everyone is either black, white, brown, or yellow, yet none of us are truly one color.  We are all blended colors.  Then there’s sexual orientation.  Why is the world so fixated on a person’s personal sexual desires?  Why does the world need to know what your sexual orientation is?  Why do we feel the need to share this information?  Again, the world has manipulated us into a particular identity to separate, group, and then judge.  The world uses religious beliefs in the same way.  Christian, non-Christian, atheist, agnostic.  We are all human beings trying to figure life (and death) out as best we can.  I have met people who do not believe as I do, but their most important quality was their kind and loving spirit.  I have met people who profess to be Christian but do not hesitate to hate on people because of these world-imposed labels and identities. 

Here is the crux of it.  Stop allowing the world to group and separate you so they can judge you.  More importantly, stop allowing yourself to group and separate yourself from other human beings.  Focus more on the important things like your profession, how you care for and treat other people.  These are the things that truly shape your condition of character as to who you are as a person, your identity.

Labels (Copy)

It has become a common practice to label a person due to a shared or common interest with other people, as if this is the entirety of this person, even though we know nothing else about them. This label is usually tainted with prejudice and judgement. The Truth is, we are created so complex and uniquely different, that there are databases that can identify a specific person by both fingerprint and DNA. So why would we think we can shrink the whole of a person down to a simple label? 

Excerpt from Battle Cry Good vs Evil: 

Don’t you love how God created us to be independent vessels?  We have the ability to function independently without any other power source. By simply resting or sleeping, we are somehow naturally energized.  The food we consume enables us to refuel ourselves and create more energy.  We independently process food and excrete waste. 

So, what could be behind the desire to label individuals as if they are all exactly the same as all others within a group? 

 Excerpt from Battle Cry Good vs Evil: 

As we examine the condition of the world, and what we continue to witness, can we deny the devil has a foothold on the hearts of many?  Can we deny the evil associated with the amount of alcohol, drug, spousal, child, an elderly abuse?  Can we deny the evil associated with the hatred and rage in response of religion, skin color, sexual preference, and politics?   

The answer is simple.  In John 8:44 (NLT) Jesus says, “For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does.  He was a murderer from the beginning.  He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him.  When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.”  First Peter 5:8 (NLT) says, “Stay alert!   Watch out for your great enemy, the devil.  He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”

So, the next time you want to shrink a person’s whole identity down to a simple label, think about how complex and uniquely created they are.  Think about yourself.  Do you want to be identified as a single label? 

If you profess to be a Christian, search your heart for the motivation behind labeling people as if that’s all they are. If you’re not a Christian, be a better human being.

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.  If you have questions, don’t hesitate to hit the contact Bruce tab, he personally answers all emails.

Labels

It has become a common practice to label a person due to a shared or common interest with other people, as if this is the entirety of this person, even though we know nothing else about them. This label is usually tainted with prejudice and judgement. The Truth is, we are created so complex and uniquely different, that there are databases that can identify a specific person by both fingerprint and DNA. So why would we think we can shrink the whole of a person down to a simple label? 

Excerpt from Battle Cry Good vs Evil: 

Don’t you love how God created us to be independent vessels?  We have the ability to function independently without any other power source. By simply resting or sleeping, we are somehow naturally energized.  The food we consume enables us to refuel ourselves and create more energy.  We independently process food and excrete waste. 

So, what could be behind the desire to label individuals as if they are all exactly the same as all others within a group? 

 Excerpt from Battle Cry Good vs Evil: 

As we examine the condition of the world, and what we continue to witness, can we deny the devil has a foothold on the hearts of many?  Can we deny the evil associated with the amount of alcohol, drug, spousal, child, an elderly abuse?  Can we deny the evil associated with the hatred and rage in response of religion, skin color, sexual preference, and politics?   

The answer is simple.  In John 8:44 (NLT) Jesus says, “For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does.  He was a murderer from the beginning.  He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him.  When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.”  First Peter 5:8 (NLT) says, “Stay alert!   Watch out for your great enemy, the devil.  He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”

So, the next time you want to shrink a person’s whole identity down to a simple label, think about how complex and uniquely created they are.  Think about yourself.  Do you want to be identified as a single label? 

If you profess to be a Christian, search your heart for the motivation behind labeling people as if that’s all they are. If you’re not a Christian, be a better human being.

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.  If you have questions, don’t hesitate to hit the contact Bruce tab, he personally answers all emails.

What's Wrong?

Everything starts with us as individuals.  From the beginning, the first created individuals chose to sin, and we have been a work in progress ever sense.  And when we stop individually working on becoming better versions of ourselves, we quit evolving into the person God intended us to be and collectively, we become what’s wrong.  If we don’t embrace the One who created us, and we don’t lean on the One who strengthens and comforts us, then we become dependent on ourselves, and that’s what’s wrong.

When we look around the world and see all the darkness upon us, we can panic, we can hide, we can live in fear.  But God calls us to rise above ourselves and trust He is in ultimate control and His will be done, not ours.  Many will wonder why the government doesn’t fix everything, or why God won’t miraculously fix things.  The government can’t fix humanity and by creative design, God won’t miraculously fix everything.  That’s why God walked the earth, to personally teach humanity how to become better versions of ourselves.  That’s why God died on the cross because we are incapable of saving ourselves.  That’s why Jesus rose from the grave, to show us there is spiritual life after death.

So, when we want to know what’s wrong, we need to stop looking externally and look internally at ourselves.  We need to start working internally at what’s unseen, the darkness within.  Then we can begin to impact what is externally seen.  If everyone leaned into God to become better versions of ourselves, collectively we would all become better.  But we are not leaning in and that’s what’s wrong.  Can we change this?  Of course, but it starts with you and me. But be aware, by design, the evil and darkness will always be among us.

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God!  If you want to ask Bruce about becoming a better version of yourself, go to the webpage battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce tab.  It’s free and Bruce answers every question himself.

Courageous Christmas

In a world where darkness seems to triumph, how do we as Christians stay courageous?  First, let’s define courageous from a biblical perspective.  Being courageous does not mean to be arrogant, prideful, and boastful, but it does mean to stand firm, be strong, and be courageous.

1 Corinthians 16:13 (NLT) says, “Be on guard.  Stand firm in the faith.  Be courageous.  Be strong.” 

Christmas is the perfect time be courageous, speak your Truth, and declare the reason you celebrate Christmas. The world has stifled the true meaning of Christmas, which is obviously the birth of our Savior. It’s allowed Santa, gift giving, and food to take the lead role during this beloved time.  Although Santa, gift giving, and food are fun, when the birth of Christ is not at the forefront of Christmas, we miss the opportunity to celebrate its true meaning.

This Christmas, be courageous in your faith.  Speak your Truth.  Afterall, the world has no lack of courage to declare their lack of faith in Christ.  They want to keep Christ out of Christmas.  They want to protest everything and everybody.  So, during Christmas this year, dare to be courageous.  Be strong in your faith.  Declare your Truth by speaking the name of Christ during this holiday season.  It’s your right as an American.  As the saying goes, “use it or lose it!”

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.  If you would like to ask questions, be sure to hit the “contact Bruce” tab at battlecrygoodvsevil.com.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to receive future blogs.

Daily Thanks

Two of the most common questions I get when spiritually counseling is how do you feel the Spirit of God, because I never feel anything, and how do you know when it’s God speaking?  My response is, how much time a day do you spend pursuing God?  And how can you expect to feel or hear something when you don’t spend the time pursuing God?

Some people expect to hear a booming voice from God commanding us to do something.  In the Old Testament, God did exactly that, He spoke to people.  But in the New Testament, Jesus dies on the cross, rises from the grave, appears for forty days, then ascends into Heaven and sends the Holy Spirit to be with us and in us.  If you believe what the Bible says, and you spend quality time pursuing Him, you should be able to feel and hear the Holy Spirit.

I carve out time at the beginning of every day to spend quality time with God.  I call it coffee time with God. I sit with the lights out, in silence, and while enjoying my coffee, I pursue God. I start by thanking Him for every positive thing in my life.  This helps to start the day in positive Light instead of negative darkness.  No matter our circumstances, in sickness and in health, there’s always reasons to be thankful.  When I do hear or feel the Spirit of God, its heart felt, its gentle, and its life changing.  

In John 14:15-17, 26 (NLT), Jesus says, “If you love me obey my commandments.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.  He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth.  The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him.  But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.”  “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative-that is, the Holy Spirit-He will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree and a spiritual counselor by God.  You can ask Bruce direct questions by hitting the Contact Bruce page at battlecrygoodvsevil.com.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page for future blogs.

Pursuing A Personal Relationship with God

God created man to be in a personal relationship with Him. He then created woman to be in a personal relationship with man (Genesis 2). This is why we innately crave and actively pursue relationships to this day.  We actively pursue personal relationships with family, friends, and new acquaintances, but do we actively pursue a personal relationship with God as He intended?  The proof is in the action.  How much effort do you make pursuing earthly relationships including the time you spend on texting, phone calls, and social media?  Now compare that to the daily effort you make and the time you spend pursuing a personal relationship with God.  What’s your conclusion? We were created to be in a personal relationship with the King of kings and the Lord of lords.  Do you really want to miss this?

This is the first of many blogs pertaining to pursing and embracing a personal relationship with God. It will affect all other earthly relationships and help you to become more spiritual in your daily decisions and the overall direction in life. Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to receive future blogs and please consider sharing to bless others.

If you have questions or would like more insight as the blogs unfold, go to the Contact Bruce tab on the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com. Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God!

Spirituality

To understand spirituality and what it means to be spiritual, we must be able and willing to acknowledge the influence of the unseen spiritual world and its effects on the seen world. Although God and Satan are both a part of the unseen spiritual world, we have little hesitation to acknowledge the influence of God, but have difficulty acknowledging the influence of Satan. If you believe in one, you must believe in the other.

Bruce Dillender

battlecrygoodvsevil.com

Don't Give Up, Give In! (Copy)

As a cancer survivor, which includes not only surviving the cancer itself, but surviving both chemo and radiation therapy, I thought I’d been through the worst it can get.  Even as I thought back over the pain and discomfort of ear drum replacement, double hernia surgery, and herniated discs in the lower back, nothing could prepare me for the pain and discomfort associated with sciatica.  The last two months have been the most painful and challenging time of my life.

About two months ago, I experienced pain and discomfort like never before.  On a scale of 1-10, 10 take me to the ER and give me anything to relieve the pain, I was a 10.  Not only was it painful, but it was constant and never ending.  It didn’t throb, it burned, ached, and never released. Constant pain!

For two days I suffered, but avoided going to the ER as I knew they would prescribe heavy pain meds, and I didn’t want to go down that path.  I didn’t give up, I gave in.  I surrendered and gave it to God.  I asked Him to guide me and provide the path. I trusted Him with all my heart. As I suffered, I asked Him to teach me about suffering and He reminded me of the pain and suffering Jesus encountered on the cross.  As I suffered, I didn’t give up and kept doing my due diligence by reaching out to chiropractors and acupuncturists.  After two days of suffering and not knowing what to do next, I heard back from a chiropractor who could see me the next day.  The next day I began a journey with a chiropractor who was both a focused professional and a believer.  Although at times it was painful and uncomfortable, I saw him ten times over a two-week period.  During this time, I heard from an acupuncturist.  I had one session with her that lasted an hour and a half.  This too was painful and uncomfortable, but I was at peace, feeling it was the right place for me. After relocating, I’ve connected with another chiropractor and I’m continuing to improve little by little. I never gave up, but I did give in by surrendering to God. I trusted He would provide the path. He did and He still does.

I share this story to give insight to what God will do if we don’t give up, meaning we keep working the processes so He will provide the right path.  When we give up, we become complacent, and we miss the opportunity to get help.  Don’t give up. Give in and let God move in your life.  Work the processes and walk through the doors that have been opened. 

Psalm 25:4-5 (NLT) says, “Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.  Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me.  All day long I put my hope in you.”  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree and a spiritual counselor by God.  You can talk to Bruce by hitting the contact Bruce tab on the webpage battlecrygoodvsevil.com.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to receive future blogs.

Don't Give Up, Give In!

As a cancer survivor, which includes not only surviving the cancer itself, but surviving both chemo and radiation therapy, I thought I’d been through the worst it can get.  Even as I thought back over the pain and discomfort of ear drum replacement, double hernia surgery, and herniated discs in the lower back, nothing could prepare me for the pain and discomfort associated with sciatica.  The last two months have been the most painful and challenging time of my life.

About two months ago, I experienced pain and discomfort like never before.  On a scale of 1-10, 10 take me to the ER and give me anything to relieve the pain, I was a 10.  Not only was it painful, but it was constant and never ending.  It didn’t throb, it burned, ached, and never released. Constant pain!

For two days I suffered, but avoided going to the ER as I knew they would prescribe heavy pain meds, and I didn’t want to go down that path.  I didn’t give up, I gave in.  I surrendered and gave it to God.  I asked Him to guide me and provide the path. I trusted Him with all my heart. As I suffered, I asked Him to teach me about suffering and He reminded me of the pain and suffering Jesus encountered on the cross.  As I suffered, I didn’t give up and kept doing my due diligence by reaching out to chiropractors and acupuncturists.  After two days of suffering and not knowing what to do next, I heard back from a chiropractor who could see me the next day.  The next day I began a journey with a chiropractor who was both a focused professional and a believer.  Although at times it was painful and uncomfortable, I saw him ten times over a two-week period.  During this time, I heard from an acupuncturist.  I had one session with her that lasted an hour and a half.  This too was painful and uncomfortable, but I was at peace, feeling it was the right place for me. After relocating, I’ve connected with another chiropractor and I’m continuing to improve little by little. I never gave up, but I did give in by surrendering to God. I trusted He would provide the path. He did and He still does.

I share this story to give insight to what God will do if we don’t give up, meaning we keep working the processes so He will provide the right path.  When we give up, we become complacent, and we miss the opportunity to get help.  Don’t give up. Give in and let God move in your life.  Work the processes and walk through the doors that have been opened. 

Psalm 25:4-5 (NLT) says, “Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.  Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me.  All day long I put my hope in you.”  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree and a spiritual counselor by God.  You can talk to Bruce by hitting the contact Bruce tab on the webpage battlecrygoodvsevil.com.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to receive future blogs.

Freedom and God

Freedom excerpts from the book Battle Cry Good vs. Evil    

Introduction:  Even something as precious as freedom, has become more about self and less about God and country. 

Chapter 4 The Mind is the Battlefield, The Heart is the Fort:  We also have the freedom to make choices despite how the Spirit moves in us.  Even though we know deep down that something doesn’t feel right, we can ignore the feeling, do what we want anyway, and suffer the consequences.  The consequence of ignoring the Spirit is witnessed in what we see going on all over the world.   

Chapter 5 The Fiery Arrows of the Devil:  Colossians 1:13-14 (NLT) says, “For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.”

Chapter 8 War Wounds and Battle Scars:  When we think of war wounds and battle scars, what usually comes to mind is the physical and emotional cost of freedom our soldiers pay when engaged in physical warfare.  But there is also a physical and emotional cost of freedom associated with spiritual warfare. Spiritual warfare is about fighting for the freedom to carry out our good intentions.  

Chapter 19 Fear of the Lord:  Some people have the attitude that nobody should be telling us what to do, or dictate how we live.  Some confuse freedom with the right to act the way they want.  

     Author’s comments:  Thanks for reaching out with your questions and comments.  Discussion leads to understanding; understanding leads to wisdom.  Proverbs 3:14 (NLT) says “For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold.  Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.”  Independence Day is about celebrating freedom but let’s not forget about the role God plays and the price He paid for our freedom. Every decision you make has a profound influence on determining the person you become.  It’s not what you think and say, it’s your actions that define you.  The action you take becomes your reality.  Are you happy with your reality? If not, start today to effect change within yourself, which influences change in those around you. This is how we further the Kingdom of God!

If you have further questions, please go to the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce tab. Be sure to “follow” and “like” the Battle Cry Facebook page for commentary & future blogs.

Keep Going and Keep Growing (Copy)

Think of yourself as an independent vessel, a ship on the ocean, you are the captain, and you control everything.  As the storms of life attack, you have two choices, take control and apply the knowledge and experience you already have, or give in and allow the storm to have its way with you.  If you take control, you’ll most likely come out on the other side stronger and more knowledgeable.  If you give in you, you’ll most likely come out on the other side weaker, or you may not come out on the other side at all.

So how do we take control when the storms are raging, and we feel completely helpless and hopeless?  We use what we know and apply it to every circumstance.  We know God always has a plan.  Jeremiah 29:10 (NLV) says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.  “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”  The only way to know His plan is to keep going.  Romans 8:28 (NLV) says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”  The only way to know His purpose is to keep going and keep growing.

If you give in, the devil will take you as deep and as dark as you will allow.  Yes, allow!  Remember, you are the captain, you’re in control, and the only way the devil succeeds is for you to give up control.  Then you get tossed around in the raging sea of life which leads to depression, helplessness, and hopelessness.  The devil has you right where he wants you.

No matter the circumstances, if you keep going, you’ll keep growing.  Trust God with all your heart and mind.  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust God with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”  In other words, stop trying to mentally figure out why you’re in the storm and focus on getting out of the storm.  Seek His will and He’ll guide you through.

If you would like to talk to Bruce or ask him anything, do not hesitate to reach out.  Go to the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce page.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to read the latest blogs and posts.  Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.

Keep Going and Keep Growing

Think of yourself as an independent vessel, a ship on the ocean, you are the captain, and you control everything.  As the storms of life attack, you have two choices, take control and apply the knowledge and experience you already have, or give in and allow the storm to have its way with you.  If you take control, you’ll most likely come out on the other side stronger and more knowledgeable.  If you give in you, you’ll most likely come out on the other side weaker, or you may not come out on the other side at all.

So how do we take control when the storms are raging, and we feel completely helpless and hopeless?  We use what we know and apply it to every circumstance.  We know God always has a plan.  Jeremiah 29:10 (NLV) says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.  “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”  The only way to know His plan is to keep going.  Romans 8:28 (NLV) says, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”  The only way to know His purpose is to keep going and keep growing.

If you give in, the devil will take you as deep and as dark as you will allow.  Yes, allow!  Remember, you are the captain, you’re in control, and the only way the devil succeeds is for you to give up control.  Then you get tossed around in the raging sea of life which leads to depression, helplessness, and hopelessness.  The devil has you right where he wants you.

No matter the circumstances, if you keep going, you’ll keep growing.  Trust God with all your heart and mind.  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust God with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”  In other words, stop trying to mentally figure out why you’re in the storm and focus on getting out of the storm.  Seek His will and He’ll guide you through.

If you would like to talk to Bruce or ask him anything, do not hesitate to reach out.  Go to the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce page.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to read the latest blogs and posts.  Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.

Worry Is All Emotion and No Action! (Copy)

Why do we spend so much time worrying about what could happen?  Because the devil is using fear against us.  He’ll have us thinking and believing the worst.  The Bible clearly teaches us not to worry about tomorrow.  In Matthew 6:34 (NLT) Jesus says, “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries.  Today’s trouble is enough for today.”  By focusing on just today, we can better manage whatever it is that’s bothering us.  We need to find comfort in knowing God is with us.  Matthew 1:22-23 (NLT) says, “All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through his prophet: “Look!  The virgin will conceive a child!  She will give birth to a son, and they will can him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’”

Worry accomplishes nothing because worry is all emotion and no action.  In Matthew 6:27 (NLT) Jesus says, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?”  Worry brings undue stress to the mind and body because it’s all negative emotion.  We worry about ourselves, our children, our schools, our communities, our government, and the world.  It’s stressful and overwhelming!

So how do we fend off worry?  We keep it in perspective.  If we’re diagnosed with an illness, instead of worrying about what is unknow, we should focus on what is known.  Let the doctors, with the God given gift of talent, knowledge, and medicine, work out the treatment plan.  Then let God be God.  If you’re worried about your children, depending on their age and maturity, trust them, then trust God.  If you’re worried about your community, the government, or the world, they’re much bigger than you are and you have no direct control.  Instead of worrying, pray for the leaders and trust God has a plan.  Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.  “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”  His word is truth.  He is for us, not against us.  Stop overthinking.

The bottom line is, give up trying to control things you don’t have control over.  Trust God with all your heart. Don’t try to figure everything out.  Stop and look back on your life to be reminded of all the times things did not turn out according to your plan, but thanks to God’s plan, things turned out differently and most likely, better.  He’s working every day for our good.  Be the absolute best you can, then let God be God!  He always has a plan.

If you would like to talk to Bruce or ask him anything, do not hesitate to reach out.  Go to the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce page.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to read the latest blogs and posts.  Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.

Worry Is All Emotion and No Action!

Why do we spend so much time worrying about what could happen?  Because the devil is using fear against us.  He’ll have us thinking and believing the worst.  The Bible clearly teaches us not to worry about tomorrow.  In Matthew 6:34 (NLT) Jesus says, “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries.  Today’s trouble is enough for today.”  By focusing on just today, we can better manage whatever it is that’s bothering us.  We need to find comfort in knowing God is with us.  Matthew 1:22-23 (NLT) says, “All of this occurred to fulfill the Lord’s message through his prophet: “Look!  The virgin will conceive a child!  She will give birth to a son, and they will can him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’”

Worry accomplishes nothing because worry is all emotion and no action.  In Matthew 6:27 (NLT) Jesus says, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?”  Worry brings undue stress to the mind and body because it’s all negative emotion.  We worry about ourselves, our children, our schools, our communities, our government, and the world.  It’s stressful and overwhelming!

So how do we fend off worry?  We keep it in perspective.  If we’re diagnosed with an illness, instead of worrying about what is unknow, we should focus on what is known.  Let the doctors, with the God given gift of talent, knowledge, and medicine, work out the treatment plan.  Then let God be God.  If you’re worried about your children, depending on their age and maturity, trust them, then trust God.  If you’re worried about your community, the government, or the world, they’re much bigger than you are and you have no direct control.  Instead of worrying, pray for the leaders and trust God has a plan.  Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.  “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”  Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”  His word is truth.  He is for us, not against us.  Stop overthinking.

The bottom line is, give up trying to control things you don’t have control over.  Trust God with all your heart. Don’t try to figure everything out.  Stop and look back on your life to be reminded of all the times things did not turn out according to your plan, but thanks to God’s plan, things turned out differently and most likely, better.  He’s working every day for our good.  Be the absolute best you can, then let God be God!  He always has a plan.

If you would like to talk to Bruce or ask him anything, do not hesitate to reach out.  Go to the website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce page.  Be sure to “like” and “follow” the Battle Cry Facebook page to read the latest blogs and posts.  Bruce is a Christian counselor by degree, but more importantly, a spiritual counselor by God.

Fear of the Unknown

What do we fear most, what we know or what we don’t know?

Immediately after being diagnosed with inoperable esophageal cancer and then being told successful treatment was fifty-fifty at best, fear began to creep in, but what I found most interesting is how much time I spent fearing what I didn’t know versus what I did know. 

What I did know was I had cancer with a prognosis that was not “good news.”  So, in the beginning, the devil began to use my fear and weakness against me.  He had me thinking about how I’m leaving my wife of forty-five years to fend for herself.  How she’ll meet someone new, develop a new relationship and how this new someone will be the new PawPaw to the grandkids.  How the grandkids will no longer have their PawPaw.  How I won’t get to see my grandkids as they grow older.  And how I’ll be leaving all my family and friends behind.

But what I also knew was I serve a God who is the “Good News.”  How my suffering pales in comparison to how He suffered.  How the Holy Spirit is my comforter and strength.  How no matter what, if all else fails, I’ll no longer be on this earth to suffer and I’ll be in the presence of God forever.  So, I began to gain ground on the evil one.  I began to see my physical condition as a part of living in this broken world.  I began to see treatment as God’s gift of physicians and medicine.  A friend deemed chemo “Holy water,” so every time I was hooked up to the dripping bags of chemo, I kept seeing the “holy water” drip by drip.  As I traveled daily forty minutes each way for two months to get zapped by radiation, I found joy and motivation at the opportunity to get the treatment that could save my life.

So, when we find ourselves in these situations, we can fear what we don’t know, or embrace what we do know.  I knew I had cancer; I knew it was serious.  But I also knew I serve a God who would never leave me or forsake me.  I knew my only hope in beating the odds, was to lean into His strength, His will, and trust in Him with all my heart and mind.  I truly believe this heart and mindset got me through the most physical, emotional, and spiritually challenging time of my life.

As I sit here today, two years cancer free, I’m thankful I didn’t give in to the fear. The devil knows your fears and he will attack you exactly where you are. He’s merciless and unrelenting. Fear would have zapped me of the strength I needed to rise above this earthly affliction. If fear won, I don’t think I’d be here today. Obviously, God had a plan. I hope my writing these blogs are a part of fulfilling His plan.

If you’re struggling with fear and need help, reach out to someone for support.  A loved one, a friend, or someone through church.  Sometimes God will provide the most unexpected people in your life at just the right time.  Don’t fail to recognize when He’s at work.

If I may personally be of service, I’m an email away.  Go to my website battlecrygoodvsevil.com and hit the contact Bruce page and let me know how I can help.