Stay close to God. Do life well.
12/30/11
12/29/11
12/28/11
12/27/11
Holiday of HOPE Images (regular posts resume 1/2/12)
So the helpless has hope, And unrighteousness must shut its mouth. Job 5:16
12/26/11
12/25/11
12/24/11
Christmas Eve!
For Christmas Eve through New Year's Day, HOPE Hints will take a brief sabbatical from text content and instead share several inspiring pictures related to the word HOPE along with several verses reminding us of where our true hope lies, as we celebrate the birth of the only One who can give everlasting hope. We are thankful for Bible Gateway as a resource to find verses.
Thank you also for reading our blog. We look forward to providing continued encouragement in 2012.
...through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2
Thank you also for reading our blog. We look forward to providing continued encouragement in 2012.
...through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2
12/23/11
12/22/11
Whom Cares? By Brenda B. Covert
I hope that headline bothered you! It was my attempt to prove that mistakes are big attention-getters. Unfortunately, that’s the wrong kind of attention for your letters, memos, and reports to receive. If you’ve been stumped by the use of “who” and “whom,” consider this: “Who” is a pronoun that takes the place of the subject. “Whom” is the objective case of “who” and is always the object of the verb or the preposition.
Examples:
Who is responsible for updating our website? I wonder who will be awarded as Employee of the Month?
You gave the award to whom? “Never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” ~John Donne
If you ever find yourself in a quandary over which word to use, try a pronoun substitution. Test your choice by replacing “who” with “he.” Your question will become a statement, as in He is responsible, or He will be awarded as Employee of the Month.
If the sentence sounds odd, such as, You gave the award to he, and the objective pronoun “him” would make it sound better, you’ll know that “whom” is the right choice.
Who cares? Anyone who values professionalism!
12/21/11
Fridge Frenzy
It's very common for staff members to forget they have put food/leftovers in the break room refrigerator. An easy fix? Make it a standard practice that all non-labeled food will automatically be discarded on Friday afternoons, and even food that is labeled but looks old or unsafe will be discarded as well. As your staff gets accustomed to the "every Friday" policy, they will change their habits or lose out. Either way, the refrigerator stays clean. Assign a staff member to the job or set up a rotation schedule.
12/20/11
Keep it Readable
PowerPoint tip: Don't use a font smaller than 18 points on any slide, and don't put more than six lines. Remember your audience has to be able to see it! (Thanks to Debora K. Thurston for the tips.)
12/19/11
5 Minute Challenge
Feeling overwhelmed by a messy home? Don't know where to start? Try the 5 Minute Challenge. Set a timer for 5 minutes and stay in ONE room. (That is KEY.) You'll be amazed at what you can straighten and pick up. If you find items for another room, put those items near the door but do NOT leave the room. When the timer goes off, put those other items away. Then decide if you want to do this again in another room. You'll find that a focused, but quick run through of the main living areas, will perk up the home in very little time, and perhaps even motivate you to do more thorough projects!
12/18/11
Stolen on Saturday: From our Break Time Bible Study Blog
Your child's Little League team wins the tournament.
Your son marries a wonderful girl.
Your husband got a promotion.
Your mission trip team made a difference in another city or country.
You pulled off a surprise birthday party.
Your favorite NASCAR driver wins the championship...again. Well, maybe. (Yes, I like Jimmie Johnson but I think it's about time for another driver to de-throne him. Don't tell my husband!)
Your team gets the winning touchdown!
A friend you haven't seen in a long time is arriving today for a visit.
I bet you could easily add to this list. God worked into us the love of celebrating and having fun with life! Life is not always fun...but God is always worth celebrating.
The Psalms give us several means to celebrate God. This week, take a look at the following Psalms and consider what the writer is celebrating: Psalm 19, 43, 100, 112, 119.
Do you get at least as excited by God as you do by the above situations? (oops...that could be considered a Jesus Juke...)
Here's to celebrating God and life today!
12/17/11
Sunday Sabbath
And the earth brought forth grass, herbs yielding seed after their kind, and trees bearing fruit, wherein is the seed thereof, after their kind: and God saw that it was good. Gen. 1:12
12/16/11
12/15/11
12/13/11
Medicine Kit
12/12/11
A King and a Kingdom
I recently completed a book written by an acquaintance of mine and want to recommend it to you. A King and a Kingdom is written by Jim Thompson, a theology instructor at a local Christian school.
Jim has written a "narrative theology of grace and truth" which will give you a better understanding of the story of the Bible as a whole. Often we are tempted to look at Scripture in "sound bites," like viewing one act of a play and missing out on the entire story. Jim takes a different approach and points out elements such as (quoting from chapter headings):
Glory: The grand goal of it all
Covenants(s): the story unfolds
Jesus: good news about covenant and kingdom
In his book, he is able to remind the reader of God's great plan, while remaining true to the text and to what it means for believers.
One regret I have in reading the book is that I spread it out over too many weeks and read in short segments (similar to how I mention we often read the Bible.) I think I would have been better served to read this work in a more compact amount of time, to get the full benefit and cadence of the important truths Jim shares.
Jim's book is available through the link below. Please consider adding it to your collection of valuable reading material. HOPE will receive a small portion of the sale if you order through this link. Thank you!
12/11/11
Sabbath Sunday
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. Rev. 3:20
12/10/11
Stolen on Saturday: from our Organizing Hope Blog
Start a new tray the next weekend, moving only the fresh remains to the new tray. Wash/sanitize the other one. This way you'll be rotating clean trays and getting rid of pieces of fruit/veggies that are no longer fresh.
This makes it easier on your family to make healthy choices. (You too!)
12/9/11
12/8/11
Two Years? or 2 Years?
Two years or "2 years"? "Two years" is correct. Numbers under 10 are generally to be written out rather than using the numeral itself.
12/7/11
Growing Weary
Galatians 6:9 And let us not GROW weary in well doing for in due season we will reap if we don't give up.
For the first time, I really noticed the word "grow" in that verse. Notice it doesn't say let us not become weary...as if being tired is sinful. Grow weary seems to indicate that we may have some control over how weariness overtakes us, similar to growing plants. Paul may be reminding us that when we first notice weariness, to do something about it so it doesn't grow and overtake us, making us want to give up.
I allow my weariness to grow when I don't take enough time for rest. When I spend too much time on the computer or social media. When I set expectations for myself that are unrealistic. When I don't sleep enough, drink enough water, or make time a few times a week for intentional exercise. Are you letting your weariness grow?
12/6/11
Travel Tip
Traveling with kids? Wrap "presesnts" of a toy, snack, book or other fun item (using some of their familiar toys and some new ones) and allow them to open one at certain intervals such as every half hour. This will help pass the time.
12/5/11
Make a New Friend
Make it a point to get to know one new person per month (or week, if you are outgoing.) You don't have to become super close friends, but you'll benefit from getting a different perspective and increasing your network. How to do this? Introduce yourself to someone in the cafeteria, smile and make small talk while waiting in line, or if comfortable, connect using social media.
12/4/11
Sunday Sabbath
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
Romans 15:13
12/2/11
12/1/11
Outlook Tip: If you have never emptied your deleted items, you may be using up a lot of your folder space while thinking the messages that you deleted are gone. To check, simply click on your "Deleted Items" folder. You may notice that messages that you deleted are still in this folder. Click on Tools, Empty Deleted Items Folder, to permanently remove these messages (or "empty the trash.") You may also set your options to do this every time you close Outlook.
Thanks to Debora Thurston for this tip.
11/30/11
More on Paper (our thanks to Laurinda Wallace)
Visit http://www.printindustry.com/glossary.htm for a great glossary of terms used in printing and graphic arts.
Examples:
Basis weight (or weight) = weight in pounds of a ream of paper in basic size
Bind = methods of joining together, such as glue or wire
Bond = commonly used paper for everyday use such as photocopying
Ream = 500 sheets of paper
Stock order = order for paper that will come from current inventory, not special from the mill (i.e. paper is “in stock.”)
11/29/11
A Paper Primer, by Laurinda Wallace
Glossy? 20 pound? 24 pound? Card stock? Choosing the right paper can be a daunting task. With the vast variety of specialty papers, available, all with different weights, brightness and feel, no wonder it’s confusing. Let’s take a look at some commonly used papers.
Multi-purpose 20-pound copy or bond paper is the most popular. It’s available in many sizes and in a rainbow of colors. This paper is a favorite because of its availability and economy. You will want to choose white paper carefully though, as it comes in different levels of brightness. Consider what is necessary in your office environment. Paper is rated on a brightness scale of 1100. Most papers range from 80 to high 90’s on the scale. A higher number on the scale indicates a crisper, whiter paper. Test it for yourself. Compare a sheet of 84 white with a sheet of 92 white and see if you can tell the difference.
Fine business papers have cotton content. When cotton fiber is added to wood pulp, a more durable and better quality paper is created. The most common blend is 25% cotton and 75% wood pulp. These papers usually have a watermark, which adds to its distinctive look. Papers with cotton content are typically used for letterhead stationery, brochures, and presentations. If you want to project a professional image, this is the paper to use.
Cardstock or cover stock is a heavy, stiff paper used for postcards, posters, and business cards. It’s available in a wide variety of colors, ranging from soft pastels to bright neons. You’ll commonly find cardstock in 8.5” x 11” and 11” x 17” sizes. The most popular weights are 60–65 lbs, although heavier cardstock is available. To avoid jamming your copier or printer, check its ability to handle paper in this weight range before purchasing.
Specialty papers abound, which include those with imprinted designs, such as certificates, note cards, and much more. These lend a professional look to invitations, brochures, and programs. Specialty papers are more expensive, but they add a touch of elegance. Be sure to check paper compatibility with your printer or copier before purchasing.
For more information on paper, check out these websites: www.southworth.com, www.internationalpaper.com, www.crane.com and www.paperdirect.com. Some companies will provide samples.
11/28/11
Maximize Your Workspace!
Maximize your workspace for work! Snack somewhere else. Socialize somewhere else. Make personal calls, emails or social media contacts elsewhere. Have only a few personal mementos around you. By establishing self-imposed boundaries, when you sit down to work, you will be more physiologically prepared to focus on the job at hand. (GH)
11/27/11
Sunday Sabbath
Along with their fellowship offering of thanksgiving they are to present an offering with thick loaves of bread made with yeast. Lev. 7:12-14
11/26/11
Saturday Spotlight: Recycling Gift Wrap
Question: What other creative uses have you found for gift wrap?
11/25/11
11/24/11
Want to Know God's Will?
In everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:18
11/23/11
Jot it Down!
When a person interrupts you in the midst of a task, hold him/her off long enough to write a quick note reminding yourself of where you are in the process. You can do this when you leave for lunch or a meeting as well. This will help you pick back up more easily! (GH)
11/22/11
Date It!
11/21/11
Receiving Well
When God prompts someone to give to us, we should accept it gratefully so as not to block THEIR blessing of cooperating with what God seeks to do in our lives. We are often the vessels He uses to distribute grace. A simple "thanks so much" keeps the conduit of blessing open. When we deny a gift or say, "You shouldn't have done that," it could actually be coming from a root of pride and independence, neither of which are a fruit of the Spirit.
We should not be embarrassed to be good receivers. Our very salvation is something we "receive."
11/20/11
Sunday Sabbath
And I saw an angel standing in the sun, who cried in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God...
Revelation 19:17
11/19/11
Saturday Spotlight: Calling Down a Curse
This is a reprint from our Break Time Bible Study blog.
Calling down a curse? hmmm...
Some Psalms can be referred to as "imprecatory," (meaning “to bring down a curse”) which means that the Psalmist is actually praying for God's judgment to come down on his enemies. Our live group and I discussed this recently. How do you reconcile what appear to be clear prayers for judgment with New Testament commands to "love our enemies?" Are there times when praying judgment or a curse on someone is acceptable?
This is a very difficult question. There isn't a simple answer, but here are a few points to consider as you read Psalms like this.
Remember context. The Bible must be interpreted in light of itself. You don't read a novel and pull out one paragraph to determine what the whole of the novel contains. Psalms are expressions of feelings and often a starting point for private prayer. While they often contain commands such as "Praise the Lord," they also share deep emotion that if acted upon, may not line up with godly behavior. (For example, the depression expressed in Psalm 88 does not necessarily advocate living in that mindset perpetually.)
Consider history. Remember that there were times that God made clear to the Jews that they should destroy their enemies. It's possible that the Psalmist was praying back to God something that God had already made clear He would do. Israel's enemies were often peoples who did not worship God and infiltrated the Israelites with evil.
Think about the prayer. The Psalmist is asking God to enact justice. In a sense, he is expressing his trust that God will take care of things as He should. God did use His children in war from time to time, but these types of prayers focus on God being glorified and God handling situations in the proper way, not "please stamp your approval on my plan for revenge."
Understand the relationship. The Psalmist was praying to God, showing a deep relationship and a willingness to express many different feelings. This shows a trust in God and an intimacy that allows for expressions of even negative feelings. There are times you might indeed "vent" to the Lord about something that seems unfair.
The Psalmist gives us a great example to go to the Lord in prayer whenever we feel attacked. This could be spiritual warfare, relationship issues, or any number of situations that can bring us down. Be sure to spend time with God before acting hastily to enact revenge or fix a situation to your liking.
Help us, God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake. Psalm 79:9
11/18/11
Friday Funny: Here's Your Sign
Since we talked about signs two times this week, here is a funny sign for you.
11/17/11
Pessimism
Pessimists might sometimes be right--but they are rarely the people through whom God accomplishes great things.--Katie Brazelton
11/16/11
Effective Presentation Slides and/or Indoor Signs
Yesterday we shared hints about outdoor signs. Here are a few additional tips that apply to presentations (i.e. PowerPoint) or indoor signage.
Keep text large enough to read from 10 feet or more away, at least for the headline.
Don't use too many graphics. Less is more. Don't tire the eye by putting in too much clip art or clutter.
Stick with one or two fonts. Again, it's tempting to play around with all kinds of fonts, but it's cleaner and more readable to stick with a couple that enhance each other.
Don't provide all the details. For slides and signage, the basic concept/info will do. Elaborate verbally or give a "for more info" email address or website where you can provide FAQ's and details.
Keep these tips in mind and you'll be communicating effectively!
Our thanks to Amy Tedder and Debra Thurston for some of this content.
11/15/11
Tips for Effective Outdoor Signs
When putting up a sign outdoors (i.e. for a yard sale) consider the following:
Always make it big enough for people to see. I am amazed by the tiny signs people put up for people to notice while driving by.
Don't include too much info. Although it is counterintuitive, over communicating on a sign can be worse than under communicating. Put the bare essentials of info to get people in the door.
Time your signs wisely. Hang them with enough time for people to make plans.
Be careful of placement. While you probably see signs on Stop signs, telephone poles or other common property all the time, it may be illegal in your town. Don't clutter the neighborhood with signs all over public areas. Find out where you can legally post items of interest.
Take them down! When an event is over (or the lost bicycle has been found, etc.) go around and remove the signs you have hung. If your church has signs, make sure they are changed or taken down after the event is over. Otherwise it looks sloppy. We've all seen neighborhood signs, for example, that are up for months or longer, after the event or announcement is long past relevance.
With thanks to Amy Tedder for some of this content.
11/14/11
Grammar Guidance: Whom Cares? by Brenda B. Covert
I hope that headline bothered you! It was my attempt to prove that mistakes are big attention-getters. Unfortunately, that’s the wrong kind of attention for your letters, memos, and reports to receive. If you’ve been stumped by the use of “who” and “whom,” consider this: “Who” is a pronoun that takes the place of the subject. “Whom” is the objective case of “who” and is always the object of the verb or the preposition.
Examples:
Who is responsible for updating our website? I wonder who will be awarded as Employee of the Month?
You gave the award to whom? “Never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” ~John Donne
If you ever find yourself in a quandary over which word to use, try a pronoun substitution. Test your choice by replacing “who” with “he.” Your question will become a statement, as in He is responsible, or He will be awarded as Employee of the Month.
If the sentence sounds odd, such as, You gave the award to he, and the objective pronoun “him” would make it sound better, you’ll know that “whom” is the right choice.
Who cares? Anyone who values professionalism!
11/13/11
Sunday Sabbath
The LORD replied to them: “I am sending you grain, new wine and olive oil, enough to satisfy you fully; never again will I make you an object of scorn to the nations." Joel 2:19
11/12/11
Saturday Spotlight: What HOPE Can Do for You
For seminars, we work with the sponsoring organization to develop an event within your budget.
You can also help HOPE at no cost to you by shopping at Amazon through our links page first!
Contact us for details!
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