Renewing Life Center

09/11/2024

Experiencing Jesus, Step by Step, As We Welcome Him into Our Daily Life

The Christian life isn’t a stationary life! Rather, it’s a life that changes with the winds and the circumstances that confront us! The CONSTANT in our life is JESUS, who doesn’t change but rather desires to be with us in our day-to-day, ever changing life.

The Bible is full of these changing circumstances. It tells us real life stories that allow us to see how God engages with us in each new circumstance. Jesus always shows up when we need Him, helping us to navigate the new.

Take this story from the life of Jesus.

“When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. A strong wind was blowing, and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed three or three and a half miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified. But he said to them, ‘It is I; don’t be afraid.’ Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.”

The disciples had never been through this storm before. Understandably, they were anxious and afraid. What’s going to happen? What ultimately made the difference for the disciples was the presence of Jesus. His presence brought peace. The same is true for us.

This past year has brought a significant storm into my life. Last December, I thought I had a bad cough. I went to quick care twice. The cough stayed. I finally went to my doctor, and in three minutes, she said rather forcefully, “Pat, you don’t have a cough … you have pneumonia! You need to go to bed and now!” This diagnosis led to other complications, so I listened and did what I was told. I had never been so sick, not even close.

Continue:

The Christian life isn’t a stationary life! Rather, it’s a life that changes with the winds and the circumstances that confront us! The CONSTANT in our life is JESUS, who doesn’t change but rather desires to be with us in our day-to-day, ever changing life. The Bible is full of these changing ...

08/29/2024

Reducing Back-to-School Anxiety

We’re a few weeks into the 2024-2025 school year! Not only is it an exciting time, but a new school year can create some feelings of anxiety for some children. Here are some quick, practical tips to help if your child is experiencing back-to-school anxiety:

1. Open Communication
"Let your conversation be always full of grace."(Colossians 4:6)
Encourage your child to share their thoughts and worries.
Listen without judgment and validate their feelings.

2. Establish a Routine
"For God is not a God of confusion but of peace." (1 Corinthians 14:33)
Gradually reintroduce school routines (bedtimes, homework times).
Predictability helps reduce anxiety.

3. Focus on Positivity
"Whatever is true, whatever is noble...think about such things."(Philippians 4:8)
Highlight exciting aspects of school (friends, activities, learning).
Help them set positive goals.

4. Prayer and Meditation
"Do not be anxious about anything...the peace of God...will guard your hearts." (Philippians 4:6-7)
Pray together each morning. Encourage your child to meditate on comforting Bible verses.

5. Model Calmness
"Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
Stay calm and composed; your child will mirror your emotions.
Practice deep breathing or calming activities together.

6. Encourage Social Connections.
"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." (Proverbs 27:17)

Arrange playdates or social activities before school starts.
Reconnecting with friends can ease anxiety.

By following these tips, you can help ease your child's transition back to school. God is with you and your child every step of the way. If you or a loved one needs further assistance, Renewing
Life Center is here to help! Call 702.434.7290 to schedule an appointment.

08/21/2024

Why Can I Forgive Everyone, But I Can’t Forgive Myself?

My husband, Vince, is a pastor who has taught a lot on the topic of forgiveness. Because so many struggle with it, I asked him to write a blog on forgiving yourself.

How Do I Forgive Myself?

A few years ago, at our church in Las Vegas we did a series on forgiveness. The first three weeks were on forgiving people who have hurt you, and they were wildly popular. Our attendance shot up each week. What surprised us was the fourth week; that’s when our attendance exploded. The fourth week was about forgiving yourself. Turns out people struggled to forgive others, but really struggled to forgive themselves.

An author named Brennan Manning tells of when he spent 28 days in a treatment program for alcoholics. One day they sat in a circle and everyone was encouraged to tell the whole truth, to themselves and the group, about the extent of their drinking. They went around the circle and everyone told the truth, except for a successful businessman named Max. He said, “I never really drank that much.” They told him, “You’re in an alcoholic treatment center. Tell the truth to yourself. Admit it.” He said, “I am being honest. I’ve never had that much to drink.” Later the group had to answer the question, “Have you ever hurt anybody while you were drunk?” Everyone around the circle told the truth until they got to Max, who said, “I would never hurt anyone, sober or drunk.”

The leader replied, “Max, we don’t believe you. We’re calling your wife.” He did, on a speakerphone for everyone to hear. Max’s wife answered and the leader asked, “Has Max ever mistreated you or any of your kids when he was drunk?” She said, “Just this last Christmas Eve he took our 9-year-old daughter shopping. On the way home, Max passed a bar and saw the cars of some of his buddies so he pulled in. It was a cold night, 12 degrees, with a high wind chill. He left the car running so the heater could stay on and told our daughter he’d be right back. He went into the bar and started drinking with his buddies. … He didn’t come out till midnight. The car had run out of gas and shut off. The windows had frozen and he was unable to open any of the doors. When the authorities came they opened the door and rushed our daughter to the hospital. She was so badly frostbitten that her thumb and forefinger had to be amputated. And her ears were so damaged by the cold that she'll be deaf for the rest of her life.” The group turned to Max, who had fallen off his chair and was convulsing on the floor.

Why? Because he was faced with the truth about himself. A truth he couldn’t handle, and so he had been living in denial. Living in a fantasy world because he felt like he could never forgive himself.

Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you:

· Physically hurt someone in some way.

· Walked out on your family.

· Were involved in an accident that seriously injured someone.

· Had an abortion when you were younger.

· Found yourself wrapped up in an affair.

· Went through a rebellious period in your teens, and know the damage it did to your parents.

· Were in the military and can’t forget the things you saw and did.

· Did someone wrong in a business deal and it ruined them financially.

Continue Reading:

My husband, Vince, is a pastor who has taught a lot on the topic of forgiveness. Because so many struggle with it, I asked him to write a blog on forgiving yourself. How Do I Forgive Myself? A few years ago, at our church in Las Vegas we did a series on forgiveness. The first three weeks were o

08/07/2024

It’s Back to School Time!

Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year!

As we approach this new school year, it's crucial to prioritize mental health to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help everyone prepare for a mentally healthy year ahead:

For Students:
Establish a Routine:

Create a consistent sleep schedule.

Set aside time for homework and relaxation.

Stay Organized:

Use planners or digital apps to track assignments and activities.

Break tasks into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Practice Self-Care:

Engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy.

Stay active and eat healthily to support overall well-being.

Build a Support Network:

Connect with friends and family regularly.

Reach out to teachers or counselors if feeling stressed or anxious.

Continue Reading: https://www.renewinglife.net/renewing-life-center-blog/its-back-to-school-time

07/25/2024

Celebrate With Us!

We are thrilled to share an extraordinary milestone with you—the
Renewing Life Center has reached 100,000 sessions! This
significant achievement marks a journey that began with a big vision and unwavering faith.

With hearts full of faith and a commitment to serve our community, Renewing Life Center opened its doors in 2005 with a vision for individuals and families to find healing, hope, and renewal through compassionate Christian counseling and support. Since then, we have seen countless lives transformed and relationships restored. We believe that God has truly opened doors for us, guiding our mission and expanding our reach. Each session represents a step toward healing and a testament to the power of compassionate care.

As we celebrate our 100,000th session this month, we want to
extend our deepest gratitude to you—our clients, supporters, and
community. Your trust and support have been instrumental in
making this milestone possible.

Join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and the
countless stories of renewal and transformation that have unfolded at the Renewing Life Center. We look forward to continuing this journey with you - and with God's guiding hand.

With heartfelt thanks,

The Renewing Life Center Team

07/17/2024

Idols of the Heart: Understanding Our Inner Drives that Keep Us From Peace and Purpose

In modern society, the concept of idolatry might seem archaic, conjuring images of people worshiping statues and golden calves. However, the essence of idolatry is far more contemporary and personal than one might initially think. Idols of the heart refer to anything that occupies the place of God in our lives.

As a counselor, when I can identify “the thing” that a client is subconsciously pursuing, “the thing” they believe they need to make their life safe and secure, “the thing” they believe will help them feel worthy and worthwhile, I am able to discern the source of their greatest anxiety.

St Augustine wrote, “Our hearts are restless until we find our rest in Thee.” When we subconsciously place anything other than God as the source of our well-being, it will always lead us away from fulfillment and peace.

Identifying the Idols

The first step in addressing idols of the heart is identifying them. Unlike physical idols, these are often intangible and deeply ingrained in our thoughts, desires, and habits. They typically reside beneath the surface in the subconscious and are often uncovered in our quiet times with God, time with mentors, or in counseling. Common examples include:

1. Materialism and Wealth: The pursuit of money and possessions can become an all-consuming goal. When our self-worth and happiness are tied to our financial status, we place materialism on a pedestal, often sacrificing ethical values and relationships. Jesus addressed this idol of the heart often. He said very directly, “you cannot serve both God and money.”

2. Control and Power: The desire for control over every aspect of life can become an idol. This obsession can lead to anxiety, stress, and strained relationships as we attempt to manipulate situations and people to fit our expectations. This also leads us to be hard on ourselves as we try to plan and organize every possible scenario to avoid pain and discomfort.

3. People Pleasing and Approval: Seeking validation and acceptance from others can become a powerful idol. Trying to please others and keep everyone happy is flat-out exhausting. When we base our identity on how others perceive us, we lose sight of our intrinsic value and worth given to us by God.

Continue Reading:

In modern society, the concept of idolatry might seem archaic, conjuring images of people worshiping statues and golden calves. However, the essence of idolatry is far more contemporary and personal than one might initially think. Idols of the heart refer to anything that occupies the place of God

07/05/2024

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!!

07/03/2024

The Secrets of Our Marriage Success

This month my husband and I will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary! 1994 was a LONG time ago. We didn’t have cell phones, laptop computers, Facebook or Amazon; sometimes I wonder how we survived! I met my husband while working at a movie theater. I sold the tickets; he ripped the tickets; it was destiny! LOL!

I’d be lying if I told you 30 years of marriage has been easy. We are two very different people with contrasting personalities and love languages. We had different childhoods and learned different things about the world. So how did we do it? How are we still happily married after all these years? Here’s a few secrets of our success.

1. Love: An unconditional love you give, not because you feel like it or the other person is being lovable, but because you made a vow, “To love and to cherish.”

2. Laughter: Laugh often – when somethings funny and maybe even when it’s not.

3. God at the center: This is the key; marriage is like a triangle, with God at the top and each spouse at the opposite bases. If both spouses keep growing closer to God, they will also be growing closer to each other.

4. Honest and open communication: Every relationship – especially a marriage – is built on the trust that comes from consistent honest and open communication.

Continue:

This month my husband and I will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary! 1994 was a LONG time ago. We didn’t have cell phones, laptop computers, Facebook or Amazon; sometimes I wonder how we survived! I met my husband while working at a movie theater. I sold the tickets; he ripped the tickets; it ...

06/19/2024

Understanding Anxiety

Dealt with anxiety?

Me too.

Everyone becomes familiar with anxiety at some point in their lives. It’s that uneasy feeling that occupies our minds and seeps into our bodies. For some, anxiety is a fleeting sensation; for others, it’s a persistent and debilitating reality.

According to recent statistics, 76.2 million people globally struggle with an anxiety disorder, a figure that has risen by 25.6% since the Covid-19 pandemic. For these individuals, anxiety is not just an occasional feeling but a significant issue that interferes with their daily lives and happiness.

Let's delve deeper into what anxiety is and explore strategies to cope with it.

What Are The Signs of Anxiety?

Anxiety symptoms can vary from person to person, but here are five common signs:

Excessive Worry:

Worry becomes excessive when it’s disproportionate to the actual event or potential threat and persists for a long time.
Excessive worry can also hinder concentration, making it difficult to focus on tasks as anxious thoughts dominate the mind.

Inability to Relax:

People with anxiety often find it challenging to relax, even during downtime.
Their minds race with anxious thoughts, and they might feel a persistent sense of unease, remaining on high alert even in calm situations.

Sleep Disturbances:

Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, frequently waking up, or waking up much earlier than usual can all be signs of anxiety.

Continue:

Dealt with anxiety? Me too. Everyone becomes familiar with anxiety at some point in their lives. It’s that uneasy feeling that occupies our minds and seeps into our bodies. For some, anxiety is a fleeting sensation; for others, it’s a persistent and debilitating reality. According to recent stat...

06/05/2024

Being With Jesus

Moving From Duty to Relationship

Jesus didn’t come into this world to inaugurate a system of order and power that demands duty. He came to bring a relationship with Him that brings God’s real presence into our inner being and, in time, through us into the world at large. As we experience this “God-life” within we find we begin to be changed, from the inside out … one day at a time.

Let’s look at a conversation with two people, where one chooses to taste and experience Jesus’ teaching, and the other becomes angry because there was too much to do to just sit and listen to Jesus.

“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha’, the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’” (Luke 10:38-42)

The question Jesus raises to Martha and us is: What is better than duty?

The invitation to come and listen to Jesus’ teaching opens our minds and moves our hearts to comprehend something greater than duty that can guide our life choices.

Continue: https://www.renewinglife.net/renewing-life-center-blog/being-with-jesus-moving-from-duty-to-relationship

05/29/2024

Where are you in your life with Jesus?

The Spiritual Formation Institute is specifically designed to connect you with this dynamic journey of knowing Jesus Christ and the abundant life He offers.

The Spiritual Formation Institute is offered through the Renewing Life Center. It's specifically designed to connect you with this dynamic journey of knowing Jesus Christ and the abundant life He offers.

Registration opens for 2025 on June 1st!!!

https://www.spiritualformationinstitute.com/

05/22/2024

Communication Styles and Your Most Important Relationships

Do you ever wonder if your spouse or kids are intentionally trying to drive you crazy? Do you wonder why they are so different from you and whether you will ever be able to get along?

Earlier this month, I had the honor of attending a Capable Life Leadership Intensive in Colorado. It was such a wonderful experience. We learned about communication styles and how they impact our relationships. As a marriage and family therapist I am always interested in how we function in relationship with one another. How do we impact each other and what does health look like?

According to Steve Cuss and The Capable Life Team, there are three main types of communication styles.

1. Rigid vs. Fluid Communicators:

Rigid communicators speak definitively. They sound sure of themselves and often use formal language with a focus on precision and detail. They are consistent in communication and may lack warmth or personal connection.

Fluid communicators tend to be more adaptable and open. They communicate more informally and may speak in a way that sounds like they are asking for advice when they actually know what they want. Clarity and consistency can be lacking, which may frustrate a rigid communicator.

Continue Reading:

Do you ever wonder if your spouse or kids are intentionally trying to drive you crazy? Do you wonder why they are so different from you and whether you will ever be able to get along? Earlier this month, I had the honor of attending a Capable Life Leadership Intensive in Colorado. It was such a won

05/15/2024

Register for Conquer Series Today: https://www.renewinglife.net/menspornographygroup

05/08/2024

Eight Daily Decisions

A Roadmap for Renewing Your Mind

Sixteen years ago, I made a decision that changed the trajectory of my life. I left a 30-year career I loved and embarked on a new calling to help lead the Renewing Life Center and spend my days connecting with individuals and couples as a marriage and family therapist. I can honestly say, I love my job. I still consider the time I spend with clients in therapy to be sacred ground. Every day I get to see the courageous efforts of clients and the work of God come together to bring great growth and change. Having a front row seat to see positive change in the lives of my clients will never grow old for me.

The joy of my job does not mean it is always easy. There are days when everything seems to fall flat. Where clients seem stuck, and it appears nothing I am doing seems helpful. Just like any job, there are complaints to be handled, paperwork to complete, problems to solve, and times where it seems like nothing is going right. There are days I come home from work feeling low and I wonder if any good came from my efforts that day. Can you relate?

How do we bounce back from days or seasons like that? I believe we gain strength to stay on the path by renewing our mind. The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12 “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

If we are being honest, we all experience tough days and seasons. My work as a Marriage and Family Therapist puts me in daily contact with people who face tremendous problems and struggles. We all have times of anxiety, doubt, pain, setbacks, and disappointment. How do we reset in times like these?

Continue Reading:

Sixteen years ago, I made a decision that changed the trajectory of my life. I left a 30-year career I loved and embarked on a new calling to help lead the Renewing Life Center and spend my days connecting with individuals and couples as a marriage and family therapist. I can honestly say, I love my

04/24/2024

The Vital Link: Exploring the Mind-Body Connection in Therapy

If you are seeking healing and personal growth that leads to profound transformation – and aren’t we all – you need to know about the intricate relationship between the mind and body.

In the realm of mental health and therapy, this relationship has gained significant attention in recent years. This interconnectedness forms the cornerstone of holistic approaches to well-being and therapeutic interventions. As I mentioned, understanding and harnessing the power of the mind-body connection can lead to profound transformations in individuals seeking healing and personal growth.

Understanding the Mind-Body Connection:

The mind-body connection refers to the intricate interplay between our thoughts, emotions, sensations, and physical health. It acknowledges that our mental state can profoundly impact our physical well-being and vice versa. This connection is not merely theoretical; it's deeply rooted in scientific research and clinical practice.

Psychoneuroimmunology, for instance, explores how psychological factors, such as stress and emotions, can influence the immune system's functioning. Similarly, studies in neuroscience have revealed the neural pathways through which emotions and mental processes can impact bodily functions, from heart rate to digestion.

Spiritually speaking, The Bible is filled with scriptures regarding the importance of the mind-body connection. 3 John 2 states, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” Pastor Linda Lange writes, “When our spirit and soul prospers, which is also our mind, will and emotions, our body will respond with good health. If our mind is filled with wrong thinking, our body will respond with poor health. When our heart is at peace, our body is at peace resulting in good health.”

Importance in Therapy:

Recognizing and addressing the mind-body connection is of paramount importance in therapy for several reasons:

Holistic Healing: By acknowledging the interconnectedness of mind and body, therapists can adopt holistic approaches that address both psychological and physical aspects of clients' well-being. This comprehensive approach promotes healing at multiple levels, fostering a sense of wholeness and integration.

Stress Reduction: Chronic stress not only takes a toll on mental health but also manifests in physical symptoms such as muscle tension, headaches, and compromised immune function. Therapeutic techniques that target the mind-body connection, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and biofeedback, can effectively alleviate stress and its physical manifestations.

Continue Reading:

If you are seeking healing and personal growth that leads to profound transformation – and aren’t we all – you need to know about the intricate relationship between the mind and body. In the realm of mental health and therapy, this relationship has gained significant attention in recent years....

04/10/2024

Nurturing Growth from Adversity

Exploring Post-Traumatic Growth

Trauma: it’s a big word that elicits a negative image in most of our minds. As humans we naturally attempt to avoid trauma, yet it has the potential to lurk around every corner. It arrives unannounced, shattering our sense of stability and security. Yet, amidst the wreckage, there exists a profound opportunity for transformation – a phenomenon known as post-traumatic growth.

The Bible is full of stories of individuals who faced immense trials, yet emerged stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Consider the story of Joseph, betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and imprisoned unjustly. Despite his suffering, Joseph persevered, eventually rising to a position of power in Egypt. Reflecting on his ordeal, he declared, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20, NIV). In Joseph's narrative, we witness the seeds of post-traumatic growth – the ability to find meaning and purpose in the midst of suffering.

Similarly, the apostle Paul experienced his share of trials, including persecution, imprisonment, and physical affliction. Yet, he famously declared, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me" (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV). Paul's words echo the essence of post-traumatic growth – the recognition that our vulnerabilities can serve as conduits for divine strength and transformation.

Researchers have identified several common components of post-traumatic growth:

· Personal Strength: Trauma can serve as a catalyst for us to discover our inner resilience and strength. We may develop a newfound confidence in our ability to cope with adversity and overcome challenges.

Continue Reading:

Trauma:  it’s a big word that elicits a negative image in most of our minds. As humans we naturally attempt to avoid trauma, yet it has the potential to lurk around every corner. It arrives unannounced, shattering our sense of stability and security. Yet, amidst the wreckage, there exists a

03/27/2024

Walk With Me Through Jesus’ Last Days On Earth

Coming to know Jesus happens slowly, like other relationships in our life. Learning to abide, or being present with Jesus takes effort, time and a growing focus on Him and yourself.

But there are dramatic times where we SEE JESUS more clearly, as He truly is.

One such important time is coming this Sunday, EASTER. Easter opens wide to us who Jesus is! It is the dramatic moment in history where Jesus comes openly to reveal Himself to you and me.

Walk with me through Jesus’ last days on earth before He ascended back to his Father in heaven. See if, like me, you find fresh energy and desire to BE with Jesus, seeing Him as He really is … our Savior who desires us and desires for us to know and be known, to love and be loved!

Jesus and the twelve at the Last Supper:

“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, ‘take and eat; this is my body’. Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.’”

Read More:

Coming to know Jesus happens slowly, like other relationships in our life.  Learning to abide, or being present with Jesus takes effort, time and a growing focus on Him and yourself. But there are dramatic times where we SEE JESUS more clearly, as He truly is. One such important time is c

03/13/2024

Can Therapy Help My Teen?

In the public school setting, I get this question a lot. “How do I know if my teen needs counseling and will it help?” When I meet with students and families usually following a crisis or significant behavior infraction, I often recommend therapy for the student. Understandably so, parents want to know what therapy is going to do to help their child. This is a big question and while the answer is not simple, I feel it is a resounding YES with a few caveats.

Adolescence is a time of significant emotional, social, and cognitive development, and therapy can provide valuable support and assistance during this challenging period. Therapy is sitting down with someone who is there purely for you with no preconceived notions, no agenda, no judgment, and who wants to help you make sense of your thought patterns, feelings, and reactions to the world around you. When we think of adolescents today and everything they are dealing with in an uncertain world, with endless information and social media at their fingertips, one can begin to see how therapy can be helpful to work through these issues. Therapy can help in the following ways:

Emotional Support: Adolescence often brings about heightened emotions and increased stress. Therapy provides a safe and confidential space for teens to express their feelings, fears, and frustrations. Having a supportive and non-judgmental environment can help them navigate complex emotions.

Coping Skills: Therapy helps teens develop effective coping strategies for dealing with stress, anxiety, and other challenges. They can learn practical skills to manage their emotions, make decisions, and handle conflicts in a healthier way.

Improved Communication: Teens may struggle with communication, both with their peers and their parents. Therapy can enhance their communication skills, enabling them to express themselves more clearly and build healthier relationships with others.

Continue:

In the public school setting, I get this question a lot. “How do I know if my teen needs counseling and will it help?” When I meet with students and families usually following a crisis or significant behavior infraction, I often recommend therapy for the student. Understandably so, parents want ...