Will Heaven Be Boring? (reboot)

Posted on May 27, 2026 by David Rische

“Is this as good as it gets?” That was the famous question asked by Jack Nicholson’s character in the movie appropriately titled As Good as it Gets. It’s easy to look around us and possibly apply the question to our current circumstances as all of us face challenges, struggles, and problems. However, if we are believers in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, then we have the hope of heaven after we die or are raptured.

Let’s be honest – it might be difficult to put our hope in a place we’ve never seen or experienced. On the flip side of challenges – what if things are going great now? What if we are experiencing a little bit of “heaven on earth” and aren’t in too much of a hurry to leave?

The images provided in books, movies, and sermons are not all that exciting. First impressions in my head are people and angels wearing white robes in the clouds equipped with harps, singing praises in a never-ending worship service, and a giant iron gate that Saint Peter is guarding to let people in or not. A nice, decked out mansion for a future residence. Quite a bit of down time. Finally, a chance to get some rest. Sitting around chatting with family and friends who made it. Maybe even wondering – I know God is here, but when do we get to see and talk to him? He’s probably extremely busy with all of these new residents. Is this as good as heaven gets???

It’s hard to put faith and trust in something that is invisible now. We are created to be visual. We can also conjure up images in our minds. If someone says, “Tom Cruise was at Six Flags riding The Texas Giant Roller Coaster (totally made this up).” Even if we’ve never been to this amusement park, we still can create a mental picture. What about Heaven? The quality images aren’t in abundant supply.

Even though our heads may not have all that great of images – the Bible is filled with them! A possible tremendous resource for future study is the book, Heaven by Randy Alcorn. It is the most exhaustive, hopeful, and “down to earth” perspective of the topic I’ve ever encountered. Let’s take a look at three major areas we can have future hope towards. I’ll also include some “earthly” pictorial images to help get a mental snapshot.

  1. We will have a New Body – like Jesus’ after he rose from the dead! The apostle Paul tells us: But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into our immortal bodies. Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die . . . (1 Corinthians 15: 51-54) This is definitely something to look forward to with great anticipation. Our bodies will be like Jesus’. We will have minds that don’t deteriorate over time. We will be able to move from place to place beyond walking (John 20:19). No more coughs and colds or flu season. Our bones won’t break. No headaches or migraines. Better yet – no more diabetes, cancer, autoimmune diseases, heart problems, COVID, etc. Earthly images – think Superman, Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel, and The Flash!
  2. We will live in a New Building(s) – Heaven! Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. . . And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband . . . God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever (Revelation 21: 1 – 4). Further on in the chapter it describes the length, width, and height of this magnificent structure of 1400 miles in each direction. Try and picture the most spectacular looking cube beyond your wildest dreams. This mega-cube will be the distance from Mexico to Canada in every direction! Jesus reassured his disciples saying, “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” (John 14: 1 – 3). Earthly images – think of the architectural brilliance combined of Italy, France, and the castles in Germany. The mountain ranges of Switzerland, Colorado, and Canada. And the white, sandy beaches with clear water in Grace Bay, The Caribbean (Google search for clearest water and whitest sand)!
  3. We get a New Boss – Jesus Christ! The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign forever and ever (Revelation 11:15). No more corrupt government, no more evil getting away with it, no more elections, no more political parties, no more taxes, no more corporate greed, no more wars, no more crime, no more poverty. Jesus is on the throne as the invincible ruler of the universe. He will first reign on earth for 1000 years (Revelation 20: 6). Then he will rule for all eternity in heaven with us as his loyal, fulfilled, and joyful subjects. And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new! . . . And he also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega – the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children (Revelation 21: 5-7). Earthly images – think of good kings using their power to serve and protect their people – Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings, Aslan the Lion from the Narnia tales, and King Arthur.

Conclusion: Remember the dull images at the beginning of this post? The truth is the exact opposite. We will be busy doing what we’ve always been created to do. We will be joyful, fulfilled, adventurous, energetic, 100% healthy, surrounded by love, in community, creative, and thriving. We will be busy – there won’t be time to sit on clouds and strum a harp. We will serve God in Heaven (Revelation 7:15; 22:3). Service is active, not passive. Randy Alcorn states: Work in Heaven won’t be frustrating or fruitless; instead, it will involve lasting accomplishment, unhindered by decay and fatigue, enhanced by unlimited resources. We’ll approach our work with the enthusiasm we bring to our favorite sport or hobby . . . In Heaven, we’ll reign with Christ, exercise leadership and authority, and make important decisions (Luke 19: 17-19 and page 412 of Heaven).

How do I get in and become a citizen of Heaven? The Apostle Paul provided that answer for all of us: “If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

Don’t put this off. I conclude with a question worth wrestling with right now and resolving today: What happens after this life???

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

So What’s the Plan, God?

Posted on April 27, 2026 by David Rische

Do you sometimes feel like other people have a quiet confidence about having their life plan all figured out? Many people are doing big and wonderful things. Some bounce from one achievement to the next. Goals crushed. It is fair to wonder: How do I fit in to all of this? Shouldn’t I have God’s plan for my life clarified by now? At least a rough draft version?

I remember way back to my youth group days. A speaker named Ken Davis was discussing this topic. His message was on finding God’s will for our lives. He gave a great illustration:

“Do you ever wonder what God’s will is for your life? Have you ever thought this way before? It’s like God has the plan for your life written out on a piece of paper. That paper is in a sealed envelope. Our job is to go through life figuring out what is on that piece of paper without actually ever opening the envelope. Good luck!”

Fortunately Mr. Davis went on to explain how God has a general will for everyone (he used Romans 12:1 -2 for his point). Then, he elaborated on how God works with us individually day by day, and even sometimes moment by moment. It isn’t a quick fix or instant download. Here is another perspective I recently heard from The Wild at Heart Podcast:

“God never gives anyone the plan for their life. Not the 10 year plan. Not even the 1 year plan. And you’re not the exception. That’s actually the kindness of God.

If he gave you the plan, you’d go do it without him. The uncertainty isn’t punishment. It’s the thing that keeps you in intimacy with God.

The kingdom of God is a forest, not a front yard where everything is neat, cut, and in its place. The uncertainty, the changing terrain, the unknown, that’s not God abandoning you. That’s God keeping you close.“

Profound. Forest vs. Perfectly Trimmed Yard. Mic drop. However, living this way comes as a great challenge. It seems as though everything in this world is screaming: Be independent, have it all figured out, unending accomplishment is the norm, God is extremely busy, and where’s the plan???

Here are some applicable Bible verses to think about and keep coming back to whenever those untrue thoughts continue to bombard us:

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous – how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life WAS recorded in your book. Every moment WAS laid out before a single day had passed. (Psalm 139: 13 – 16)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and He WILL direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

I cry out to God Most High, to God who WILL fulfill his purpose for me. He will send help from heaven to rescue me, disgracing those who hound me. My God will send forth his unfailing love and faithfulness. (Psalm 57: 2 – 3)

Conclusion . . . These verses speak for themselves. Let’s go live it – one moment at a time.

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Praying When Words Ain’t There

Posted on March 23, 2026 by David Rische

Do you ever find it hard to pray sometimes? Maybe feeling like you don’t have the “right words”? Or, it is a sudden crisis situation with health, finances, or a relationship? Brain fog, confusion, and uncertainty are the norm. How about when we’ve prayed for years about something – and nothing has happened to improve or change the situation?

If we’re honest, we can admit we’ve been there. A solution? Like everything else in life – The Word of God! Verses from the Bible can help us fill the void. Here are some quick prayers to jot down or memorize:

I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief! (Mark 9:24)

With God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26)

Save me, Lord! (Matthew 14: 30)

Jesus, have mercy on me! (Mark 10: 47)

And one of my personal favorites for every situation:

I don’t know what to do, but my eyes are on You. (2 Chronicles 20:12)

Here’s another thought. Others can help us fill the gap when we truly don’t have the strength or right frame of mind. It is not a sign of weakness when we ask faithful family and friends to intervene for us.

So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Colossians 1:9)

In conclusion, the most important one. Asking Jesus to pray for us. He did it for his disciple, Simon Peter – why would he not also do it for us?

Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. (Luke 22:31)

You do not have the words. You are in a bind or not feel like praying. In those cases, try one or all of these. A flash prayer, asking others to pray, or asking Jesus to pray for you. Then in the future, you will be available having had these experiences. You can help someone else through times when they feel like they don’t have the “right words” to pray.

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Prayerful Action Against Anxiety (Reboot)

Posted on February 24, 2026 by David Rische

Doesn’t is seem like there is always something to be worried about? If not in our personal lives – then one quick look at the news highlights can fuel our angst rapidly? I read a study by Harvard Business Review showing that “Anxiety is the #1 Mental Illness and affects over 40 million Americans.” One of the tragedies of the study is that it was published back in May of 2020. What would the number be today???

That is why I love the title of the book, Worried About Everything Because I Pray About Nothing. One day I was randomly listening to a podcast and the guest was the author, Chad Veach. Never heard of him. His interview was so intriguing – I had to rush out and get the book (okay, my library had it available for free).

Chad’s foundational principle is that we should pray, turn things over to God, and pray some more until we reach some level of inner peace. In his own words, “Pray yourself to peace.” Worry, anxiety, and “fixing it” are usually our default modes. I had a fairly intense encounter with an angry “client” last week. It all turned out okay. After reflecting – I’m embarrassed to admit that I didn’t pray before, during, or after that encounter. Was I anxious? Yes. Was I worried? Yes. Did I pray? No.

Here are some of the key scripture verses from the book:

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. (Philippians 4: 6-7)

You (God) will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! (Isaiah 26: 3)

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. (2 Thessalonians 3: 16)

“I (Jesus) am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give . . . “ (John 14: 27)

So if The Bible is true (it is!) – then perfect peace, God’s peace we can’t understand, and peace at all times and in every situation are attainable? Sign me up for this program! That’s the tricky part. It takes some effort, intentionality, and time on our parts. “Pray about everything” is the revealed secret. And it goes to a whole new level when my prayers stop being so “me” focused and they shift to others needs (and praying about world events instead of worrying or being angry about them). Here are are a few quotes that stood out to me from the book. Actually, they stood out because they were 1/2 inspiring and 1/2 “Ouch!”:

“Don’t ask God to guide your steps if you’re not ready to get off the couch.”

“It is easier to pray about things than to actually put in the work to fix them.”

“Crazy thought: Our prayers can move the hand of God.”

“Prayer is relational and not transactional.”

“What do you give a God that has everything??? . . . . . We give him more of ourselves!”

Conclusion: How about we give this a try? The next time something happens that leads our thoughts to worry, anxiety, and stress – what would happen if they first thing we did was stop and pray? It can be silent, swift, and imperfect. What would it be like if we started the habit of “praying yourself to peace”? And finally, what if our lives reflected flipping the title of this book? Worried About Nothing Because I Pray About Everything . . .

Blessings,

Dave

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

New Year’s Reflections Vs. Resolutions

Posted on January 21, 2026 by David Rische

This was the first holiday season of my life where I finally understood people going through tough times when it is supposed to be “happy, merry, and bright.” From Thanksgiving evening until December 30th – we experienced a rapid decline in my father’s health until his ultimate passing.

To pass the time one day sitting in a nursing home room while he slept – I started scrolling through my phone photos. I was curious about all that has gone on the past year, and looking to delete some of the excess (especially dog pictures). Unexpectedly, I then discovered the power of reflection. The last year had so many incredible things happen as I swiped from picture to picture. My daughter’s wedding. My son’s engagement. Trips to Colorado and New York City. Gatherings with family and friends. Babies and toddlers. My first Texas Ranger game at the “new” ballpark. Wonderful restaurants. Unexpected employment. And lots of dogs.

I was letting one dark month and a half represent the entire year. Try it! Scroll through your photos and see how quickly your mood can change. Take a look at the people, places, and events you forgot about. A great reminder of how far you’ve come and the goals you’ve met. The joy of the simplistic – a meal, a park, a sunrise or sunset. And of course, any pictures of dogs.

It is so easy to forget the goodness, faithfulness, and provision of God. Our culture is raging with a “What have you done for me lately?” mentality. Prime deliveries. Instant download. Streaming right now. Fed Ex isn’t fast enough anymore. Don’t even think about using the Postal Service . . .

I recently heard a message on Nehemiah. He was a faithful servant to the king of Persia around 423 B.C. Back in a rebuilt Jerusalem, he was leading the people he governed over with a prayer reflecting on the faithfulness of God through the ages regarding the nation of Israel. Specifically, how God freed them from hundreds of years of cruel slavery in Egypt. Here are some examples from Nehemiah Chapter 9:

You saw the misery of our ancestors in Egypt (v.9).

You heard their cries from beside the Red Sea (v. 9).

You divided the sea for your people so they could walk through on dry land! (v. 11)

And then you hurled their enemies into the depths of the sea (v.11).

You led our ancestors by a pillar of cloud during the day and a pillar of fire at night (v.12).

You came down at Mount Sinai and spoke to them from heaven (v.13).

You gave them bread from heaven when they were hungry and water from the rock when they were thirsty (v.15).

You commanded them to go and take possession of the land you had sworn to give them (v.15).

For 40 years you sustained them in the wilderness, and they lacked nothing (v. 21).

Can you imagine what scrolling through this photo roll would look like???

The Red Sea parting and closing. Pillars of cloud and fire. Food from Heaven. Water from a rock.

And just like that, they forgot. Short-term memory can get the best of us.

Nehemiah continues in verse 16:

But our ancestors were proud and stubborn, and they paid no attention to your commands. They refused to obey and did not REMEMBER the miracles you had done for them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to take them back to their slavery in Egypt.

Go back to slavery in Egypt??? But let’s face it – we can easily do the same thing. Proud . . . stubborn . . . refusing God’s ways . . . and not remembering all He has done for us this year and every one before it.

However, Nehemiah summarizes the goodness of God in spite of how the people acted . . .

But in your great mercy you did not abandon them to die in the wilderness . . . The pillar of cloud still led them . . . and the pillar of fire showed them the way . . . You sent your good Spirit . . . and you did not stop giving them manna from heaven or water for their thirst . . . (Nehemiah 9: 19,20).

What would it look like to make it a habit this year of scrolling through your photos each month as a positive way to reflect and remember? What about blocking in time to sit still without a device? Be bored and let your mind wander. Explore where your creativity can take you without using artificial intelligence. And clinging to our God who doesn’t treat us as we deserve:

If we die with him, we will also live with him.

If we endure hardship, we will reign with him.

If we deny him, he will deny us.

If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is (2 Timothy 2: 11-13).

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Holiday Amplification (Reboot)

Posted on December 17, 2025 by David Rische

“Tis the season to be jolly . . .” But what about those who are feeling sad?

“Silent Night . . . All is Calm . . .” But what if there’s chaos all over the globe?

“Underneath the Tree . . .” But what if there aren’t any gifts or even a tree?

I recently heard a guest speaker at church who opened up my mind to the above scenarios. To paraphrase, he described how everything gets amplified during the holidays. Great things get amplified:

Joy, family, friends, gifts, wonderful meals, sweet treats, shopping, sales, bonuses, travel . . .

However, challenging things also get amplified during the holidays:

Grief, family strife, job losses, depression, anxiety, hunger, no gifts, divorce, loneliness . . .

Sounds so simple – but I found it deeply profound. We might feel embarrassed because we’re “not feeling it” this holiday season. We could feel shame because we’ve said multiple times, “I just want to get through Christmas.” There might be deep regret because we tried to manufacture happy holidays by racking up purchases on our credit cards.

It’s all right for us to feel and experience these things. It’s a part of the amazing journey we’re on as being fully human. It can serve as a reminder to our hearts that whether we’re experiencing joy or sorrow – this earth is our temporary residence:

For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come. (Hebrews 13:14)

And since it is temporary, we can always have hope in spite of our current circumstances or feelings:

Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. (Romans 8:18)

And finally, to experience that future glory, we can believe in and receive the ultimate Christmas gift from God, his son Jesus:

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16,17)

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

The Biblical Science of Giving Thanks

Posted on November 25, 2025 by David Rische

Way back around A.D. 50 – the apostle Paul was on to something when he wrote:

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5: 18).

If we’re honest, it’s difficult to be thankful in “all circumstances”. Especially when life feels rotten or tragedy unexpectedly hits. That is an entirely different conversation for another time. However, there is a relatable connection regarding what goes on in our brains when we consistently exercise the habit of being thankful. These practices could possibly help pull us out of those rotten times and recovering from tragedy.

An accumulated amount of scientific research (summarized by Musclemoph on Instagram for this post) describes how gratitude is one of the most ignored natural remedies on earth. Most people think gratitude is just being “nice” or “positive.” But neuroscience shows it’s much more powerful. Gratitude literally rewires our brains to feel happier, calmer, and more connected.

For example, when we practice sincere gratitude: Our prefrontal cortex activates, which leads to improved focus and emotional control.

Also during gratitude – our brains release dopamine and oxytocin. Those both assist in boosting happiness and trust.

One final noted chemical reaction is that cortisol (the stress hormone) drops. The effect that it has is leaving us calm and resilient.

Here’s the twist: our brain rewards us after the act of gratitude, not before. Each time we express it, we strengthen the neural pathways that links effort to reward. Similar to car tires being stuck and spinning on a muddy, flooded road. The tires create deep grooves in the ground. The same goes for our neural pathway “grooves” in our brains. Over time, our brain starts seeking gratitude on autopilot. Also, the brain learns best through variation, not just repetition.

Here are 3 powerful tips in using variation with gratitude:

  1. Be specific (not generic) – “I’m grateful for my family.” vs. “I’m grateful my sister called and got me groceries when I was sick last week.” Specific moments create emotional detail, triggering stronger brain activation.
  2. Prioritize thankfulness for people over things – Gratitude for relationships activates deeper reward circuits than gratitude for possessions. Connection fuels long-term happiness, consumption doesn’t.
  3. Create gratitude letters (claimed to be the most powerful tool) – Studies show writing (but not necessarily sending) gratitude letters produces the biggest boost in mental health. Just 15 minutes of writing each day can equal weeks of improved mood and emotional balance.

Variety prevents our brains from adapting. Try alternating between: Journaling, verbal gratitude, letters, and mental reflection. The more ways we express it, the stronger the rewiring.

The research also shows that gratitude doesn’t just affect our mind, it transforms our bodies. Blood pressure is lowered. Heart rate variability improves. Inflammation is reduced. Immune function is strengthened. Our nervous systems literally heals itself through positive emotion. Also cited is that if gratitude is used right – it can decrease depression symptoms by 35%, reduces stress, and improves sleep quality.

Conclusion: Gratitude, thankfulness, and positivity all start in our head. They all begin with a choice. Usually that choice takes a little bit of work and going against our brain’s default modes which can be negativity, ungrateful, the path of least resistance, and passivity. The Apostle Paul leaves us with this timeless advice on how to “jump start” the process with the appropriate mindset:

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8).

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Everyone is on Their Phones – Especially Me!

Posted on October 27, 2025 by David Rische

This past summer I had to travel for some independent contracting work. I spent a fair amount of time in airport lobbies. No matter what city I was in, the size of the airport, or the amount of people there – I kept seeing the same thing. The majority of adults and children were on some kind of electronic device. There was minimal reading of a book, talking to those nearby, or quiet reflection.

“Hmm . . . that’s interesting . . .” I thought as I reached for my phone to pass the time. Wait a minute – I’m no different. I’m continually on my device! But wait – I’m checking my flight status, digital ticket, and the weather. True, but that takes 2 minutes. I brought books to read and work to complete – but that would take too much effort at this time. As we boarded and were seated waiting for departure – it didn’t change. The majority of us were still on devices. I was squeezing in as much news, sports, social media, and conspiracy theories as quickly as possible before we had to go into “airplane mode” with no internet access for an hour or two (I hope I can make it!). Finally we arrived, I got the rental car, and drove to the hotel. Phew . . . I need to relax a little. I think I’ll sit in a comfy chair with my phone and get caught up on all I missed . . .

Is this a problem? For others, maybe not. For me – yes! If I take a deep look inside, I know I’m on my devices too much. I waste the gift of time. I use it to avoid what I should be doing. I have a hard time breaking away from it for those quick dopamine hits. What about you?

In his book Resilience, author John Eldredge describes the result of what I just mentioned:

The fruit of media consumption is stress, escapism, materialism, anger, depression, rage, time wasted, sleep problems, and addiction.

This quote also caught my attention during one of many scrolling sessions:

Distraction is the new addiction. mindfulnesskris

Wow, that hits pretty hard. Makes sense though. If I stay distracted – then I don’t do what I’m supposed to be doing. Distraction helps me discover things to purchase that I didn’t realize I “needed”. Distraction keeps me digging for truth in all the wrong places. Distraction keeps me away from God and his plans for my life.

Sometimes (especially recently), I’m able to be self-aware and reflect on the outcomes of overextended stays online: I can never reach the end of a scroll on social media (duh, you’re thinking). Rarely have I walked away from a digital session saying, “I feel better and greater satisfaction now that I’ve consumed all of that.” Have we ever finished viewing the news and proclaimed: “All is good in the world according to the news – there’s nothing negative or catastrophic to report – finally!” What if I read as much as I can about my sports teams, deep dive for insider information, and make disgruntled and angry remarks in the comments section – will they now finally start winning??? Phew . . the conspiracy theories have been resolved and neatly tied up with a pretty bow – I don’t need to go down those rabbit holes anymore. Oh goody – both political parties have decided to get along and work for the betterment of our country and the people who elected them . . .

I think you understand where this is leading.

Where do we go from here? How do you get better in a world dependent on digital devices? I feel elimination is impossible. But what about moderation? Here are some quotes I discovered online (it’s not all bad) that give practical advice to bettering our lives:

Create more than you consume. Practice silence and stillness daily. Replace dopamine spikes with real nourishment: nature, books, movement, and intimacy. Neuroplasticity (brain cell growth) works both ways, your brain can heal if you re-train it with BOREDOM, focus, and love. mindfulnesskris (again!)

Studies show that short, novel experiences – a day trip, an unplanned hike, exploring a new street – boost dopamine and reset our mood. You don’t need a grand vacation. You need INTERRUPTION. The brain thrives on small doses of novelty. Routine keeps you alive. Novelty makes you feel alive. genuinely.healthy

Do more things that make you forget to check your phone. Toby Mac

These remedies can all be simplified to fit our busy lifestyles. Creating doesn’t have to be a masterpiece of art that we spend 3 months on. It might be a list, a doodle, a different way to drive home, a new recipe, repairing something in the house, visiting a store you’ve never been in, volunteering, trying to learn an instrument, starting a new hobby, journaling . . . . .

What if we embraced boredom instead of doing everything possible to avoid it? Boredom can lead to creativity, deep thinking, new ideas, relaxation, renewed concentration, improved focus, and action.

I had read several reports that so-called “dumb phones” are making a comeback. Phones that only feature calling, texting, and GPS. What if a generation of young people grew up with those instead?

In conclusion, here is a practice that has helped me: I dedicate one social media platform to only following people, places, and things that are positive, life-giving, encouraging, and inspirational (like Golden Retrievers). This platform has a tight filter for admittance into my starting lineup. No news, sports, politics, arrogant celebrities, or negative people. I know what sets me off – so I intentionally avoid it on at least one site. When I spend a limited amount of time there – I can truly walk away feeling better.

Oops . . . I almost forgot a Bible verse in this devotional! See – too much time on my phone!!! 🙂 Thinking about time – it is one of our most precious commodities. I believe someday we will be held accountable for this fantastic life we’ve had a chance to live. What did we do with the unique skillsets we’ve been given? Were we faithful? The apostle Paul summarizes these questions describing what his prayer life consists of:

So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ. (2 Thessalonians 1: 11,12)

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Finding Victory Through Endurance in Prayer

Posted on September 23, 2025 by David Rische

Prayer is a gift from God and also one of life’s greatest mysteries. A miraculous healing. A new job fulfilling your career dream. A change in heart. Relationships restored.

However, there is another part to prayer. The hospital patient who doesn’t get better. The car repair estimated at $3500 – which is $3500 more than you have in savings. Employer rejection. The toxic co-worker who keeps getting worse even though you’ve prayed years for them.

The frustration is that we can’t control it. We love control. The normal standard for me now is Prime deliveries (next day or the day of). Instant downloads. On demand. Food ready to go exactly when I arrive. I want my prayers to be the same – I don’t have the time or the patience to be in it for the long haul. Maybe that’s the problem. Perhaps I need to work on my time and patience in my relationship with God and others??? Yup.

A great example of waiting, not knowing the outcome, and God not making sense is found in the story of Joshua and his people marching around the Walls of Jericho. Please read the entire story in Joshua Chapter 6 to get the full context. Here is the highlight reel:

*The great leader of Israel, Moses, is now dead. God named Joshua his successor.

*God is leading the nation of Israel to a new promised land called Cannan. A giant city with evil residents called Jericho stands in the way.

*God gives a strange command to Joshua. He and all of his people should march around the city 6 times. On the 7th time, they are told by God to blow trumpets and give a loud shout.

*After 7 laps, the walls crumble, and Joshua and the people are victorious in taking over the city.

Here is an excellent perspective from Natalie Runion, who has a site on Instagram called “Raised to Stay”:

I know you’re tired of marching around the same wall, but what if today is the day it falls (7th lap)? Your weapon isn’t speedy defeat, rather patient endurance. Fast food prayers vs. Spirit-filled intercession – what I want when I want vs. Kingdom victory. Breaking generational curses, winning a nation, taking back our families and cities – there isn’t a quick fix, it’s a daily fight to show up and walk the territory given to us . . . What would happen if we stayed long enough to see the victory? The healing? The reconciliation? A God who never loses is leading the way. Today you are weary but tomorrow comes your shout – for God is bringing you a victory.

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5: 16 – 18).

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

A Few Mind-Blowing Facts About God (reboot)

Posted on August 28, 2025 by David Rische

Do you ever think God is too busy? Have you ever struggled trusting Him to work out a problem? Maybe in your head pondering: “I’d like to pray about getting help with my flat tire – but there’s quite a bit going on in the U.S., Middle East, Russia, etc. right now.” Or; “This is a mess I’ve made with ___________. It’s my fault. I somehow need to clean it up. God’s probably disappointed with me – He probably won’t answer if I pray about it. I deserve silence.”

Here are three reasons why I believe we are all challenged when it comes to trusting God:

  1. We assign human attributes to God. Think of the images we’ve been given over time. An elderly gentleman wearing a white robe with a long, flowing, snow-white beard. Father Time. “Old man up in the sky.” A king sitting on his throne watching the world with a serious and solemn look on his face. The timeless painting on the ceiling of The Sistine Chapel. Then, we can’t help but make him human. He’s probably frustrated with all that’s going on in this magnificent world he gave us that we continue to ruin. I’m sure he’s angry, at least annoyed. How could he not be tired, irritated, and probably let down?
  2. We have short term memory regarding our relationship with God. Does anyone else remember watching The Ten Commandments movie once a year as a kid on television? The entire story is found in the Old Testament books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Back to the movie – I remember as a kid wondering how could The Children of Israel turn their backs on God after he rescued them from being slaves for over 400 years? After He did the miracles of parting The Red Sea, destroying Pharoah’s army, and providing food and water for them in the wilderness? Thinking about it – I can do the same thing. Mentally, I can take on the “what have you done for me lately?” attitude – which is a horrible attitude to walk around with. I can forget all the times God protected me in car wrecks or near wrecks, healed me from dreadful illnesses, provided food and clean water so I’ve never gone hungry, opened up job opportunities. The more I reflect, the longer the list would be. How about you?
  3. We’ve experienced unanswered prayers to God. Perhaps we’ve prayed. And prayed some more. Prayed through tears and sleepless nights. Nothing changes. Or, things get worse that we are praying about. Then, the negative thoughts start bombarding us. “Why pray if nothing happens? God must not be listening – he’s too busy running the universe. How can I go to God for help when I’m such a sinner who messes up all the time? I wish I was as spiritual as the preacher I watch on YouTube. Man, he must have a direct pipeline to the ear of God.” On and on it goes . . .

The best thing we can do is go to the source of truth regarding our concepts and relationship with God. What does the Bible say about God, his capacity, his emotional states, and how he views me? A verse to keep coming back to like a magnet is Isaiah 26:3: You (God) will keep in perfect peace him (or her) whose mind is stayed (fixed) on You (God). Here are three truths about God we can fixate on instead of the negative:

  1. God never sleeps. Psalm 121: 3,4 gives us this assurance: He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. Think about that – God never has or never will need to sleep. He doesn’t yawn, look at his watch, or get irritable late into the evening. Many years ago when I was a flight attendant, occasionally I would have to fly an “all-nighter”. The majority of passengers would sleep while the crew kept watch over everything. That is where I discovered the gift of coffee. Those trips would mess up my sleep for the next 2-3 days. God is always keeping watch 24/7. He is continually on universe wide all-nighters. And it doesn’t phase him one bit. Now that’s power!
  2. God has no beginning or end. The Bible starts out with: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1) The Bible ends with the book of Revelation which states: “I am the Alpha and Omega – the beginning and the end.” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come – the Almighty One.” (Rev. 1: 8) This one hurts my head when I try to comprehend it. I totally understand God will live forever. And we can also live eternally with him if we believe in His Son Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Here’s the baffling part: God has no beginning. He has always been in existence. He wasn’t born at some time in history like we were. Just like the no sleeping point – now that’s power!
  3. God’s number of thoughts about me are impossible to calculate. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand. (Psalm 139: 17-18) His thoughts about you and I outnumber the amount of sand at our favorite beach! And God isn’t speaking symbolically or exaggerating. The books of Hebrews and Titus tell us that “God cannot lie.” (Hebrews 6: 18) & (Titus 1: 2) This insight comes from the book The Awe of God by John Bevere:

We’re so valued, He thinks about us continuously. All the sand! Think of all the sand on earth – every beach, desert, and golf course. That’s an enormous amount! Science and math enthusiasts tell us that depending on the size and how tightly packed, there are approximately five hundred million to a billion granules of sand in one cubic square foot of beach. Our minds would struggle to comprehend the vast number of granules on just the Florida beaches. But think of it – if you add up all the granules of sand on the planet, you still wouldn’t have the number of thoughts God has about you! . . . Ask yourself this question: What do you predominately think of? You rarely think about something you don’t value. (pages 48 & 49)

These are just a few of His attributes. We serve a God who doesn’t sleep, is outside of human time and space, loves and cares about me more than I do myself. Shouldn’t we be able to trust him? Come to him with our problems and challenges? Feel a sense of worth and adequacy that we are enough?

Conclusion – God is love . . . Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. (1 John 4: 16 – 18) He’s not the old, cranky, frustrated man in the sky with a flowing beard who has an overbooked schedule. Pastor Jimmy Evans says, “The Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) never need to call an emergency session. They never say, ‘Boy – we didn’t see that one coming!'” God is the author of human history. As the old song goes – He truly does have the whole world in his hands.

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

https://www.amazon.com/author/davidrische

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments