Stay Focused on Christ and His Will for Your Life

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory, that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed in us."
                                                                                                                  Romans 8:18 &19 (NASB)

One of the most painful memories in life is watching our loved ones suffer physically or mentally. If we could, we'd gladly bare their pain for at least a while to give them a break if we could. Often, the disease or circumstance remains until God calls them home.

Those of us who know Christ as our Savior and Lord have an eternal peace because we have been justified and forgiven by faith in Christ. His grace also gives us a hope and promise that this life is not the end, but the beginning of an awesome eternity with Him in heaven.

Growing in Christ is sometimes painful, (both physically and spiritually.)  Most of us will experience the pain of loosing loved ones, our own physical disease and decay and sometimes an emptiness that can only be filled by Christ. All three of these circumstances can draw us closer to Christ,  if we let them.

"...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.
                                                                                                                Romans 5:5 (NASB)

Ironically, there have been days my body has been stretched beyond what I thought ever possible to live through. God gives the strength, grace and love to endure a little more. Because of those times my faith, endurance, and even my peace about His Will for my life is at a deeper trusting level. Horrible storms in life have a beautiful way of developing a deep secure relationship in Christ.

Maybe when our loved ones are experiencing hard times we could encourage them to let Jesus cradle their broken bodies. If they're close enough to God and want to describe the tender lessons they're learning- absorb everything they're sharing. God may also want to comfort your hurting heart through their life and love they're willing to share. These maybe some of the most tender lessons you'll learn together.Knowing your loved one is at peace, will give you peace.

Please hug and hold them if they want to be held. I love being held by the people I'm closest to.(Honestly though, there are times when it hurts too much to be held. Most people will let you know if you ask.)  Reading comforting verses may also help, ask them if they'd like to hear Bible passages.

In my own life looking back at both the good and bad that has made me who I am Paul's words describe how I feel the best!

"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
                                                                                                              Colossians 2:2 & 3 (NASB)

"For though I am absent from the body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is."                     Colossians 2:5  (NASB)

Finally, I would encourage you to read and take to heart Hebrews chapters 12 and 13. Throw off everything that hinders and brings you down. You are surrounded by "the great cloud of witnesses." (Those treasured saints who are already in God's presence, they are cheering you on to grow and become all God wants you to be for His Glory and your true gain!)

At What Point Do We Walk Away?

I'm frustrated, at what "point" do we say, "Okay, that's it-I'm done with you?" I have a very redneck, mouthy sister who my parents choose to baby and coddle beyond belief. She was in an accident which left her with some physical scars. She did have a head injury, but currently there is no reason for her abrasive, mule ways. She simply chooses to be the biggest jerk I've ever met.

While I was at my mother's she took every opportunity she possibly could to interrupt every conversation I was in. When she addressed me she was constantly loud and crude. My parents continue to tell me I need to include and embrace her. All I want to do is to get as far away from her as I can. No confrontation with her or my parents; that's be the easiest way out. We all know that will not resolve the fact that they'll all come back saying I'm trying to avoid her-and I am.

There is no easy solution while she cackles as she makes my life miserable. She has my parents in her sorry back pocket. While all this is going on my parents refuse to acknowledge her abusive ways. She also has one of her son's who is following her example, diving into grouse sins, that are affecting many other lives. Is our family contributing to these grouse sins which affect many lives besides just my sister and her son? I think so.

So do I call them all on the carpet or just tell them all I have a gut full and can't take anymore? Your advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

"Do not be deceived,God is not mocked; for whatever a man so this he will also reap." Galatians 6:7 (NASB)

Are you thankful for the Holy Spirit's prompting in your life?

The morning glories on my back porch remind me how much we should keep our heart where it belongs-with God. When they're watered well the grow and spread so very fast. When I fail to check on them they tend to head directly for everything they shouldn't like my yellow roses. Growing side by side they look great, but when they becme intwined well life isn't so divine. In fact-they will choke the roses to death, if they're allowed to just keep wraping their vines around the rose stems.

My life can be like that. As long as I allow the Holy Spirit toguide and direct me I will stay on track, but sometimes I just head off in the wrong direction and keep going, until God gently prods me back to His track. I'm very thankful for the Holy Spirit aren't you?

Yellow roses and deep lavander morning glories look and grow great together as long as their is respect for each others growing space. Christian relationships are like that too. We all need our time and space alone with God. It's great to grow together as long as the Holy Spirit guides and directs our paths.

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to rememberance all that I have said to you. Do not let your heart be troubled , nor let it be fearful." John 14:26 (NASB)