In your opinion, what are the most important 3 things to care about? Do you have a list? For the record, I have a list. Interestingly, the things we care about most – directly influence how we live each day.
Last article, we explored how to respond When Life Gets Hard. Here’s the thing. Sometimes, life stays hard for a long period of time. Despite your best efforts, practicing great action steps, and staying close to the Lord – you can still end up in a place of discouragement or depression. So, how do you cope? What can you do to manage these conditions?
I’m thinking back to when I was a young adult. I’ve discovered people think differently when they first enter the adult world than when they have a decade or two of life experience behind them. That was certainly true for me. As life “happened” and challenges piled up, I began to realize I need a little more wisdom! So, what did I do?
Fortunately, I pursued wisdom – because I realized I didn’t have much on my own. Now, I frequently visit the timeless library of wisdom. Thankfully, it’s open anytime – night or day. (More on that in this content.)
Do you need a long-overdue vacation? Or perhaps you want to pay off a loan quickly. Maybe you’ve never gardened, but you want to try one. Could be you’ve decided to change careers but need more education. Or you might commit to lose a few unwanted pounds. Regardless, whatever the scenario, you need a plan – or you’ll get nowhere fast. Similarly, you need a plan to be more like Jesus. Incidentally, it doesn’t just happen.
So, let’s look at a good plan to do just that.
Just the other day, I was putting on a pair of gloves – without paying attention and with some difficulty. Wouldn’t you know it! I was trying to maneuver the left glove onto my right hand, leaving the right glove waiting for my left hand. Silly, eh? Needless to say, it wasn’t going well. After a good look, I saw the problem and switched them out. No wonder they didn’t fit! I think there’s a life lesson in this. Namely: how well do your gloves fit?
Time for a fit check . . .
There are lots of resources about boundaries. Equally, there’s lots of confusion about that topic. I’ve heard many opinions about setting boundaries. Some are helpful. Others are uninformed. A few are arrogant. And some are rather judgmental. Basically, it seems many folks are unsure about boundaries.
So, is “boundaries” just another “buzz” word? What does God think about boundaries? And why would you set boundaries in your life?
There’s a whole section of published books called “self-help” books. Some of these resources have helpful information. Others – not-so-much. Some topics are – habits, leadership, rest, self-care, and many more. Interestingly, I happen to know a very effective book that covers the entire spectrum of your life – all topics! Further, it provides focus points to improve your character.
I’m sure you’ve heard warnings about looking straight at the sun during an eclipse. Well, what about looking straight at God? Recently, we published “Turn Your Face Toward It.” I recommend this article/podcast which explores a phrase right out of Scripture – “turn your face toward it.” The intent? Well, to turn your face toward God’s face. Especially interesting because Scripture says no one can look at Him and live! So, the question is – can you look at God?
I remember a funny quote in the movie, “Mulan.” : “Dishonor! Dishonor on your whole family! Dishonor on you, dishonor on your cow . . . ” Do you remember it? Incidentally, this rebuke is spoken by Mushu, a Chinese dragon – Mulan’s companion. Actually, dishonor is something like shame. In fact, dishonor is a strong match for shame according to a thesaurus. You might wonder if I’m going to suggest – – under no circumstances should you allow yourself to experience shame. Not so. Unfortunately, too many people don’t have healthy contrition anymore. Conversely, many people don’t know what to do with undeserved shame. Let’s explore the shame thing.
When I’m driving somewhere, I always look for road markers and signs to assure I’m in the right place, ready for what’s coming. In fact, road markers help you stay in the right place in every day life. Knowing your surroundings provides perspective and management options – particularly when you’re down. Let’s explore two verses that give helpful actions steps to manage difficult times and still keep you on a good path.
