Monday's Blessing
Proverbs 3:6

"In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." 

Sometimes life is like a vast, unpredictable river.  It flows serenely for a bit, and then becomes turbulent from an unforseen factor.  We cruise this river of life unexpectedly, trying to evade its driving current if we feel it will place stress at any  moment on our lives.  At this point, we grab those oars, trying to steer our boats from unsuspecting shores afraid to step foot on these new prospects.  The fear of the unknown or something that doesn't fit neatly into our daily routines, keeps us floating on a river that might be turbulent, but at least familiar.

But I say to you, grab up those oars, place them in your boat, and lie back.  Let the river of life take you on its path with your faith strong.  Because by no hour do we control the river or its destiny.  God is the only one who is capable of that. If we try to paddle swiftly in front of the current preventing being ensued, we topple.  If we try to avoid the current we sink.  Lie back and let God.  God is with us at each hour and already has a plan in place.

The scripture verse says, "Acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."  We have no control over our destinies, your past experiences can prove that.  Life can be going at such a comfortable pace, then all of a sudden, catastrophe can strike.  There is no rhyme or reason when such situations occur.  You can be at the peak of your game one day and lose it all the next. During these times, place your faith in God and allow him to steer your ship.  Realize there is a better plan ahead, and that will unfold

Daily Guidance

1.  When life gets tough, copy the Serenity Prayer.  Keep it with you always and refer to it when those feelings of control root their ugly head.

2.  Don't be afraid to ask family or loved ones for help.  Often, our pride gets in our way.  Realize you are not the first to experience this.

3.  Take comfort in your Bible.  Read it often for guidance, especially during these times.

4.  Seek counseling for issues you are unable to abate yourself.  The American Counseling Association offers FAQ.

5.  Grab a buddy and meet several times a week.  Just telling someone can help you reason better.

Monday's Blessing
2 Peter 1:21

"For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. "         

No expectations, clear and simple.  As the above verse says, no words of wisdom were ever produced by man unless they were carried first by the Holy Spirit.  Meaning, place your trust only in God, and trust that God will surround you by people who will support you.   

Expectations are what cause us pain. When we expect others to act a certain way, or fulfill our needs, we set ourselves up for failure. Expectations cause us to be cowards and prompt self-defeating behavior. We become cowards because by expecting things from others, we place all responsibility outside ourselves. I expect my co-workers to complete their jobs effectively; I expect my partner to behave in a certain way, and on and on the list goes. Sadly, the only way others hurt us is if we allow them that freedom. This enables these people to be our source of happiness. These types of expectations lead to disappointments. Disappointment leads to a miserable life expecting so much from everyone and then being disappointed when we are betrayed. The only person we can expect from is God. God promises to fill our lives with whatever we need regardless of when we think we need it. God knows the right time always to unfold his graces.

Yes, living with those we love can be difficult.  We place demands and expectations on them that they may not be able to fulfill.  When God created the world, he wanted to add spice.  We are all in that aromatic stew that adds uniqueness to life.  Without differences, life would be quite boring. We must realize that due to these differences, we think and feel differently.  We can not impose our values and thoughts on others regardless of how right it feels.  It is unfair to request that someone else feel the same way we do.  When we do, self-fulfilling expectations arise.  We get hurt and frustrated when someone lets us down, and we allow this to happen!  If we respect God's uniqueness in others, then we also must respect their outlook on life may be quite different than ours.  And, by the glory of God, accept it.

Daily Guidance

1.  Realize you do not have control over anyone.  God is the only person who does.  Hold no expectations from this point forward.  Each person has freedom of choice, just as you do.

2.  Letting go of expectations can be difficult.  But, once you identify the soul issue your hurt, ask God for help.  Say a silent prayer asking for help letting go. 

3.  By letting go of expectations, you open your soul for other opportunities.  No more are you held down by issues you have no control over!  You are the PRIME source of your own happiness!

4.  Seek refuge from a friend allowing your turmoil to flow, and release.

5.  Each time those pains plague you, stop in silent prayer and ask for these feelings to be released.

Monday's Blessing
Psalm 119:105

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."      

God's word voices many views on maintaining healthy relationships.  Healthy relationships bring us added blessings each day.      The Bible offers several good points on maintaining a healthy relationship.  There is an added benefit when seeking a partner that is also parti  After all, the Bible clearly says, "Do not be unevenly yoked."  Those individuals who share the same faith philosphy can often weather the storms easier as their faith is a shared common bond.

But what constitutes a health relationship?  What does God's word say about our own self happiness?  What are we to expect from our loved ones in life?  One thing is certain, it should contain the following guidelines:

* Communication is open and spontaneous, including listening.
* Rules/boundaries are clear and explicit, yet allows flexibility
* Individuality, freedom, and personal identity is enhanced
* Each enjoys doing things for self, as well as for the other
* Play, humor, and having fun together is a commonplace
* Each does not attempt to "fix" or control the other
* Feelings and needs are expressed
* Ability to let go of the need to be "right"
* Self-confidence 
* Conflict is faced directly and resolved
* Openness to constructive feedback
* Each is trustworthy
* Balance of giving and receiving
* Tolerance, forgiveness
* Mistakes are accepted
* Each can enjoy being alone
* Personal growth is encourage
* Continuity and consistency is present in the commitment
* Responsibility for own behavior and happiness, non blaming

How does your relationship score on the list?  Do you feel many of the characteristics are there?  Or, do you feel you are deficiet in certain areas?  Sometimes bringing these areas to light can shed a ray of sunshine on the bonds of love, strenghtening them more.  After all, God placed us together to be of love and support to one and other by offering a beacon of light on dark days and a ray of happiness to share on bright days.

Daily Guidance     

1.  Providing a Christian home is important.  Rely on the principles of the Bible to provide a safe, nurturing home for your family members.

2.  Should you need to resolve some of the above matters, do so immediately.  Bring it to the table with your suggestions.  Ensure your partner of his/her great worth and love on your behalf. Should this prove unhelpful, seek counseling.

3.  Look at the above list again, are you deficeit in any area?  Are there areas of your own that need changing?  Remember love is a two way street.

4.  Plan an absolute date night ONE DAY a week.  Etch it into your schedule as you do all other important life tasks.  Do so away from children.  Even if your finances don't allow dinners out, there is much to do outdoors and it's free.

5.  Most importantly, be patient.  Relationships are made for a life time.  Often our need for instant gratification remains on the fore front.  Don't expect miracles, and learn to give a little.