Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Showing Love

When we give our lives to Jesus, we know we can look forward to Heaven. In fact, Jesus is saving a place just for us.
But, while we're here on earth, we're seldom treated that special. In fact, there are times we feel left out, mistreated, stepped on, unwanted and overlooked. So what do we do about it? Yell? Scream? Throw a fit? Tell people off? When we're really frazzled we at least want to do all those things.
Cindi Wood offers five strategies to keep you from doing those things when you need to focus on the fact that you'll be with Jesus someday instead of feeling stress. Here they are:
1. Make It Not Matter: When people do things that hurt you, ask God to not let it matter to you. You may not get immediate release, but He will help you.
2. Walk Away Before You Blow Up: If you feel like your fuse is being lit, remove yourself from the situation. End the phone conversation. Walk away from someone. It will take determination, but you can do it. After you calm down, talk to the Lord about it before you speak.
3. Breathe Deeply: Take several deep breaths when you begin to feel uncomfortable. Blood and oxygen will flow to your brain and you will think more clearly. You need to think before you speak.
4. Deal with Your Negative Attitude Quickly: Don't let a negative attitude find a home in your heart or mind. Replace negative thoughts with scripture or pleasant thoughts.
5. If You Are Wrong, Admit It Quickly: Admitting you're wrong shows your willingness to act like a Christian. It lets you model the compassion and forgiving nature of God.
Does being with Jesus for all eternity offer you enough pleasure to let these things happen?

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