Decluttering our Lives

I recently watched a Simulcast of Dr. Henry Cloud, discussing his new book, Necessary Endings. I found his presentation to be very insightful, about the decluttering our lives from people who choose to make foolish choices rather than wise ones. The fool vs. the wise man, is commonly referred to in the bible, specifically in the book of Proverbs.

I have learned over time, the ending of relationships is necessary at times and part of life. Some people are there for the short term and others maybe a lifetime. Reflecting on our relationships is important, asking ourselves, is this person adding to my life or taking away. It reminds me of the story of Laban and Jacob, no matter what Jacob did, according to orders, Laban still wanted more, as noted in Genesis 29, 30 and 31. Some people have a way of making us feel as though we can never give enough, is what I call a relational trap. It's a no win situation.

Townsend and McCloud have a video called Safe People. As watched it, I was saddened as he revealed how unsafe people verbalize and behave, recognizing those traits, in the past, I have had people like that in my life. I was discussing this issue about unhealthy relationships at a recent ladies group and we agreed that so many of us have come from such unhealthy, dysfunctional environments, we didn't know what a healthy relationship is, yes even in Christian, church attending families. As the saying goes, 'the abnormal becomes normal if given enough time'.
I choose to surround myself with healthy people and those who are trying to achieve the same goal. I pray that God would remove people who are not suppose to be in my life and bring in those who are.

Blessings to You

The Tithe, God's Blessing Door

Recently our pastor began sharing with the congregation the blessing of tithing. He had taught on this subject a few times over the passed few months. As I began to listen, I felt as though I could sense a certain frustration in his message. As I recalled in my mind, his other messages on tithing, I can't imagine being in his position, trying to express the revelation of tithing, the benefits of God's law and provision and path of blessing for His people.
I felt a certain sadness I sat there listening to him, I mean these people weren't, the lost, but yet, he was speaking to the church, His church, God's people. I don't get it. From personal experience I have learned that tithing is and act of obedience and faith combined. It's really a root issue of trust and control. Do we trust God enough to give Him complete control. Deep down we all know it.
I recall hearing a Christian radio show one day, where the guest was speaking about debt and Christians, and how it keeps us in bondage and the common inability, because of debt, to tithe.

I have experienced the tremendous blessing of tithing in my life and witnessed the blessing in the lives of others who have chosen to trust God with all that they have. I'm a firm believer that if God has a man's wallet he has his heart. Money is commonly one of the last areas people submit to God, which is so sad.

I encourage you to take that step of faith and obedience, you will never regret it.