Don't Sabotage New Beginnings

Everyone is capable of misjudging a person. A young man dropped out of college to go into business and was extremely successful. He married a woman whose family earned college and graduate degrees. His success provided wealth, yet he felt less than his in-laws, whom he thought valued education above wealth.

The Israelites misjudged God's patience when they created a golden calf to worship. Can you imagine how Moses felt when he saw the people singing and dancing in front of the golden calf? Moses burned with so much anger that he threw the tablets on the ground, breaking them into pieces.

He had misjudged their faith and commitment to God and to him.  They misjudged God's patience and the extent to which they could go before tragedy would strike them down. However, Moses pleaded with God to withhold his anger and not destroy them. Some misjudgments can sabotage a new beginning, but with courage and a renewed faith in Christ Jesus, a new start is possible for you. 

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This being so, I want to remind you to stir into flame the strength and boldness that is in you, that entered into you when I laid my hands upon your head and blessed you. For the Holy Spirit, God’s gift, does not want you to be afraid of people, but to be wise and strong, and to love them enjoy being with them.

~2 Timothy 1:6-7 The Living Bible

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The Confidence to Trust - Part 2

It is not uncommon for a person to feel disconnected from someone they love and care about. Losing touch emotionally or affectionately occurs when subtle changes take place over an extended period of time. A married couple may lose that special connection that brought them so much joy and mutual happiness in earlier days of marriage.

This can happen with a close friend or a child. Although it's hard to believe, it is possible to lose a sense of connection with one’s self by getting too strung out in a busy, stressful world. Neglect is most often the culprit.  Making choices to change is possible. Begin by asking God to provide insight into what gave neglect a foothold.

Moving past neglect may require some major lifestyle changes. The Apostle Paul reminds Timothy not to neglect the gifts that were given him. Relationships are a gift, not a possession. A major choice might include recommitting yourself to Christ Jesus and significant others. God will empower you to do what seems impossible.