Do Personal Weaknesses Dominate Your Life?

A vicious circle is comparable to being stuck in a pattern of thinking and acting that produces negative results. When a threat arises to our well-being, the initial response is usually fear that may quickly transform into anger.

After an angry outburst, anxiety is prompted by the realization that emotional damage has taken place, made evident by the withdrawal of those subject to the angry outburst. Understanding the power of a vicious circle can be the beginning of healthy; productive change.

Anxiety is often followed by sadness, fostered by emotional and physical damage inflicted on yourself, another person, or a relationship. A vicious circle reflects a lack of self-control. Healing the damage caused by vicious circles begins by gaining and maintaining self-control. 

Self-control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, made possible by loving God and surrendering everything to him.                     

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You did not choose me; I chose you and appointed you to go and bear much fruit, the kind of fruit that endures. And so the Father will give you whatever you ask of him in my name.

~John 15:16 Good News Bible

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Change Is Coming...Embrace It! - Part 2

Architecture and fashion are subject to change. Occasionally a person like Frank Lloyd Wright comes along and ushers in a revolution in architecture that others will follow and imitate. Jesus was an architect of change, bringing transformation that never ends within the heart, mind and soul of committed Christians.

I recently talked with someone involved in a relationship perceived as confining, like an emotional prison. Feelings of powerlessness, fear and depression in addition to anxiety made the future look bleak and hopeless. Sharing the truth of the situation and setting goals for change created an attitude of hopefulness and assurance.

Commitment to change is essential but must center around God’s specific purpose, which becomes apparent as his guidance and direction are clearly understood. Jesus told his disciples in John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you.” Realizing Jesus chose you is a confidence builder that change is forthcoming and good.