Rising Up, Finding Hope - Part 3

Unexpected turns in life add spice to daily routines. However too much spice and rapid change can be disorienting and overwhelming. Imagine the young man in Jesus' parable of the lost son leaving home to find his bliss. He had plans and a pocket full of money. Yet he ended up in poverty, feeding hogs.

He was naive and spent his inheritance on his so-called friends and reckless living. Yet in the depths of personal crisis he demonstrated a sensibility  that allowed him to make a good choice. He stood up to failure and got his life back on track. The sensibility he possessed was faith in his father's compassion, love, and integrity.

If you're arrogant and hold out for everything, you may walk away with nothing. This young man returned home with an attitude of a servant. His arrogance had changed to humility. The right attitude for God to assist you in making effective choices is found in Psalm 29:9. "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way." This can be your choice.  

False Assumptions vs. Reality - Part 3

It's fair to say most people want to enjoy good relationships, find gainful employment, and feel secure. Achieving these goals rarely happens without some unexpected detours along the way. Can you imagine the worst possible situation you could experience? Perhaps you've been there, done that, but what helped you survive and face reality?

Jesus' parable of the prodigal son teaches us how to deal constructively with reality. The young man in the story left home with hopes and dreams for a wonderful life. Unfortunately, he lacked the maturity to make healthy, wise decisions. Consequently, he found himself in a desolate place feeding hogs to survive, which for him was the epitome of shame and humiliation.

What got him into trouble? He was arrogant and naive, which distorted his ability to deal effectively with reality. Most of us have been there or are presently on the way. The good news is, God permits us to make directional changes when we're mature enough to choose his plan and purpose for our lives.