Choosing Reality: For Today and Tomorrow - Part 3

Eventually, just about everyone has to ask, "What is my purpose for occupying space on the planet?" For those who ask that question and receive even a partial answer, expectations for their lives usually change. As meaningful purpose is recognized, seized opportunities will, in all probability, become available for choosing.

Jesus told about a businessman who discovered a pearl of great value and immediately sold all his assets to buy it. He demonstrated a proactive mindset by taking the initiative to do what would change his life and secure his future. The man in the parable was looking for an opportunity of a lifetime.  Have you asked, "Where is my life going and why?"

Perhaps there have been severe disappointments that have narrowed your trust for change.  Jesus came to seek and save those who are lost and to bind up the wounds of the brokenhearted. Permitting him to heal your wounds and give new purpose and meaning for your life is definitely being receptive to a reality for positive change.  

Choosing Reality: For Today and Tomorrow - Part 2

Each of us has thought, "That may work in the movies, but not in reality." We may not like the face of reality, especially when it appears hard or unkind. Reality can be scary, challenging, and nerve-racking. However it can be calming and give its beholder a sense of hope and confidence for the future.

God gives us power to make decisions, to be creative, and to change. Power is a strange phenomenon. Once acquired, it's very difficult to give up. Power can become an addiction. John Dalberg-Acton observed, "Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely." The healthiest use of power comes as we seek to share it with others.

The issue is not to seek more control and power in order to compensate for our limitations, but to trust that God is at work in our lives for our good. Psalm 62:8 confirms that we can go to God any time and pour out our hearts to him, for he is our refuge and hope for change. This is God's reality and the way for peace and confidence in a world that is ever-changing.

Choosing Reality: For Today and Tomorrow - Part 1

The most difficult task of parenting is helping children develop the ability to deal constructively with reality. As a parent, you do your best to protect your child from physical harm. What parent would permit their toddler to play in the street or be near a swimming pool without constant supervision? Concerned  parents teach children how to deal effectively with reality.

Dealing constructively with reality assumes intelligence and aptitude for change. Every child within proper age range and with normal intelligence has the capacity for understanding and accepting facts pertaining of the real world. Reality becomes distorted for children and adults as they are being inundated with false information from those who appear trustworthy.

A truth to embrace is that God constantly holds us accountable for what we model to others, especially children. God gives us initiative and wisdom for making effective changes as we choose to commit our lives to him. God is faithful to forgive and cleanse from all unrighteousness when we confess and turn away from sin. This is God's reality.