When there are difficulties at home
********************************************

"Life," as Hemingway put it, "breaks us all," but few things are as painful as being broken by difficult circumstances in the home. What kind of troubles bring us to breaking point in the home? An unfaithful or unloving partner, disobedient or rebellious children, constant bickering and rows, misunderstandings, financial pressures, living with difficult in-laws, infirmity or sickness....and so on. Many, out of loyalty to their families, face the world with a smile, but inwardly they are torn and bleeding.

A study made at Rhode Island University (USA) some years ago concluded that one of the most dangerous places on this planet was the average American home.And there is some evidence to show that in Europe they are fast catching up too.And also all over the world.

To survive the problems that can arise in the home we must first be secure in our identity as a person; only then can we be secure as a partner or a parent. If we draw our life and energy from those around us with whom we are in a relationship rather than from God then when difficulties arise we will soon find ourselves spiritually bankrupt. No wife, husband, father, mother, son or daughter is able to meet the deep needs of our soul; quite simply they are not enough. God is the only One able to do that. It is from Him and Him alone that we are able to draw the energy and strength to relate well to others, and when we attempt to draw that energy from others and not Him we quickly run out of coping ability.

The secret of handling all relational problems is to maintain a close, strong, and meaningful relationship with Christ. It will not guarantee that others will change,but it will enable us to cope with everything that comes. Be encouraged.

" Father, I see that You and You alone have the resources I need to cope with life's difficulties and relate well to others. I come to You now for help. Your promise is that as I draw nigh to You, You will draw nigh to me. Strengthen me I pray. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Scriptures on which to reflect:

1. Life is in Christ, not in others: Colossians 3: 1-3.

2. God alone can meet your deepest needs: Philippians 4: 19.

3. This kind of love is given, not manufactured: 1Corinthians 13: 4-5.

4. The standard is high but let God lift you up to it: Romans 12: 9-10.

5. A word for husbands: Ephesians 5: 33.

6. A word for wives: 1 peter 3: 1-2.

7. A word for all: Hebrews 12: 14-15.

"These things I have spoken to you, that in ME you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world," says the Lord Jesus Christ.( John 16:33).

*********************Letter # 22 (17.6.2000)****************