Lessons learned the first 50 years

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I hit a milestone. I turned 50 years old. I am thankful that I don't feel 50.   I am thankful for things God has taught me throughout those 50 years. .  I have learned that God loves mercy and when I feel a sense that justice needs to happen over mercy, all I need to do is remember that I am thankful for when God gives me mercy instead of a just punishment.   (Micah 6:8 8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.) ( Luke 6: 36  Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. ) I have learned that hurt people end up hurting people.   When I am able to see that I didn't hurt them but I am bearing the results of that persons hurt inflicted by other people, it helps me forgive whatever hurt they pushed onto me and move on.  (Romans 12 : 18  If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. )  I have learned that anyone who thinks they have God

How to resolve conflict with anyone...

For four or five weeks, we have had several Bible lessons on how to have a marriage that reflects God's Character and love.   Today, our pastor focused on how to resolve conflicts in marriage.... or in any relationship.   After 22 years of marriage, Russell and I have had a few conflicts... and have to FIGHT (ironically enough)  not to ignore conflicts, but to resolve them.  Our pastor took his findings from Ephesians 4:25-32.  


Ephesians 4:25-32


25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

To resolve conflict you must
Be honest (vs 25).    Restrict anger (v. 26)    Keep current (v 26).    Recognize the enemy (and it isn't your spouse (v. 27)    Act responsibly (v. 28).   Speak graciously (v. 29).     Rely on God's Spirit (v. 30)    Deny sinful passions (v. 31).    Show kindness ( v. 32)    Readily Forgive (v. 32)

Works for us.... when we aren't
fighting for our own way.... due to  our own pride.   Fighting for what's right ...right along with you,
                                                                                                         Rachel

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