Thursday, March 7, 2013

By: Gwen Hitt

Part 1--Bringing Healing to Your Relationships:

Breach in Family Security

Proverbs 17:14 "The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so abandon the quarrel before it breaks out."

Today's scripture is actually a warning--one which we should all live by in our dealings with others. It provides a visual image of what occurs when we allow those irreversible words to pour out of our mouths. Sadly, our words can cause a breach in relationships with those we truly love.

How many times have you said things to someone that you regretted once the words were uttered? Wouldn't it be so wonderful to be able to rewind the situation, go to the Lord about it in prayer, and then have the opportunity to handle the matter in a totally different manner?

Proverbs 15:1 provides the following advice: "A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." WOW! If this scripture would come to mind when we are about to answer in anger, just think of how differently situations could be handled...

to live in unity. He especially desires for families to function as a cohesive group. After all, our family members are the friends that God specifically chose for us!

During my lifetime, I have come into contact with many individuals. Some have become great friends--some I have totally lost contact with due to distance, new work assignments, different interests, etc.

On the other hand, my family has remained a source of love, strength, help, and comfort. I know that I can go to them for assistance in any situation that I encounter--good or bad. I also know that they would be there for me with no questions asked.

If there is a breach to mend in your family, I challenge you today to go to God for guidance in handling the situation and for peace for your troubled heart.

Philippians 4:6-7 provides the following encouragement "Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks. And God's peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

Dear Lord, I thank You for my family, and I pray that You will show me how to address unresolved matters with them. I pray that You will bless my family and keep us safe in Your loving care.

I thank You Jesus for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life. In the Name of Jesus I pray, Amen.