Fear. One of the enemy's most popular weapons that he uses against us. Worry, anxiety, fear ... can overwhelm us with a thick shadow of darkness, controlling our every move and decision.

There is so much crazy going on around us today - wars, conflicts, persecution, violence, crime, natural disasters, terrorism, economic uncertainty, unemployment, divisions, disease, death. We fear for our children's future, we fear for our families, we fear for our financial future, we fear for our safety. The list goes on ... long. There actually is a lot we could potentially worry about.

Yet reality tells us that so much of what we spend our time worrying about never even happens. Living under the weight of the "what if's" is a hard place to dwell.

I struggled with fear and worry for years. But through time, I began to find that the things that once would have sent me down an anxious spiral, no longer had the same effect. It didn't happen quickly, but over days, months, years.

I read words - of life - of truth. Soaking them in, over and over, praying them out loud. Until they became so familiar, they replaced the other things in my mind that I'd battled against. There's nothing magical about words and verses, but there is power through them, because they're God's words.

Change happened. Anxious thoughts began to diminish. Worry let go of its constant grip. And though fear is sometimes still there, it no longer wields control, holding me back, paralyzing me in its grasp.

His words are "life" words, soothing to our soul, calming to our spirits, giving power to our days.

It's not always easy, and it often comes down to a choice

1. Choosing not to allow fear and anxiety to control your life

2. Choosing to guard your heart

3. Choosing to focus your mind on what is truth in the midst of uncertain times

We might still feel afraid, but we can believe that God is with us. We may not be in control, but we can trust the One who is. We may not know the future, but we can know the God who does.

33 Verses to Remind Us - We Do Not Have to Fear

1. "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

2. "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you." Psalm 56:3

3. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

4. "Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid." John 14:27

5. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7

6. "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." 1 John 4:18

7. "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul." Psalm 94:19

8. "But now, this is what the Lord says ... Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine." Isaiah 43:1

9. "An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up." Proverbs 12:25

10. "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4

11. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

12. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

13. "Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7

14. "Tell everyone who is discouraged, Be strong and don't be afraid! God is coming to your rescue ... " Isaiah 35:4

15. "Do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?" Luke 12:22-26

16. "The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

17. "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55:22

18. "Immediately he spoke to them and said, 'Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.'" Mark 6:50

19. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

20. "'For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, for I myself will help you,' declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel." Isaiah 41:13-14

21. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

22. "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper." Psalm 118:6-7

1. "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." Proverbs 29:25

2. "He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" Mark 4:39-40

3. "The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them." Psalm 34:7

4. "But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats." 1 Peter 3:14

5. "I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4

6. "Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you." Deuteronomy 3:22

7. "Then he placed his right hand on me and said: 'Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.'" Revelation 1:17

8. "Jesus told him, 'Don't be afraid; just believe.'" Mark 5:36

9. "And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow - not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love." Romans 8:38-39

10. "The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy." Zephaniah 3:17

11. "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." ... He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you ... For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways ..."Because he loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him ..." from Psalm 91:1-16

Be assured, He is with you in whatever you face, in the turmoil and struggles, amidst the anxious thoughts and the worries of life. He is there, strengthening, helping, and He holds you in His hands.

God is greater. He gives us the power to live courageously, boldly, fearlessly in this life, when many things that surround us would tell us to be afraid. His truth whispers strong and sure to the deepest core of our spirits.

"Do not fear."

All of that stuff on your mind? Give it to Him - again. Replace those fearful thoughts with His words of truth. And sleep in peace tonight. He knows what concerns you, He's got you covered.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Debbie McDaniel's website. It has been republished here with permission.

The post 33 verses about fear and anxiety to remind us God is in control appeared first on FamilyToday.

Fear. One the enemy's most popular weapons used against us.

So much crazy going on around us today. Wars, ISIS, Ebola, conflicts, persecution, violence, crime, shootings, sickness, human trafficking, earthquakes, plane crashes, terrorism, economic disasters, unemployment, cancer, death. The list goes on "¦ long.

Leaves us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, tense, with thoughts spinning out of control, all different directions. Probably a great reason why he uses this battle tactic, renders us completely ineffective, powerless and weak. It wastes our time, zaps our energy. His main goal is being accomplished through this one controlling device - to steal, kill, and destroy. Through fears that whirl around us, and some aimed like darts headed straight towards our lives, Satan attempts to effectively steal from our days, killing our hope, and destroying our sense of freedom in world. And he never fights fair.

We carry a lot on our shoulders every day, and constantly allow it to replay over and over in our minds. Taking it all in, through a steady media flow. Wired to electronic devices that never allow us to miss a single thing. Big burdens. Huge fears. Stuffed down deeply into the crevices of our hearts. Behind the smiles and the "I'm fine's," it all begins to seep and flow. If we're not careful, it begins to invade our mind and thoughts. Anxieties swirl. Worries press hard. Uncertainties loom, reminding us of every possible "what if."

Yet reality tells us that so much of what we spend time and energy fearing and worrying about in this life never even happens. Living under the weight of the "what if's" is a hard place to dwell.

Until we choose not to let it win anymore. And we say "enough." No longer allowing it to wield such control. No longer listening to its deception and falling victim to its paralyzing grasp.

Choosing to live in a place of trust is powerful. Trusting he is able. Trusting he is in control. Trusting he is with us. It doesn't mean we will never "feel" fear. It just means we won't allow it to control us anymore. Such freedom can be found there.

Anxiety happens most when we somehow falsely believe that God is not big enough or fully able to take care of the problems that surround our world. Or that he won't. And we buy into the lies that he doesn't really care. Or maybe he's just too busy to get it all done.

But no matter what we believe, the truth is this - he's still there. With us. Present. Constantly. And he will never be found pacing heaven's floors, nervously wringing his hands, wondering what in the world he's going to do next. He's never up there pondering how to get us all out of this big mess or struggling to find new solutions to age old problems. He's on the throne. Fully in control. Always aware. And he fights for us.

Reminding us of his presence. And of the truth that says - in the end - he wins. He was, and is, and will forever be victorious. And though the enemy tries his best to gain as much ground as he can right now, knowing full well that his time is limited, he will never win this battle. Because his fate has already been sealed. Don't let him fool you.

God has much to say about fear. His word equips us for the battle, sheds light on what's true, and gives hope, that we are never alone.

Here's truth, from the book of Isaiah.

"Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand"(Isaiah 41:10).

5 reasons God tells us not to fear:

1. He is with us

"Do not fear for I am with you "¦" Ever present, all the time. In the deepest struggles and the darkest of times, we sometimes wonder if we are all alone. God reminds us we are not. Ever.

2. He is our God

"Do not anxiously look about you for I am your God "¦" He is our God who leads and protects us, he is the One we can run to for refuge.

3. He gives us strength

"I will strengthen you "¦" He equips us for this battle, he empowers us by his Spirit, and give us strength.

4. He helps us

"Surely, I will help you "¦" He doesn't leave us on our own to figure things out. He is there to help us. Always. Sometimes we feel ambushed by surprise difficulties or things thrown our way. We can easily feel overwhelmed with it all. He reminds us, he will fight for us.

5. He holds us up with his hand

"Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." He holds us in his hand. He covers us in his hand. He keeps us safe. The right hand is important because it's the hand that is relied upon in battle. It's the hand that is trusted. It's the hand that fights, the hand that holds the weapon, the hand that must be strong. That's where he holds us. In his righteous right hand. Strong. Safe. Secure.

Be assured, he is with you in whatever you face. In the turmoil and struggles, amidst the anxious thoughts and the worries of life. He is there, with you, strengthening, helping, and he holds you in his hands.

God is greater than whatever you face. Over whatever happens in this world around us. He gives us the power to live courageously, boldly, fearlessly in this life, when many things that surround us would tell us to be afraid. His truth whispers strong and sure to the deepest core of our spirits.

"Do not fear."

Peace.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Crosswalk.com. It has been republished here with permission.

The post 5 reasons we don’t have to fear appeared first on FamilyToday.

Her mind raced, somewhere lost in the tragic words that tumbled from her daughter's voice. The truth spilled out. Tears flowed, hearts broken, spirits grieved. She wanted to make it all OK. Guilt plagued her every thought. She longed to turn back time for another chance at doing things right.

"I should have listened more." "I should have been there more." "I should have been more aware." "Maybe she should have just been on birth control," her thoughts swirled round and round, still finding it hard to accept what was true.

Living under the weight of the "should have's" is a heavy burden to carry. The enemy's voice whispers condemnation, shame, and guilt deep down to hurting souls, reminding that the line had been crossed. Defeated thoughts wrap like chains around the future. Bright tomorrows now darkened by the reality of all that was lost, colors of gray casting bleak shadows.

This wasn't how it was supposed to be. Out of control. Off balance. Pressured and stressed. Where was truth in it all? Where was God?

This story happens all too frequently in many homes today. Raising kids in a world saturated with sex and technology demands more attention than ever from parents. Hard reality hits square in the face when presented with unsuspecting information. Pornography found on a phone. Lewd pictures. Suggestive texts. Premarital sex. Teen pregnancy.

In a world that says sex before marriage is "normal and expected," anything else is seen as ancient and rather archaic thinking. "Did God really say"¦.?" the voices of our culture ask, lured by the same similar voice that confronted Eve in the garden that one fateful day."Surely he did not mean"¦" Doubts rise, we try to rationalize behavior and choices to fit into a neat box of acceptance and updated thinking.

As parents, we can't be too busy to listen. We can't just assume kids are safe. We can't shy away from difficult topics because we're unsure of what to say. But here's what we can do. We can make the choice to stay aware and keep doors of communication open and honest. We can equip our young people with truth, not just what wethink, but what God says about it all. We can empower them to know it's OK to say "no," in a world that presses them to say "yes."

Whether or not we decide to talk openly and honestly with our kids, our culture most assuredly will. It's been talking, already, straight to hearts and minds, for a very long time. And it has quite a lot to say - about sex.

The good news is this, we're not alone. God has a lot to say about sex too. After all, he created it. And it seems to me that the soundest of wisdom would come straight from the One who thought it all up.

10 Lies the World Tells Us about Sex - and the Truth of What God Says

1. "If you really loved me, you'd sleep with me."

Lie. The truth says love is patient and it is not self-seeking (1 Corinthians 13:4-5).

2. "We're planning to get married anyway. We'll be better prepared if we go ahead and start acting like we're married."

Lie. The truth is you do not need to "practice" being married or practice having sex. God's boundary for sex is reserved for marriage (Hebrews 13:4).

3. "It's not that big a deal."

Lie. Truth says it is a big deal. It's a huge deal. You are choosing to become "one" with that person (Genesis 2:24, Colossians 3:5).

4. "We're both consenting adults, it's not hurting anyone."

Lie. The truth is, it's hurting you, and anyone else involved (Hebrews 12:1).

5. "We all have sin issues. Sex is just the same as any other sin."

Lie. Though it's true, we do all struggle with sin, his Word also says that sex outside of God's design is different than all other sins, because you are sinning against your own body. God will forgive any sin, no matter what we've done. But sexual sin affects us deeply and there are great consequences involved that we may have to live with (1 Corinthians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7).

6. "You might as well get your teens on birth control, they're going to have sex anyway."

Lie. The truth is not all young people are having sex before marriage. Many are choosing to wait. But the mindset of the world will make you think you're the odd one out. Providing birth control and condoms to your teen is like giving them a free pass to engage in sex, sending mixed messages and creating confusion over what is really right or wrong. It may prevent some things from physically happening, like a pregnancy or STD, but it is never going to protect one's spiritual and emotional needs from harm (Romans 6:1-2).

7. "Everybody else is doing it. And they're all having a great time."

Lie. Really? Truth digs deeper than the latest Hollywood flick. Have you looked into the darkness of the moments that linger after sex? The morning after? The guilt that plagues? The feelings of distrust, betrayal, shame, or rejection? Have you followed a soul through the anxiety of wondering if she is pregnant? Or into the clinic with the one that needs to be treated for a STD? Is it all really as great as the world seems to scream? (Romans 8:1-2, 9).

8. "It's too late for me anyway. I might as well keep on having sex, since I've already said yes once."

Lie. The truth says that God forgives our wrong, restores, and redeems our lives. It is never too late to start over. Ever. Just because you've said "yes" before, does not mean you can't begin now to say "no" (1 John 1:9).

9. "God just doesn't want me to have any fun in life."

Lie. The truth says he desires that we live incredible, free, full lives. He's not out to ruin fun. He's not an old fashioned God who just doesn't "get" today. He knows you. He created you. And he is out to set you free and longs to give you the best life possible. There is safety in boundaries. There is security in his protection (John 10:10).

10. "You can do everything else, as long as you refrain from actual sex."

Lie. Truth says "flee" from sexual immorality. That covers it all. Because God knows how difficult this temptation can be, it's the one area that he doesn't say to stand and fight. Nor does he say, "Go as close to the line as you can, but don't cross it" - he tells us to run from it. All of it (1 Corinthians 6:16-20; 1 Corinthians 10:13).

Sometimes it seems easier to just "fit in" with the norm. But following the mindset of popular culture will often leave you feeling betrayed, misguided, and take you down a spiraling path that you never intended to go.

It really comes down to this question. Who will we choose to listen to? Who will our kids listen to?

The latest trends and media messages? Or the Truth that sets us free?

The Bible isn't based on changing trends. It doesn't shift with the latest hot topics. It isn't an old fashioned book with no significance for today. It doesn't speak with shades of gray but with clarity and wisdom. It is living and active, relevant for our culture, for this technology driven, sex saturated world.

Because the truth is this, God never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

There is power in the One who breathes new life. Who gives hope. Forgiveness. Courage. To live differently. And set apart.

Sex is a gift. And the best gifts in life often come with the greatest cautions. Enjoying this gift within the boundaries of marriage, the way that God intends, is worth the wait. Always.

And that is the truth.

Make sure to tell your kids.

The post 10 lies the world tells your teen about sex appeared first on FamilyToday.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on incourage.com. It has been republished here with permission.

I used to dream about being the perfect mom. Certainly, it didn't seem too unattainable "¦ just raising a few kids, keeping life in order, everything running smoothly "¦ and wonderful "¦ and happy "¦ and clean.

Except this one thing happened. I became a Mom

And suddenly the expectations seemed really steep. The dream of the perfect mom crashed amidst my own imperfections. Hard reality stared me right in the face.

Life is messy

You may relate. Some days, parenting is just hard. It doesn't always go as planned. You get tired. And when you're finally figuring out one stage, another begins.

We often look for validation from everyone around us of whether or not we're doing a good enough job. We even measure ourselves against other moms, striving to feel better about the job we're doing.

We listen to the accusing lies that we know are not from God, but play over and over in our minds, "a good mom would never do that, why can't you get it together, why can't you be more like "¦" We begin to swallow them down, accepting, believing it all to be truth, applying one big "fail" directly to our most valued role in life - motherhood.

The days go by, some seem especially long. The ones when you've had more than enough of playing constant referee between kids, or logging miles as taxi cab driver, or hearing "mom" every 4.3 seconds through the day. The feelings of "there's too much to do" overwhelm you, the awareness that you can't keep up with it all. You start to feel bothered that no one seems to care how their clothes get cleaned and back in their drawers, or how the food ends up in the pantry or a good meal on the table. And just when you find yourself thinking that the remote island you saw on Priceline this morning is looking really good about now, and wondering how much a one way ticket would be "¦

You stop

And take a deep breath, looking around at your mess.

At the full laundry basket calling your name.

And the dishes from last night's dinner still lingering in the sink.

And you realize that maybe the dream was wrong.

That dream of being a perfect mom.

Because when you look into the eyes of these treasures who call you Mom "¦ who you love more than life itself "¦ you suddenly realize how very blessed you are.

And you notice that not only the days have gone by, but some years have passed too.

And suddenly you long for it to slow down.

The "Aha" moment happens.

And you realize that maybe you are doing it "¦ maybe you are living a dream "¦ the dream that is the right one for you.

And you breathe in His grace "¦ Again. Today.

Because life was never meant to be perfect

Life was just meant to be lived. Really lived. Hope rises.

You look at those high expectations "¦ the ones still buried deep within your clenched fists "¦ or in the secret crevices of your heart. The ones that lead you to think there's perfect bliss somewhere else.

And you let them go.

Life words were found in the mess one day, amidst the toys on the floor and fingerprints on the wall. Words quickly scribbled across a plain, white board in the playroom upstairs. Words of grace, straight from the heart of a sweet, joy-filled 6-year-old soul who knows what it is to live and to love.

Love God, love your family, love yourself. So simple. So true

"Were ever you go God is wheth you."

He is. In our mess, in our imperfections, in our day to day, in the ordinary, in the times when no one else sees, or knows, or cares. He's there. With us.

Perfect doesn't matter. It never did. And all the other stuff we stress and worry about, it doesn't really matter either. But love, it matters.

He whispers over you today, His words of life and love, "Good job Mom, I am with you."

The post Who is with you in the mess of life? appeared first on FamilyToday.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on ibelieve.com. It has been republished here with permission.

Thoughts hounded. Memories flashed. Things from the past held on too tightly.

Mistakes often linger in our minds and in our hearts. Events from yesterday shift into our present day, never allowing us the freedom to fully move forward. Living under the weight of the "should have's" is a heavy burden to carry. And sometimes the hardest person to forgive is the one staring back at us in the mirror. Labels attach themselves securely to our souls, not to be easily removed. You know the ones - that cling and seem to follow us wherever we go. The ones we try to forget. The ones that raise their ugly heads at unexpected moments, reminders of where we've come from.

Shame. Rejected. Fearful. Anxious. Addicted. Adulterous. Depressed. Unstable. Sick. Weak. Lonely. Failure. Abused. Neglected. Victim. Forgotten. Guilt-ridden. Mistake. Defeated. Confused. Broken. Hopeless.

Though we know the truth, that we've been set free in Christ, some labels are written in an ink that seems almost permanent. They're not easily washed away by a good thought, encouraging word, or a well-intentioned verse. They stick, like super glue, adhering to our personhood. An open door for the enemy's voice to whisper lies deep down to our souls.

"Remember who you are," his condemning voice hisses, heaping on more shame and guilt. "Remember where you've come from, remember what you've done. You'll never change, you'll never be any different." Crafty, master deceiver of lies, whose constant goal is to remind us of every failure and every negative label that has ever attached itself to our lives.

Lies. All lies.

We know the truth. We know not to listen to the lies. And yet too often we slowly "¦swallow "¦ every "¦ one. And so the labels remain. Stuck. Secure.

Sometimes we even cover our past labels with more "acceptable" labels. Once called "rejected" may become forever "independent," vowing to never need anyone again. Once "ashamed" may become "proud," unwilling to show any sign of weakness. But underneath it all, there still remains a needy soul, longing for healing, for freedom. Covering over what's really there.

We don't have to live that way. These labels that attempt to define us, either stuck there by life circumstances, struggles, misinformed people, or even ourselves, are not permanent. The labels and mistakes of our past do not determine the reality of our future.

There's a different voice that whispers, full of hope, forgiveness and love. "Remember, who you are in Me. Remember, you've been forgiven. Remember, you have purpose. Remember, you've been set free. Remember, you belong to Me."

God's label over you is lasting. It sticks. It's permanent. It doesn't wash off if you blow it again. It doesn't fade over time if you're not consistent. It breathes new hope, gives another chance, believes for the best, and offers a fresh start. Again. And again. Over and over.

Still not sure? Here are 11 verses for living free, straight from God's Word

1. "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:6

2. "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32

3. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

4. "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine." Isaiah 43:1

5. "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." John 10:10

6. "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6

7. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

8. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." 2 Corinthians 5:17

9. "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1

10. "For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him, as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgression from us." Psa. 103:11-12

11. "But one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12

Breaking up with our past does not mean to ignore it. Removing sticky labels doesn't mean we pretend that the pain never happened. It is what it is. It's shaped who we are today. It just means we won't allow it to control us anymore. We can learn from our pasts, we can heal from the struggles, we can believe that God will somehow use it all for good, to help another soul. But we don't have to stay stuck there. It does not need to determine our tomorrow. If we're still bound up with hurtful memories, we are never fully free to move forward.

There is more for you, on the other side of your past. If you woke up this morning, you're still living and breathing, and that means God has purpose in store. We will never be able to fully embrace all that He has for us in life today, and for the future, if we can't let go of the things from yesterday.

And so, I am making the choice. I'm breaking up with my past. I will not allow it to rule my thoughts. I won't let it dictate my future. I will choose to let the power of Christ remove the old labels. I will choose to move forward. I will choose to live free.

So what about you? What's that thing, the sticky old label, that you can choose to let go of today?

He has good in store. For you.

The post I’m breaking up with my past: 11 verses for living free appeared first on FamilyToday.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on ibelieve.com. It has been republished here with permission.

Some time ago, while driving through Houston with my almost 12-year-old son, we stopped at a red light, right beside a billboard of a young woman who had way too much revealed. The light seemed to take forever. I shifted in my seat, trying to distract from it glaring right at us. Finally, my son said to me, "Um, Mom, she needs to get some clothes on."

Yes. Truth. Since that day, I've thought much about how this world might change for the better if we, as parents, could raise a generation of boys who learned to value and respect women as individuals, and not see them merely as objects. If we could raise a generation of girls, who respected themselves, believed their lives were valuable, and knew their real worth was not based on outward appearance.

Our world has a tendency to see things differently. Giving excuses for certain behaviors, "Well, boys will be boys." Attempting to over-sexualize our girls through fashion, music, and style. Emphasizing whatever sells in a mass media onslaught. Encouraging women to use their bodies instead of their brains, and luring young people to follow pathways with little restraint, respect, or self-control.

Enough.

God has more for us than that. Much more. We can choose to show grace to those who need to see it, speak truth to those who need to hear, and raise our kids to know that what is popular is not always what is true. There's power there. And it's a battle worth fighting. For our boys. For our girls. For our families.

Here are 10 vital steps for raising kids in a sex-crazed world:

1. Listen

Keep communication open and honest. Sometimes as parents, we're great at talking, but not as good at listening. But we can be. Ask open ended questions. Give them time to respond and talk. Help them learn how to work through tough problems without trying to solve everything for them. Maybe offer words like, "what do you think might be the best thing to do?" Hold your own emotions in check, resist the urge to react, judge, or use anger to get your point across. Stay approachable.

2. Be aware

We can never just assume all is safe and well. That doesn't mean we live in fear, but it does mean we walk in wisdom. Know where your kids are. Know who their friends are. Know their friends' families. Know what they're watching. Know who they're texting. Know what they're listening to. Know what they're wearing. Know what they're reading. Know who their social network followers are. Know what games they're playing. Know what apps they have downloaded. If you're not good at technology - get good. Surprise your kids with how smart you really are. Keep the computers and TV's in common family areas. Know the passwords on their accounts and electronics. Establish appropriate boundaries, such as checking in cell phones at night, screen time limits, and curfew times.

3. Be present

Invest time with them. Avoid getting so busy with life demands that quality time with family is cut too short. Share meals together. This becomes more challenging as kids grow up and head in different directions, but make it a goal - maybe one meal a day- that you share together. Create one-on-one time, just with you. Dads, show your daughter how she should be treated by any young man - open her door, make her feel special, honor her. Teach your boys how highly they should value and respect a girl. Spend some time doing boy stuff. Sometimes the best conversations flow while doing the things they most enjoy.

4. Speak encouragement

Speak words of blessing over their lives, words of grace and acceptance. Look them in the eye and say it out loud. Tell them you love them. Unconditionally. Forever. No matter what. Tell them they are strong. Tell them they are beautiful. Remind them that God made them for a great purpose, that they are valuable to Him and to you. Tell them their significance is never to be found in the approval of others, their outward appearance, or some measure of success from the world's perspective. Remind them they don't have to be perfect. Take the pressure off. Choose to talk about the hard stuff before temptations are staring them in the face; equip them with wisdom ahead of time.

5. Protect them

Set boundaries. Let them learn to make age appropriate choices as they grow older, yet also remembering that you are the parent and have the final say. There are days that our children may not "like" us much, but there will be many more days that they may thank us for saying "no." Kids need boundaries. We all do - no matter what our age. Though sometimes the word "no" is hard to swallow and we're quickly labeled as the "meanest mom ever," there is much security and confidence in knowing we are protected by boundaries.

6. Keep your family strong

Whether you're married or single, be on the same team. Be willing to work through conflicts together. Though no marriage is perfect, we can be an example of showing mutual love and respect within our families. Love your spouse. Protect your marriage and family. That in itself brings huge confidence to the life of a child in a crazy world.

7. Encourage healthy friendships

Teach respect for one another. Choose not to focus so much on the girlfriend/boyfriend thing. Limit time spent with just one person of the opposite sex. Encourage hanging out in groups, rather than one on one dating. Be aware of bullying or aggressive behavior. Teach them that their true identity is found in Christ, not in another person.

8. Inspire greatness

Teach them to dream big. Challenge them to think outside the box. Encourage them to do hard things. Give them opportunity to do what they love most in life. Help them to find what they're good at. Provide opportunities for serving others and giving to those in need, especially those who cannot repay. Inspire a heart of gratitude that isn't based on what you own. Empower them with strength and courage to know it's OK to stand for what they believe.

9. Teach them truth

Let them know how important it is to you. Make sure they have their own Bible. Help them find a devotional book or app they can relate to. Lead them to know the One who will keep their steps firm in a shifting world. Find a place of worship you trust, where you can grow. Don't try to look for the perfect church. There's not one. But there is great strength in finding connection with other believers.

10. Pray for them

Every day. They need us to pray. Our kids are faced with daily temptations, battles, traps, just as we are. Ultimately, our children belong to God. And He has given us the chance to care for them during these years. We have the potential to leave deep, lasting impressions in their hearts by praying, teaching His Truth, and giving them guidance to know the God who loves them so incredibly much.

The good news is - it's not all up to us. He is able. To give grace. To forgive. To set free. To redeem. To keep safe. To lead in wisdom. To guide in truth.

And He is with us. Always.

Make sure to tell your kids.

The post 10 vital steps for raising kids in a sex-crazed world appeared first on FamilyToday.

We came to the end of the story and read the final words, just as we had countless times before "¦ fairy tale princess world culminating in great happiness, living out the dream that so many seek. Beautiful princess riding off into the sunset with her Prince Charming, to the spectacular castle and kingdom that awaits. Treasures untold. Bright futures unfold.

"And they lived happily ever after. The end."

I closed the book, kissed my daughter good night, and tucked her into bed. I turned off the light, and then sat. Very still. Quiet. Thinking of it all. As she drifted off into Never Never Land, dreaming of fairy tale endings and wonderful places, my own mind swirled with pressing thoughts and stifled worries.

Isn't it the dream that every little girl longs for? To live "¦ happily "¦ ever "¦ after.

We wait for our Prince Charming to come and sweep us off our feet, carrying us off to a beautiful castle filled with rich treasures and overflowing joy.

But what about when life doesn't turn out so dreamy? When you haven't experienced the happy endings you long for, and most days, you feel more like the evil queen than some beautiful princess. Fairy tale dreams seem to loom far away. Dancing off in the distance ... like a carrot on a string "¦ cruel plot twist to your fanciful imagination.

Maybe you find yourself waiting. The prince never came. And the dreams haven't come true either. The years tick by, and you feel forgotten. You're weary of hearing those well intended words from friends, "It'll just happen when you least expect it."

Maybe you thought you'd met your Prince Charming, only to find yourself years down the road, hurt, betrayed, rejected, now divorced from your prince, and still reeling from the pain of it all.

Or maybe you did meet a wonderful man, got married, started a family, built a cozy castle with a white picket fence. But many days feel not so charming. As much as you love him, constant stress and pressures lead to fighting and struggles. There's weariness in the routine, living out busy, hurried lives. Little things go unnoticed and big things start to mount up. Your castle sprung a leak in the roof, and the treasures have run dry along with the bank account, and the only things overflowing are the laundry baskets that call your name.

Disillusionment sets in. Like shades of gray over your bright dreams for tomorrow, reminding you of how dark things seem. Thinking you were in line for the fairy tale ending story script, you somehow got diverted to a cold waiting room instead. God's timing seems off. Things feel messy.

Life stuff happens. Accidents. Job loss. Debt. Illness. Infertility. Cancer. Betrayal. Broken Relationships. Prodigal children. Death of a loved one. Or any other myriad of things that leave your mind spinning and heart bewildered, confused with how you got there, or where you're going. The fairy tale dream crumbles down around the reality of brokenness.

But Truth still rises. Whispering meaning. Bringing purpose.

Because real hope was never meant to be found in fairy tale dreams and fancy free lives. Real hope is only found in the rich covering of His grace over messy life moments. Because it's there you reach out "¦ for Him.

She came downstairs early one morning, bleary eyed, wearing her favorite kitty cat pajamas, sparkly princess tiara sitting on top of tousled, tangled hair. She cuddled up next to me and smiled, "Mom, just because your hair's messy, doesn't mean you can't still wear a crown."

Ahh, so true. And not only for a sweet 7-year-old girl who just rolled out of bed and plopped a sparkly tiara on her head. But for you. For me.

Just because life is messy, doesn't mean you can't still wear a crown

Because of whose we are. We are daughters of the King. He crowns our lives with good. He crowns our lives with purpose. He crowns our lives with beauty. Even in the midst of things that look messy, the most difficult of days, or every dull, ordinary moment, He causes light still to shine. In the struggles and all. We may not see it. We may forget it's there.

Life tangled and tousled. Mess of struggle and cares. No matter what it all looks like or how bleak the future feels, the truth is this, we still wear His crown.

And it's often in our darkest, that God's power shines the brightest.

Maybe, when we get right down to it, our focus on the story is wrong. Instead of such attention on the "happily ever after," maybe we should focus on what comes just before, "and they lived." They lived. They completely, all out, joyously, abundantly, even in the midst of mess and struggles and stuff of life "¦ lived. They really lived.

Sometimes it's the letting go of it all that leads us to dig deeper. Letting go of our tightly held dreams. Letting go of our need for control. Letting go of the desire to plan it all out. And realizing more fully that He has more for us than we could ever dream up for ourselves. It may look different. And the timing may seem off. But we can trust that He knows what He's doing, and He has the best in mind.

Press on my friends. There is good in store.

Today's your day, to really live.

7 Verses to Remind You of His Goodness and Hope for Hard Times

"You crown the year with Your goodness, and Your paths drip with abundance." Psalm 65:11

"To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." Is 61:3

"...like the jewels of a crown they shall shine on his land." Zechariah 9:16

"The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

"His compassions never fail, they are new every morning, great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

The post When your happily ever after never comes appeared first on FamilyToday.

"Mom, did Jesus feel pain?"

I could see my son deep in thought, trying to process it all in his young mind, how anyone could, or would, endure such hurt - such intense suffering - on our behalf.

"I mean I know He died for us, on the cross, but did God protect Him from feeling the pain?"

His question was one that many of us have probably wondered ourselves.

I wanted to say yes. I wanted to speak with comforting words, "Of course, God shielded Him so it wouldn't have to hurt so ... very ... much."

But I couldn't.

I didn't.

I know the truth.

Doesn't every parent long to protect their child? Couldn't God have taken the pain away? Couldn't there have been another way? If Jesus was God, didn't He possess some superhero type of strength - fortified to withstand any hurt?

All God. Yet, all man. Such huge love. That He was willing to endure it all. For us.

We walked the reflective pathways from room to room, our church had set up reminders of the journey towards the cross. From the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." Matt. 26:39. All along the difficult path that he was willing to endure, the betrayal of Judas, taunts and ridicule of the crowd, the crown of thorns, to the picture of the cross where He gave His life, so that we might live.

My son's small hands held the nails. My heart immediately went to Mary. A mom. I shared that in common with her. Mom to a son. We shared that in common too. Human. Yes, another thing that bonded our hearts - the frail humanity of life.

Mary - this mom destined to raise the very Son of God in our earthly world with one single purpose. To die. To take our place on the cross. To be our sacrifice that we might live. To save us, who cannot save ourselves.

She had watched her son build, they were a carpenter home, he had held many nails in life, hammered them deep into the wood. Did she know early on? Did she know one such nail would pierce his hand?

I wondered if she wanted to hide him away. Pretend that this deep awareness of Jesus' purpose on earth was all some wild, made-up story. Surely he was just her son. Surely he would outlive her. Could he not have great purpose on this earth, and yet still live? Did he have to die? Did he have to suffer in such a cruel way? Did she really have to let him go?

God's Word tells us from early in Jesus' life, "But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart." Luke 2:19. Every miracle. Every reminder. Every glimpse into the very face of God's redemption story.

Eyes of grace.

Healing touch.

Hope embraced.

She "treasured all these things" - she kept them safe, kept them constantly in her mind, she didn't forget them. She "pondered" them - she brought these things together in her heart. This word actually means "to converse, to throw together, to confer with one's self, bring together, or fight with one."

How did she carry such burden," I thought. "So great, so heavy a burden in life to know her son would die."

We gazed at the cross.

Big, wooden, heavy.

Our hands touched the beam.

It was hard to lift up.

"How did He carry this Mom? It's way too heavy." Thoughts whirled again in my mind, of a Savior, of a son, of a mother, watching her precious one struggle under the weight of the cross, under the intensity of it all.

"I don't think I could do it Mom," he whispered to me, "I don't think I could go through that pain." Tears welled up in my eyes. I understood his heart.

Mary raised a son, knowing he was destined for a greater purpose. Understanding that he would choose to take the weight of the world upon his very shoulders. I'm so thankful that she raised him. And so thankful that she let him go.

Her son died so that mine could live. Her son died so that you, and I, could live. Jesus was willing to die so that this whole world, as many as who believe in Him, could live. Free.

God sent His Only Son. God loved. God gave. There was no other way. But this.

May we take a closer look into the reality of it all. The suffering of the cross. The huge sacrifice that was paid. The pain that was endured. The great cost of His gift. The love that was shown. The freedom it offers. For you. And me.

It's not a flowery picture of fluff and stuff.

But it is the most powerful story ever told.

Picture of sacrifice.

Picture of grace.

Picture of love.

Lavish love.

The post Mom, did Jesus feel pain? appeared first on FamilyToday.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Crosswalk.com. It has been republished here with permission.

Marriage is a gift - an amazing blessing from God. Yet often, the greatest gifts in life are not always cherished the way they should be. Maybe because life gets busy, or we get hurried and distracted. Maybe because we start to take one another for granted. Or we disagree and let resentments hang on longer than they should.

Life gets hard.

The baggage we bring along from our past doesn't help much either. What worked for us as two individuals, coping through the everyday stresses of life, may not work so well when joined as "one." We spin our wheels comparing our own marriage to the next one over, complaining about the problems; falsely thinking it might propel the other to action. We long for brighter tomorrows, but instead get stuck, in regret and hurt. We begin to drift away. And sadly, many times, we start looking for the nearest door marked "Exit."

There's a battle over marriages today, and the enemy would love nothing more than to bring you down.

His aim - to destroy. God's aim - to build up. But in all of the talk about marriage, defending our views, or pointing out differences, we have to ask ourselves one question ... and it may be the start to the best gift we could give each other ... have we prayed? I mean, really prayed, consistently, over time? And if we're not, then who is?

God promises in Isaiah 55:11 that His word will not return empty, without accomplishing great things.

There's no magic formula in praying verses and words, but there is power through the Spirit of God. And there's power in His Truth to bring forgiveness, healing, renewal, and restoration - no matter how bad things may seem. His reach is big. His love is huge. His grace covers all.

Prayer + God's Word = Power - the pathway for Him to do miraculous things.

40 Powerful Blessings to Pray Over Your Marriage

Dear God,

We praise you for your love and faithfulness. We thank you for huge grace.We thank you that you give us the power to love well. Thank you for my spouse. Thank you for the gift of marriage. Thank you that you're for us; that you fight for us. Thank you that you are Redeemer, and you have good in store. We confess, some days, marriage gets tough, and we blow it - again. We ask that you would make us more like you. Please fill our marriage and lives with truth and cover it with blessing.

Lord, we pray fo r...

Adoration

• "My beloved is mine and I am his." Song of Songs 2:16

Belief

• "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household." Acts 16:31

Blessing

• "He blesses the home of the righteous." Prov. 3:33

Commitment

• "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecc. 4:12

Courage

• "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."Josh. 1:9

Discernment

• "And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." Phil. 1:9-10

Encouragement

• "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." Ephesians 4:29

Endurance

• "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends." 1 Cor. 13:7-8

Faithfulness

• "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man." Prov. 3:3-4

Favor

• "May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us, establish the work of our hands..." Ps. 90:17

Forgiveness

• "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Eph. 4:32

Friendship

• "Two are better than one ... if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion." Ecc. 4:9-10

Fruitfulness

• "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." Gal. 5:22-23

Generosity

• "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." Prov. 11:25

Gentleness

• "Walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Eph. 4:1-3

Grace

• "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Col. 4:6

Health

• "Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Prov. 16:24

Hope

• "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

Humility

• "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." Phil. 2:3-4

Integrity

• "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." Prov. 10:9

Intimacy

• "Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control." 1 Cor. 7:5

Joy

• "May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth." Prov. 5:18

Kindness

• "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." Prov. 31:26

Love

• "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other..." 1Thess. 3:12

Oneness

• "They are no longer two but one flesh. What God has joined together, let no man separate." Matt. 19:6

Peace

• "May there be peace within your walls..." Ps. 122:7

Protection

• "The Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one." 2 Thess. 3:3

Provision

• "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:19

Purity

• "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." Ps. 19:14

Purpose

• "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Rom. 8:28

Respect

• "Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." Eph. 5:33

Self-Control

• "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." 2 Tim. 1:7

Servant-Hearted

• "As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Josh. 24:15

Strength

• "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." Ps. 29:11

Submission

• "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." Eph. 5:21

Thankfulness

• "Pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thess. 5:17-18

Trust

• "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear." 1 John 4:18

Understanding

• "Husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way..." 1 Peter 3:7

Value

• "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies." Prov. 31:10

Wisdom

• "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Prov. 4:23

Let your favor shine on us as we seek after you.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

The post 40 powerful blessings to pray over your marriage appeared first on FamilyToday.

We bowed our heads to pray before dinner. His words hit hard. I didn't want to hear them voiced through his sweet 5-year-old heart, but yet sadly, they were true. And the truth hurt.

"Thank you for our day, and thank you for our food, and God, please help my mom not to be so angry. Amen."

The tears brimmed fast, and started to flow. Everyone was silent, as all eyes looked up and someone passed the potatoes. My husband came quickly to my defense, wanting to correct what was spoken. I stopped him. Because I knew I needed to make things right.

It had happened over time. Stirring. Churning. Sometimes in the struggling days of life, when we're tired and alone, or feeling unnoticed, something begins to take root. Bitterness begins to grow. And things start to bother us more than they should. Patience is short. Tempers rise fast. Unforgiveness over small offenses looms in our minds and hearts. It ain't pretty. And it affects all we are. Our home, our children, our marriage, our lives.

The Bible has much to say about anger. In fact, it's mentioned 268 times. To put that in perspective, the word "joy" is mentioned less, 242 times. And though it is a normal emotion that we all feel at many times throughout life, when unleashed, and unchecked, it is dangerous.

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1

"Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back." Proverbs 29:11

"An angry person starts fights; a hot-tempered person commits all kinds of sin." Proverbs 29:22

Sometimes it's misdirected. And it flows out on innocent people who don't even know what happened to have caused such strong reaction. We see it on the highway all the time. Drivers intent on getting there fastest and you'd better not get in the way. We see it in our workplace. Stifled anger sitting on edge. Calling for sides between co-workers and friends. We see it at the ball park. Parents going toe to toe with an umpire who made a bad call. Or calling to a child who missed a ball, with such intense fire, "What's wrong with you boy? Come on, let's go!"

We see it in our homes, destroying marriages, wounding children, unrelenting arguments, casting hurt on those we say we love the most. Law enforcement officers have often reported that the most dangerous visit to make is the one for a domestic disturbance. Emotions raw, tempers flared, out of control, people do things they normally wouldn't do.

We see it on the news. Troubled gunman, seething with hostility, shooting down countless victims. Precious souls who never even knew what happened but sadly were found in the pathway of fury.

It's not supposed to look like this. He gives us deep emotion to bring change, to feel strongly enough about life so we're driven to make a difference. God created us with emotion and passion. It's meant to be used for good. It's not meant to destroy what we hold dear.

A fire serves great purpose. But unleashed, unprotected, it is dangerous. It quickly takes over and is not easily put out. It becomes wild and relentless. The same is true of anger.

Many people have falsely believed that anger itself is wrong. Not true. God Himself speaks many times throughout the Bible about feeling anger toward sin and injustice. He gave us the same ability to feel deep emotions, not only anger, but joy, sadness, fear, trust, among many others. The emotion itself is not wrong; it's what it leads to, and our reaction to it, that can be wrong and destructive.

If you notice this pattern in your own life, the first step towards freedom is to admit that it's a problem. There is grace, there is forgiveness, and there is hope.

5 Ways to Overcome Anger

1. Begin to focus on what God says about anger

2. Ask Him for His help, daily

Throughout the day. That is where your strength comes from.

3.Talk to someone else who can offer help, a trusted friend or counselor

The enemy would want nothing more than for you to feel alone, or to believe the lie that it's "not really that bad."

4. If you are in a desperate situation, where you have either been abused or have been so angry, you were tempted to abuse, you need to find safety.

You need to find help. Now. Don't wait. God never intends for us to remain in a dangerous situation where our lives or loved ones are threatened.

5. Believe He has good in store for you

He wants you to live free.

Relying on God today to release the things I cannot change, those things that bring fear and anger, and trusting Him for help to use every emotion with wisdom. That whatever stirs within me from life pressures or injustices surrounding us, would drive me to Him, for strength to wisely respond, instead of driving me to react in vented agitation.

Relying on His grace. Every single day. There's freedom there.

The post 5 ways to overcome anger appeared first on FamilyToday.