I found 5 books at my local Goodwill that come from the Women of Faith series. These are Bible studies for women to do in small groups. None had been previously written in and they were only $0.79 a piece!
Can you say SCORE?
I started the one entitled “Contagious Joy” this last week. And I LOVE it! It really was just what I needed.
Here is a little something I journaled this week. It is about the secrets to staying cool in tough situations. I hope that it is a help to you as well.
Ministry work can be very difficult. It can be emotionally draining. Here are things I have found that work – that keep you cool in HOT situations:
1. Say a quick prayer. It can simply be “Help me, Jesus.” And the great thing is – we can always trust that He is there with us.
2. Think before you speak. Quickly decide if those words are necessary or if they will appear offensive. You do not want to put anyone in the defensive mode.
3. Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. When responding to others don’t let them feel attacked by saying “you”. Change your statements into “I” statements. For example, “I did not mean for this to be interpreted this way,” or “I am sorry that I am poor at communicating this.”
4. Clearly state the facts of what you meant or intended. Don’t let emotions influence your words. Be clear and kind. People often assume, and it is best to just stick to exactly what you meant or intended.
5. Apologize. Don’t be too proud to apologize. Apologize for the misunderstanding and your own faulty communication skills. Even if you feel inside that they are totally in the wrong. Take the high road. Apologize.
6. Choose joy and peace. Even when you feel hurt, betrayed, or angry – CHOOSE JOY! Say, “Lord, though I don’t feel joyful, give me that joy. I choose it now. Let me see with your eyes.”
7. Thank them for sharing with you their honest feelings and ask them if you can do anything else.
Remember to pray for the situation after. Always be kind. I like the saying, “Kill them with kindness.” Remember, you are not perfect either. We are all on this journey with Christ. He loves us all and calls for us to love each other – even our enemies.
You cannot control the other person you can only control how you react. With Jesus’ help choose Joy, Love and Peace. Only with Him in your heart can you do this well. Then see the difficult situations as opportunities for character growth.
Psalm 97:11-12 – “Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. Rejoice in the LORD, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name.”
Proverbs 15:23 – “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply – and how good is a timely word!”
Isaiah 55:12 – “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”
I linked up this weekend to:
