Living Free - August 3, 2017

"No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. 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. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:37-39 NLT

Thoughts for Today

Divorce changes not only your home life--it can change your place in your community. At school. In the church. In your social circles. Sometimes even in your job. You might have to move to a new neighborhood or even a different town. Your children may have to change schools.

What do your children say to their friends at school? How can they adjust at a new school? Where do you belong in the church? Which friends will still want to spend time with you now that you are not a "couple." Do you sense disapproval from people you used to enjoy being with? How will you make new friends if you have to move?

Consider this …

Focusing on what hasn't changed can help you face the things that have. The one thing you can be sure of is God's love for you. Nothing can ever change that. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Write a list of your blessings. What good things do you still have? You might be surprised how long the list is.

And then ask Jesus to help you enter the new parts of your world. If you have children, teach them the same prayer. With Jesus walking beside you, overwhelming victory is sure to be yours. You will face challenges. You may have some down times. But you will never be alone. And Jesus will help you gradually build a better life than you could have imagined.

Prayer

Father, all these changes are frightening. I'm not sure which people are still my friends. My children have had to start over at a new school. But I thank you so much that You never change. You love me unconditionally and I believe you will help me experience overwhelming victory! In Jesus' name …

These thoughts were drawn from …Handling Loss and Grief: How to Face Losses in Life and Grieve Christianly by Raymond T. Brock, Ed.D. This study teaches participants what the Bible has to say about handling the losses of life. It offers biblical coping methods for facing loss.