WHY Do We Have to Have Trials?

vs. 3-4 "...because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

WHY? - Because it produce stronger faith and helps us to perservere, to run the race that is set before us.

"HOW" We go Through our Trials is what is Most Important!

vs. 5-6 - "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ASK God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.  But when you ask, you must BELIEVE and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, BLOWN and TOSSED by the wind."

We Are to Take Action...
1. We must ASK God for wisdom on how to get through the trial. In other words, we must be prepared for battle!  In order to be prepared, we must "put on our armor" each and every day, be prayed up and then filled with HIS Spirit!
"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes".  Ephesians 6:11

2. We must BELIEVE and not have any doubt that the battle is ALREADY been won. Christ dying on the cross is the very reason for the vicotry.  If we believe  this, we must put the trial in His hands and allow Him to work His plan.  
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" Ephesians 6:12

3. We have to STAND firm. Our roots must grow deep.  In order for a tree to grow strong and healthy and withstand the wind and rain, it must have deep, strong roots.
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,"  Ephesians 6:13-14

"They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”  Jeremiah 17:8

We were created for a purpose...to Love God and Love our Neighbor - to Glorify God and to make Him know to others. But we can get easily sidetracked with the trials - and the Battle Within - when they come.  Satan knows this and he is so subtle in distracting us from what we are here for.  If he can get our focus on our self and our circumstances, then we become less effective in our purpose because we are caught up in the "mind battle".

My pastor, Dr. Larry Walkemeyer, did a sermon series entitled "Power Tools"   Part 1 - Promise Power.  Did you know that there are over 4000 promises in the Bible?  God has given us all the tools we need to get through the battle.  We only have to pick them up, turn them on and use them each day.
When the next trial and battle comes your way...

FIRST - Get Back to Basics!

1. Breathe! -  Do some deep breathing exercises.  Breathe - deep....slow....hold!  Now, slowly release the air and as you do, close your eyes and imagine yourself releasing all of the poison and lies you have been battling in your mind.
2. Eat! - Make sure that you are not only eating, but eating the right foods. More protein and veggies and the foods that feed you brain the good stuff, and less sugar, junk food and caffeine.
3. Sleep! -  This is extremely important to help you get through the next day and be clear in your  mind.  Before you go to bed, do some meditation on the promises of God, listen to praise music quietly and just be still and focus on relaxing your body, mind, and spirit before sleep.

NEXT - Pray, Read, Believe

1. Be Prayed Up. - When those darts come and the battle begins, stop and ask the Lord to help you take each thought capture.  Think on things that are good, pure and true!  There is power in pray.
2. Put on Your Armor -  Take your Sword with you to battle!  Start each day in the Word.  God has given us so much in His Word, ALL we need for our journey.
3. Believe - and have Faith in all those promises that He has given.  "God's promises are the bridge between your problems and His power.  Faith is how you cross over." ~ Dr. Larry Walkemeyer
   
   

II Peter 1:3-4 - "His divine power has given us everything we need for a Godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."

Resources:
photo by LaElizO http://laelizo.deviantart.com/
Dr. Larry Walkemeyer
Promises of God

However, today I saw him through different eyes though.  He had the biggest, happiest smile on has face (as he has all week-long) and waves to everyone that drives by, doesn’t even have the earplugs in for an ipod and probably is  only making minimum wage! So what hit me was – his smile was real!  He truly exuded a grateful spirit being out there doing his job!  He was doing it as best he could and with joy!
As I continued on my way I thought about how many times I complain or moan about having to drive so far everyday to work, how tired I am at the end of the day, how I, at times, have lost sight of being grateful for having such an amazing opportunity to be a part of a ministry I call my “job”,….how, blah, blah. blah!  Then I thought, I need to do as unto the Lord! My perspective needs to change.  Instead I need to be grateful for having a nice reliable car to get me to work, that I have breath each day to get up and go and good health, and how I have been chosen by God to do work for Him! Yes, perspective – and shifting my focus.

It is so easy to get in a rut in life.  We wake up, have breakfast, do devotions, pray, get ready and leave to start our day.  Most of the time drive the same route to and from work.  Then get to office and work until noon, have lunch, go back to work and leave at 5pm.  Or maybe you are a housewife or stay at home mom.

Once in the rut, the complaining and grumbling becomes easy, we open the door of opportunity for the enemy to get us distracted and focus on our self and before you know it we have lost our joy!

What Causes Loss of Joy?

Our focus, or center, is off kilt.  We have lost sight of what truly matters in life.  Scripture tells us that we are to work as unto the Lord.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”    Colossians 3:23-24 In other words He is saying in any and all situations or conditions, do your best no matter what! God sees all and He will reward accordingly.  We are to honor Him by working with integrity, good work ethics, honesty and doing the job He has put before us with everything that is in us! He has you where you are for a reason – are you looking for the opportunities or asking Him what He has for you?

Wow,  was I convicted.  But that’s a good thing because it has reminded me to keep my focus on Him and not my circumstances. God has a plan for me, work to be done in which He wants to use me and if I spend my time grumbling or complaining about my circumstances then that work gets put on the back burner – exactly what the enemy wants to happen!

How to Get Back My Joy

Here are some verses to meditate on next time you find yourself being tempted to grumble or complain.  Write them down or print them out on paper and tape them on your computer or at your desk where you can easily see them.  Let them be a reminder that we are to work as “unto the Lord” and WHO we are serving .  We need to get back to our purpose and get back to being affective for Christ.

READ THE WORD

Psalm 28:7
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps forjoy, and with my song I praise him.

Psalm 30:11
You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.

Psalm 33:1
Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.

Psalm 51:12
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Psalm 71:23
My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I whom you have delivered.

Psalm 86:4
Bring joy to your servant, Lord, for I put my trust in you.

Acts 2:28
You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.’

Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

There are so many more to share but not enough room!  You can go to this websitehttp://classic.biblegateway.com/ and do a keyword search on the word joy to find more!

PRAY – ASK FOR HELP

“If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”   Matthew 21:22
When you find yourself in that ‘rut’ once again, STOP and pray!  Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you.  Ask for a renewed spirit of joy. Call a friend, family member or Pastor and ask them to pray for and with you.

BE ACCOUNTABLE

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”  Proverbs. 27:17
Find someone that is willing to be you partner and keep you accountable and will be honest to let you know when you “loose your focus”.

 
So remember… DO YOUR BEST as unto the Lord!  That is exactly what the guy on the corner in the Liberty outfit is doing!


You can also visit us on the web at
www.turningpointcounseling.org,
https://www.facebook.com/TurningPointCounseling
https://twitter.com/TPCounseling
http://www.linkedin.com/company/turning-point-counseling
http://pinterest.com/tpcounseling

Compliments of
Turning Point Counseling
1370 N. Brea Blvd., Ste. 245 - Fullerton - CA - 92835
800-998-6329 - TurningPointCounseling.org

by Tiffany Knowlton, M.A., LMFT, Therapist at Turning Point Counseling

Every day, when you wake up, you might choose what you're going to wear for the day. But, the truth is, you're already wearing so much that you may not be aware of.

Why Not Intentionally Clothe Ourselves with Things that Christ Wants for our Lives and do Away with What He Doesn't Want?

Ephesians 4:21–24 says, " to put off your old self, which is ... corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."

Many of us struggle with forgiving ourselves. The weight of our sins is sometimes unbearable for us. We can wake up every morning and instead put on righteousness and forgiveness like it says in Isaiah 61:10… "He has clothed me with the garments of salvation; He has covered me with the robe of righteousness."

As for righteousness, this is the state of being right with God. What would it be like to wake up every morning with complete forgiveness of self and sins and feel like you are right with God? The Bible is clear about removing that dirt, grime and mud that is sin and replacing it with joy, strength, power, and splendor from God (Psalm 30:11, Isaiah 52:1, Luke 24:49).

So Why Don't We Do This?

The answer lies in a lot of habits and patterns that we created. These habits and patterns can be taken off of who you are. They are old and worn out and we have become used to maintaining them. They do not match our existence and identity in the Lord. We continue to do these behaviors without awareness and insight on a daily basis. Our freedom from these habits comes with placing our trust in the Lord.

When we try to control our lives, we are living in an illusion. Many of us use this attempt to control things around us as a way to make up for childhood experiences of powerlessness or manage our current chaotic lives. We seem desperate to hold onto any control within the chaos.  We need to let God be in charge of our lives.

How do we do this?

·  Delegate:
Whether it's at work or at home, allow yourself to let go of some responsibilities. Don't do it all on your own. This kind of over control in your life leads to burn out. Delegation allows for a kind of freedom which will give you just a little taste of what it's like to be able to let go and let God be in control.

·  Change Your Language:
Add things to your language like, "You can decide " and "You can choose." You will see that letting someone else make decisions and be in control won't be so bad. You will survive and you will also feel a lot less pressure in your life.

·  Keep a Prayer Journal:
When you pray, write down the things you pray for in your journal. When God answers your prayer, go back and put a check by it or write about how it was answered. This shows you that God is in control of your life and that God does answer prayers. You will learn that appealing to Him is much more powerful than taking matters into your own hands. God's plan for your life is so much bigger than you can even imagine.

·  Remind Yourself that God Knows You Better than You Know Yourself:
He made you, He loves you, and He only wants what's best for you. God's plan for you is way bigger than your own. He is not a punishing, unloving God but a Lord that wants the best for you.

·  Avoid Judging Others as this is Also a Form of Control:
If you're a victim of judgment, you know how painful and paralyzing this can be. Judgment seems to stem from expecting others to be just like you. God wants us to focus on our walk with Him, not anyone else’s.

In this journey of letting go, you will make many mistakes, backslide, and feel that it is impossible.  Just keep going. Ironically, most people feel trapped with the idea of accepting that God is in control. But, the truth is - it will result in true freedom and peace.

I pray that you find this freedom and peace. God bless you!


Tiffany sees clients in the Norco, Rancho Cucamonga and Upland locations.  If you or someone you know would like to schedule an appointment with Tiffany, or with a counselor in one of our other locations in your area, please contact us at 800-998-6329 and we will be able to help schedule and appointment for you! 

You can also visit us on the web at
www.turningpointcounseling.org,
https://www.facebook.com/TurningPointCounseling
https://twitter.com/TPCounseling
http://www.linkedin.com/company/turning-point-counseling
http://pinterest.com/tpcounseling

Compliments of
Turning Point Counseling
1370 N. Brea Blvd., Ste. 245 - Fullerton - CA - 92835
800-998-6329 - TurningPointCounseling.org

by Frances J. Harvey, Director of Operations
Turning Point Counseling

HOLY WEEK
What is it and why do we celebrate?

The term “Holy Week” - in Latin words: Hebdomas Sancta or Hebdomas Maior,  means "Greater Week" – and INDEED IT WAS – and is – A GREAT WEEK!

Let’s Look at Jesus’ Life and the Events of the Week Before Easter...

Palm Sunday: Accompanied by his disciples, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt, while crowds of people covered the streets ahead of Him with their cloaks and with palm branches waving them shouting “Hosanna!”

Monday: Jesus chased the money-changers out of the Temple.

Tuesday and Wednesday: Jesus preached and taught in Jerusalem.

Thursday: After washing the feet of the disciples, Jesus celebrated the Feast of the Passover, instituting the Sacrament of Holy Communion.  After the supper, Jesus and His disciples went to Gethsemane to pray, where He was arrested by the Temple guard and taken to an illegal night session of the Jewish court, the Sanhedrin.

Good Friday: Jesus was taken into Roman courts, before Pontius Pilate and Herod Antipas, who sent Him back to the Jewish court. Roman soldiers took Him to Golgotha, the place of the skull, where He was crucified.

Saturday: Jesus rested in the tomb while his disciples observed the Sabbath.

And then..HE AROSE and HE LIVES!   But “WHY” did JESUS Have to Die?

God is Holy

Though God is all merciful, all powerful and all forgiving, God is also Holy, righteous and just.

Isaiah 5:16 - But the LORD Almighty is exalted by His justice. The holiness of God is displayed by his righteousness.

Sin and Holiness are Incompatible

Sin entered the world through one man's disobedience - Adam, and now all of us are born into this "sin nature."

Romans 5:12 - When Adam sinned, sin entered the entire human race. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.

Romans 3:23 - For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard.

Sin Separates Us from God

Isaiah 35:8 - And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in that Way; wicked fools will not go about on it.

Isaiah 59:2 - But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.

Sin's Punishment is Eternal Death

God's Holiness and justice demand that sin and rebellion be punished. The only penalty or payment for sin is eternal death.

Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 5:21 - So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God's wonderful kindness rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  

Atoning Sacrifice

Our death is not sufficient to atone for sin because atonement requires a perfect, spotless sacrifice, offered in just the right way. Jesus, the one perfect God-man, came to offer the pure, complete and everlasting sacrifice to remove, atone, and make eternal payment for our sin.

1 Peter 1:18-19 - For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And the ransom he paid was not mere gold or silver. He paid for you with the precious lifeblood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.

Hebrews 2:14-17 - Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil, and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham's descendants. For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.

Only Through Jesus Christ

Only through Jesus Christ can our sins be forgiven, thus restoring our relationship with God and removing the separation caused by sin.

2 Corinthians 5:21 - God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

1 Corinthians 1:30 - It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.

The Messiah - Savior

The suffering and the glory of the coming Messiah was foretold in Isaiah chapters 52 and 53. God's people in the Old Testament looked forward to the Messiah that would save them from their sin. Though he did not come in the form they expected, still their faith looking forward to his salvation saved them. Our faith, looking backward to his act of salvation, saves us. When we accept Jesus' payment for our sin, his perfect sacrifice washes away our sin and restores our right standing with God. God's mercy and grace provided a way for our salvation.

Romans 5:10 - For since we were restored to friendship with God by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be delivered from eternal punishment by his life.

In Summary, when we are "in Christ Jesus" we are covered by his blood through his sacrificial death, our sins are paid for, and we no longer have to die an eternal death. We receive eternal life though Jesus Christ.

...And this is why Jesus had to die.

Resources:
http://christianity.about.com/od/faqhelpdesk/a/whyjesushad2die_2.htm
http://www.sundayschoollessons.com/holyweek.htm


If you seeking, or know someone else who is, professional counseling, please call us TODAY!  800-99-TODAY (998-6329) and ask to schedule an appointment with a counselor in your area.  www.TurningPointCounseling.org

by Timothy Schlensker, M.A. Registered Marriage and Family Intern
with Turning Point Counseling

What Will You Be Doing for Your Spouse on Valentine’s Day? 

Yes, yes, many treat this day like several other Hallmark Holidays that have been invented to encourage a culture of consumerism and cause competition in marriages.  But on the other hand, when it comes to our spouse, there is nothing that God wants us to show more of than LOVE.  John 15:12  “This is my commandment: that you love one another, just as I have loved you.”

So… What’s Your Plan?

It seems like you have two options if you want to get it just right:

1)     Spend from now until that day planning and making sure you have just the right gift and plans

2)     Ask your spouse’s friends what they think you should do. 

Perhaps you could do both?  Either way there is one thing that is true, a good Valentine’s date does not happen by accident.

One of my favorite words when I’m working with my clients is ‘intentionality’. It refers to the attitude one has when approaching a task, relationship, or even a calling. Some people call this purpose, but I think purpose talks more about the goal at the end rather than the process. Intentionality is the process you go through to fulfill the purpose. In order for you to fulfill any purpose, you have to have intentionality.  John 12:27-28  “And what shall I say? “Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour.   Father, glorify your Name.”

For V-Day, What’s the Purpose? 

It is to express love and appreciation for those you hold dear; specifically, our sweetheart. If you don’t have a plan, you can’t get to the goal. Teams practice their game, employees get trained on a job, and children receive teaching and discipline. All this happens in order to make it to the goal, and make it well.

In marriage, the goal is to glorify God by showing love to each other;
Galatians 6:2  ”Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

♥ placing the other’s needs before your own
♥ spending time getting to know your spouse
♥ providing for them
♥ raising a family together
♥ spurring each other on toward the highest calling

None of this is possible if you are not intentional about it. You have to do things that will result in love shown. In every interaction you have with your spouse, you have two choices…

#1 will draw you closer to your spouse
#2 will distance you from them.

Intentionality states you have to be aware of the choice you are making in any given situation, and choose the interaction that will bring you closer.

Specifically, for this V-Day, you have to have a plan in order to make the date a success.  In general, for marriage, you have to intentionally invest in your relationship in order to make the marriage a success. 

Date your spouse! Pursue them! Quality time together is a great investment, as well as gifts, even encouragement! Those investments will pay off in habits of good behavior and positive feelings toward each other that will strengthen your marriage and your family! 

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Tim sees clients in the Anaheim, Brea, and Glendora locations.  If you or someone you know would like to schedule an appointment with Tim, or with a counselor in one of our other locations in your area, please contact us at 800-998-6329 and we will be able to help schedule and appointment for you! 

You can also visit us on the web at

www.turningpointcounseling.org,
https://www.facebook.com/TurningPointCounseling
https://twitter.com/TPCounseling
http://www.linkedin.com/company/turning-point-counseling
http://pinterest.com/tpcounseling

Compliments of
Turning Point Counseling
1370 N. Brea Blvd., Ste. 245 - Fullerton - CA - 92835
800-998-6329 - TurningPointCounseling.org

by Edith Pont, MA, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern with Turning Point Counseling

If you have little ones, you may find yourself trying to meet all their needs, which leaves limited personal time. Two months after the arrival of our 1-year-old son, I’m still adjusting to his schedule! I find that once he’s asleep, I’m spent – I’ve got nothing left; zero energy! So, I had to make adjustments to my prayer and devotional time.

How are you doing in praying for your children?

How are you doing in praying for your children? If you don’t already do so, I urge you to begin. I cannot emphasize the importance of taking time to pray daily and speak words of truth into your child’s life. I know that parenting can consume much of your time, but there is no excuse not to pray.

Praying for our children does not have to be a separate act; we can pray for them as we engage in our daily routines. For example, I find the best time to intentionally pray for my son is when I’m rocking him to sleep. I love to lay hands on him, pray over his little mind and body. It’s also a convenient time because I can still remember any issues that came up that day and present them to the Lord.

I know many of us have been taught we need to pray on our knees, but as I mature in my relationship with the Lord, I find that He is more interested in the position of my heart vs. my body. So, with this in mind, I intentionally practice praying throughout the day, while I do chores. I made a little handout to give you an idea of practical ways you can pray for your children as you live your busy lives.

8 Practical Ways to Mindfully Pray for Your Children

I’ve also made a calendar with 31 truths to pray over your child. Our calendar is on the refrigerator door (it’s the most used item in our home) to remind me to pray one truth for our son each day. It’s also a great reminder to contemplate on how I’m doing in these areas. As parents we need to model these truths to our children, as well as show them how to BE not just talk about it.

Praying Truth Over My Children-Calendar

Why Pray Truth?

Well, simple… God’s Word is truth and life. We need to pray the Word of God over our children. Not our words, but His Word. We do this by simply taking a verse and repeating it back to God. Isaiah 55:11 says, “It is the same with my word. 
 I send it out, and it always produces fruit. 
It will accomplish all I want it to, 
 and it will prosper everywhere I send it.” When we speak His Word it begins a transformation beyond our imagination. So use it!

Two Very Important Things

1. Please pray in the present tense. That’s right. Pray as if it’s already done! Don’t pray, “Lord, could you please…. It would be great if…” Stop! God is a wonderful giving God and is pleased when His children ask. So ask and you shall receive.
2. Take action and role model. This means you have to talk about these truths to your children, as well as helping them practice them.

I do hope you understand the importance of praying God’s Truth over your children. Remember that prayer is simply talking and listening to God – it’s a conversation with your Best Friend! I would love to hear your feedback once you implement this great spiritual discipline. Believe that your little one is already transformed!

Rest in His Word: Mark 11:24
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (ESV)

Heart Checkup:
•     Which truths stand out for you the most? Why?
•     Are you focusing too much on the negative behaviors your child exhibits vs. 
      the gifts and talents the Lord has given him?

Today, Focus on One Good Truth Your Child Displays!

Edith sees clients in the Downey location.  If you or someone you know would like to schedule an appointment with Edith, or with a counselor in one of our other locations in your area, please contact us at 800-998-6329 and we will be able to help schedule and appointment for you! 

You can also visit us on the web at

www.turningpointcounseling.org,
https://www.facebook.com/TurningPointCounseling
https://twitter.com/TPCounseling
http://www.linkedin.com/company/turning-point-counseling
http://pinterest.com/tpcounseling

Compliments of
Turning Point Counseling
1370 N. Brea Blvd., Ste. 245 - Fullerton - CA - 92835
800-998-6329 - TurningPointCounseling.org

by Frances J. Harvey, Director of Operations

What does Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men REALLY mean? 

Peace = A state of harmony, free from disturbances    Goodwill = Favor or advantage

Does this imply the world should be a peaceful place and all mankind should have a favored life?  The world certainly doesn’t seem to be a peaceful place and I don’t know anyone who isn’t affected by the economy these days, yet the message of the Bible is peace and love.

So what does this all mean?  Well according to the angels in Luke 2:14, - they were declaring peace to those on whom His favor rests! 

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests”

I believe they knew that the child, Jesus, who was born in the manger, was indeed our Savior and those that choose to believe and invite Him in their hearts and lives would in fact have peace and be favored. He came that we may have peace and life; despite our circumstances or trials we might face…we can have the assurance that He will bring His peace.

Yet despite the meaning and purpose, many people live a life without peace. This is needless because all we have to do to get it is ask and believe. In His compassion for mankind and the condition on earth He made – and continues to make – provision for change.  Not only is peace available, but it is entirely possible!  He promises peace that no other can give! 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

As I think about 2012 and all that has happened throughout the year, one thing keeps coming back to me and that is He has been faithful to give His peace regardless of the circumstances around us! 

This time of year is often difficult for many because of different reasons.  Maybe you lost a loved one during this season, or you can’t be with family or your grown children.  Maybe you are struggling financially to the point of not knowing whether you will be able to provide your family with a Christmas.  Depression or stress could be plaguing you to the point of just wanting to give up and not do anything at all!  Or it could simply be “the Holiday Blues”!

Whatever it is, I am here to bring good news and encouragement to you and that is, NO MATTER WHAT we may be facing, God has NOT turned His back on you!  He is the same yesterday, today and FOREVER!  He has come that we may have life – abundantly, and that includes a life of peace!  Sometimes in the midst of our storms, we forget that simple fact.  He never said I have come so you won’t have trials.  On the contrary… we WILL.  He promises that when we do have them, He will be there to give us what we need to get through them.  He will actually fight the trial for us if we let Him.  And He will give us His peace…not the kind the world gives, but an ever lasting peace. 

The same God that promised Israel is the same God that gives us promises –

“Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.” 
Deuteronomy 31:6 The Message

So now that we have established that we can have peace in Christ, I want to pass on these 7 holiday tips that Dr. Kevin Downing shared some time ago to help you get through this season because the challenges will come!  

7 HOLIDAY DESTRESSING TIPS

 WHEN IT COMES TO FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS-EXPECT THE EXPECTED 

Unrealistic expectations can ruin your holiday.  If things have been cold and distant with a particular family member, they'll probably remain the same throughout the holidays.  We often call these ‘edited’ relationships.  (It's not a four-hour epic adventure movie.  Your relationship with this individual may just be a little minute short clip.)

With edited relationships we send cards, maybe have a brief phone call or superficial conversation and basically acknowledge that our loved one is alive and wish them well. You have the rest of the year to see if you can make more of these relationships. The holidays are usually not the time to work on these relationships.

 FOCUS ON THE RELATIONSHIPS IN YOUR LIFE THAT ARE WORKING RIGHT   

These relationships may or may not be with family members.

Celebrate with people who know you and love you. Consider spending more time with your church family. Reach out to a friend who you have not contacted in a while.

 GET BACK TO THE BASICS

The holidays are about giving thanks and celebrating the birth of Jesus. Give Jesus a gift this year, namely give Him more of you.

 Your spiritual disciplines of prayer, reading His Word and meditating on His goodness and grace to you will help. Be determined to be a grateful person this holiday season. One of the best things you can do for your spiritual and emotional well-being is to have a grateful spirit. Make time for your time with the Lord and list out all the things that you are thankful to Him for.

ENJOY SOME FREE ACTIVITIES

Take a long walk by yourself or with a friend.

This can be a great way to slow your pace and focus on the Lord and the blessings in your life. If you have an exercise routine, don’t let go of it. Cardiovascular exercise is a wonderful way to reduce stress. Other free activities can be, driving around looking at holiday decorations, and window shopping.

PACE YOURSELF AND ORGANIZE YOUR TIME 

The idea here is to be realistic about what you can and cannot do.

Use your calendar and other time management tools. The old saying of less is more is often the helpful rule of thumb to live by during this holiday season.

LEAVE YESTERDAY IN THE PAST AND LOOK FORWARD

Don’t compare this season to the “good ol’ days”. Making comparisons to the past is a way to set yourself up for disappointment.

Each season is different and can be enjoyed in its’ own unique way.  

WATCH OUT FOR EXCESSIVE EATING AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Remember that alcohol can add to feelings of depression. Over drinking can ruin your holidays.  Overeating can be a real challenge.

During this season you may find that food is everywhere – at work, in stores and at home and friend’s houses. Set a plan in your mind about what you will and will not eat ahead of time.

You can see by these 7 tips the things that can cause additional stress and anxiety during the Christmas season.  Keep this list close by along with the verse from Deuteronomy and remember that HE IS YOUR PEACE.

“Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”  2 Thessalonians 3:16

by Tim Schlensker, M.A. REGISTERED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST INTERN

Thank God for all His provisions to us in this season and all year!
I thought I might take some time to “dig in” to something that most, if not all, of us take for granted almost every day.

Giving thanks is something that is by nature 'other-serving' right? Since it's a response to something that someone else did to serve us...from our barista’s masterfully crafted latte, to the heartfelt gift from our spouse.  

It Also has Some Positive Outcome for Our Own Peace of Mind as Well...

FIRST
It puts our focus on the one who was kind to us. By recognizing what they have done for us, we mentally reinforce that we are cared for by them and others. This truth is one that people living within families may not notice because it’s always there for us. For those of us living on our own however, far away from family or away at college, even in roommate situations, knowing that we are cared for by others means a great deal more.

SECOND
In placing that focus on the other we are getting outside of our own head for a moment, starting to put the world in perspective, rather than thinking too hard about what we do or don't, are or aren't, have or lack.  Being thankful is not just for the item or service we receive, but it is the spirit of gratitude with which we approach life. Seeing through this lens of gratitude helps us to remain engaged with others and resist some of the temptation we feel to isolate.

THIRD
Positive social skills, even these simple ones, are much rarer than you might imagine. The world is quickly inheriting a self-absorbed, overdeveloped sense of entitlement.  Common courtesy is not so common; humanity is losing its humanity.  As the world moves further away from acknowledging the God of the universe and recognizing all that His Son has done for us between Christmas and Easter, the less this world values the spirit of gratitude. 

On the other hand, the more we practice these things the more we will be able to lead others by example to be people who are kinder, more thoughtful, and more generous with things God has given to us. And I think most all of us want that.

So, in this season of Thanksgiving and all year… GIVE THANKS!!

Tim sees clients in Anaheim, Brea and Glendora.  If you would like to see Tim, or any of our TPC counselors, call us at 800-998-6329 x300 to schedule a first time appointment. 

Compliments of
TURNING POINT COUNSELING
1370 N. Brea Blvd., Ste. 245 
Fullerton, CA  92835
800-998-6329  
TurningPointCounseling.org

The material contained in this newsletter has been prepared by an independent third-party provider. The material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, financial, real estate and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is not without errors.

by Frances J. Harvey, Director of Operations

The season has changed, we are officially in Fall!  It’s one of my favorite times of the year.  The leaves are a blast of colors – reds, yellows, and greens. As they fall, the trees go barren, digging into the soil for a long winter, waiting to gather their energy for Spring time. 

Have you noticed, it’s dark outside at 5 o’clock! As I drive home at the end of the day, the sun is no longer lighting my way. Now headlights and street lights guide my way. The traffic is heavy. It is also colder now, and…

THE CHRISTMAS TREE LOTS ARE GOING UP! By the first week of November, the fences are already in place, Christmas lights and decorations are up, and most likely the trees will arrive sometime this week! Yes, Christmas is coming – but first, LET’S BE THANKFUL!  November is for Thanksgiving, and we explode right through it as if were a chore. This makes me crazy and saddens me because the roots of this holiday were based on thanking God for the bounty of the harvest.  The Pilgrim’s wanted to show their thanks to God and honor the native Indians for their help during the first winter.

You see the Pilgrims, from England, had fled their home to escape religious persecution.  They arrived at the Plymouth Rock in the winter of 1620 and they had a very tragic winter losing close to half of the original group that sailed on the Mayflower. But in the following year, the fall harvest was very fruitful and they wanted to celebrate and show how thankful they were to the Natives that helped them to survive their first year.  In fact if it wasn’t for them, the Pilgrims would not have made it.  The feast was more a traditional English harvest festival and lasted for three days.  So Thanksgiving was originally a religious and cultural tradition, but according Wikipedia, it is primarily celebrated as a secular holiday.  In others words food, decorations and a day or two off work.

Come Thanksgiving day, most Americans all over the nation will be popping turkeys in the oven, mashing potatoes, baking pies, and getting ready for the family to visit – only to over eat, argue with family you don’t get along with and then fall asleep from the tryptophan in the turkey!  SERIOUSLY!!!  So how many of us will truly celebrate the REAL meaning of this holiday and have a spirit of thanksgiving?  This is one holiday that we should be practicing all day, every day, all year long.

Recently my pastor started a sermon series called “Power Tools” – this last Sunday was Part 2 – “Praise Power”   2 Chronicles 20:20-26, Acts 16:22-31. Praising God at All Times Unleashes His Power in Your Circumstance. Psalm 34:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:18.    Pastor Larry challenged us to praise God for WHO He is using the alphabet!  In other words, use each letter for a word to praise Him just because He’s God, not only because He does things for us!      Ex: God You are Awesome, You are Beautiful, You are Compassionate….. POWERFUL STUFF!

Give thanks to the Lord because His faithful love lasts forever!  II Chronicles 20:21b

As the week of Thanksgiving is here, I want to leave you with a few thoughts.  Purpose to keep these things present in your mind, heart, and spirit not only on November 22nd, but each and every day you wake up with breathe!

MIND – To Be Thankful – Conscious of Benefits Received 

Stay conscious of all that you have. Take a pen and paper and write down everything in your life that is good!  Even the small details.  Don’t miss anything.  Put it where you can see it every day and remember to keep these things present in your mind – stay conscious!

HEART – To Be Grateful – Appreciative of Benefits Received

Tell God on a regular basis how grateful you are for what He was done. Each morning you awake give Him your heart – start by acknowledging what a great, generous and awesome God He is.  Show Him through your actions and words. Just as the Pilgrims and Indians celebrated together and were grateful, so should our hearts reflect constant gratefulness!

SPIRIT – To Appreciate – Recognize the Quality, Significance, or Magnitude of Something – or to Highly Value

Our spirits should be in a constant state of appreciation of and for our Lord.  Each new day you wake up and have breathe is a reason to “recognize or highly value” that you are His child.  We are princess and princesses of the King!  Heirs to the Throne!  How could one NOT appreciate that?  Christ died for this very reason, so keep your spirit in appreciation!

Last, I share this quote from our therapist, Maisha Florance, M.A. –Registered MFT Intern…

Thanksgiving is a Holiday ~ Giving Thanks is an Action ~ Thankfulness is a Way of Life


Compliments of
TURNING POINT COUNSELING
1370 N. Brea Blbd., Ste 245
Fullerton, CA 92838
800-998-6329

TPC has over 40 satellite locations throughout southern California.  If you are going through tough times, or know someone who is, and would like to schedule an appointment with one of our staff therapists, Give us a call at 800-99-TODAY or 998-6329 and ask to schedule an appointment with a counselor near you!
 www.TurningPointCounseling.org

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