A Journey from Surviving to Thriving

In a previous post (Post #13), I wrote about boundary lines being good things that can form “limits” or “fences” around us or our lifestyles and thus enable us to experience living connected with our true inner core values to the glory of God.    Whenever we step outside these limits, we potentially step into murky waters and reap a natural consequence for it. However  what happens when one begins to experience these boundary lines becoming more and more pronounced and closed in to the extent that it feels like there is little personal freedom left to do what one normally enjoys doing?  In this case, can I rejoice that the “boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places” and be grateful for the “delightful inheritances” as King David did in Psalm 16:5-6? “ Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure.  The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”  NIV I feel it would be helpful for me (and mayb

I love positive people!   There is something incredibly attractive about people who remain upbeat and positive even in the tough times in life — people who   see the good in everyone, often have a smile on their face, and simply have a positive outlook on life.   I find it amazing how some people can grumble and complain about nearly everything, whereas others, by their very presence, are an encouragement. But how does one get this loving, positive disposition?  How does one grow into this kind of person? These are the questions we want to explore in this post. A major lifetime goal of mine is to not die a grumpy old man, but instead to be the kind of person who is indeed upbeat and positive, whose mere presence is an encouragement.  I am not there yet — I’m still in process, but I am committed to asking God to shape me into that person.  Let’s take a look at what God says about staying positive with a joyful spirit.  Then we’ll look at some practical things we might do to make this