Progress, Not Perfection

Sometimes we have to do things that we don't like to do. In a day, you may spend most of your time doing things that are "have to" instead of "want to". When we get caught up in this daily grind, it can be easy to feel bitter about all the "have to" things. Bitterness can sneak up on us in relationships as well, perhaps when we feel like a friend is not putting as much into the relationship as we are or if our family doesn't respect our needs. Here are some tips and bible passages to help settle those feelings of bitterness and allow us to live a happier life. 1. Focus on this that bring you joy. "Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Philippians 4:8) 2. Put your trust in God. "We know that all things work together for good for

What do you do as a family to unwind and recharge? How does your family ensure that you have quality time together each week? Teens live busy lives and sometimes it seems like there is no time for family any more, and friends take priority. But, it is important to seek that time with family to unwind together, laugh together. I follow a page on Facebook called Mindful Christianity Today. They post quite often and share some great inspiration to remind us what being a Christian is all about. The above photo is one that they have shared recently. I would recommend giving them a follow if you have Facebook. It's a great way to keep God in mind even when mindlessly scrolling through social media. Click here to check them out. Comment your family traditions of self-care and relaxation. Maybe you watch a movie together every Tuesday or make breakfast together each Saturday.

Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth.    He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;  he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.    “Be still,and know that I am God!  I am exalted among the nations,  I am exalted in the earth.”    The  Lord  of hosts is with us;  the God of Jacob is our refuge. (Psalm 46:8-11) Box breathing is a calming technique that you can use anywhere to settle your mind, relieve stress, and take a time out. I find it helpful to use a visual to help me to do this, but you can simply count if you prefer. It is simple: inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for four seconds (repeat as needed). Click here to use the video to help you try it. You can add box breathing to your prayerful time of the day as a way to remove distractions before you begin your prayer practice. It can also be helpful to use this technique before writing a test in order to settle your m