12.22.2005 The Word of the Lord in My Experiences: What has God taught me?

a. from failure - Thy will be done, Lord. Do your best and leave to God the rest. Leave the consequences to God's mercy. Look for positive results to my failure.

b. from a lack of money - Lack of money is not a reason for not reaching out to others. There will always be instruments of God to provide. Lack of money lessens one's concern for one who has more of it.

c. pain, sorrow or depression - Have faith in the Lord. Claim His promise to ease one's burden and give rest if only we come to Him. Supplications to saints and departed ones. Pray to the Holy Spirit to send you the gifts and fruits He gives. Unceasing prayers to the Lord.

d. through waiting - Patience is bitter but its fruit is sweet. Good luck comes to those who wait and pray. Fruits ripen and mature a long time. Reflect on what you are waiting for. Is it beneficial or not?

e. through illness - Have trust in the Lord. All prayers are answered. Strengthen faith. Take good care of yourself. Recall witnesses to God's help. Be prayerful.

f. from disappointments - People differ in their beliefs, attitudes and perceptions. Forget the good that you do. Never expect return of good deeds you do. Do what is right.

g. from my family, my church, my relationships and my critics - There is a great need for understanding of other people - members of groups one belongs to - family, neighborhood, community and other groups.

We can choose our friends, not our relatives. Be humble. Learn to listen. Learn how to argue and to disagree but do not be disagreeable. Watch your words. Know what flattery and praise mean. Let others be righteous. Be graceful during your bad moods.