Eight Ways to Stabilize Your Life in a Changing World

 

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Change is here to stay.
Whether we like it or not we need to learn how to mold our lives and those of our congregations so that we bend rather than break. Fortunately there are ways to adapt so that our faith grows and strengthens during these times. Here are some principles I have found helpful:

Identify or Establish Stability Zones

Identify those aspects of your personal and congregational life that will not change. Identify stabilizing values, spiritual routines and relationships that draw you close to God and to each other. Preach about them and establish ways to live them out in small groups and bible studies. It is these practices that maintain our sense of order and security in the world. Without them we have no anchors for our lives.

Stay Put

I have just attended the Inhabit Conference, which encourages people to live, work and minister in the same community. When life falls apart, or we get a pay increase we immediately consider relocating to a more prestigious suburb or to a place where jobs might be more plentiful. Sometimes this is necessary, but moving always adds to our emotional and spiritual instability. It uproots us from the stabilizing influence of friends and the spiritual communities that anchor our lives.

Surround Yourself with “At Home” Items

This is something I learned when I lived on the mercy ship M/V Anastasis and travelled constantly rarely feeling I knew where home was. Family photos, pictures of my favorite at home scenes in Australia, making a meal of familiar comfort foods all helped me to relax and feel secure. In church crosses, banners, and communion tables may provide this at home feeling. Ask your congregation: What are the “at home” items that make you feel this is home?

Read More at http://thev3movement.org/2015/05/eight-ways-to-stabilize-your-life-in-a-changing-world/

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