A loving God does not cause pain, but alleviates our misery;
- Does not test his children, but provides solutions when we are tested by life.
- Does not make us wander in the wilderness of confusion, but offers clear purpose and direction.
- Does not willingly afflict his children, but soothes and strengthens us when we are afflicted.
- Does not take people, he receives them.
Perceptions and expectations dominate our thoughts, actions, and reactions to family, friends, society, government, and God. These two outlooks can be healthy or unhealthy; they can be based on facts or on our pre-conceived ideas, misconceptions, wrong information, and fantasy. Misconceptions about other people cause us problems, but wrong information about God can separate us from the vital source of power needed to enjoy the highest quality life.
Each of us has the awesome power of free-will choice that allows us to access the most rewarding life imaginable or follow a path of misery and adversity. Yes, bad things do happen; nature (disease, natural catastrophes) may afflict us; accidents may hurt us or those we love; war or terrible events may paint the darkest picture of the world. But God does not do any of these. Our loving spiritual parent does not afflict his children—but has given each of us an inner guidance that will direct our path, a spiritual energy that is capable of dramatic and life-changing transformations, and a healing love to soothe the hurts inflicted in our journey.
Prayer: Dear God, please let me feel you presence. Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
Take three relaxing breaths; ask your inner spirit to guide your meditation; reflect on the content, pausing for a few minutes in silence.