I could elaborate on this topic from several vantage points. I could talk about how we’re entering the season of fall, one of my favorites. I could mention the fall of man in the book of Genesis and how Christ’s death paid for our redemption. I could talk about falling in love…with Jesus. I could talk about the need to fall into place if we’re not in alignment, which reminded me of the words of Donnie McClurkin’s song “We fall down, but we get up.” Then, I thought of how our God gives us another chance when we fall, and I’m so grateful because I’ve been there. The lowest point in my Christian walk was when I chose to go through a divorce. Well, no, the lowest point was when I looked at where I was and from my viewpoint, that was my only option at that time. I was the leader of the Prayer Ministry. I was able to pray for other people, but I had difficulty praying for my household. That’s why I mentioned at the beginning of When I Was 40 that even if you don’t feel like praying with your spouse, do it anyway. Make it happen because it would be well worth the effort. Because of our mindsets, it was too much of a struggle for both of us. There were times when I didn’t even know what to read from my Bible or how to pray for us. One day I had read from the book of Ezekiel. Later, as I stood in my kitchen, it was as if I heard God say in my mind, “Charlene, can this marriage live?” I replied just like the prophet in the Scripture, “Lord, You know.” I’m being very transparent here, because I really want to help someone. After so many overdrafts in the “emotional bank account,” a couple can fall into bankruptcy. Side note: Did you know that many natural falls can be prevented? (Based on data collected by the CDC.) It also works that way with other falls we experience. For example, before a person falls into a relapse, the action first takes place in the mind. We tend to act out what we think about. (As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.) That’s why people new in recovery are encouraged to keep their focus on diversion activities that support sobriety. (Along with 12 Step Programs, therapy, medication if needed, etc.). So, maybe you’re facing a situation that you’ve never encountered before. What are you thinking about right now? Where are you seeking advice and help? I have learned how important it is to get God’s perspective on my situation. I earnestly try to avoid pitfalls. Now, whenever I fall, I can go to my knees in prayer. Sometimes it’s possible to fall so hard and end up flat on the back. In that case, that’s the perfect position to look up to God and cry out to Him for help. A fall doesn’t have to end in failure forever. Allow yourself to fall into the loving arms of our God and He can help you get back on track. You can get back up again. Look to Him. Let Him help you see the situation from His vantage point because He has great plans for you. I’m praying for you.
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