Common Family Lies - God Knows What They're Doing Stop Worrying, No Fear

Family Members who Support Sinful Behaviors - enablers, codependents

The Power of Prayer: Healing Physical Pain and Restoring Health

During this season of gathering and celebration it's important to keep in mind the essence of Christmas. As Christians, we are reminded of the significance that God sent His Son, Jesus Christ to save us from sin. This time provides us with a chance to align ourselves with God's will have faith, in Him, and seek healing and relief from pain through prayer. In this thought-provoking message, we will delve into the power of prayer when it comes to healing pain and restoring well-being.

Addressing Physical Pain

Many individuals experience pain whether it's an ailment or a long-term condition they have been dealing with for years. Some may see their pain as a challenge in life like the apostle Paul did. They accept it as part of their journey until they are called home by Jesus. However, others still hold onto hope for an intervention or a sign that can relieve them from their suffering.

Prayer for Healing

As believers, we have the opportunity to act as conduits of healing for others. When attending family holiday gatherings or events you can offer more than just material gifts. You can also extend the gift of prayer.

We can offer our support to those who are experiencing discomfort and pray for their recovery. By calling upon the significance of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross we can express, "Dear Lord Jesus through your sufferings I seek healing for my loved one. I have faith in your ability to alleviate (insert their name) pain and restore his/her well-being."

Acting as a Channel for Healing

Before attending any gathering, it is important that we have already prayed for ourselves and asked God to guide us toward individuals who need healing. We should trust that God will utilize us as vessels for His healing power. Here's an additional prayer, "O Heavenly Father, may they place their belief in your capacity to heal their afflictions and restore their health in the name of Jesus." By taking a leap of faith and being open to praying for others we can facilitate liberation from ailments.

The Significance of Healing in Scripture

Throughout the Bible, there are accounts of Jesus offering healing to those who were enduring suffering. In Luke 13;10 13 Jesus healed a woman who had been paralyzed by a spirit for 18 years. This extraordinary act of healing not only freed her from constraints but also brought about spiritual liberation.

Sometimes it's important to remember that physical pain goes beyond discomfort. It can also be a reflection of oppression--being held back from one's divine healing or miracle.

Understanding the Connection between Physical and Mental Well-being

Pain can greatly affect our health. When we constantly experience pain it takes a toll on our well being leading to feelings of suffering, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, there are instances where mental health struggles contribute to pain. For instance, someone burdened by family issues or life stresses might experience symptoms as a result. To achieve healing it's crucial to address both the spiritual dimensions of pain.

Breaking Free from Spiritual Bondage

There are times when physical pain is a manifestation of bondage. It can be caused by negative influences, toxic relationships, or the transfer of energy. To truly heal ourselves we need to identify and confront these issues head on. This may involve severing ties with toxic relationships, seeking deliverance from binding, energies or spirits and repenting from any sinful behaviors. By taking these steps we can liberate ourselves from the chains of oppression. Find healing in mind, body, and spirit.

The Impact of Physical Pain on Mental Health

Physical pain has an impact on our well-being.

Experiencing pain can bring about feelings of frustration, helplessness, and despair. It can also disrupt our lives, relationships, and overall sense of well-being. When someone is going through pain it becomes crucial to offer them support, understanding, and prayers. By acknowledging their pain and praying for their healing we can help ease their suffering and provide them with hope.

The Significance of Being Humble and Trusting in God

During times of pain, it is important to remain humble and trust in God's plan. We may not always comprehend why we or our loved ones are enduring suffering. However, by placing our trust in God and seeking His guidance we can find strength and inner peace. Psalm 147:3 reminds us that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. By recognizing our reliance on God's healing power and seeking His restoration we can experience wholeness.

The Power of Prayer in Healing Our Environment

Physical pain isn't limited to individuals it also extends to the land and the environment around us. Climate change, deforestation, man-made inventions, and other human activities have led to imbalances that directly impact our well-being. Through prayer for healing and restoration of the land, we have the opportunity to contribute towards the well-being of our planet.

Psalm 147;8 9 serves as a reminder that God's command is swiftly delivered to the earth carrying with it the power to bring about healing and restoration on a scale.

Never Forget the Power of Prayer

During this time of gathering and celebration, we need to keep in mind the power that prayer holds in healing pain and restoring health. As believers, we have been blessed with the opportunity to be vessels through which God's healing power flows. By placing our trust in His love and seeking His guidance we can become instruments of deliverance and relief from ailments. It is crucial for us to always remember the significance of humility, trust, and obedience to God's laws. By aligning ourselves with His will we not only witness healing in our bodies but also experience rejuvenation in our minds and spirits. May we become catalysts for healing and agents of change in a world that is longing for restoration.

Feel free to explore Nicholl's inspiring audio messages at nmenterprise7.com. Be blessed!

Who's Going Broke for Family and Friends [shopping, traditions, gifts...]

Honesty is the Best Policy: How to Say What You Mean with Funny T-Shirts for Men and Women

 When it comes to being honest, not everyone is good at it. That's why there's a store called "Say What You Mean". It offers boldly funny t-shirts for both men and women that let you express your true feelings without saying a word. 

These funny t-shirts come in a variety of designs, each with their own unique message. Whether you're in the mood for something sarcastic, witty, or just downright honest—you'll find what you need here. Plus, they make great gifts! No more having to guess what people want; now you can buy a funny t-shirt that expresses how you really feel. 

The next time you're attending a family holiday event or getting together with friends, make sure to bring your funny t-shirt. It's the perfect way to show everyone that honesty is the best policy—even if it's a little bit funny! 

So what are you waiting for? Head over to Say What You Mean today and pick out the perfect t-shirt that expresses how you really feel. You won't regret it! 

Don't forget: Honesty is always the best policy—even if it's a little funny. So why not show off your true colors and Say What You Mean with a funny t- shirt? Get yours today and make sure everyone knows exactly how you feel. 

Happy shopping!

Estranged Siblings and the Importance of Detaching from Toxic Relatives

 The dynamics of a family unit can be complex, and these complexities are often exacerbated when siblings have become estranged. Estranged siblings may be distant from one another due to different life paths, unresolved disputes, or other issues that divide them. Toxic relatives can make it difficult for individuals to maintain relationships with their siblings, leading to feelings of guilt and distress.

An illustrative example of this dynamic involves a mother who consistently favors her daughter over her son, creating a significant divide between the two siblings. This mother continually praises her daughter's accomplishments while belittling her son's. As the son constantly tries to win his mother's approval, he becomes resentful of his sister who seems to effortlessly receive the maternal praise he craves. The daughter, in turn, feels burdened by the unwelcome attention and becomes defensive, leading to further division with her brother. In this case, the mother's toxic behavior has not only damaged her individual relationships with her children but has also fostered a hostile environment that has ultimately led to their estrangement.

The devastating realization dawned upon the siblings only when it was too late. Neither had discerned the destructive influence their mother’s favoritism had on their relationship while she was alive. Like a slow-acting poison, it had eroded their bond over the years, until there was little more than resentment and estrangement. The mother's passing, a profound and unfortunate event, triggered a cascade of regret and introspection. It was then that they started to untangle the strands of their relationship, to see where things had unraveled, and to understand the role their mother's toxic behavior played in their estrangement. It was an illuminating, albeit painful, revelation.

Protecting oneself from toxic relationships can be a challenging, yet necessary, step. Firstly, recognizing the signs of toxicity, such as constant negativity, lack of respect, and emotional manipulation is pivotal. Once one identifies a toxic relationship, it's essential to establish boundaries to safeguard emotional well-being.

Rebuilding estranged relationships, on the other hand, requires time, patience, and a willingness to forgive. Open, honest communication is crucial in this process. Expressing your feelings and listening to the other party's perspective can foster understanding. It's equally important to remember that rebuilding doesn't mean forgetting; it means accepting past discrepancies and deciding to move forward. Remember, in some instances, seeking professional help from a counselor or mediator can be beneficial in navigating these complicated emotions and situations.

Professional counselors or mediators can provide a safe, neutral space for open conversation between estranged siblings. They offer strategies and techniques to help individuals express their feelings, manage conflict, and rebuild trust. Additionally, they can assist in establishing healthy boundaries, promoting self-care, and navigating the difficult decision of when to disconnect from toxic relatives.

Furthermore, support groups can also be a valuable resource. Sharing experiences and feelings with others who are in similar situations can be therapeutic and provide a sense of community and understanding. Support groups often offer practical advice and coping mechanisms, which can be instrumental in managing the stress and emotional turmoil that often accompany estranged relationships.

Lastly, self-help books and online resources can provide insights and strategies for managing these complex relationships. They can help individuals gain a better understanding of why they have become estranged and how to approach potential reconciliation or disconnection. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and it's crucial to seek help that aligns with your unique situation and wellbeing.

Learn more, check out Tell Me Mother You're Sorry by Nicholl McGuire available on Amazon.com

How to Handle Family Conflict During Holiday Events

Family gatherings, such as reunions, 4th of July celebrations, weddings, and baby showers, are supposed to be occasions where members of the family come together, share life stories, and enjoy each other's company. However, it is not uncommon for these events to trigger heated debates, disagreements, and grudges that have been simmering for years. If you have ever had to navigate a family event where conflict arises, you know how easily it can spoil the occasion. In this post, we offer tips on how to handle family conflict during holiday events. 

Prepare yourself emotionally beforehand

It helps to approach a family event with a clear mindset. If you know that you might encounter family members with whom you have had conflicts, be prepared to see them. This means acknowledging your feelings about past experiences but staying committed to not allowing those feelings to ignite more conflict. Take some time before the event to reflect on any deep emotions you might have and practice strategies such as deep breathing, visualization, or meditation.

Focus on common interests

Focusing on shared interests can help to redirect conversations away from potentially divisive topics. Find opportunities to bring up general topics that people can agree on, such as family history, or general current events. Make an effort to be pleasant, upbeat, and avoid anything that is potentially controversial. Ask questions, and actively listen to what other people are saying. By focusing on positive topics, you can reduce the chances of confrontations and keep the atmosphere friendly.

Find a support system

Knowing that you have people who are rooting for you or who share your perspectives can go a long way in helping you deal with conflict. Identify family members or friends who you can depend on as an ally if things get tense. This person can lend a listening ear or offer words of encouragement or support if needed. Remember, you don't have to face challenging situations alone.

Know when to walk away

If a conversation or situation becomes too uncomfortable, it is important to know when to walk away. Sometimes taking a break and removing yourself from conflict is the best thing you can do for both yourself and the people around you. Be polite about it and say something like, "I'm sorry, but I need to step away for a moment. Excuse me." This way, you aren't escalating the situation by abruptly leaving, and you aren't causing a scene.

Don't take things personally

Tempers can flare in high-pressure situations, and things can easily be said that are hurtful or untrue. The important thing to keep in mind is not to take these things personally. Remember that someone's opinion or words are not always about you. It is essential to remain calm and not allow someone's outburst to provoke you to respond in anger. Instead, take a deep breath and try and understand why that person might be feeling that way.

Family holiday events can be enjoyable occasions, but they can also cause tension and conflict. By preparing emotionally beforehand, focusing on common interests, finding a support system, knowing when to walk away, and not taking things personally, you can handle family conflict better. Remember that in most cases, the goal is not to have a winner and a loser but to maintain healthy relationships even in disagreement. By handling conflicts with grace and patience, you can make sure that everyone has a delightful time and feels good about coming to events in the future.

Check out a faith-based channel devoted to a variety of issues related to family challenges

How to Keep a Family Secret

 When the family gathers for the holidays, there is bound to be some story-telling occurring and when that happens there may also be the temptation to share information you shouldn't. The end result is someone being unhappy resulting in ruined relationships. 

It's not always easy to keep a secret about a family member, especially if you are close. People in your life may ask for details and it can be hard to stay quiet. Here are some tips to help you keep the secret: 
 

1. Know your audience. Don’t tell people who don’t need to know or those who aren't trustworthy. If someone is known for spreading gossip, they probably won't be able to keep your secret either!  
 

2. Have an excuse ready. Before even talking about the secret topic, think of a plausible explanation that doesn't involve disclosing the secret should anyone ever bring it up again in conversation or confront you with questions directly.  
 

3. Be honest, but vague. Don’t lie about the secret, but also don’t provide too many details either. People will often ask more questions if they feel like you have left something out or didn't give them all of the information.  

 

4. Practice self-control and discretion. It can be tempting to tell someone a secret that you have been keeping, but try not to slip up and make sure your body language isn't giving away anything either! 

 

5. Trust yourself to keep it secret. Protecting the secret may require some effort on your part, but remember - it is possible for you to do it! Just stay positive and trust in your ability to keep quiet when necessary.  
 

At the end of the day, you should be able to trust yourself to keep a secret about a family member. With these tips in mind, you can make sure that your secret is safe and secure! Good luck!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of Tell Me Mother You're Sorry. 

 

How to Create and Publish a Family History Book

When compiling a family history book, it is important to make sure that it is easy to read and understand. One way to do this is by dividing the book into chapters based on different time periods or events in the family's history. You can also include images and other visuals to help illustrate the story.

 
If you should give the family history book as a gift, it is important to consider the recipient's interests and level of interest in genealogy. Some family members may be more interested in learning about their ancestors, while others may prefer stories about life growing up in the family. Be sure to tailor the book accordingly. 

One way to make the book more personal is to include stories and anecdotes from family members. This can help make the book more interesting and engaging for readers. You can also include copies of old photos, documents, and other memorabilia to help bring the story to life. 

Memoirs can be a challenge because they require honesty and objectivity. In order to write an accurate memoir, family historians must be able to step back and objectively view their own lives. This can be difficult, especially when memories are wrapped up in strong emotions. Additionally, memoirs often require research in effort to verify facts. 

Consider how long you might want the book to be and is the details provided by relatives about personal experiences really relevant. To determine what to keep and what to omit, revisit what the purpose of the book is. For instance, do you only want to talk about the family's tough upbringing and how they overcame it or you might want to discuss only rags to riches stories. Whatever your focus, be sure that it connects with the main topic of the book. 

Common Mistakes Family History Historians and Writers Make

One of the most common mistakes that writers make when compiling and writing family history books is not doing enough research. This can include not interviewing family members, not researching online and offline archives, and not fact-checking information. As a result, family history books are often filled with inaccuracies and mistakes. 

Another common mistake is failing to organize information well. This can lead to a messy and unreadable book. Writers also often make the mistake of including too much personal information, which can make the book less interesting to read. 

Finally, many writers lack the writing skills necessary to produce an enjoyable book. This often results in a book that is dry and boring to read. 

So, if you are thinking about compiling and writing a family history book, be sure to do your research, organize your information well, and polish your writing skills. Otherwise, your book may end up being a disappointment for you and your family. 

On Publishing Your Family History Book

When publishing a family history book, there are a few key things to consider in order to choose the best online book publishing platform for your needs. Some factors to take into account include cost, quality of finished product, and how much help the platform provides in terms of design and marketing.

One option is to use a self-publishing platform like Bookemon or similar ones. These platforms allow you to create a custom book, but you are responsible for all of the design and marketing work yourself. This can be a lot of work, but it can also be very rewarding to see your finished product.

Another option is to use a publishing company that specializes in family history books. These companies usually offer more design and marketing help, but they can also be more expensive. Some popular options include Cedar Fort Publishing and Genealogical Publishing Company.

Finally, if you don't have the time or resources to publish your own book, you can always hire a professional publisher. This option can be expensive, but it can also be worth it if you want a high-quality finished product. 

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and contributor.  She has self-published 17 books to date. Check out book publishing platform Bookemon.  It is an excellent tool to get you book published today!

Understanding Different Types of Infertility | How to Start a Family | Parents

Common Family Problems that Cause Distance Between Relatives

Family problems are often the root cause of distance among relatives. In many cases, these problems can be resolved through effective communication and compromise. However, there are also some family problems that are too difficult to overcome and can lead to permanent estrangement among family members. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common family problems that create distance among relatives.

One of the most common family problems that lead to separation among relatives is financial difficulty. In many families, one or more members may experience financial difficulties that cause them to feel resentful towards other family members who are not struggling. This can lead to arguments and even estrangement, as family members may feel like they are being judged or that they are not contributing enough to the family.

A major issue that has caused arguments and worse physical violence in families is addiction. Addiction can take many forms, from substance abuse to gambling, and can have a devastating effect on families. Addicts often lie and steal from their loved ones in order to support their habits, which can lead to a breakdown in trust and communication. Additionally, addicts may also become violent or abusive leaving victims no choice but to separate from them.

One way to tell if a relative has a financial problem such as gambling is if they start lying about their finances. If they're constantly borrowing money from others or refusing to answer questions about their income, it's likely that they're in debt and are struggling to make ends meet. Another sign of financial trouble is if your relative starts stealing. This could be anything from petty theft to embezzlement, but it's a definite red flag that something is wrong. Finally, gambling can be another sign that someone is having financial difficulties. Whether it's spending too much on lottery tickets or going to casinos on a regular basis, gambling can quickly become an expensive habit that leads to serious debt. If you see any of these signs in a relative, it's important to confront the relative and explain how what they are doing is impacting you and other family members and encourage them to seek help. 

Another family challenge is long-distance relationships. When this occurs due to work, caring for a relative in another state, or for other reasons, emotional cheating and adultery can arise. If you think your spouse or partner is cheating on you, it's important to talk to them about it. Adultery can often lead to divorce, and it can also cause family problems. If you're in a long-distance relationship, be sure to communicate with your partner frequently. This will help keep the relationship strong and may prevent any additional relationship challenges. 

Lastly, one common family problem is when work and other activities consume most of our time. It can be difficult to find quality time to spend with our families. This is especially true for parents who are juggling work and taking care of their children. As a result, many families end up spending more time apart than together. This can really put a strain on family relationships and make it difficult to connect with each other. Carve out some free time to address issues. For instance, maybe a parent isn't spending much time with children due to other activities; family members might have to have a family intervention that addresses concerns. Hopefully, all parties will be able to come up with a reasonable schedule.

If you are struggling with a family problem that is creating distance among your relatives, it is important to seek help. There are many resources available to families in crisis and speaking with a professional can help you develop a plan to address the issue and hopefully work towards repairing your relationships and rebuilding trust. Additionally, there are support groups available for family members of addicts which can provide much-needed guidance and understanding. No family is perfect, but by addressing these challenges head-on, you can start to heal the rift and build a stronger bond with your loved ones.

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Patience and Understanding Go a Long Way in Many Families - 6 Things that Close Family Members Have that Others Don't

Growing up, I noticed that some of my intermediate and extended relatives had very strong family bonds.  They were the kind of bonds that showed just how much they cared for one another.  Sure, they argued at times and wasn't always there for one another, but there was an appreciation, love and respect that family members displayed that couldn't be broken no matter what the situation!

Drugs showed up in the family, cheating, lying, stealing, and more, and even still, some family members were diehard about loved ones.  They didn't stop saying, "I love you...you can do better!  We are a family!  Let me get you some help.  I hate what is happening to your family, let's do something about it!"  The passion to assist, the determination to get someone free of their demons, and the kind of love that only a God could download into the spirit of man and woman was real!

So, I thought of what they did to accomplish that family closeness that some observers were simply jealous of and wished for that kind of bond among their own.

1) They listened.

When family crisis showed up, time was taken to listen.  Steamrolling over conversations, quick to name-call, running one's mouth about "you should...and you better..." nope not with these Good Samaritans.  They wanted to hear all sides and then they planned the work and worked the plan.  Judgments, bias, name-calling, and personal opinions need not be a part of their family discussions.

2) They encouraged.

These loved ones did the total opposite of what discouraging family members did to their relatives, they ensured the one they were speaking to that "everything would be alright...you will get through this!  I love you and you made a mistake--no one is perfect!  Do better next time."

3) They provided.

Unlike stingy relatives who held on to money like they could never earn it again, the generous kin did what they could to help.  They gave up not just money, but time to ensure that someone got to their appointment, someone was visited in jail, someone's house was cleaned, and another had no worries about yardwork.  They were present, in the moment, and all-too ready to open their wallets and/or doors.

4) They loved.

As much as it hurt some of them to let very troubled family members go, they still loved them anyway.  They refrained to talk ugly about them.  They loved them until their hearts couldn't take any more stress.  Before long, unfortunately some of those loving relatives were buried.  They left us with one piece of advice in their actions, "Know when to let go."  A few used to say that their kindness had been taken for weakness and they wished that at times they hadn't been so kind, but more firm with some kinfolk.

5) They grew.

As family reunions came to a slow end due to so many people passing away with dates so close together, it was apparent that the family was still pressing on, still growing, still helping, and still doing.  The elders supported family growth and didn’t frown or look down on those who became pregnant.  They realized that they wouldn't be around forever, so it was important that the family grow; therefore, they encouraged population growth, family closeness, and family get-togethers even in their absence.  There wasn't just one family member leading, but many kin were instructed to lead and to continue to keep the family ties strong. 

6) They believed.

Now after years of observation and participation in family events, there is still the belief that those who had been distant will one day come together and those that have been close will remain that way.  It doesn't hurt to believe even when others have given up.  Stay faithful, stay loving, and stay kind, you never know who is watching.

May God bless you and your family!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of When Mothers Cry, Too Much Too Soon Internet Dating Blues, Say Goodbye to Dad and other nonfiction books.

On Defending Your Family - feuding, fights

Family Predictions - deceptive practices, prophetic

Scripture Doesn't Support Liars [lies family media]

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Inspirational speaker and author shares wisdom on family holiday events, peace and more

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Wasted: Exposing the Family Effect of Addiction | Sam Fowler | TEDxFurmanU