August 1999

First Baptist Church of Vineland, NJ

Welcoming, Witnessing & Winning for the Kingdom of God

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AUGUST 1999

Several years ago the Sociology Department of Duke University did a study on "Peace of Mind." By carefully examining the different attitudes and habits of people who were enjoying peace of mind and

those who generally felt unhappy and under pressure, they discovered several factors which contributed to emotional and mental stability.

1.	The absence of suspicion and resentment. Nursing a grudge was a major factor in unhappiness.
2.	Not living in the past. An unwholesome preoccupation with old mistakes and failure leads to depression.
3.	Not wasting time and energy fighting conditions you cannot change. Cooperate with life, instead of trying to run away from it.
4.	Force yourself to stay involved with the living world. Resist the temptation to withdraw during periods of emotional stress.
5.	Refuse to indulge in self-pity when life hands you a raw deal.
6.	Cultivate the old-fashioned virtues: LOVE, HONOR, COMPASSION and LOYALTY!
7.	Find something bigger than yourself to believe in. Self-centered, egotistical people score lowest in any test for measuring happiness.

When you read these points, which describe people who have "peace of mind," you will see how God's Word and your faith in Christ are essential in every one of them. The forgiveness of sins by God's grace alone, the conviction that "all things work together for good to those who love God," accepting ourselves as imperfect, the way God does, and commitment to the vision of God's redeeming plans for the world - all of these Christian truths help us take these practical steps towards living with "peace of mind."

Something to think about.

Until next month - God bless.
Pastor Bob