Reach for a R.O.P.E.

It's not easy to stay connected with God when life gets so hectic. If, in addition to your regular responsibilities as a parent, spouse, employee or employer, you also struggle with an addictive or compulsive behavior, perhaps the following acrostic will be helpful to you. When you are feeling overwhelmed, reach for a R.O.P.E.

Relax: Remind yourself of some of God's promises:

• God is for you, not against you. (Rom 8:31)
• Nothing can separate you from the love of God. (Rom 8:38-39)
• God will carry on the work necessary to perfect your character. (Phil 1:6)
• Commit some of God's promises to memory and recite them to yourself when you feel overwhelmed.

Obey: Commit to make the right decision when faced with a difficult situation.

• Obedience to God's principles are simply an adherence to his two greatest commandments.
• Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, and mind... and love your neighbor as you love yourself. (Matt 22:37-40)
• Review your options in light of these two commandments and proceed to the next step.

Pray: Solicit God's input.

• He is able to communicate to you through his Spirit. If you are a believer in Christ, you have been given a deposit of God's own Spirit, and through this Spirit, God's own deep secrets can be known. (1Cor 2:10-16)
• When you pray, expect God to come through with his wisdom. (James 1:5-8)

Exhalt: Give glory to His Holy Name.

• One of the great benefits of a relationship with God is being able to offer hm authentic worship.
• Play some praise music, tell God you love him, or thank him for his blessings.

Consider using the R.O.P.E. method in your devotion time or whenever you have a moment to reflect on your relationship with God. The goal is to stay connected with God so that you can more easily manage the unexpected circumstances as they arise.