Getting Your Family Out of "Orbit"

I have always loved following the space program. From the time I was in 6th grade or so watching the first launches into space to seeing Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin land on the moon to more recent shuttle flights, I can't take my eyes off our forays beyond earth's atmosphere. If I could go on a space shuttle flight I would be willing to leave in the morning.

However, one thing I've noticed about space flight is that when the shuttle gets into an orbit it stays there unless some sort of new and extra energy or power is introduced. In most cases some sort of rocket must be fired or that vehicle will just continue to go around the earth. Unfortunately that picture describes many marriages and families.

They have hopes and dreams that things will improve but the inertia of their orbit keeps them doing the same things over and over again. Sadly, some people don't know how to change, while others don't have the time to change. Many are afraid of change where some really don't want to change because all they know and are "comfortable" with is the way things are now.

Nonetheless, there are many orbits or patterns that are potentially harmful, destructive or at best not wise.

During the space program's moon flights I remember hearing about (you couldn't really see this part in those days) the spacecraft having to make a mid-course correction part way to the moon. It meant that they would quietly fire a small rocket that would adjust their direction ever so slightly. However, that small change would make a huge difference when they got to the moon.

Most marriages and families also need some mid-course corrections to help them to land in a better place. So in the next few posts I want to provide some practical suggestions to help you and your spouse or family get out of unhelpful and ultimately harmful orbits.

Psalm 78 reminds us that we as adults have the potential and ability with God's help to change the orbit so to speak of our relationship or family. No matter what we brought from our past to our current situation God can help us overcome it and provide a new direction in our homes.

"He decreed statutes . . . so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their forefathers . . . ." (Italics mine) vv. 6-8.

Here's some good news for today. Whether you're facing the orbit of busyness or abuse or addictions or anger or financial messes or lack of communication you can change. God is a God of new creation, second chances and changed lives.

Would you take some time to simply identify the unhelpful, unhealthy orbits of your life or your family's life? And would you first before God commit to change, commit to adding some new power and strength to your home and to do the hard work to go in a new direction?

God wants to free you to fly in new directions. And I'll try to provide some practical helps in the next few posts as well to get you on your way. Ignition . . . start!