Some Assembly Required : week 4

Levi Lusko - Fresh Life Church

Stick and Slide

Tool : gratitude

Proverbs 11:27

The moment things "stop" working in a relationship, don't throw it out.

Those who study the mind say we have a negativity bias.

Bad things "weigh" more than positive experiences in your mind.

The bad reviews outweigh the good.

"Your brain is like velcro for negative experiences, but teflon for positive ones." Rick Hanson

1. You see more of what you search for.

What you look for, you'll find.

Your brain is always trying to help you out and trigger habits.

If you're looking to be hurt, you'll see more hurt.

What happens to you in the midst of the search should concern you. 

You're going to look like what you look for!

You'll become characterized by what you become preoccupied with.

Assuming the worst, you'll be right that they are [the worst], but you'll be the worst too!

The sins we struggle with are always uglier on other people.

You can't yell, "calm down" and expect calm results.

You can never be a victim and a victor at the same time!

You need to learn when to stick (velcro) and when to slide (teflon).

1 Peter 4:18 love will cover a multitude of sins

Healed people can heal people!

Proverbs 15:15 a miserable heart means a miserable life, a cheerful heart fills the day with song.

Questions 

What kind thing has someone done that you haven't thanked them for?

What new way can you express gratitude for something they've always done?

What fresh way can you say thank you?

What blessing has someone done that you've never expressed gratitude for?

Who helps me that I take for granted?

Benefit finders and fault forgetters!!

2. The greatest gift you can give is your presence.

If the phone is in view the quality of the interaction goes down [polyconciousness] 

When you express gratitude they'll be grateful.

Appreciation 

You'll be changed along the way.

It's impossible to be grateful and miserable at the same time.

5 times a week say something positive.

Dr Gottman 5:1 ratio (5 positive interactions : 1 negative)

Start with God - in your gratitude!!