Strategies

Understanding the Community Dynamics of Online Pokies Enthusiasts and Players

Today’s gaming enthusiasts are discovering unique connections through various platforms that cater to their interests. The interaction within these dedicated spaces highlights the camaraderie and passion shared among aficionados. Fans of virtual slots engage in discussions, share strategies, and celebrate wins in vibrant online forums.

These platforms offer an avenue for like-minded individuals to unite, regardless of geographical boundaries. Players can contribute their insights, ask questions, and form friendships, creating a sense of belonging that enhances their gaming experiences. This dynamic interaction enriches the overall enjoyment of virtual slots, fostering an environment where knowledge and entertainment go hand in hand.

As technology continues to advance, the ways in which enthusiasts connect evolve as well. This transformation permits greater accessibility to invaluable information and personal stories, enabling both novice and experienced players to learn from one another. The sharing of experiences in these digital spaces plays a significant role in shaping the culture surrounding virtual slot games.

Understanding Player Preferences and Game Selection

Understanding Player Preferences and Game Selection

In gaming circles, preferences among participants significantly shape the choice of titles played. Factors influencing decisions often stem from shared interests within established gaming communities where individuals exchange insights and experiences.

Peer support plays a pivotal role in guiding choices, as players benefit from discussions about various options available. Engaging in dialogues about favorite themes, mechanics, and graphical presentations enhances overall enjoyment and aids in discovering new games that may align with individual tastes.

Moreover, the social aspect of these interactions fosters a sense of belonging among users. By sharing recommendations and feedback, players not only enhance their gaming experiences but also contribute to a culture of encouragement and camaraderie. Such dynamics are fundamental in shaping preferences and determining which games resonate most with enthusiasts.

Ultimately, the act of discussing favorites and analyzing features allows participants to make informed decisions, ensuring that selections are well-rounded and satisfying. This collaborative atmosphere cultivates an engaged base that thrives on interaction and shared knowledge.

Building Connections: How Online Forums Shape Player Interactions

Building Connections: How Online Forums Shape Player Interactions

Online forums serve as vital platforms for interaction among enthusiasts, creating spaces where individuals can share experiences, strategies, and insights. These virtual meeting places allow users to connect over common interests, fostering an environment conducive to player discussions and collaboration.

In gaming communities, participants often engage in rich conversations, providing tips and recommendations, thereby enhancing each other’s gaming experiences. The exchange of ideas helps build camaraderie among users, leading to friendships that extend beyond the screens.

Members of these discussion boards frequently organize events, tournaments, and challenges, promoting not just individual skills but also teamwork and collective achievements. This sense of belonging can motivate players to participate more actively and improve their gameplay.

Moreover, these interactions are crucial for newcomers looking for guidance and support. Veteran players often take on mentorship roles, making it easier for novices to acclimate to gaming environments while establishing connections and networks in the process.

Through ongoing dialogue, online forums cultivate a sense of belonging and community spirit, transforming solitary activities into shared experiences that enrich players’ interactions and strengthen their bonds with one another.

Responsible Gambling: Community Resources and Support Systems

Engaging in gaming activities can be enjoyable; however, maintaining a balance is critical. Support networks and resources are available to assist individuals who may need guidance regarding their play habits.

Online forums and gaming communities play a significant role in promoting responsible behavior. Here, players can find discussions focused on healthy gaming practices and share experiences with others.

  • Support Groups: Many players benefit from communities dedicated to responsible gambling, where they can receive support from peers and professionals.
  • Educational Resources: Various websites offer information about managing gaming habits, including tips for setting limits and recognizing signs of problematic behavior.
  • Helplines: National helplines provide immediate assistance, connecting individuals with trained counselors who can offer advice and support.

It is essential for players to actively participate in this dialogue, ensuring that every member feels supported and heard. Engaging in player discussions can lead to a healthier gaming environment that prioritizes well-being.

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Trends in Online Pokies: What the Community is Talking About

Trends in Online Pokies: What the Community is Talking About

Current dialogues among gaming enthusiasts reveal a vibrant exchange about the latest developments in pokies. Player discussions highlight features that enhance gameplay, including innovative bonus rounds and immersive graphics. These aspects are frequently celebrated, as they contribute to a more engaging experience.

Gaming communities have seen a surge in conversations surrounding responsible gambling practices. Many players share their strategies for maintaining balance while enjoying their pastime. Peer support is evident, with individuals encouraging each other to set limits and prioritize enjoyment over risk.

Another trend capturing attention is the rise of mobile gaming. As more individuals access their favorite games via smartphones, the convenience factor plays a significant role in shaping preferences. Discussions often focus on how portability influences gaming habits and community interactions.

Lastly, the impact of social features is becoming increasingly important. Players are keen on connecting with others, forming bonds through shared experiences. This camaraderie enhances the enjoyment of playing, as discussions in forums and social media groups reflect the growing desire for interaction beyond solitary gaming.

Q&A:

What are online pokies and how do they differ from traditional slot machines?

Online pokies are digital versions of traditional slot machines, often found in casinos. The primary difference lies in the fact that online pokies are accessible via the internet on platforms like mobile devices or computers, while traditional slot machines are physical games in casinos. Online pokies also often feature advanced graphics, themes, and gameplay mechanics that can enhance the gaming experience. Players can enjoy a wide variety of games and often benefit from bonuses and promotions offered by online casinos, which are less common in physical venues.

What community aspects can be found among online pokies players?

The community surrounding online pokies players is quite diverse and includes forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites where players share strategies, experiences, and tips. Players often discuss their favorite games, success stories, and even challenges they’ve faced. Additionally, some platforms have chat features that allow for direct interaction between players while they are gaming. This sense of community enhances the overall experience, as players can connect with others who share similar interests and passion for pokies.

Are there any social benefits to participating in online pokies communities?

Yes, joining online pokies communities can offer several social benefits. For many players, it provides a sense of belonging and camaraderie, as they interact with others who share similar interests. These communities often offer support and encouragement, which can be particularly beneficial for a player’s mental well-being. Moreover, social interactions can lead to lasting friendships and networking opportunities, as players connect over their common hobby. Engaging with others in such spaces may also help players stay informed about trends and updates in the online pokies scene.

What are some potential downsides of being involved in communities focused on online pokies?

While there are benefits to being part of online pokies communities, there can also be downsides. One of the main concerns is the risk of gambling addiction, as discussions and promotions within these communities may encourage excessive play or risky behavior. Additionally, some players might feel pressured to keep up with others or engage in spending more money in pursuit of the latest trends or games. It’s crucial for members of these communities to maintain a healthy approach to gaming and be mindful of their gambling habits.

Important Steps and Tips for Registering at Online Casinos Safely and Securely

Embarking on the path of joining virtual gaming platforms can be an exciting yet daunting task. With a multitude of options available, understanding the process is key to ensuring a smooth start. Users often seek reliable guidance to navigate the requirements and features that these platforms have to offer.

One of the most critical aspects of signing up is the emphasis on data protection. Reputable platforms prioritize the safety and confidentiality of users’ personal information. Familiarizing oneself with the company’s privacy policies and security measures is essential to safeguard sensitive data.

As you make your way through the sign-up procedures, be prepared to encounter various verification steps. These are instituted not only to authenticate your identity but also to maintain a secure environment for all participants. Being informed about these steps can help ease the process and enhance your experience.

Choosing a Reputable Casino for Registration

Choosing a Reputable Casino for Registration

When seeking a trustworthy platform for your gaming needs, it is vital to consider several factors that contribute to a secure sign-up experience. A reliable establishment will provide clear information about their registration steps and ensure that users understand the process thoroughly.

Many platforms highlight the benefits of easy registration, making it simpler for novice players to get started. However, convenience should not compromise your account safety. Look for websites that implement strict measures to protect user data, demonstrating their commitment to data protection practices.

Additionally, reviewing the platform’s licensing and regulation details can provide insight into its reputation. Trustworthy casinos often bear certifications from recognized authorities, adding an extra layer of assurance that your personal information is handled with care.

In conclusion, choosing a reputable site means prioritizing secure sign-up processes and being informed about the platform’s protective measures. For more information on reliable options, check out online casino Australia real money.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Registration Process

Step-by-Step Guide to the Registration Process

Setting up an account at a platform can be a straightforward task if you follow a clear process. The first step involves visiting the official website of the platform where you intend to sign up. Around this area, user guidance is typically provided to facilitate a smooth experience.

Next, look for a button that indicates the start of the sign-up phase. This is often marked with phrases like “Join Now” or “Create Account.” Click on it to proceed to the secure sign-up processes, where personal information is collected.

You’ll usually be required to provide details such as your name, email address, and date of birth. Ensure that all inputted data is accurate to avoid complications later on. Many platforms incorporate verification steps to confirm your identity, which adds an extra layer of security.

After filling out the necessary fields, you might need to create a password. It’s advisable to select a robust password combining letters, numbers, and symbols for better protection of your account.

Once you’ve completed the form, review all information before submitting your application. Ensuring there are no errors can save time during the verification stage.

After submission, check your email for a confirmation link from the platform. Clicking this link is usually crucial to finalize your account setup. Some platforms might also require additional verification steps, like providing a phone number or alternative documentation.

Lastly, after everything is confirmed, you can log in with your newly created credentials and explore the features and offerings available. Always remember to utilize security features like two-factor authentication for enhanced protection.

Understanding Verification Requirements and Documentation

Understanding Verification Requirements and Documentation

Many platforms prioritize secure sign-up processes to protect user data and ensure a safe environment for all. This often involves rigorous verification steps that confirm the identity of participants before they can access services or funds.

Players must provide specific player information, which can include identification documents, proof of address, and sometimes even additional materials to verify payment methods. These requirements not only help to safeguard accounts but also ensure compliance with local regulations.

It is essential for users to have these documents ready during account creation. Fastidious verification minimizes potential issues and expedites access to features. A thorough understanding of these requirements is crucial before engaging with any platform.

While the process may seem daunting, it’s designed to enhance security for players. Thus, acknowledging the documentation needed can lead to a smoother experience overall.

Navigating Bonuses and Promotions After Registration

Once you complete the initial sign-up procedure, a range of enticing promotions awaits you. Understanding these offers is pivotal for maximizing your gaming experience. Here are the key aspects to consider:

  • Benefits of Easy Registration: Quick and straightforward sign-up methods allow players to access promotions without unnecessary delays. This streamlined approach enhances user satisfaction.
  • User Guidance: Most platforms provide detailed instructions on how to claim bonuses. These guidelines typically include step-by-step processes, helping users take full advantage of available perks.
  • Registration Steps: After establishing an account, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the promotional terms. Offers may include welcome bonuses, free spins, or loyalty rewards that can significantly boost your playtime and potential winnings.

Staying informed about the terms and conditions related to bonuses will help you make the most of your new gaming environment. Don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support for clarification on any promotional details.

Q&A:

What documents do I need to register at an online casino?

To register at an online casino, you typically need to provide some personal information such as your name, address, date of birth, and email. Additionally, you may be asked to verify your identity by submitting documents such as a government-issued ID (like a passport or driver’s license) and a utility bill or bank statement that confirms your address. This is to ensure the security of your account and compliance with legal regulations.

Are there age restrictions for registering at online casinos?

Yes, there are strict age restrictions when it comes to registering at online casinos. Most jurisdictions require players to be at least 18 years old, while some countries may set the minimum age at 21. Online casinos are required to verify the age of their players during the registration process to prevent underage gambling, which is illegal and has serious consequences for both players and operators.

What are the steps involved in the registration process at online casinos?

The registration process at online casinos generally involves several key steps. First, you need to select a reputable casino and visit their website. After that, you would typically click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button. You’ll be asked to fill out a registration form with your personal details. Next, you will usually need to verify your email address through a confirmation link sent to you. Finally, you may need to complete identity verification by submitting required documents. Once all this is done, you can log in and start playing.

Is there a fee to register at online casinos?

No, most online casinos do not charge a fee for registration. The process is generally free of charge. However, keep in mind that while creating an account is free, there may be costs associated with deposits, withdrawals, or certain games. It’s advisable to read the casino’s terms and conditions to understand any potential fees related to transactions or specific features.

What should I consider before registering at an online casino?

Before registering at an online casino, it’s important to consider several factors. Look for a casino that is licensed and regulated to ensure a safe gaming environment. Check the selection of games offered, as well as their software providers, since this can affect the quality of your experience. Additionally, review the bonus offers and promotions available, as these can enhance your gameplay. Lastly, read reviews and research the casino’s customer service to ensure that assistance is readily available if needed.

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Living Anxiety, and the many ways we fail to kill it [Part #4, Suppress]

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My boys are not that unusual from other kids their age. They love Thomas the Train, they are loud and spontaneous, and they don’t like eating their vegetables. When my wife and I set the table, they look at their plates and declare “I don’t like that.” We respond with, “How do you know, you’ve never had that before.” And they respond with clairvoyance “I already know I don’t like that.” Almost every dinner that same pattern repeats itself: their declaration, our response, their prophetic knowing, and the struggle persists.

The Pixar® Movie Inside Out has a great line that our family often quotes. The green emotion character, Disgust, is in charge of keeping her person, Riley, from being “poisoned both physically and socially.” When a foreign food is offered to her, Disgust takes control and says, “That is not brightly colored, or shaped like a dinosaur… Hold on guys… It’s Broccoli!” and she causes Riley to reject the food. That is JUST like our boys. Something foreign is not to be trusted and they will almost always reject what is being offered.

The same thing is true for most of us on a larger scale. New experiences, relationships, social settings, or responsibilities are great breeding ground for Disgust’s concern to pop up in our hearts. The unknown, the undetermined, and the vastness of possible outcomes can be overwhelming. It doesn’t take much, sometimes just a thought, and BAM! Anxiety is upon us. At the same time we experience Anxiety, we are again presented with all of our different strategies to try to get rid of it. In the previous Blog entries I discussed the two strategies of medicating and running away. We also have another unhelpful strategy: be like my young boys and stand your ground and determine your own fate.

In Adrian Van Kaam book, The Art of Existential Counseling, Van Kaam introduces three categories for experiencing events throughout your day: will-lessness, willfulness, and willingness. My boys are extremely Willful towards events like “dinner time” or “bed time” or anything that cause them to take a break from playing. In their minds they have pre-determined that whatever I may have to offer them cannot possibly be as good as what they are currently playing with. My oldest son’s first Thanksgiving, he could not be convinced that he would like Pumpkin Pie. There was another time I could not convince him that he would like an In-N-Out Burger Milkshake. Logic did not work. Talking through the main ingredients of a Milk Shake did not work. Appealing to our trust-relationship as Father and Son did not work. His expectations controlled his reality, and his unbending will kept him from receiving a real gift that he would have enjoyed tremendously.

I am just like my son. I want to eliminate as many surprises and foreign experiences as possible to avoid the unwelcome feeling of Anxiety. For this reason, when I begin my day I have largely predetermined its outcome. I know the meetings I need to go to, and I have desires for how they will go. I know the people I will talk to, and I know what I need to get from them. When I come home from work I have expectations of my wife and my children and how they will interact with me. When any of these events or people deviate from my expectations, rather than embrace it, I willfully force it fit my small expectations.

When I exchange what is for what I expect, I am no longer living in reality – I’m living in my ego. My children cease to be real people, my wife ceases to be a unique individual, even events are reduced to sitcom. In fact, everything becomes just another extension or projection of my own ego. God, in his limitless and infinite agency is not safe from being replaced by a much smaller projection of what my ego can more easily control. The limit of what can be hijacked by our ego knows no bounds. The reduction of unknowns in order to ultimately reduce anxiety comes at a great cost.

Of all the bad strategies to get rid of Anxiety, I think most people use this one the most. As long as there are possibilities in a day there is potential for anxiety. The danger with this strategy is that it keeps you from trying Pumpkin pie and In-N-Out Burger Milkshakes. It keeps you from enjoying the unexpected and unpredictable. It could open you up to heartache, but it could also open you up to love that you could have never conceived of with your small expectations.

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Living Anxiety…and the many ways we fail to kill it [Part III: Depress]

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I have to say that out of all the four strategies I use to not deal with anxiety in a healthy way, this fainthearted strategy is the one I use least and am less intimately acquainted with. But when I woke up in the middle of the night yesterday and realized I had a plumbing problem that couldn’t wait for the morning, I quickly adopted this strategy as an effective little way to combat the anxiety that was upon me at once. Fully engaged in this fainthearted escape, I went back to bed to pretend to sleep. Unfortunately, I laid awake unsatisfied thinking about a handful of things: (1) how angry I was that I wasn’t sleeping (2) how actively I was running away from an immediate problem (3) how this was a perfect blog illustration about depressing anxiety (4) and how similar this felt to other childhood experiences I felt growing up which I had long forgotten about. I was not expecting the last thought (it wasn’t a willful act of remembering or anything), and in fact there wasn’t even a distinct memory attached to the remembered feeling at all.

That’s how stored feelings and emotions happen sometimes. In some instances they are attached to a distinct memory and at other times they will come back all on their own if necessary. In some extraordinary circumstances I have experienced physiological manifestations of emotions when I was unable to remember a circumstance and my “feelings” were numb from overuse. In those cases I learned to pay attention to what my mind was trying to alert me to through my body. In those times of prayer, I would start to feel my body overheat, and I would take that as a clue that I was touching on something real and didn’t have the emotional capacity to alert me through normal means like sadness, nostalgia, fear or tears. I had to do the manual work of processing what I was dealing with in prayer instead of what would otherwise be done through the automatic work of existential engagement.

In addition to memories or physiological signs, anxiety is another way for feelings to be brought to our attention. Anxiety is a very helpful vehicle for memory recall, especially emotional memory recall. Time travel is one of the great benefits of anxiety that we miss out on when we do not give it a proper role in our life. Anxiety has the ability to transport you back 20 or 30 years in a millisecond of the subconscious. It has the ability to put you right back in your 1st grade classroom and feel things only a six year old can feel, things that your developed adult reasoning doesn’t allow you to feel anymore. This is God’s gift to you. To go back in time with Him to experience scary, confusing, and even traumatizing events to a child with the safety of an adult-reality and with a forgiven and accepted conscience.

I was never very athletic growing up. I loved playing sports but wasn’t very good at them. I was a much better spectator than participant. Things seemed easier and natural for other kids and I had to work much harder to be just average. I don’t find that to be true anymore. I would consider myself athletic, and now think that I am a better participant than spectator. I’ve always wanted to go back to my Little League days with my developed motor skills of an adult. I’d be so stinking good. I’d be the Babe Ruth of my team. Those 10-year-old fastballs would have nothing on me.

So today in the pitch black of the early hours of the day thinking about my plumbing problems, I laid in my bed feeling like the world just crapped on me again. I didn’t want to deal with what I knew needed to be dealt with. I was presented with feelings of inadequacy, helplessness and irrational young fear. I was trying to depress my anxiety by avoiding it, but God was using this too as an opportunity for greater freedom and relationship with me. He gave me the opportunity re-engage with unresolved childhood emotions, not by myself but together with Him. The plumbing was ancillary, the meaning behind the plumbing was central. There is a way I could have made the plumbing central, but that too would have been an unhealthy way to deal anxiety (I’ll go in to that strategy next Blog Entry). God was with me last night, and He was thinking about how to offer me greater freedom. He presented me with a paralyzing childhood emotional-response that still affects me today into adulthood and asked if I wanted a different result, if I wanted to be a Babe Ruth.

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Living Anxiety…and the many ways we fail to kill it [Part II: Repress]

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The longest car ride I ever had was a five-minute drive from my friend’s house a short dash away from the driveway of my parent’s San Jose home. I was sixteen years old and I just received my driver’s license. For sixteen years I had only experienced car rides as a communal event. For most of that time I was the passenger in my parents large early-90’s silver and maroon-striped GM Suburban. For the most recent previous six month I was driving on a permit, which required I drove with someone more experienced than myself to help teach me the laws and subtleties of the dangerous road.

And so, on Blossom Hill Rd, in a car that’s radio didn’t work, I experienced solitude in a place I never had before. At first it was exhilarating to drive all by myself. But then I realized I had no one to share my joy and excitement with. Then my excitement turned to sadness, and my sadness, worry. It was not the silence or solitude itself that disturbed me, but the un-expectant nature of it – the surprise! I did not welcome it, it just happened upon me all at once. And there I was, me and my anxiety.

Last Blog entry, I talked about how anxiety is supposed to be a tool like hunger pangs are. But we have learned to misinterpret what anxiety is trying to tell us. For me in that Ford Taurus Station Wagon I interpreted the message of anxiety as: “it is not okay to be alone. Solitude makes me feel uncomfortable so I must avoid being alone.” The same way the cold makes me shiver, therefore I must avoid walking outside without a jacket. It goes without saying, fixing the car stereo became a number one priority for me.

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After almost ten years of avoiding being alone I signed up for my first 48-hour long solitude retreat. The rules: no talking, no media, no phone, NO ESCAPE! (at least that’s how it felt). When I arrived at the beautiful scenic mountaintop home, I checked out all the rooms and amenities. I sat down in a comfy chair in the living room to pray. It lasted less than 30 minutes before I got antsy and grabbed a cup of coffee and sat in another room. For 48 hours it went on like that. I was chased from room to room by the anxiety that used to sit in the passenger seat of my car 10 years earlier.

For 10 years I had tried to turn off the “dummy-light” on the dashboard by repressing and distracting. That strategy was a complete failure, it wouldn’t go away, it wouldn’t die. Although, the retreat itself was not a total complete failure. The first night at the retreat house, I searched a small library in the home for some poetry or fiction to distract me. To my dismay there was none to be found. But then I heard a small prompting in my heart urging me to write my own. I am not a poet, nor a writer, but with little other choice, I put pen to paper and started writing.

For the rest of the day I wrote and edited my first poem, and an amazing thing happened. I heard God whisper, “I like it, write more.” I wrote another short four line verse, and I heard Him whisper again in my heart, “I like it, write more.” In between being chased from room to room by my anxiety I was able to sit long enough to be with God and feel him enjoy me. Although I knew God loved me, I hadn’t experienced him “liking” me. And the subconscious knowing of not being likeable was unbearable.

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Four years later, I was sitting in a one-bedroom room of another hilltop retreat venue. I had been staring out the window for some time. My body felt tired so I curiously looked at my clock to realize I had been sitting in the same spot for eight hours, and it was now time for bed. As I got ready to turn-in I laughed to myself and wondered where my old companion was that used to taunt me from the passenger seat and chase me from room to room. I had failed to kill it, instead I had learned it can’t be repressed, it can’t be medicated, it can’t be killed, only welcomed; and that changed everything.

More on this story and the strategy of “depressing” anxiety in the next entry…

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Living Anxiety…and the many ways we fail to kill it [Part I]

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Am I using my life to it’s fullest?

Am I making the best use of my life, gifts, time?

Am I making a big mistake?

With freedom to live life comes anxiety about what you do with that life. Freedom confronts us with the uncertainty of our future. Am I really being led in wisdom or by God? What will my life amount to? What will the future hold? Can I handle it?

No one likes anxiety. But anxiety was supposed to be a helpful tool for us. For instance, no one likes the feeling of hunger or thirst, but thirst is a helpful tool that tells us we are beginning to run empty, and need to refuel. No one likes to feel cold, but that sensation is an indicator our body is running below optimal operational temperature. It is not good to ignore these sensations, these helpful tools.

The same is true of anxiety. It doesn’t tell us we lack food or water, or warmth, but it tells us that we are lacking peace, we are lacking Shalom. It tells us that there are still pockets of our heart that have not been exposed to God’s peace. The healthy way to respond to anxiety is to lean into it. Let it be a gentle guide to lead us to where we are not at Shalom. When I’m cold, where am I cold? Are my hands cold?  Do they need gloves, or do I need a jacket? Are my feet cold? Do I need to put on some socks? I’m feeling anxious – what about what she said made me feel anxious? I’m alone in my car and the silence makes me feel uneasy – what about the silence makes me feel anxious? There is a place in our heart that is not at Shalom, there is a place where we have not experienced God’s loving presence. Anxiety is supposed to be “the dummy light on the dashboard of our soul.”* It is to make us aware of a problem that our heart is not operating in the trust of God and His love as it should.

That is the way a healthy person would respond to anxiety but that is not the typical response we normally have. There are at least four ways in which I’ve identified my typical response to anxiety so I’m sure you will relate to at least one or two of them (I’ll spend some more time going into detail about each of these in future blog posts):

  1. Medicate/retreat (repress) “I don’t want to think about it.” Facebook, videogames, Netflix, relationships, sport – You can medicate with just about anything not just drugs and alcohol.
  2. Faint/surrender (depress) “Life just shit on me again.” When that happens you can die a little inside. Turn off to the possibilities; shut down to the future to protect yourself with fortified emotional defenses.
  3. Resist/fight (suppress) “Life’s trying to shit on me, but I wont let it happen. I’m too willful to accept this. I am the captain of my destiny.” You can also shut down to the present by being unable to accept what is. There is no time for an open-heart while a problem goes unsolved.
  4. Fantasize/create illusions (impress) “These things don’t happen to other people.” You can’t handle the present reality so you dream about yourselves as another person – a person who is okay in the future. You fantasize about being somebody in the future that really is strong enough, or smart enough, or able enough to handle whatever we are anxious about. Illusions are the most dangerous in my opinion because they fly under the radar, and we don’t honestly think they are a problem; they’re just a happy harmless thought.

Which strategy do you most relate to? What is your go-to response?

*This phrase and many of these ideas come from Dr. John Coe who has influenced my thinking tremendously.

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NO MORE DEAD GOATS: why you’re no better than a pagan worshipper

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When Jesus uttered the words “It is finished” that same day in a pagan temple a family brought a goat to be slaughtered, but for them there was no sense of “It is finished.” For they had brought a goat before and they would inevitably bring a goat again to be slaughtered. They loved their god and with all the best intentions wanted nothing more than to please him, and so diligently they offered exactly what the they thought he asked of them. This would end up being an ongoing ritual for the rest of their life. Years upon years of dead goats but for them there was no “it is finished,” no assurance that their god was appeased.
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There is a story of a boy running through his house, arms stretched out wide, pretending he was an airplane. As he rounded the first and second corner he knew he could fly faster if he was only able to cut the corners a little tighter. Approaching the corner of hallway he calculated out the best flight path. But this time he cut it too close and clipped a picture hanging on the wall. The picture fell to the ground and broke it’s frame. This was his parents’ favorite picture. His first instinct was to sweep up the broken glass and hide the picture. “Maybe they wouldn’t recognize it was missing,” he thought. The feeling of guilt was overwhelming him. “Of course they’re going to notice it’s gone” he convinced himself. He needed a new plan. He would take all of his savings out of his piggy bank and buy them a new frame, and if that wasn’t enough he would do extra chores around the house. He would mow the lawn for a month, he would do the dishes for the next two months. Before his parents even had time to notice anything had even happened, let alone respond with loving grace, their little boy who they loved more than anything had thoroughly punished himself, heaping on self-condemnation.
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All of us are, to some degree, just like that little child with God. When we do something wrong, or when we slip back into that all too familiar sin, our first instinct is to hide. Without thinking we grab the broom and start sweeping up the broken glass, and hope God doesn’t notice. But then the guilt starts to overwhelm, it eats at us. “Of course he’ll notice, he notices everything.” So then we must take more drastic measures into our own hands. We must repay him somehow. We must do something to show him how sorry we really are. “I’ll give more money or volunteer more. I won’t take part in Church activities for awhile. I know what He’s thinking, I should probably hold off on the “Jesus stuff” until I have my act together. I’ll save him the breath, I already know what he thinks of me; I’ve let him down once again and I’ve REALLY disappointed Him this time.” Before we even approach God, we have already thoroughly punished ourselves. We have served a sentence, God never condemned us to.
Today let us hear the words afresh: “It is finished.” The guilt that we heap on ourselves, the hiding and the shame, the paying-God-back with good behavior – aren’t those all just modern day forms of sacrifices they used to bring to the pagan temples. Aren’t these things really just more dead goats? Can you reflect on the cross and lovingly gaze on your Jesus who gave everything for you? Consider what are some of the ways you punish yourself so that God doesn’t have to. What are the ways you try to pay God back? What are the ways that you hide your sin from Him? What are your sacrifices, your dead goats? And can we hear him say, “I don’t want any more dead goats. I don’t want you to punish yourself with guilt, and hiding, and repayment. I love you and want you to run to me.”

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