Point for the Day- The New Normal (from the Sevier Heights staff blog)

A friend of mine has recently gone through a great deal of life change (new baby; new job) and he now lives in what I'd call the "new normal". His life is very different from what it was just a few short months ago. What used to be "normal" isn't anymore. His life is different...it's better. But it's not like it used to be. And it will never again be the way it was.

As we go through life, we must continually adjust what we call "normal". In reality, we're each now living in the "new normal".  At different ages and stages along the way, life changes. Sometimes it's an abrupt change. While at other times, change comes more gradually. Maybe you've experienced some of these life changes:

A couple invests months, even years, in a dating relationship thinking they are headed toward marriage. Eventually, they break up. Previously, they identified as part of a couple, but each of them now hits the reset button on their future...with a different perspective. A new normal.

The parents of a newborn are continually adjusting to their young child's sleep patterns (or lack thereof). As soon as they think they've figured things out, a change occurs. A new normal.

A family of three grows with the addition of a second child. Where once the parents could play "zone defense" now they're required to play "man-to-man". A new normal.

A promotion at work means more income, which is great. But with it comes longer hours, greater responsibility and more pressure.  A new normal.

As a newlywed couple, your time was your own and you slept in on Saturday mornings. Now, 10 years later, you find yourselves at a ballpark 2-3 nights a week (plus Saturday mornings). And you wouldn't have it any other way. A new normal.

Your parents, who you depended on throughout your life, begin to age and begin to depend on you for some assistance. A new normal.

This day, however it is and whatever the circumstances, is ordained by God just for you. Be reminded of Psalm 118:24:  "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it".

He knows your past and He knows your "new normal". And He loves you. Find joy in Him today.