Firewall the Family

I have attended Dr Robi (http://www.drrobi.com/) conference for the last two days. It was a wonderful session to learn from this fantastic person who is a reputable Clinical Psychologist in Australia. He also help in the rehabilitation of trauma associated with war, sexual exploitation (human trafficking) and natural disaster worldwide. Thank to my church Senior Pastor Dr Chew of SIB bringing such a good conference to held on 28-29 May 2010 at SIB (http://www.sibkl.org.my/).

The theme of this conference is "Firewall Your Family". The theme is very suitable with nowadays content of life. With many negative news, culture and evil influences surrounding in the world, our children are affected by all sort of threats. It is important to instill the right healthy living value in our life, and also next generations, so that we can build a firewall surrounding us to protect our family.

Dr Robi linked the teaching of psychology with biblical teaching in the bible. Many people are lost and miserable. Many are living unhappy without clear purpose in life. Many people have lost their self-worth and respect in life.

As a Christian, we are blessed because we have the identity as the Heirs of God. According to Bible Roman chapter 8, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of Life set us free from the law of sin and death (Roman 8: 2). People that led by the Spirit of God are sons of God (Roman 8:14) and we Christian can call God as "Abba Father"(Roman 8:15). Henceforth, we should not worry so much as we have a clear Identify. Jesus said, " I love you so much that is absolutely noting can separate you from God. Dr Robi said as long as we do the right thing in life (which mean thing that are Not evil, wicker, selfish, hatred etc), and step out from our comfort zone to bless others, combine our gift and skill, turn into talents to help others, it will create a sense of self worthiness and self esteem in our life.

Dr Robi also touched on the topic on how to conquer anxiety and depression. Even many Christian are suffering this type of illnesses. People that suffer anxiety and depression are facing SWAP

• Sleep Disorder
• Worry about everything
• Attention to Threat
• Physically Discomfort

Dr Robi cited that there are a tiny part (almond shape) in our brain called Amygdalaet. The primary roles of Amygdalae is for the formation and storage of memories associated with emotional events. The Amygdale can release many fear responses, including freezing (immobility), tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), increased respiration, and stress-hormone release. When a person feeling worry, the Amygdale releases a form of hormone that are toxic to our immune system. If a person under distress for long period of time, the person health will be deteriorated and critical diseases will be happen.

Research said people that are easily get angry (uncontrollable anger) will face higher chance of getting heart disease whereas people always worry, is facing higher risk of getting cancer. Many people are looking for solution to cure, but according to Dr Robi,  the best medicine to cure has been long given by God, the solution for solving depression and anxiety have been clearly stated in the Bible.

In reference to Philippians, Chapter 4 :- Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ... Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. .... whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - If anything is excellent or praiseworthy .... think about such things. .... put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4-9.

The principle is easy, as long as you find Christ Jesus as personal savior , place your understanding on Him, continue pray to Him, count the blessings and offer thank giving to Him. Do things that are good and noble, pure in heart, help others with love. God of Peace will be with you and you will be rejoicing in Him.