Be Free
New Thoughts
We can learn to Be Free when we change our mindset, stop asking questions like, ‘What in the world is happening to me?’ and embrace new thoughts.
John 8:36 (CSB)
So if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.
1 Peter 4:12 (NIV)
Dear friends, do not be surprised by the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
DEVOTIONAL
I’m learning that I have a flair for the dramatic. Like when I talk to myself out loud and ask, ‘What is up with this?’. It’s as if I expected to go through life with light and fluffy issues.
Some challenges feel like the weight of the world is on my shoulders. And then, God gives me quick perspective. I realize that not only am I not the only one dealing with this issue, it’s also not as bad as it initially felt. After all, there’s a time for rainbows and butterflies and there’s a time to ‘buck up’ and get myself together.
Big changes have a habit of triggering big responses. The heaviness of life is easier to accept than the lightness of His presence and help. He promised to bear my burdens, to give me what I need, and to always be present.
So I can believe the truth:
- I’m not the only person in the entire world who’s dealing with this challenge (1 Corinthians 10:13).
- My entire world will not collapse because life became a bit harder than I anticipated (Psalm 55:22).
- He has a plan for this stage I’m in (Jeremiah 29:11-12).
- I’m supposed to give thanks even when I struggle to think of what to be thankful for (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
- This will not last forever (1 Peter 5:10).
- I need to keep praying as I go through (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
- Pity parties never invite the kind of company I really want to be around (Philippians 2:4).
- This challenge will teach me lots of lessons (John 14:26-27).
- I really can do more than I thought was possible when I ask God for what I need (Proverbs 3:34).
- Real, adult Christian living is not easy but it’s absolutely possible (2 Peter 1:3).
So, when I’m trying to ‘go there’ in my mind and I ask those stirring questions, I need not talk to myself. God has the answers to my queries. He will let me know what’s happening to me, in me, for me and through me. If I allow, He will strengthen me, provide more than I could think to pray for, and walk right beside me. Why? Because God’s plan is happening to me.
Think About It
- What’s been happening to you or in you lately?
- How have you responded?
- What growth lessons are you dealing with?
Prayer
Lord, Only You can grow us up to be the people You want us to be. Help us to develop the kinds of thoughts that speak the truth about what it means to be a Christian.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
Live well,
Michele
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