You can’t cultivate negativity and expect to produce positive results. You know that. I know that because I’ve tried it way too many times. You don’t always realize you’re doing it until you’re suddenly faced with a stressful or painful situation, and the true state of your heart shows up. If you’ve been nursing an offense, a rejection, or a judgment, then you’re probably going to react to your circumstances with some level of frustration, anxiety, avoidance, or outright anger, rather than respond from God’s grace, peace, and wisdom. It’s a pretty awful place to be stuck.
A life that moves forward starts with making choices in agreement with who God says you are, and a commitment to live out of that core identity. Find some time to spend alone with Jesus. Let Him help you truly see the state of your mind and heart. Give Him everything you see isn’t really you. Begin to shift how you think by remembering all He’s been for you—every gift, blessing, and grace.
Ask Him how He sees you right now, and all that’s possible in your relationships and circumstances. Spend a few minutes in thankfulness and worship, and you’ll refocus your mind, restore how you see your life, and renew your heart. The more you know Him, the more you’ll know yourself.
“Why am I so sad? Why is my heart still so broken? I’m putting my hope in You again, God. You’re my Savior and my God, and I’m going to live in praise of You. I’ve been having such discouraging thoughts, Lord, but now I’m going to fill my mind with all You’ve been for me” (Psalm 42:5-6a, paraphrased).
Equip Your Spirit 