Instead

Through difficult experiences, and our own unhealthy reactions to them, we’ve learned to use pain, rejection, bitterness, and fear as life management tools.

But part of God’s inheritance for his children is “instead.” Rather than letting negative experiences form your mindset and control your feelings, he instead invites you into ongoing experiences with him that transform your mind and heart with his grace, goodness, kindness, healing, peace, joy, and love.

Look for God’s “instead” today. Let it rewrite every negative narrative, and enable you to see from heaven’s perspective. Let it empower you to respond to the world in God’s presence, rather than reacting to it on your own.

“He will give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair” (Isaiah 61:3b).