Category: Acceptance

A Change in Perspective

On By AnnetteIn Acceptance, Encouragement, Focus on Christ, Glory to God, God's Faithfulness, hardship, Life lessons, Thankful4 Comments

How can we make the most out of every season in our life? Especially when it can be full of painful twists and turns, disappointments, and hard times? Here are four biblical truths, based on God’s Word.

ACCEPT: In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul tells us, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Accept your current life situation, even if it is not how you want it to be. Wait upon the Lord. Rest and trust in Him. Make the most of each day by seeking Him, serving Him, and growing in Him. Matthew 6:33 tells us, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

AVOID COMPARISON: Romans 12:4-6 tells us, “For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.” God has wired you for specific purposes. Therefore, it is totally unfair for you to compare yourself to another. Besides that, we all walk a different path in life and are presented with different challenges to overcome. No two people are alike, and no road traveled is the same. Be nice to you. Accept who you are, and, who you are not. Then, embrace that reality.

BE PRESENT: 1 Thessolanians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Be where your feet are planted. Reliving the past or dreaming of the future can have a negative impact on your happiness and well being. Snuff out those hurtful memories and the if only life were such and such a way type of thinking. Embrace the here and now. Enjoy and praise the Lord for the simplest of things in your day.

BE GRATEFUL: Psalm 9:1 says, “I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart.” Take a step back, and look into your life. Be grateful for all God has given you. Focusing on the good will promote a sense of peace and wellness within you. Give God the glory for His goodness in your life. He is so Good and Faithful, always.

God has you where you are for a specific reason. When life is uncomfortable, the Lord can teach us valuable lessons that will make us stronger in Him and prepare us for His kingdom purposes. If you are unable to do the things that your heart desires in this season, instead of lamenting on what cannot be done, focus on what can be done. Taking small steps toward a bigger goal is quite rewarding. Just knowing you are heading in the right direction promotes a sense of satisfaction and helps feed motivation. Things will happen in the Lord’s perfect timing. Jeremiah 29:11 promises, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God’s timing is everything! Embrace your life, be the best you, and give God all the glory for the good in your life!

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Enjoy the Season

On By AnnetteIn Acceptance, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Handiwork, Life lessons, Stay the course, ThankfulLeave a comment

Spring had officially sprung! The grass was a lush green, flowers were in full bloom, the clear morning sky held the promise of the warmth of the sun, and the beauty of the season that promised new life was in full force. In the midst of it all, stood a tall oak tree. A gentle breeze created the feeling that autumn was in the air, as the dried brown leaves softly drifted down and littered the ground. The oak was beautiful all the same, standing so strong, tall, and majestic. I thought to myself, Why was this tree only just now dropping its leaves when all the surrounding trees were budding with fresh new growth? 

The tree seemed to be out of season, in comparison to the others standing in its midst. Seeing that spring ushers in budding, blossoming, and new life, it didn’t seem to be doing as well, and it appeared to be off in its cycle of growth. But in actuality, this tree was right where it needed to be in terms of seasonal growth and right on track with it dropping its leaves in the spring, even though most trees experience this months earlier. The tree was healthy and thriving in its own way and timing, according to its original design by its Maker, the God of all creation!

It is easy to fall into the trap of comparison in our own lives too. If you feel out of season right now, instead of getting frustrated or down on yourself, I encourage you to savor the season. Accept yourself, and where you currently are in life. Seek to continue to grow and blossom, by learning something about yourself, and what the Lord is teaching you. See the beauty in the day, and enjoy the time you have been gifted. All things are passing by, nothing stays the same forever. Life is a precious gift from our Creator.

Thank you for reading my blog. If you enjoyed this post, please use the share buttons at the bottom of the page instead of doing a copy and paste. All rights reserved by copyright. Thank you. Blessings to you!