Whatever is true, honorable, just, and pure PART 2
Similar to my last two posts, my evolving perception of life as I spiritually know it has been a reoccurring concern of mine. I have been notably critical of myself lately. I want to be a good human being, so much so that I must do my due diligence of surrendering my mind and heart to God for surgery every day. Fortunately, He can handle this hefty task!
In the last week, I have had strikingly similar conversations with others who may also be stuck in the spiraling loop of pessimistic thinking. Following these interactions, I heard an inspiring message about the effects of negativity.
Coincidence? Never!
The four areas of negative thinking, according to Craig Groeschel:
1. Relational cynicism: distrust in terms of the intentions of others
2. Negative filtering: being focused on what is going wrong rather than what is going right in a situation
3. Absolute thinking: definitive, black-and-white thinking (good or bad, wrong or right)
4. Blaming: victimizing yourself
The tone of our thoughts steers our directions, beliefs, and, ultimately, our extent of peace.
I’ve previously mentioned how important positive self-talk is. But what happens when the negativity floods in?
We let the effects of comparison, doubt, uncertainty, lack of control, fear, anxiety, or depression determine our identity and the quality of our lives.
A few of my experiences with pondering the negative could, should, or would scenarios:
Is renting a home enough when there is pressure to buy?
Those mentally draining days of work - Am I inadequate? Could someone else do my job better than me?
Is where I am now, at 25, where I will be forever? Should I have achieved more by now?
I struggle with the reality of some of my relationships, letting the insecurities creep in. Do they not like me? Could I be a better friend, family member, employee, etc.?
Is my weight loss enough, or could I be skinnier? Would I be happier?
Everyone else is having kids, and I want a family. Am I behind in this stage of life?
The world says to travel, but I am a textbook introvert. I am a homebody who cannot be more than 25 miles away from her dogs. Am I living life wrong? Should these experiences matter more to me?
Even in writing these posts, I tend to question my credibility. Who am I to share wisdom or encouragement?
Am I a hypocrite, or am I just being hypercritical?
How often do we say, "Life would be better if..." or "If only I had XYZ..."?
We see others achieve things that strike our attention. Then, we question our worth when we have not attained an identical life or similar things in a comparable span of time. We were once overjoyed with certain progressions in our lives but are quick to notice a void in other areas.
We are on everyone else's timeline but our own. We miss significant moments because we're looking ahead. We question our worth, our abilities, and our value when God has created each of us for such a time as this.
I tend to worry about things out of my control, which will continue to be a work in progress, but I have decided to no longer let anxiety or fear have as much room in my life as they used to. This is what I want for those around me as well.
"Can any of you add one moment to his life by worrying?" (Matthew 6:27, CSB).
I am becoming content with the tradeoffs.
When I watch couples experiencing their first pregnancies and all of the heartwarming milestones, I could sit and question why I am not experiencing these moments myself, or I could be thankful that my husband and I have the time to prepare and selfishly enjoy one another before this next stage of life. Our time will come when God sees it as best. We need His blessing. Just because it hasn't happened yet does not mean it will never happen.
Inspired by Craig’s message, I wanted to share his advice; Ruminate. Ponder, study, and wrestle with God’s word and His goodness.
One of my favorite verses that I’ve discussed before is, of course, relevant here too!
"In addition, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things." (Philippians 4:8, CSB).
We’re loved by Love Himself (1 John 4:7). If you put pride aside and release the scrutiny, you’ll see glimpses of God in every moment of your daily life.
Gratitude list:
Watching BJ do things he loves. It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to watch him play basketball, and it makes my heart happy to not only watch him effortlessly maneuver around a court but also watch others be excited about seeing him play. He won yet another tournament this year!
Sunsets and clear skies—the skies are my thing with God, where I can instantly catch my breath when I am under the rays shining through the clouds.
Peaceful days at work. No chaos or mental exhaustion, just contentment.
A cold bed with freshly washed sheets and new pillows - we are getting OLD.
Late-night target runs, canvassing the store for anything new
Reading before bed. I am still purchasing new books as if I have finished the ones that have been waiting for me.
I’m thankful that God uses everything for good. I believe He has a purpose for me to fulfill by taking care of others who need to be shown love and compassion. I’m excited to change my perspective on relationships and simply be a present, empathetic friend. I’m also thankful that in serving others, we find the answers we’ve been looking for ourselves!
A freshly cleaned home finished off with a lit candle. My brain and life will never feel under control unless my home is clean and organized!
Put an End to Negative Thinking with Craig Groeschel: https://www.youtube.com/live/0TFB_Yc-OXI?feature=share
