Refocus and Renew

I don't know about anyone else but I struggle with insecurity. I can work myself into a frenzy over the smallest thing that I allow to find its way into my mind. If left unchecked I will be off and running with thoughts that feed the feeling. This morning was one of those times.


When I find myself emotionally drained and physically tired is when I am at the greatest risk. You know the thoughts. The ones that try and convince you that the grass is greener or that if only. It is not a productive place to allow your mind to go. It is a slippery slope with very little traction. Before you know it you will be sliding at full speed into places that you do not need to go.


As I sat down to write in my journal, I was struggling to reign in the thoughts. I opened my journal to today's page and the title made my laugh out loud. Literally. "The Comparison Trap". That is exactly what it is. A trap. A snare. A way to turn the focus inward. As I read the words on the page, I was reminded that He knows my thoughts. Even the ones that aren't nice. But He is not shocked or hurt or taken aback by them. He simply offers a gentle warning sign that gives me the chance to reign the thoughts in before I begin sliding down that hill.


Thank goodness His mercies are new every morning. Fresh Grace. New Mercies. Amazing Love. Today is the first day of spring. The birds are singing. The trees are bursting with new color. The flowers are peeking through. The grass is turning green. All a reminder that the dead is coming to life.


Each of us has so many blessings each day. Even in our hardest times. Even in our darkest times. If we renew our minds with thanksgiving, He will pour the mercy over the feelings. He is faithful that way. When we walk in newness of life with the Creator, we find ourselves reigning in those thoughts a little quicker. Being more aware of the trap. Looking up instead of looking in. Freedom is found in gratitude.


Thank you Lord that Your Mercy is available. That Your Grace is sufficient. That Your timing is perfect. But most of all that in You there is freedom. Help me today to rise above my feelings. To offer thanksgiving in my circumstances. To live abundantly in my blessings. And to rest in the Truth that You have a plan just for me. Help me to walk in it.

Make a careful exploration of who you are 

and the work you have been given, 

and then sink yourself into that. 

Don't be impressed with yourself. 

Don't compare yourself with others. 

Each of you must take responsibility for doing 

the creative best you can with your own life. 

Galatians 6:4-5