Photo Credit: Tayl/Creative Commons
Secrets. Those shrouded fragments of fear that hold us hostage.
Sometimes, we carry those wounds, regrets, and burdens for years. Sometimes, forever. We’re deceived by the myth of “perfection” and duped by the trap of discouragement.
We’d rather risk our own prisons than our peers’ alienation. Either way, it’s a double-edged sword.
I once knew a girl who had a secret (or thought she did). On the outside, “Barbara” was calm, cool, and collected. Inside, a battle raged. Barbara’s secret made her miserable, but she convinced herself no one knew. That’s the insidiousness of what we believe to be true. We’d rather ride that horse into the sunset than admit we’re slaves to whitewashed thinking.
The truth is each one of us has “baggage.” Some loads are heavier. Some, more colorful. Some, unremarkable, really, when compared on a bigger scale to things like widespread hunger, third world poverty, or the national deficit.
This really isn’t a post about secrets. That’s just one byproduct of the issue I’m talking about: that of an embattled mindset.
If, today, you are facing worry, hurt, or emotional upheaval, realize you’re not alone.
Your world may seem dreary. Your situation, hopeless. Maybe you feel beat up, put down, or wrung inside out.
Perhaps, you’ve faced a George Bailey moment.
- Whatever the situation or circumstance, take heart, dear one! God’s got it covered. (Jeremiah 29:11)
- He knows the inner workings of your mind. He created you. (Genesis 1:27, Colossians 1:16-17)
- You’re not falling apart. You’re being perfected. (1 Peter 5:10-11)
- He understands your heartache. He’s provided the Great Comforter. (Psalm 121:1-8)
- Your trials aren’t for nothing. You’re glory-bound! (1 Corinthians 15:58, 2 Corinthians 4:7-12; 16-18)
- Think your sin’s too shocking? Jesus took care of that at Calvary. (John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10)
- Frightened about the future? He’s paved the way. (1 John 5:13-15)
We don’t have to live a life of “halfway.” We can go for broke and throw the what-ifs away. Maybe we’re not suited for the same things, but each of us is suited for something.
We shouldn’t be bound by secrets, mindsets, or fear of the unknown.
When we release those things to God, we’re on our way.
To a new normal.
And to a supernatural, blow-our-socks-off kind of miracle!
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Inspiration:
Beth Shriver’s words of encouragement (particularly for writers)
Answers in Genesis— A wonderful website with great insights/answers regarding faith and service to Christ.
Hope: 20 Reasons to Throw Open Your Windows (encouragement)
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What are you struggling with the most today?
How can we be better equipped to meet the needs of those who are hurting?
What do you resolve to put away this week and no longer be a slave to?
Photo Credit: Tayl/Creative Commons
Blessings Always,
Comments 12
Always love some encouragement, thanks!
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Lisa, you’re welcome! I pray your day is blessed!
Love, love, love, love this!!!
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Melissa, He’s my be-all-end-all. So thankful for encouragers like you!
Ah! I love this! So encouraging today, Cindy! 🙂 I’m going to be less selfish this week!
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Jess, that’s a great one and something we should all strive for!
Excellent post!
Author
Loree, thanks, friend!
Thanks Cynthia! I always need some encouragement in these long February days.
Blessings,
Gary
Author
Gary, isn’t that the truth?! Love spreading His message!
Great words of encouragement, Cynthia. Today, I’m trying to cram everything in before our small group meeting this evening. I guess the best thing is to help others is by listening, first and foremost.
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Patti, sound advice!