Life Update
It’s been a season of calmness, and I’m thankful for that.
At the beginning of the year, I felt exhausted and irritable. Through the help of God, therapy, my community and church, and my sobriety program, I was able to persevere through it all – the confusing emotions, the suppressed emotions, the unmet expectations, the circumstantial frustrations, the low patience with people….all of it.
These past few years, God has enabled me to FACE whatever life throws at me. I’ve learned that sometimes it’s God allowing things to happen for my good. Other times it’s the enemy coming against me.
Prayer is key. Through a connection with God, I can seek His guidance on every situation. Even when He is silent, He has blessed me with enough wisdom to put one foot in front of the other while He works in the background.
Worship keeps me in a heart posture of gratitude and faith. No matter how things look, I’m encouraged when I sit in the goodness of God; when I praise Him for His character and faithfulness; when I get reacquainted with His spotless track record.
Community helps me get outside of myself. When it’s just me and my plans, I miss out on the wisdom and partnership that God places in those around me. It also helps me to step outside of selfishness – I’m not the only one facing trials, decisions, uncertainty, and new chapters. Staying connected with others helps me be present for opportunities to be of service, even if that’s just being a listening ear.
I’m blessed to be learning how to grow up. I’m not where I want to be, but I’m aware of the need to enjoy the journey – that’s where the joy and fullness of God is.
Having healthy coping mechanisms has made a MONUMENTAL difference in my life. Instead of avoiding hard things, I can have peace in facing them with the strength and courage of Christ, knowing that the outcome lies in His hands. Instead of being afraid that things won’t work out, I can embrace new opportunities and adventures knowing that, again, the outcome lies in His hands.
Studying and repeating Scripture reminds me of God’s promises for me, so that I can combat the lies of my flesh (emotions), the enemy, and the world. Anxiety and depression is no match for the Word of God.
I thank God for helping me be a woman I respect today. I thank God for helping me live a life I genuinely enjoy today. I thank God for helping me to prioritize Him today.
xoxoxo,
DASH
