It doesn’t take much negative input to pull me down to the pit of despair—a phone call, an e-mail, or even a glance in the mirror.
I’d like to say that I’m able to resist the fiery darts that come my way, but I still get broadsided at times, especially when I’m not on guard against them.
At other times, I’m fully aware of my vulnerability, and the darts still sting. You’d think I’d learn to sidestep the attacks by now. But I’m still learning.
Facing Battles. In fact, I know what to do when the darts start flying now. I’ve learned some valuable lessons on the battlefront.
For instance, this scripture continues to guide me on days when negative issues infiltrate my thought life.
When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. (Lam. 3:28-29 The Message)
Today, I experienced one of those “heavy and hard to take” days. Things seemed to be going well at first. I had taken photos at a ministry event, and I enjoyed the fellowship with the ladies in my community.
On the way home, I received several encouraging text messages from two writing friends, as we planned working on a new book project together.
When I returned home, I enjoyed eating lunch with Dan and watching a short program together on TV.
Then, I opened my office door.
I felt the incoming attack of negative thoughts. I should’ve stayed home and worked. I’ll never get all of this done! [Notice the first-person, guilt trips?]
I moped over to my chair, and the negativity continued. I don’t even know where to start. I’m so unorganized. Why would anyone want to read anything I wrote anyway? Lord, help me!
Then, the truth swept across my thoughts once again like a gently rain, drenching the fiery darts. And I knew what I needed to do.
When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. (Lam. 3:28-29 The Message)
Breaking Free. I stood up, grabbed my purse, and walked toward my car, calling out to Dan: “I’ll be back in a little while—I need to get my act together!”
“Okay! See you later!” Dan knew what I meant. And he knew where to find me if he needed me.
At Lake Desoto, I took photos and refreshed my thoughts, as I observed the lush greenery surrounding the still, calm waters. The spillway poured over the rocks, drowning out all sounds of negative thoughts once again.
One photo of the bench overlooking the spillway stood out to me. So, I decided to make a shareable image, adding one of my favorite scriptures to offer to others who might be facing a tough day.
Finding peace. As I meditated on God’s promises, I sensed His peace guarding my heart and my mind once more (Phil 5:7).
I hope you’ll consider the promises in the Bible when you find your life gets “heavy and hard to take.”
God’s promises truly are Words That Change Everything!
What scriptures have helped you get through some tough days?
