We’re six weeks into this year and, truthfully, I’m a little worn out. I’m (barely) an extrovert, but the beginning of 2019 has required a lot from me relationally while parenting has sucked my mental capacity.
I found an empty package of gummy bears in the van the other night after a long day that had us going well past bedtime. Now, my van is far from perfectly clean, but the trash was evidence one of my kids didn’t obey an earlier request to stop eating candy. I’m not strict when it comes to food around here, but disobedience is disappointing.
The small moment was a breaking point for my emotions in the midst of lots of other things going on. I yelled and cried and doubted myself. I overreacted and then later regretted doing so.
I wanted to make plans to restore order, but
what I really needed was to draw nearer to God.
The next morning while still processing one act of disobedience that led to a flood of emotions about many other moments, Greg told me I was believing lies about my role as a mom and my identity in Christ. He reminded me I was forgetting what I knew to be true about our values, our kids, and our purpose. He helped me regain perspective in the midst of the weariness.
“By progressive transforming grace, he is enabling you to live the brand-new life he calls all of his children to live – the Godward life for which you were created. You don’t have to hide in guilt when weak faith gets you off the path, because your hope in life isn’t your faithfulness, but his.”
– Paul David Tripp in “New Morning Mercies”
My human heart and mind are prone to wander. I believe lies, try to control situations, and expect too much from myself and others. But then the light seeps through the cracks and I remember what God has for me.
Here are four ways to bring the truth to light on a hard day:
1. Read God’s word. Our circumstances change, even relationships have seasons, but God’s word and character don’t change.
2. Talk to someone you trust who knows you. My husband has seen me at my worst but believes in my best. He knows my tendencies and weaknesses. I have other friends who are in similar seasons of me that can also speak truth into my days.
3. Stop scrolling. When I’m emotionally drained, I tend to absent-mindedly scroll on my phone. But then I get frustrated about things that don’t matter. I’ve been trying to read a book instead of scroll when I have pockets of time when I’d like my mind to be engaged in something that isn’t my life.
4. Remember God’s faithfulness. Literally list what God has done for you – today and yesterday. And know he’ll do it again tomorrow.
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If you’ve had a hard day, one when the truth is blurry, I have a gift for you: Here’s a playlist I created. It’s labeled FAITHFUL in my iTunes, mostly because God is faithful. We can believe what he says about who we are and be confident that he will continue the work he’s already begun in us.
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Your husband sounds like my husband. So many times, he has been the voice of reason in my ear, and I’m grateful.
I’m so grateful as well. I’m glad your husband is that way too. Also, I loved seeing your post at incourage today! xo
I love Tripp’s reminder that “your hope in life isn’t your faithfulness, but his.” So grateful for His truth, love, patience, and longsuffering.
I keep thinking about that reminder from Tripp. I too am so grateful. Thanks for being here, Barbara!
Oh yeah these are good tips Kristin. Stop scrolling – uhm I needed to hear that one because that’s exactly what I resort to as well. Our hope is in his faithfulness – yes, yes and yes.
Glad you could be encouraged here today. I loved your ADHD post at your place today. I’m so grateful for the way the internet lets us share life together. xo
I have BEEN THERE! Your tips are excellent. It seems so simple, and yet, putting them into practice sometimes seems impossible. I’m an introvert, so talking about it with others is not a natural response for me. But I’ve been pushing myself in this area and have found it to be highly rewarding.
Thanks for sharing, Jana! I’m glad you’ve been encouraged by stepping out and talking with others. God is always working on me to trust him more.
Mentors and encouragers are so important and how blessed when we’re married to one!
Yes, indeed! Love you, friend. xo
I’m spending a lot of time recounting God’s faithfulness and kindness to be lately. Helps so much! laurensparks.net
It’s so healing & focusing for me too. Glad you’re here, Lauren!
Kristin, I have been where you are many times. Last year Satan had me convinced that I was a complete failure at everything. I went into a depression, although not many people knew. It was called High Functioning Depression. You do not look depressed as most people know depression. My description was, I look like I got it all together on the outside, but on the inside, I am a hot mess. I am since over this with the help of my husband, a counselor, and most of all my Jesus. Being a woman is not easy, and the enemy knows that. Thank you so much for sharing this! I pray that God covers you and gives you strength in these moments.
That’s really interesting and reading what you said makes me wonder if I have experienced that in the past. I think I may have, but I didn’t know there was a name for it. I’m encouraged by your comment and grateful there are women like you following Jesus. Thanks for being here, Angela!
This. Yes. This is so good!
I can relate to all the feelings, especially the way I turn to thing that won’t really help (hello social media!)
Thanks for sharing these tips with us. I know they are a great reminder for me!
They’re reminders for myself, so I’m glad you can benefit too! 🙂 I’m glad you’re here!
Your hubby sounds like a keeper! 🙂 All good tips for bringing the truth to light. I especially like #4. Remembering God’s faithfulness gives me hope and gives me something to model my own behavior after.
We’ve known each other for 21 years – he gets me, that’s for sure! 🙂 Remembering God’s faithfulness is powerful for me too. I’m glad you’re here, Laurie!
These are great tips! We all need reminders of truth sometimes!
I certainly do! I’m glad you could be here, Lesley!
Such good suggestions, Kristin. I think we all have had those moments when we are just so frazzled we forget who we are in Christ. And we don’t have to control everything, but it’s hard sometimes. Blessings to you!
Mentally frazzled is a good word for it. Thanks for being here, Gayl!
Thanks for hosting and I completely agree that everyone needs to stop mindless scrolling when you get stressed. Also, great playlist.
Your maze was really neat – thanks for linking up here! I’m glad you enjoy the playlist.