I used to have days when life seemed
so hard that all I could really do was just make it minute-by-minute.
Not often, but it did happen. I used to take the day off.
Call in sick. Make it a "mental health" day.
I've since discovered there is something practical and
effective I can do.
So often when I am troubled there are underlying reasons
that I need to identify. I must find out the real reasons
behind the feelings. Fortunately, there are "tools"
to help with this, among them prayer, talking with a friend,
reading, writing, taking a self moral inventory or being
of service to someone else.
And always remember that
God is in charge.
If you aren't sure what to do when
you are troubled try the opposite of the way you're feeling.
It's really as simple as a liabilities and assets inventory.
LIABILITIES
Watch For:
Anger
Self-Pity
Self-Justification
Self-Importance
Self-Condemnation
Dishonesty
Impatience
Hate
Resentment
False Pride
Jealousy
Envy
Laziness
Procrastination
Insincerity
Negative Thinking
Criticizing
Fear
ASSETS
Strive For:
Self-Control
Self-Forgetfulness
Integrity
Modesty
Self-Esteem
Honesty
Patience
Love
Forgiveness
Humility
Trust
Generosity
Activity
Promptness
Straightforwardness
Positive Thinking
Look For The Good
Faith
It will
take some writing about your liabilities and it also requires
asking God for help to do “the opposite” and
strive for the qualities that help us grow and be of service
to others. The Holy Spirit gives you the strength and
grace to do it. Remember, faith requires action. It is
in the doing that our faith bears good works. Besides,
you can’t think yourself into right living.
Try it yourself and see if these "tools" work
for you. You can also read about what it means to "choose".
NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION® and NIV® are registered
trademarks of International Bible Society. Use of either
trademark for the offering of goods or services requires
the prior written consent of International Bible Society.
