03 Mar The Recycled Redeemer

Do you sometimes feel that much of your life is a waste? Do you find yourself looking back on things that have happened, decisions you’ve made or not made, missed opportunities through the years? Feelings of being stuck in the same place, …and you were pretty sure, the level should have been higher? Being stuck is like quicksand. The more you try to get out, the deeper you sink.

Our minds want to push, control, and manipulate. It stems from insecurity, and the devil would like to keep us stuck, so that he can judge and condemn us with his lies. There’s always something that you feel drawn to do during these periods (you just need to start trusting your inner voice of reason). You’re not completely stuck, not in every area of your life. When these times come like waves, focus on the Word of God.

“He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes, with the princes of his people” – Psalm 113:7-8

Psychologists tell us that a sense of meaning and purpose is very important for longevity and emotional wellbeing. We all want to be secure, loved, and remarkable, but how do I get there?

Try these steps:

• Let go of the past.
• Learn to be present by starting with this simple mindfulness practice:
  • Sit comfortably.
  • Place one hand over your heart.
  • Take 5 deep breaths.
  • Pause and reflect – be in the moment (mind your negative thoughts)
  • Affirm while you feel your heartbeat:

The Lord will work out his plans for my life— for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for you made me. – Psalm 138:8

• • Take another 5 deep breaths.
  • Write in your journal your feelings and thoughts. Pray about them.
  • Ask Jesus to show you your purpose. Praise Jesus for recycled Grace (build on gratitude).
  • “In Jesus we know we are recycled Grace, He is the Light and Love, The Recycled Redeemer. You were born to have a purpose, you have a story, an influence, a meaning, love to give…”
• Explore your purpose.
• Change your perspective of life.
• Start with small changes.
• Believe in yourself.
• Consider talking to a professional if you experience any unhealthy thought patterns.

Let’s pray together:

Jesus, what an awesome and resourceful God You are! You take the “garbage” from the landfill of our lives and create something beautiful out of it. Teach us to value what others call castaways–and give us the resources and the creativity to help bring purpose and healing to our lives and to those who need it most. Thank you for recycling every mistake, every sin, every piece of doubt and hurt from our lives, and for giving us a new purpose that will ultimately glorify You!
Praise to Jesus who has redeemed us and given us life!
Amen

Leni Snyman

Pastoral Counsellor (special interest in trauma).