You know that one horse that you've had, been around, or heard of? The one with a ton of talent, heart and try, the kid proof, safe, does what you ask, unicorn type of horse? Do you ever catch yourself riding it and just wanting a bit more from it? Or on a young horse that's in training, you want one more good stop, one more good turn, just a tiny bit more before you can say the training session is over? As much as they give you all their try, it just isn't quite enough because you know they are capable of more in the long run.
Do you catch yourself doing that with your own self too? Quite often I see myself in the mirror and think oh if I just dropped a few more pounds or did a few more squats. Or why can't I be as witty as her, or as good at riding, what if I was more creative, more dedicated, a better listener, kept a better house, or did just a little bit better in life. Those what if's and should be's keep us struggling to be better and yet stagnant in a place of discontent. How do we learn to be content with the progress we have made? How do we learn to celebrate how far we've come and where we are at? Social media and the American culture is constantly telling us we aren't good enough. We see people with more followers, more success, more money, the husband we wish we had, and the kids we desire to have. Maybe you're the one with the husband and kids wish you were single and "free" again. Any way you want to slice it, our surroundings are telling us we aren't enough.
My friends, take a look in the mirror today and be thankful for who you are. Celebrate the uniqueness you have, after all, God created you just so.
1 O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O Lord,you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
Psalm 139:1-2 ESV
"1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV
Run the race set before you. Set your goals and dream YOUR dreams. Focus on how you can best serve the Lord and beg Him if you have to, to change the desires of your heart from being envious and judgmental. There is a back story to every person we see. Approach with grace and love towards every stranger and person you see, including yourself. Celebrate the little victories. Did you wake up on time today? GOOD JOB! Did you feed yourself, husband, kids, pets? Good job!!! Did you make it to work? Way to go!!! Maybe you worked out for the first time, started in on a new hobby or an old one that's been on pause, maybe you quit work early to spend more time on yourself or stayed late to earn a few extra bucks. Whatever you're doing, YOU'RE KILLING IT! Way to go sister! You are living this thing called life and whatever you do, as long as you are striving to grow closer to Christ and to love people well every day, you're doing great!!
You don't ever have to stop chasing after dreams, but don't let those dreams keep you from stopping and smelling the roses, drinking an extra cup of coffee, or enjoying an extra long phone call or lunch date with a friend. God has created far too magnificent of a world for us to become so work driven, goal oriented, and to think we are in a competition to be better than the rest.
Sister, I believe in you and what you're doing! You are doing a great job! Boast in the ways the Lord has already moved in your life and never stop seeking Him out.
If you have specific goals you are struggling with, want encouragement for, or specific prayer over, send me a message! I'd love to be on your team. xo, Sara
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