Backward Steps…

My first day with a bow…..

Why does it always seem that when you take a step forward, you end up two steps backwards?  I feel that way a lot of the time.  I have written about it before but this week something has changed in the way I perceived it.

I started to see the situation in a more positive way.  It means that I am making strides in my personal growth because I am constantly being tested.  Those tests are not punishments, but instead opportunities to prove to myself that I am getting better at life.

Throughout the bible there are stories of being tested and the reasons for it.  This passage in James 1 :12 for instance.  “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”  The word patiently in that verse speaks the loudest to me.  Most people can go through trial and hard times, but how many people can go through them with patience and without grumbling about their situation? 

I used to struggle with how I viewed the world and how my life fit into it.  I used to blame all my shortcomings on situational things in my past that I either chose and blew it, or things I had no control over whatsoever.  I used that mentality to make myself feel as though I had no ability to change where my life was going and just accept a mediocre example of a life.  I had no faith that things could possibly be better, no drive to succeed.  I was on a path of mere existence and on the struggle bus to maintain any sense of self-worth.

These days I see the world in a whole new light.  I see most days as opportunities.  I try to make everyday better than the one before it.  I take advantage of the blessings that have been bestowed to me in my life.  Sure, I still have crappy days here and there, but they are not as prevalent as they once were.  I appreciate those days more than ever because they remind me of my past self and how I never want to fall into that trap of feeling worthless again.  I use those days to springboard myself forward, to boost my positive habits I am struggling to make, and to measure my progress from where I once was.  Bad days serve a good purpose sometimes if you allow them to.

All of this is possible when you focus on things bigger than yourself.  Instead of focusing on the troubles in your life, focus on solutions.  Don’t blame others for your situation, take responsibility for your part in things.  Don’t give in to the lies of the enemy telling you that you are not good enough, worthless, and too far gone.  That couldn’t be farther from the truth.  Everyone has the ability to turn those couple steps back into a springboard into the next leg of their journey towards success. 

I have had to learn these principles myself.  They are hard truths to implement, but the reward is huge when you do.  This week, look for an area that you hold yourself back and take action on changing one little thing to make it better.  You will be amazed by how big of a change it will make.