On November 9th, 2016, I wrote a blog right after the presidential election that left most citizens shocked! You can read it here. What I wrote in 2016, still stands true today. That is how powerful and timeless the Word of God is, and I stand by those words even louder and firmer today. As you wake up to another morning after, I thought to send something your way to encourage your heart and mind.
Navigating through everyday life can often feel like walking a tightrope, balancing between comfort and the unknown. In light of current events, many people find themselves gripped by fear and concern about what lies ahead. While it’s natural to feel this way, turning uncertainty into an opportunity can significantly enhance your mindset and experiences. Let's explore simple yet effective strategies to find joy in the midst of life’s unpredictable moments.
Understanding the Nature of Uncertainty
Uncertainty is a natural part of life. Every day brings a mix of predictability and surprise. For instance, a surprise job offer, a disappointing or fulfilling election outcome, or unexpected health news can shift your plans dramatically. Recognizing that these changes happen to everyone can help soften the emotional blow. Seriously, uncertainty, anxious thinking, everyone goes through them, it is by the grace of God that some are able to lean into the mind of Christ immediately.
Rather than being paralyzed by fear, we can view unpredictable situations as chances for growth. Embracing uncertainty can foster curiosity. Ask yourself: What can this situation teach me? How can I adapt? What is God wanting to teach me in this season? What can I learn and how can I patiently walk this uncertainty well? By approaching these challenges with a confident heart gazing upon the beauty of God, an open mind to listening to God's Word, his Will, and his Ways, we can uncover valuable lessons and pave the way for a healthy spiritual, mental, emotional growth.
Cultivating a Healthy Mind of Christ
Having the mind of Christ is crucial when facing uncertainty. You have the mind of Christ 1 Corinthians 2:16. This doesn’t mean ignoring the challenges; it means doing what King David did when under siege and needed refuge. In Psalm 27, David chronicles his heart posture and we can clearly see and practice this powerful posture. In uncertain times, the mind of Christ helps you highlights possibilities instead of limitations.
Try these practices as King David did in Psalm 27:4 to cultivate a mind of Christ. I will give you 3 scriptural practices and 3 practical actions:
Dwell, remain in the house of the Lord: Stay in the presence of the Almighty through prayer and worship. In your home, if you can get to a church, do that. Your purpose is to stay in the house of the Lord by surrendering your heart and will and step into agreement with God, no matter what your physical eyes sees and how you feel.
Gaze upon the beauty of the Lord: Turn up your head, look up and visualize the goodness of God, visualize God's embrace and comfort. You can sit in quiet, place your hands on your chest and tell God "you are welcome into my heart Oh glorious King"
Seek God in his holy temple: Pursue what God has for you in this season. You pray about it, you ask him questions and avail your heart to him for insight, wisdom, understanding too. Seek God while he can be found, meaning, search for the Lord while your heart has the desire, your heart is desperate, your heart needs this well-being rescue.
Start a Gratitude journal: Each day, list three things you are thankful for. Research shows that practicing gratitude can boost happiness by up to 25%.
Mindful Meditation on the Word: Spend five to ten minutes in quiet reflection. Studies indicate that mindfulness can reduce anxiety by nearly 60%, helping you focus on the present moment. Meditation includes repeating verses, visualizing, reading, memorizing, writing, even teaching.
Positive Biblical Affirmations: Start your day with positive affirmations. I often title my daily affirmations as "mindful resets" which are based on scripture I read from my devotion. Remind yourself that uncertainty is part of life and that you possess the strength to handle whatever comes your way.
These practices help reframe your perception of uncertainties, making it easier to embrace them with a more positive attitude.
Finding Joy of God in Everyday Moments
The JOY OF THE LORD is your strength; notice the preposition 'OF', very powerful. Joy is found in God. When you discover that God is enough and just thinking about brings your heart calm and peace, amid uncertainties, joy can often be experienced in life’s simple moments. Here are some suggestions to help you tap into the joy OF the Lord:
Connect with Nature: Take a walk outdoors for at least 20 minutes and as you do so, listen to worship music, record a voice memo of your thoughts about God sharing what weighs you down and how you believe he can lift you up, even walk in silence. Research shows that spending time in nature can improve mood and lower stress levels.
Engage in Hobbies: Invest time in activities you love, whether it's painting, gardening, or cooking. Engaging in hobbies can lift your spirits and help you feel a sense of accomplishment. As you do so, elevate your thoughts of Christ above your problem or situations. Believe that while you are resting in the Lord with a humble and gentle spirit, God is actively working everything out for your good.
Connect with Others: Reach out to friends or family at least once a week. Sharing experiences can deepen connections, reminding us of the joy found in relationships. This is a great way to be encouraged by your godly community and to gain confidence and new perspectives founded on God's principles.
By actively enjoying joy in everyday life, you build resilience, enabling us to handle uncertainties with grace.
Building Resilience Through Change
Change often brings uncertainty. However, adaptability is a skill we can develop. Here are practical tips to enhance your resilience:
Stay Flexible: When confronted with sudden changes, try to remain open to new possibilities. This could involve adjusting plans to embrace new opportunities.
Build a Support System: Surround yourself with positive individuals. Studies show that having a strong support network can increase resilience significantly during tough times.
Set Small Goals: Break larger challenges into manageable goals. This approach makes future uncertainties feel less overwhelming and keeps your focus on achievable steps.
Strengthening resilience improves your ability to navigate life's unpredictability while maintaining joy and inner peace.
Choosing Joy in the Journey
Life's uncertainties are unavoidable, but your response shapes your experience. By understanding and embracing challenges, cultivating a mind of Christ, seeking joy in everyday moments, building resilience, and trusting the journey, we unlock the potential to thrive amid chaos.
I hope that my post election message 2.0 reminds you that joy is possible during uncertain times; it is attainable because the greatest joy is found in Jesus alone. Challenge yourself to find joy [God] in the unexpected, and you may discover that life’s unpredictability can lead to some of the most beautiful experiences.
So the next time uncertainty, disappointment, anxiety, fear and all of their cousins knock at the door of your heart, greet it with a smile. Embrace it, learn from it, and find joy [God] in your journey.
Until next time, you are always in my heart and grow where God has planted you.
Love,
Kate
Comments