Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8, 9 (NASB)

 Spring beckons humility. We bow to gather new ‘grits of growth’ that God spoke through winter’s isolation, loneliness, and frozen fields and forests. Winter had purpose. We had intimacy with God. Now, what have we learned? What is our new perspective? How will we view others and serve? What are we struggling with? Forgiveness? Bitterness? Perhaps it has been for a season, or else, decades. Finally, are we building hedges, walls, or healthy boundaries?

We each have a story. Many have experienced loss, rejection, betrayal, and/or bullying. We may have been called names, ignored, or else, uninvited. So, we feel alone. Invisible. Unseen. We may struggle with our body shape, size, and looks. We believe the lies that we’re told—we’re too fat/thin, ugly, teeth too crooked, and knees too knobby. We feel like a failure, worthless and no good, like we’re never going to succeed. Nevertheless, this is not God’s view!

Spring beckons us to bow and re-frame the enemy’s lies.

Ponder what you’ve endured; consider how it’s impacted your life. What are your feelings about it? We don’t want to be led by our feelings; but our feelings matter! They’re the window to our wound. They reveal what’s hurt or broken. Fear and anger are secondary emotions; they’re the tip of the iceberg; a lot is going on below the surface. Consider what the primary feeling is that you’re experiencing. When you’re angry, rejection and betrayal are common, or else, guilt and shame. Whatever it is . . . name it!

I’d studied the book of Philippians during a challenging season when I tried to make sense of the loss of a friendship. My thoughts cycled daily with my run because I didn’t understand what had happened. Feeling betrayed and confused with God’s purpose, I lost self-worth and confidence. Since I couldn’t defend myself, I chose to remain silent.

My outlook spiraled downward as I fought depression, and I listened to my self-criticism. I bore the hurt and rejection until God tripped me in my tracks one morn. I fell and scuffed my knees on gravel, but I had a breakthrough. . .  the woman could say good or bad; however, those who were closest knew my heart and character. I couldn’t control her, but I could change my response.

I was determined to take hold of my negative attitude and thoughts as Paul had taught. To overcome my insecurities, doubts, and despair, I had to change my thinking. I had to take every thought captive. God healed me as I re-framed each lie and false belief with truth. But I had to put it into practice! 

I wrote the verses of Philippians 4 on index cards and taped them on the dashboard of my car, refrigerator, and mirror. They were a reminder to substitute my harmful rationale with thoughts of what was true, honorable, right, and lovely. Whenever a negative thought crept in, I quickly re-framed it with God’s Word. It took time for God to adjust my heart, thoughts, and outlook. Healing was a process—not a destination. Change was possible if I persevered.

Spring beckons us to bow and take hold of new ‘grits of growth.’

The trails are opening; and we can’t help but see God’s handiwork in the glorious green, magenta, and dazzling yellow. All creation is coming alive; the trees clap their hands; and the birds sing their morning song. God does the same work in us!

Choosing God’s excellence,

Lily Mae

And we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NASB