What are your biggest challenges?

Isn’t this the truth? I don’t mean to imply that everything in life is always “hard”… but more so that going outside of our routine can feel like such a challenge for many!

I do love routines. They are reliable! Think about it – you can always “count on” a good routine. You know what to expect, when to expect it, how things will go, etc. They’re comforting!

My biggest challenge is venturing out of this comfort zone, out of the place and moments where I seemingly find my well being. But…this…this is a problem.

A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

~Proverbs 16:9

My well being does not come from my routine or the comfort I find in my routine. My comfort comes from the Lord! Let me write that again, my comfort – your comfort, as a Christian, comes from the Lord!

I have learned to plan or “mentally prepare” for routine changes. This involves thinking on my part and getting used to the event that will happen. I think this is a healthy thing to do, but overthinking is not good and can cause more stress (I know from experience!) If going somewhere, I will pack my purse/bag with little things that I like – for example: my scripture cards, Bible, ice water, essential oil, etc. These things are like tools in a toolbox to help me. Ultimately however, I must remember that my joy, my comfort, is in the Lord.

The challenge of yielding to a routine change, while difficult for many, is actually good for us. I believe it’s good for our minds & souls to experience new things from time to time. We are to exercise our minds!

Accept the challenge of change and do some new things – it could be spontaneously talking to a good friend, challenging yourself to garden, trying new foods, creating art, declutter a pile that’s grown too big, going to that appointment and special event, etc.

Remember, God is sovereign and is with us wherever we go – whether in our daily routine or whether in a challenge!

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

~Isaiah 41:10

*For more on scripture cards, please view here*