I was thinking a lot lately about how we often allow the things going on around us to change not only how we respond in situations, but also confuse our hearts and minds. Which got me thinking about how important it is to be mindful of who we allow to speak into our lives as well as be more mindful what we are saying and how we respond to those around us.
If it steals your peace, it is not worth it in the end
The words we speak and the words being spoken over us leave a lasting impact that we may or may not see. I'll give you a piece of advice that a mentor gave me years ago, if it steals your peace, it is not worth it. Let it go and move on, it is never worth losing your peace over. Give it to Jesus and let Him do what He does best.
I love what Leviticus 19 tells us concerning this concept,
"You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord." -Leviticus 19:17-18
Never let the circumstances going on around you steal the peace you have in Christ. In my own life I have recently been reflecting on several times when I had to take a step back and refocus in on what really matters. Take a moment to remind myself who God says I am and the promises found in His word. Instead of focusing on what others around you are saying about you, remind yourself what God says. Dig deep into the Word and remember who you are in Christ.
If it steals your peace its not worth your time. Don't even think about it, just let it go and keep going. Learn to walk in love and mercy, remember you are the salt and light of the earth. I love the reminder from John 13,
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." - John 13:34-35
In stead of allowing the circumstance to define you, it is so important to allow the word of God to define who you are. You are a child of the most high and you are so loved, you are called chosen, not forsake. Loved and forgiven, you are the salt and light of the earth.
Scripture tells us that you are like the light of the world. When someone lights a candle they don't try to hide it, of course not. They set it up high to give light to the entire house, which is what we as Christians are called to do. We are the salt and light of the earth and it is our job to share the gospel message with all people in all nations.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7
I'll leave you with one final thought. In all of your interactions remember that you are a child of God and the words you speak reflect what you believe. So, remember to let your words be life giving and pleasing to God. You are the salt and light of the world, which means something. The power of life and death is in the tongue, so makes sure you are speaking life in all your interactions and reactions. If it steals your peace, it is never worth it.
Much love friends,
Alianna