“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” (Proverbs 18:13)
I struggle with personalization—where I think someone’s actions or comments are aimed at me, specifically, even when there’s no clear indication that the person meant it that way. For instance, if a friend doesn’t respond to a text by the time I think she should, I might start to think that she doesn’t want to talk to me. That leads to a spiral where I replay everything I’ve said or done that could have been misinterpreted as offensive. Then I end up believing that, not only does she not want to talk to me, but I have also done irreparable damage to our friendship (by doing something I have no memory of). When she eventually responds and tells me about her sick child and the complications of running the household while also being sick herself, I realize the delayed response had nothing to do with me. Continue reading “The Stories We Tell Ourselves”
Come near to God and he will come near to you. (James 4:8)
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” (Jn. 15:1-2)
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh 1:9)
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim 3:16-17)