From: Dear Jesus
Dear Jesus,
You certainly know me well! When my mind is idle, it veers toward planning and evaluating. I seem to be addicted to planning. I think it’s a way I try to feel more peaceful, but it actually has the opposite effect: increasing anxiety. Evaluating also seems to be second nature to me—as if it’s my responsibility to pass judgment on everything and everyone. Please help me break free of these harmful tendencies.
Beloved,
An effective way of dealing with addictions is to substitute good responses for the harmful behavior. When you find yourself flitting down your well-worn path of planning, stop and affirm your trust in Me. It can be as simple as saying, “I trust You, Jesus, to help me with this.” Remember that I will be with you at that future time, helping you make decisions when needed. So, you can substitute affirmations of trust for compulsive planning. As you do so, your anxiety level will drop dramatically.
Your sense of responsibility to make judgments about everything is both hurtful and distorted. This attitude easily deteriorates into criticizing and complaining. Though you may not realize it, much of this negativity is ultimately directed at Me—the One who is sovereign over all things. Thankful words are the best replacements for your criticisms and complaints. There are always so many things you can thank Me for, especially My provision of eternal Life. As you practice trusting and thanking Me, the quality of your life will improve immensely.
Changing your thought patterns requires time and mental discipline. However, the results are well worth the effort: Your thankful, trusting attitude will bring good pleasure to Me and abundant blessing to you.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. – 1 Peter 5:6–7
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. – Psalm 29:11
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” – Matthew 7:1
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Written in the same style as Jesus Calling®, Jesus Today™contains all-new devotions for a hope-filled walk with God. Born out of missionary Sarah Young’s own trials, Jesus Today shows that hope shines brightest in adversity. Grow in grace, hear from God, and walk with Jesus Today.