[aacfucsb_mail] A shift in focus
- From: AACF UCSB <list@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: aacfucsb_mail@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Tue, 12 Jun 2007 23:57:49 -0400
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Hi family,
I just wanted to share something that God taught me yesterday about stress, frustration, confusion and self-worth - something that I think many of us are experiencing during this time of year. I hope it can encourage you somehow.
I was feeling really down yesterday after I turned in my research proposal 30 minutes late (I overslept). My professor told us in the beginning of the quarter that he doesn't accept late assignments, and it was 1/3 of my grade. I was mad, frustrated, and disappointed in myself.
I went to the beach to spend some time with God, knowing that it was the only solution to ease my feelings. After complaining to God for a good 10 minutes, I decided to read from an old daily devotion book that I hadn't read from in a while. This is what it
said:
"Does it seem like work and family responsibilities have caused you to lose the joy of living that you once had? Take your eyes off your problems and your 'To-Do' list for a few minutes and lift them up to God. When you rest in His presence and meditate on all the good things He's placed in your life, you will begin to experience His joy - a joy that comes from within and is not extinquished by external pressures."
He pointed out that I had been focusing on myself and on my abilities (or lack thereof). He reminded me that I needed to start looking UP so I could see Him, rather than looking down and being discouraged by my insufficiencies. He showed me how I've lost sight of Him and the joys of simply spending time with Him because I've been so focused on my problems. And He gave me a simple solution: instead of looking at your problems, look at Me, and I'll take care of the rest.
The devotion ends with this:
"Oh, the
'To-Do'
list will still have to be dealt with. It won't change - but you will. God's joy will provide a sense of renewed enthusiasm as you undertake the tasks before you."
Be blessed, and remember to keep your eyes on God.
your sister,
michelle
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