“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
Having access to the world wide web has changed life in many ways over the past couple of decades. On one hand, it has become a blessing to many, giving many people opportunities to work from home, share products and information across the globe, and become informed in many different ways about important topics. For some, it has changed the course of their futures in positive ways.
On the other hand, the internet has also caused great feelings of intimidation and inadequacy for many. Social media connects friends and acquaintances but also causes its partakers to envy the beautiful homes of others, the fancy vacations they can’t afford, and the pictures of perfection they are fooled into believing are a full-time reality for others.
While good experiences are real, and some people are fortunate enough to have extra money to buy nicer things than many of us, the truth is those people have problems and hard times too. They just don’t broadcast the negatives and share glimpses of the positives. Furthermore, knowing the Lord and all of His richness reminds us that the best things in life are not things.
We honestly need to do some “resetting” in our lives and remind ourselves of God’s goodness that has been given to each of us. When we are in the middle of different struggles, it’s easy to desire the good we see others enjoying. However, when life feels hard and we’re caught up in our own circumstances, pinpointing the things we are lacking will show us where to focus so that we can find renewal for our souls and God’s will in our lives once again.
What do you need?
Do you need renewed joy? Spend time remembering all God has done for you specifically. The blessings, the healings, the times of deliverance. Where might you be if God was not your Lord?
Do you need renewed strength? Spend time in His word. Study scriptures that remind you of His almighty power and constant presence. Take time to mentally rest and face your circumstances one day at a time instead of allowing your mind to worry about the upcoming several months all at once.
Do you need hope? Look back to what God has already done in your life. Remind yourself that His power is never diminished, and He is still working and moving in situations all around you.
Do you need financial help? Take inventory of your expenses and see where you can make changes and remove unnecessary expenses. Eat at home. Make a shopping list and stick to it. Avoid the little expenses that add up: coffee from a coffee shop each morning, candy bars and snacks at the gas station, purchases on game apps, etc.
Do you need healing in your family? Be the one to take the first step. Be humble. Apologize for harsh words. Let your love override hurt feelings and divisions.
Renewal can come in many areas of our lives. It takes our acknowledgement of our need, and our willingness to change what we are able.
Let’s no longer be intimidated or envious of what we see in the lives of others, especially with the help of social media. Instead, let us take a deep breath, search our hearts, thoughts, and current circumstances, and determine we will “reset” where we are, and let renewal guide the path ahead of us more perfectly.
