Just because we say we want something better does not always mean we are ready for the journey. There can be some tough decisions we need to really contemplate before we begin the journey.
Question One: Do I really want to be healed?
Am I just wanting to escape the pain of the past or am I ready to walk into the possibilities of a more hope filled future? While it appears at first glance that anyone would certainly want a more hope filled future this can sometimes not be reality. When we hurt we know we want something different than the hurt, pain, abuse, stuckness, and turmoil but that is all we may have known. Toxic habits are still habits. Many times we have spent more years of our lives living in an awful place so at least it is predictable discomfort. We even pride ourselves sometimes on the self reliance, autonomy, and skilled ways we have endured what others might collapse under.
This brings us to a point where we must consider honestly whether or not we are wiling to venture into the newness of the unknown. Since we've spent more time practicing unhealthy habits accepting hope and newness will require a new way of thinking and behaving. Many moments the old unhealthy ways will seems more natural. Many people around us may not rejoice with us just because we decide we want something better for ourselves.
Question Two:
Am I willing to set pride aside to learn better ways of coping?
It is not odd to fee guarded to talk to someone else about our experiences. It is easy to wonder what that person might think of my story. It is natural to feel on the spot and fear judgment, condemnation, and more oppression. What a vulnerable place to be in! But beginning the healing journey requires each and every one of us to decide that giving ourselves a voice to choose our reaction to pain is far better than being paralyzed by the demons within. Each one of us has some struggles which require us on a daily and momentary basis to resubmit our stories to Jesus Christ.
Question Three:
Where will I be if I allow things to simply continue as they are? If things continue this way in 1 month, 6 months or 1 year what can I expect?
If there's a sense of discomfort, uneasiness, or even fear related to the way things are currently it may be best to consider changing directions. Talking with a solid Biblically based minister, life coach, spiritual mentor, or outside support system for goal setting and accountability can offer a sense of perspective.
If you feel like you are ready to move beyond a place that is not working and you are open to a step by step partnership with someone who is genuinely concerned about your wellness please consider contacting us at Authentic Christian Life Ministries International. We are all in this together. Hope, change, and positive possibilities are within reach.