How Are You Doing?
As I cautiously anticipate the upcoming month’s busyness and many ups and downs, I believe it's a good moment to connect.
How are you doing? Share your thoughts in the comments.
For some, this question carries weight. I'll share first.
This year has been a bit like a rollercoaster for me—ups, downs, turns, and plenty of overthinking (cue the loop-de-loops).
I admire those with "normal jobs" who can leave work at work. It must be nice.
You get my journey if you're transitioning from one job to another in the middle of the day. One job ends, another begins, and you are writing at 2 AM. 😂
You can probably relate. We all have seasons where we ask God, "When will it end?" Social media shows everyone living their "best life" while we're burning the candle at both ends.
Then there are signs that things must change, like when that second, third, or fourth job isn't working out, and you're unsure what's next. Unexpected expenses hit, and you're lost. Health falters, and you're unsure.
I keep hearing Ross yelling, "pivot, pivot, pivot!"
The good news is God knows. He waits for us to trust Him, let go of what we can't control, and focus on what we can control—ourselves. We control our response to chaos, relying on God and our faith community to move forward. With God’s help we can successfully pivot when we find ourselves at the base of a mountain wondering what’s next.
Psalm 121:1-6 (ESV): I lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He won't let your foot be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun won't strike you by day, nor the moon by night.
😂 Part of me hesitates to reveal struggles, but transparency helps us know we're not alone in trials.
I tend to obsess over things that matter only to me, especially if they affect my family.
I'm focusing on solutions instead of problems. Whether it's financial, health, work, church, or miscellaneous, putting the outcome in God's hands is best.
"But, but, but, you're a Pastor. Shouldn't you have this perfected by now?" Knowing the truth is half the battle; walking it out is the other.
Sanctification (what the Holy Spirit does to make us like Jesus) takes time. I know my imperfect image will become more perfect as God molds me.
For now, I'll sign off and get some sleep.
I pray God pours His blessings on you this season. Share in the comments, and we'll pray for you. Remember, it's public, so be cautious with what you share. God knows the details, and He's the one we're talking to.
I had to give up living up to the perfect pastor and family ideal a long time ago. I, too, try to be transparent now. Pastors, just like anyone else, have their ups and downs, times of doubt and difficulty, and fill-in-the-blank. Thanks for a good word.