By Every morning, I put on my glasses. Not because they’re particularly cool or because I really like them, but because they are necessary for me to see properly.
My vision isn’t that bad really. But without glasses, things in the distance are blurry and I’ll get headaches real quick if my glasses aren’t resting on my nose.
In order for me to see in the way I should, I have to put my glasses on.
When pondering what to write this month, I thought of a recent conversation I’d had.
We were discussing growth mindsets and fixed mindsets. During this conversation, I said that although I have a growth mindset, I often look at things through a negative lens. So instead of saying, “That was good, Maddisen. Let’s see how we can improve next time.” I’d say, “That was awful. You need to do better next time.”
And it reminded me of a lesson God had taught me regarding joy.
Guys, we court our thoughts. Think about this. Courting someone is dating them with the intention of marrying them right? Well, if we court negative thoughts about ourselves, are we not just entertaining these thoughts and allowing depression and negativity in?
I’d say so!
Personally, when I let a negative thought like above in, I begin to spiral. I start to think things like I’m never good enough. Everyone thinks I’m terrible. Why am I even trying? This is impossible. I can’t do it. Why did I even try? I was awful. I shouldn’t ever do anything like this again. And so on.
Do you experience similar things? If so, I think it’s because we neglect to put our “spiritual glasses” on.
What do I mean?
I can’t see clearly when I’m not wearing my glasses. Likewise, I can’t have positivity and faith if I don’t put my spiritual glasses on.
Without glasses, things are blurry. And without spiritual glasses, we see things in a negative light. But, in both instances, all we have to do is put our glasses on and we will see clearly.
If you find yourself in a bad situation, know that God is still working and moving behind the scenes. Know that God fights for you and is for you. Know that all things work together for those who love God. Put your spiritual glasses on and see it all around you!
If you struggle with self-doubt, insecurities, and negativities, know that God loves you. He made you perfectly in His image, and hand-crafted you the exact way He wants you. Know that we are called to speak life and light into situations, not death and negativity. Even when it’s hard. Put your spiritual glasses on and see what God says you are; see Him working in situations!
Today, let’s put our glasses on and see clearly. It’s time.
Maddisen Sauls is the smile and voice behind the Everyday Joy blog as well as the author of the Word of the Week posts and the editor of by leaps and bounds. Throughout her life, Maddisen has worked as a reporter for small town newspapers, a School Age and Preschool teacher, and has acquired her ministerial license.
An avid book reader and lover of the written word, Maddisen is passionate about using her favorite medium to reach the lost and the hurting, and to offer encouragement and hope to those struggling through life.
Following her battle with depression, Maddisen has made it her mission to help other people through this journey and to bring joy to the lives of the people around her.
You can find Maddisen on Instagram @maddisen.paige
by leaps and bounds 