Course of Action

Oh to be thankful. We've all been there at one time or another. You ask yourself, "Why am I discontent? What am I doing with my life? I'm just STUCK." Here are 5 tips based on God's word on how to get yourself out of that mindset! God transforms you but it takes action on your part. 

1. WRITE A LIST

If you're having a hard time with being content where you are, write out a list of all the things to be thankful for in your life. Instead of trying to reach a number, set a timer and write as many things as you can in that allotted amount of time. You would be surprised as to how easily you can think of things. From bigger things to small, you could write it for hours. 

Truth: "Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ," - Ephesians 5:20

2. BLESS SOMEONE ELSE

Lifting someone else's spirits will naturally cause you to feel warm and fuzzy. Bring a smile to someone else's face by giving a gift, writing a letter or even just an encouraging text. We all need encouragement so while thinking you are in need of it, give it to someone else. 

Truth: "In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"-Acts 20:35

3. GET BUSY

Not in the way you're thinking. Don't just fill your schedule with meaningless tasks to spend time. If you notice your weekends are overwhelming with too many social gatherings or just being a couch potato, schedule your Saturdays volunteering. Don't wait for someone to ask you for help out but find something that matters to you. Call around to find out how you can use your skills and time to lend a hand where needed. We have a heart for children that have been orphaned, abused or neglected so we scheduled a day for us and our friends to help clean the CPS visitation rooms. Surprisingly that is exactly what the office needed help with. It's awesome how God gives you desires for needs that are looking to be met. Pray for God to give you clarity on how you can best use your time for Him and His kingdom. 

Truth: The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. - Titus 3:8

"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”- Galatians 5:13-14

4. CHECKS AND BALANCES

Okay for all you ladies (and gentlemen) that are often counseled in "Retail Therapy" be careful. Much like how some people turn to alcohol or drugs to alleviate any pain or to help "take off the edge," shopping can easily be your addiction. Sometimes I leisurely shop and end up feeling sick at the amount of money I spent. Unless you are on the hunt for something specific, stay out of that shop! Same goes for online shopping. Being stressed with finances strains nearly every aspect of your life. Don't let your mismanagement of money be the cause of chaos. If you would like to learn about the biblical approach to spending money, check out the Money Wise class at Watermark Community Church. 

Truth: "If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? "- Luke 16:11

"The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender."- Proverbs 22:7

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."- Matthew 6:19-21

5. LEND ME YOUR EAR

Community has been the biggest blessing. Each week we meet together and discuss what God has been teaching us, how we've been spending time with God and what is going on in our personal lives. Each of us has different stories and based on what God has already done in our lives, we can speak truth into someone else that is going through a similar situation. Nothing is one sided. Your community should be used as a soundboard. While you may see your situation plainly, they could help you see beyond your vision and help paint a clearer picture. Life is heavy but as Christians we're called to band together. Build each other up, give where someone lacks and lovingly (key word here) rebuke one another. There could be changes in your life you aren't prepared to make but with God's strength and your community's support, healthy changes can be made in order to have a more fulfilling life. 

Truth: "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."   

-1 Thessalonians 5:11

These tips may be helpful but the true focus needs to be on the heart change. Our actions are meaningless unless we deal with the root problem. I encourage you to ask someone to hold you accountable on implementing your own plan of action. I know it's easier said than done but while you make changes, pray that God leads you so you're embarking on his will and not your own. When in doubt, start singing praises to our Lord, for we have much to be thankful for. 

Photography by Justin James

Dress (Poe & Arrow) // Scarf (Melissa Benge Collection) // Hat (Milk & Honey) 

Vintage Wallet // Necklace (Self-Made) // Fantastic Latte (Houndstooth)

"Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!" - Psalm 100:4