Whether we realize it or not, every day we ask ourselves this important question, How am I doing ? Where we go to find the answer, will determine to a large degree what we accomplish in this life. There are three potential places:
- Emotions: this source is constantly changing and it can be very good or many times very bad depending upon our circumstances. If this is our primary source, we will reach the wrong answer many times and be totally stressed with all the ups and downs of life. I am feeling worried …
- Thoughts: this source is based on logic and reason. It’s the self talk of our own understanding, where we constantly evaluate the good and bad in every situation. We tend to see everything through the lens of our own experiences and this can lead to hardened opinions on things that don’t really matter for eternity. The stock market is falling …
- Beliefs: this source is what we know to be true about God as revealed through scripture. His truth never changes and we can use it to evaluate our thoughts and emotions to always give us the perspective we need. I totally trust the Father to provide for me …
So let’s put this all together: I am feeling worried because the stock market is falling but I totally trust the Father to provide for me. You cannot deny that your emotions are real and you should use your mind to help reach good decisions. However, every day the sooner I can get to what I believe to be true the more grateful and content I am regardless of my circumstances.
So, How Are You Doing ?