It’s remarkable how often we self-defeat ourselves without even realizing it. We say things that are simply not true, and these false statements become self-fulfilling prophecies that lead us down a path of negativity and failure. For example, saying “I have a fever blister, and my brunch is ruined” when the brunch is scheduled for Saturday, not today.
The truth is that the brunch is not ruined yet because it hasn’t happened yet. There are many possibilities for what could happen between now and Saturday that could make the brunch enjoyable. The blister might heal, or you might discover a new remedy that will make it disappear quickly.
One way to avoid self-defeating behavior is to “leave room for the Lord.” This phrase has its roots in Christianity, where it means to allow God to work in our lives and not try to control everything ourselves. In modern times, leaving room for the Lord means allowing for the unknown, for the unexpected, and for the possibility of positive change. Don’t eyeball it and call it. Get an understanding and study to show yourself approved! This is the Art Of Troubleshooting.
Think of it like this: if you tightly pack a suitcase for a trip, leaving no room for anything else, you limit what you can bring back from your travels. But if you leave some space in the suitcase, you can bring back souvenirs, gifts, and memories that you never anticipated. The same is true in life. When we leave room for the Lord, we allow for positive surprises and unexpected blessings to come into our lives.
Here are a few tips for leaving room for the Lord:
1. Practice mindfulness: Pay attention to what you’re thinking and saying. When you catch yourself making a negative statement or assuming the worst, pause and reframe your thoughts. Instead of saying “this is ruined,” try saying “this might not go as planned, but there are still possibilities for a positive outcome.”
2. Stay open to new experiences: Instead of sticking to your usual routine, try something new. Take a different route to work, try a new type of food, or attend a social event you wouldn’t normally consider. This opens up opportunities for positive surprises and unexpected blessings.
3. Practice gratitude: Focus on what you have, not what you lack. Take time each day to reflect on the good things in your life and express gratitude for them. This mindset of abundance can help you stay positive and open to new possibilities.
Let us pray: Dear Lord, help us to monitor our thoughts and words so that we may avoid self-defeating behavior. Guide us to leave room for the unexpected and to stay open to new possibilities. Help us to practice gratitude and stay positive in all circumstances. Amen.
