What Happened to the Good I Would Do?

Have you ever noticed that your heart and your mind don’t always connect?

There are a lot of things I know, yet these things are somewhat difficult for me to live by. It is so frustrating to know that I know something, but that knowledge has yet to come alive in me.

For example, I know that I need to eat right to be healthy and energized. I know that if I prepare ahead in the evenings, I will have better mornings. Yet and still, I have a tough time doing what I know is right or doing things I know I should do. You, too?

It’s really upsetting because I feel as though I am always starting over. Always coming up with new resolutions and making plans to live more efficiently, and then lacking the discipline to follow through – what’s the deal with that?

Connect the Dots Between Your Heart and Mind

The way to become the best versions of ourselves is to connect the dots between our heart and our mind.

I think back on childhood memories, the awkward teens, rebellious years and I can find a common theme: I typically have more in my mind than in my heart.

The Apostle Paul was right. Your mind can think – I know I can do this, I’m smart, I can get this – and your heart can be in complete opposition to what you know (Romans 7:19). The way we know that the heart is more powerful is that even a slight doubt in your heart will stop you regardless of all your head knowledge that says – “No Brainer!”

Our inner struggle between what God says and what we do is a recurring battle for many Christians.  When I see well-known Christians thriving in their work or ministry, I think, “Wow, this person is really amazing; they’ve won the internal battle.”

But, in actuality, even the best teammates struggle to do better and be better on a daily basis.

Press Through for the Win

Spiritual growth takes determination and a tenacious attitude.

I believe one of the main reasons we don’t reach our growth goals is because we are too hard on ourselves when we fall short.

There are times when I know that I could have performed better or worked harder. And, when that happens, the fact that I knew better eats me up inside.

But, it’s impossible for us to change our bad habits when the entire time we’re beating ourselves up. We make mistakes, we fall short, and we disappoint ourselves. But, if we are speaking negativity and death in our mind and spirit, that is not going to help!

It is a trick of the enemy to make you feel discouraged. Proverbs 17:22 says “a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

So, no matter how many wise counselors you have, how much you read, or how often you pray – at some point, you’re going to have to start loving yourself, forgive yourself, and be patient with yourself.

If you are constantly thinking about your struggle to get it together and how “it’s always something”, you will never get anywhere. Our entire walk with God is built on our beliefs. How can you believe Jesus is the Son of God and yet not believe that you can do all things through Christ (Philippians 4:13)?

Let’s monitor our inner dialogue and cancel any negativity that tries to condemn us.

God wants us to know in our hearts that even when we feel like we’re only taking a small step, everything is working together for our good. If we maintain a peaceful reliance on God, it will sustain us as we push ourselves towards greatness.

No excuses, no “I can’t help it“, no “my thoughts are automatic and reactionary.” You are who God says you are! Allow the mind of Christ to come alive in you (Philippians 2:5).

Consistency is the key to transforming our minds; it will not happen unless you actively pursue it.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

First, stop being so hard on yourself when you fall short – It’s OKAY. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).

Let’s be more intentional about our development so we can bear every fruit of the Spirit.

When your flesh feels discouraged, practice edifying yourself and feed yourself the Word of God. “The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul” (Psalm 19:7).

Meditate on these scriptures:

• God is working in you giving you the desire and power to do what pleases Him (Philippians 2:13).
• Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you (Ezekiel 36:26).

Be encouraged, Team.