(This week’s devotions are based on Sunday’s message: Win the Day…Flip the Script – LISTEN HERE)
How do we Flip the Script?
The narrative that runs through our mind is one that often determines the course of our day. So how can we give the Lord more opportunities to rewrite the story not only in our minds, but of our lives?
First and foremost, we want to as much as possible fix our hearts and minds and eyes on Jesus.
Remember Peter? He and the other disciples saw Jesus walking on the water and Peter challenged Jesus to call him out. When Jesus did, Peter stepped out of the boat and DID walk on the water…until he took his eyes off of Jesus.
Matthew 14:28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
Commit each day to focus on Jesus. I pray these devotions help. Make use of a daily Bible reading plan from the YouVersion Bible App or another source. Have a Jesus time to begin your day.
Second, reflect and write your story.
I will be honest, journaling hasn’t been a huge part of my life. But when I have done it, it is helpful to reflect and think through the narrative that was part of my day. When our story is on paper, it engages other senses and allows our minds shift from the details to the meaning and significance of that event or season in life. Ask yourself the reporter questions: Who was involved? Why did it happen or why did I react the way I did? How did it make me feel? How did it lead me to act? When can I try something different or do that again? Take time to evaluate your story and insert new promises and new thinking from Jesus into your mindset and heart.
Don’t forget to write about thinks for which you are grateful. Gratitude quickly changes our perspective from what we perceive is wrong, to the blessings God is giving.
Third, connect with a Christian friend.
A confidant is a blessing to hear and reflect on your story and you for them. Others can hear or perceive things we can’t. An outside perspective can often give insights to an internal reality. Of course, a Christian counselor or pastor can be options if professional help is needed.
Next week we will “Kiss the Wave”…but until then, perhaps a verse from the popular hymn “Amazing Grace” captures the reality and prayer for God’s grace to change our story and “Flip the Script.”
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’ve first begun.
–John Newton, 1725-1807