Last week I was struggling to have the right perspective of my circumstances. So, I decided to ask my 5th grade class what they do when they are struggling in life. I explained to them that people usually do one of three things. Some people try to escape their problem, some try to ignore the problem, while others will attack the problem. I asked them to talk about which one of these most often describes them. They were very honest about how they usually react. I then asked if these are the wrong way to approach a problem or struggle then what is the right way? I told them to remember the three R's. At this point one kid raised his hand and said "Reduce, Re-Use, and Recycle?" I had to laugh at that. Here is what I told them.

Recognize that the real problem is in the mind and not another person or the present circumstance. Often times WE are the problem.

Repent and go the other direction. I explained that repent just means to turn around. We have to turn away from our bad attitude, perspective, or actions.

Renew the mind with Truth. We must replace our wrong, negative thoughts with things that are true.

I did not quote scripture in the conversation, but what we talked about is pretty close to what Romans 12:2 says

Do not be conformed to this world,1 but be transformed by dthe renewal of your mind, that by testing you may ediscern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

I am not sure about you, but for me this is something that I have to do daily. It is the days when I forget or refuse to do this that end up the worst. What I am coming to realize is that renewing my mind with the Truth of God's word will not necessarily make me feel better. I might still feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or whatever other emotion is plaguing me. But, Proverbs 12:27 says "the precious possession of a man is diligence." God is faithful and He promises in John 14:21 that if we obey him (renewing our mind) He will disclose Himself to us. So, today when you are overwhelmed, angry, frustrated, bitter, or discouraged Recognize that the battle is in your mind, Repent of your negative attitude or actions, and Renew your mind with a scripture that you have memorized. If you "feel" like it doesn't work then do it again and again. Trust that God is faithful. Memorizing John 14:21 would be a good start. I think we're supposed to for Sunday anyway.

He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my father and I too will love him and disclose myself to him. (typed from memory so I probably combined like 2 or 3 translations)

Travis