In my last blog I discussed the first of four keys to accessing a different kind of R&R. That is Recovering from past hurts that devalue our God given identity, and Restoring the truth about who we are that allows us to experience greater levels of peace and harmony from the inside out. Recognizing your patterns of thinking and reacting will initiate the need for change, but the second key, Repent, begins to activate that change.
The word repentance is often understood from a religious context, but unfortunately the widespread interpretation has been reduced to feeling sorry for being such a sinner and turning to God to avoid punishment. My goal is not to debate the religious connotations, but to focus on the original meaning of the word and the power God gave us when we apply it. The ancient idea of repentance meant to turn about, or return. A close word picture would be turning from a house that has been consumed by fire because it is no longer inhabitable or safe. God wants us to turn from the destructive beliefs, mindsets, choices, and pains that we inhabit and that cause chaos and destruction in our life and repent, or return to seek close relationship with Him. The reality is that repentance with God leads us into this relationship where we find our primary source of security, trust, and healing.
Nevertheless, the principal of repentance is a deep acknowledgement from the heart of the need for change, and taking steps to follow through not only because of the effect it has on us personally, but because of how we affect others. It means changing the way we think so that our choices and actions begin to agree with what has been true about us all along; that we are loved and wonderfully made, we are created for connection, and we can live a life of fulfilling purpose. It requires a growth mindset and willingness to see obstacles as opportunities that can ignite the energy to break the patterns that have held us captive. Without repentance we repeat the cycles that cause more disconnection, more defeat, and disillusionment with our life. These are all signs that we didn’t tend to the fire alarm soon enough.
As I write this blog the world is battling the Coronavirus which elicits uncertainty and threatens our wellbeing in many different ways. That is enough to evoke strong emotion, understandably! The mandate to social distance ourselves from others until this crisis passes is a wise decision. At the same time, a more powerful mandate was given through the ancient writers of God’s Word; DO NOT FEAR! Distance yourselves as far as you can from fear and return to focus on love…God’s love, and love for one another. The benefit of returning to a mindset that cultivates life, light, and increase is that our entire being is positively impacted! This is a message straight from the heart of God because He knows how stress and worry compromise our immune system, but love and hope improves it.
Because we are three part beings comprised of spirit, soul, and body, I work with clients to address each of those areas. If you struggle with unhealthy patterns in your life, and are ready for breakthrough, I offer strategies and tools that will empower you to get the results you desire.
-Andra