Whether you are experiencing something great, struggling hardcore, or somewhere in the middle, I’m sure you could use a little reminder. Here are six things to keep in mind:
1. Stress is normal
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16.33
We all freak out sometimes. It’s easy to begin to feel like you’re in over your head and like there is no way out. Don’t forget to take a second to remember that the rough patches are what help you grow.
2. Being confused about who you are is normal
“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27
Our job is to find our identity in Christ, not in the world. Society likes to shove all sorts of ideals down our throats, but don’t forget that we are all here for a reason. If you’re really struggling, go try new things. Maybe you’ll discover a new passion.
3. Doubt is normal
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Doubt does not mean the end of faith. It’s only natural to question things about God, about ourselves, about where life is taking us. We all have moments when we wonder how everything fits into the bigger picture. Don't beat yourself up because of it.
4. Being caught off-guard is normal
“Be alert. Be firm in the Christian faith. Be courageous and strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
At one point or another, each of us is put into a situation where we are forced to defend what we believe in. Don’t forget to stay true to yourself and stand firm in what you feel is right. Use these situations as ways to prove your strength.
5. Inconsistency is normal
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8
We’re all human. We make mistakes. And sometimes, we make promises to ourselves that we’ll stop making mistakes. But sometimes we break those promises and fall back into a cycle of sin. It’s just part of who we are, but we can’t let it get us down because God loves us regardless. I’m not saying that sin is okay, but I am saying that we are forgiven.
6. There is a God who is bigger than it all
"For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and does not take a bribe." Deuteronomy 10:17
Although all of these things are normal to feel, they aren’t what God wants for us. We have a Father who is always on-call and ready to help us out. He is the One who has designed our lives for us, He is the One who knows what’s best for us, and He is the One who sent His only son to save us. Don’t forget that God is in control.
