Stuff happens. Right? Everyone knows that stuff happens. Even though we all know it happens, we all seem to react to stuff in our own way and it fluctuates depending on what else is going on in our lives at that particular moment. Sometimes, when stuff happens, we over-react. We lose our cool. We yell, scream, or verbally hurt those around us. Other times, we take it like a champ! We respond by saying “it ain’t nothing but a thing.” Ok, that doesn’t happen very often, but let’s pretend that sometimes we do respond in such a grown up manner. But we must admit, most of the time, when stuff happens, we respond in a way that we aren’t particularly proud of.
Many times we let stuff get us down. Out thoughts turn negative and we take on the role of victim. Out thoughts run away with such notions as:
- Why me?
- This always happens!
- Life isn’t fair.
- I can’t win.
As Christians, we say we believe Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. But our reaction to “all things,” (aka stuff) reveals otherwise.
I think the first issue we have to deal with is that we tend to believe stuff happens TO us rather than FOR us. This line of thinking automatically puts us in a defensive position. If we are defensive, we will be working against that which is supposed to be working for us. So, if we want to respond to stuff in a mature (and Christian) manner, it simply starts with our thinking. (Isn’t that where everything starts?)
I think the hardest lesson we must learn in life is that we have free will over our emotions. We actually get to chose what we think, what we believe, and therefore, what we feel. I struggle with this just as much as the next person. However, since I write about it often, and I live with a husband who reads my work and respects my views, I am often held accountable for my choices! That’s no fun at all sometimes! Just yesterday, Mark asked me “Which do you choose to believe?” Yikes. Strong medicine for me! I can’t argue with him, of course he’s right! It’s my choice to believe the truth or not and therefore my choice to be a victim or a victor!
We all have that choice. So remember, the next time stuff happens – take a minute to remember that it’s in your power to respond in such a way that the stuff works out for your good or not.
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