PERSPECTIVE

Imagine you’ve awakened to a heavy rainstorm. As you walk towards a window with a view of your backyard, you notice the rusted bucket and muddy puddles forming due to the strong winds. Frustrated by the storm, you head towards the front of your house. In the same storm, the front window offers a completely different perspective. Your rose garden is in full bloom, the lawn appears a richer shade of green, and the streets are cleaner.

The same storm can elicit diverse emotions and reactions in individuals. Some may experience fear and despair, while others may perceive it as an opportunity to find solace and be humbled by the awe-inspiring power of God.

Although we cannot control the rain, we have the power to shape our perception of it. Each of us possesses the ability to influence our thoughts, feelings, and responses. Let’s cultivate a positive and nurturing mindset and choose a wise and effective reaction.

While we cannot control the external world, we can control our reactions to it and our interactions with it. An emotional response can exacerbate the situation and potentially lead to negative consequences.

Romans 15:13 reminds us, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

PEACE

I’ve faced numerous challenges, anxieties, and pains, but the most challenging was my bout with depression. However, once I experienced the peace of God—a peace that surpasses all understanding —I learned to cherish it deeply.

I can’t fully explain the unexplainable; I can’t help you comprehend what surpasses all understanding. But I’ll try to explain why I place such immense value on it.

The high places are more appreciated after overcoming a fall. When you’re struggling to simply get through the day without feeling overwhelmed. When your world seems too dark to see a way out. When you feel as if there’s no hope or help.

Then, one day, you gain the ability to see from a higher vantage point, breathe again, and live with a healthy perspective—this is freedom. Miraculously, you’re healed! The peace of God is restored!

Peace doesn’t always mean the difficulties will end or that it will be easy. In the midst of the storm, it’s meant for you to endure the struggle. You learn to value your peace when the thought of losing it becomes a reality. I guard my peace with my whole heart. I refuse to allow stress, anxiety, or fear to take hold again!

I’ve learned to manage anxiety, reduce negative stress, and avoid people who disrespect my boundaries. Because, when I’m not functioning in a productive and positive manner, I’m no earthly good. I can only function fully when I’m mentally and emotionally stable.

So, I’ve learned to control my emotions and thoughts. I’ve come to understand that sometimes, it’s none of my business. I’ve grasped that there are many things beyond my control. I’ve learned to trust in the Lord with all my heart, to lean less on my own understanding, and to value peace above all else.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

HEALTHY BOUNDARIES

I recall a new hire, a co-worker in management, who desperately sought everyone’s approval and acceptance. Despite her position, she carried a heavy burden of personal and professional rejections.

She would lavishly bring expensive breakfast treats to meetings and organize extravagant outings for her department. However, her behavior was consistently rude, demeaning, and condescending. She actively created a hostile workplace by being a large, negative presence who made sure to encroach on everyone else’s space.

• When someone is not a favorable influence in your life, yet they take up a disproportionate amount of your time, you must set boundaries.

• When someone’s character or behavior is consistently draining your positive energy, you must set boundaries.

• When someone makes you feel uncomfortable and unsafe, you must set boundaries.

• When people seem comfortable behaving in a manner that makes you uncomfortable, you must set boundaries.

Proverbs 4:23 says, "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." This highlights the importance of setting boundaries to protect one's soul and well-being.

Always be kind to yourself and others. However, you also need to be clear and firm when setting boundaries. You can inform that person that your safety, sanity, space, and time are valuable to you and let them know what they are threatening. You must be prepared to guard your boundaries, because some people will not respect you without them. Some people simply can’t be trusted with access to all of you, and you have the right to set limits on their access.

Creating boundaries is, in part, about teaching others how to treat you and protecting your well-being. Clearly stated boundaries are demonstrated by the way you express yourself to others.

Luke 6:31, "Do to others as you would have them do to you.”