Moving from Insecurity to Trust
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. (2 Corinthians 3:18)
There are several moments I wish I could do over in my life. I bet I am not alone. Rather than fixate, replaying the mistake or opportunity lost repeatedly, think about what you learned from the experience. Obsessive focus on the past does not change the present or the future. If reflecting on issues that make you struggle does not alleviate the tendency to obsess, then write your thoughts down on paper. Putting your thoughts in written form can help to distance yourself from them.
In “You Can’t Rush Your Spiritual Lessons,” Emily Jennings reminds us that one cannot speed up the process of creating spiritual maturity. Jennings reminds us, “You can’t live faster than you’re supposed to.” We admit our mistakes and previous immaturity, but once learning has taken place, it is time to let it go and move forward. Our focus should be on being our best selves in the present and the future.
Shame and insecurity can run deep within us. It requires faith to move us to a more self-affirming inner core. Spiritual maturity provides the passageway through the burden of past mistakes and leads us to a renewed focus on living faithfully. When we live in harmony with God, life isn’t necessarily more manageable but less anxious and more rewarding. Now, decisions are not based on easing our inner shame but on what is in the interest of others, in God’s name.
Today, ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart to inner honesty. Becoming honest with oneself is the first step in addressing personal shame and living with integrity. Spiritual maturity is not a sprint but a marathon each day. Prayerfully ask God to provide the courage and wisdom to face oneself with clarity. When we do, life will become fulfilling, and each moment will feel meaningful. God wants this for you and will help you along the way. Yet, you are required to face your insecurities, trusting God will bring you through the discomfort and into a new experience of understanding. The wisdom will lessen anxiety and reassure you that you are on the right track, making fewer mistakes, and learning along the way.