We all encounter obstacles in life. Sometimes, our own decisions complicate things further. When it comes to how we handle these situations emotionally, it might seem easier to give up and give in – but easier doesn’t mean better. How do you navigate everyday challenges and major frustrations without becoming bitter?
2 tips to prevent bitterness
Adversity and challenges are inevitable. There’s no escape from life’s struggles. But to keep yourself from becoming bitter, the crucial question is: How do you guard your heart?
Proverbs 4:23 advises us, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” This means that what you allow into your heart will shape your path.
Bitterness and frustration can take over your heart and mind if you let them. Day by day, you could become less joyful and more focused on negativity. Here are two ways to keep negativity from getting the best of you and making you bitter:
1. Give your worries to God
1 Peter 5:7 says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” You’re not meant to carry all these struggles alone. Each day, hand your burdens over to God. Say, “God, I don’t understand this, and I don’t know how to get through it, but I need your help.” Simple, daily prayers can invite God into your struggles.
2. Fix your thoughts
What normally dominates your mind? Do you tend to dwell on frustrations and irritations? Philippians 4:8 encourages us to “fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” This means intentionally focusing on positive and uplifting thoughts and believing that God can bring good out of any situation – including yours.
Protect yourself from bitterness
Guarding your heart against bitterness requires attention and intentionality. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from becoming bitter:
- Be mindful of what enters your mind. The media, conversations, and environments you engage with can be sneaky influences. Limit exposure to negativity and surround yourself with positive, uplifting influences.
- Meditate on Bible verses that remind you of God's promises and love – like these encouraging Bible verses.
- Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of the positive aspects of your life. Each day, write down three things you are thankful for, helping you shift your focus from frustrations to blessings.
- Don’t isolate yourself. Seek support from friends, family, or church community. Share your struggles with others who can offer encouragement and prayer. A Group is a great way to do this at LCBC!
- Set aside time each day to pray and reflect. Give your worries and concerns to God and intentionally invite him into your struggles.
Don’t feel like you need to start following these steps all at once! While these are all great habits that will help you grow in your relationship with God and stave off bitterness, changing too many habits too quickly can get overwhelming. Instead, pray about each of the items on this list – is there one step you sense God pulling you toward? Start there and see how he uses this new practice to bring you closer to him and make you more resilient.
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