Stop That Stinkin' Thinkin'!

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." -- James 1:12

When Sean's music class didn't turn out quite like he expected, he became blinded by his own frustration and lost sight of his goal to play the violin. Despite his love of music, he allowed the intimidation of being in a class of more experienced players to overwhelm him and undermine his determination to learn the instrument. As hard as his teacher and parents tried to reassure him that a little private instruction and practice were all he needed to catch up with the other players and enjoy the class, he was convinced otherwise.

Have you ever found yourself in that kind of frustrating situation, where no amount of reason will change your mind? Why are you so convinced that nothing can make your situation better, or that no one understands? The simple truth of the matter is that there are people who understand completely and who care about you. Even better, God cares about you.

Sometimes things don't work out the way we planned. We feel disappointed, frustrated, and angry. We want to simply give up and take the easy way out. Sure, it would be easier for Sean to drop the class rather than to sacrifice a little free time with friends and put forth the extra effort needed in order to accomplish the goal of playing the violin. But don't you think that he might feel a great sense of pride because he persevered, stepping out of his comfort zone to do something that would give him great joy in the end?

If you are frustrated today, check your attitude and ask God to help you. Maybe the real problem is not that you are out of your comfort zone, but rather you have a severe case of "stinkin' thinkin'." If all you can see is your trouble, despite the advice and encouragement of caring adults or friends, then you need to adjust your attitude, expand your vision, and dare to believe that maybe, just maybe, it is possible to accomplish your goals despite the obstacles. Quit looking for excuses to fail and start looking for reasons to succeed. Either your goal is important to you, or it's not. Stop that stinkin' thinkin' and make up your mind to do something about it!

Above all, pray and trust God to help you. Sometimes He allows difficulties in order to grow and mature us. Life is not going to get any easier. There will always be problems to overcome. Take the obstacles you face and use them as stepping stones to a greater opportunity.