What does thrive mean to you?
Webster defines "thrive" as to grow vigorously (flourish), to gain in wealth or possessions: (prosper) and to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances.
I don't know about you but there are times I find it difficult to flourish, prosper and progress despite or because of circumstances. But I am learning that to thrive is a choice we make.
We all have reasons (excuses) that we use to remain discontent.....we say things like:
If only I could......
It will get better when......
It's ________ fault I am where I am......
But these thoughts or statements rehearsed long enough keep you bound in toxic, ungodly emotions that don't demonstrate the joy we are supposed to have in ALL circumstances. As my husband and I are facing our own battles with thriving in the midst of chaos, we sat down to discuss how we can stay joyful, purpose filled and content despite outside circumstances.
Here's our tips:
1. Identify causes of not thriving.
You can’t work on what you don’t identify!
a. Is this a “season” meaning something temporary that God can use to teach you something or draw you closer to Him and His will?
b. Or, is this because of choices you’re making or habits that are unhealthy and unproductive?
The truth: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10
2. Seek God’s truth of the situation.
a. Go back to what God’s spoken to you, promised you and done for you.
b. How does that align with or impact the season? Or the choices/habits you’re making?
c. What will you do about it?
The truth: Isaiah 45:2-3
“I will go before you and make the crooked places straight;
I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron.
I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places,
That you may know that I, the Lord, who call you by your name, Am the God of Israel.”
3. Rest
a. You must find time to rest weekly.
b. Recognize rest and rejuvenation are different for everyone.
c. What rejuvenates you? Gives you rest?
4. Maintain fellowship with God
a. You must relentlessly pursue God and fellowship with Him.
b. How are you making time with Him sacred?
c. If you’re not making time with Him sacred, what priorities are you choosing over Him?
The Truth: Isaiah 57:15
“For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
“I dwell in the high and holy place, With him who has a contrite and humble spirit,
To revive the spirit of the humble, And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”
The Message version:
“I live in the high and holy places, but also with the low-spirited, the spirit-crushed,
And what I do is put new spirit in them, get them up and on their feet again."
5. Choose healthy habits and boundaries
a. Identify what’s off limits and set boundaries so you don’t compromise
b. Identify what a healthy life is for you
c. Identify destructive ways you choose to “escape” versus facing a situation
6. Don’t give up on what God has for you!
a. Is what you’re facing making you give up? Give in? Feel like a failure? Those are tactics of the enemy!
b. Often, times of testing, trials and hardships are the enemy’s efforts to try and make you give up on God’s destiny.
c. Go back to #2. What is God’s truth and what has He promised to you?
7. Don’t neglect friendships and serving
a. In the midst of “hard stuff”, how are you relying on friendships and Godly mentors to help you and give you perspective? Isolation and pride can be escape tactics to “not deal!”
b. When things are crazy, it’s important to take focus of yourself. Serve others and find ways to use your gifts to remind you of your purpose and calling.
For further study on contentment and thriving, study the life of Paul. (Philippians 4, Book of Acts)
What is currently prohibiting you for feeling like you’re thriving or being content?
So of the seven things we’ve listed, which ones would help you the most in the midst if your busy and chaotic life?