Pluck Out the Weeds

As I was preparing for the next “Shades of You Ladies Luncheon” (Shades of You Luncheon July 1, 2017 registration), I came across this quote on social media, “A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.”  This quote challenged me to reflect upon the relationships with the women that are within my circle of influence.  I had to evaluate whether or not I am guilty of falling into the habit of comparing myself to them if I view them as a threat in some manner.

The truth is, anytime we have not confronted our insecurities, it is easy to fall into the pattern of competition.  When one feels like someone else may be better at a task than they are or if that person has more of an advantage in a situation, the competitive nature often arises.  This constant battle of who can shine the brightest or who can bloom the biggest, becomes a mentally exhausting game. It leaves the person with either a false sense of satisfaction or with feelings of disappointment. I have found that the easier option is to confront insecurities through an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, instead of spending life hoping that the person does not rob you of something that you feel that you deserve.

Anytime I struggled in this area, it only lead me down a path of emotional eating and constant feelings of inadequacy. It took me years of allowing God’s word to penetrate my heart and to renew my mind before I finally gained the strength to pay attention to my own blossoming instead of focusing on the flowers around me.  I am so thankful that God has healed me and I am no longer caught up in this cycle. It doesn’t mean that I am perfect and that I am not tempted to practice old habits, but now I have learned how to recognize this weed and to pluck it out before it destroys not only my flower, but also destroys the other flowers in the garden as well! 

Anytime that you feel like you are in a pattern of competing for recognition for the things that you feel that you are entitled to have, here are a list of a few scriptures to remind you of how God sees you.  His words are the only ones that matter!

1. You are a friend of Jesus John 15:15
2. You are God’s child John 1:12
3. You are God’s workmanship Ephesians 2:10
4. You are United with the Lord I Corinthians 6:17
5. You are God’s temple I Corinthians 3:16
6. You are bought with a price and belong to God I Corinthians 6: 19-20
7. You are assured that God works for your good in all circumstances Romans 8:28
8. You are a branch of the true vine, Jesus Christ John 15:5
9. You are able to do all things through Christ who gives you strength Philippians 4:13
10. You are chosen and appointed to bear fruit John 15:16

Prayer Starter: Dear Jesus, I thank you for my life and for the gifts that you have instilled within me. Your words are true and remind me of your love and your faithfulness. Forgive me when I fall short and start to feel jealous of others around me. You are the one that promotes and can place me in favorable positions. Continue to be the author of my story and remind me everyday of your love for me. Amen