When I’m struggling, one of the worst things someone can say to me is, “You’ve got this.” No. I don’t have this. But I am thankful that I know a God who does.

Having known the Lord most of my life, I would like to tell you that I am a spiritual giant, that I have mastered the art of giving everything to God and trusting Him to the point that I no longer worry about anything. But that would be far from the truth. God continues to show me areas in which I need to grow, and there are times I see progress, but there will probably always be something that I have not yet overcome. Otherwise, I may forget how much I need God.

At the end of January, I was feeling optimistic and excited about what God was doing in my life, allowing me to start this new blog, giving me some direction for the coming year and then, out of nowhere, I plummeted so quickly as my mind began to spiral in a myriad of negative directions. Insecurities returned as I was painfully aware of how inadequate I am, how much I fail God and others. Negative words that others have said about me through the years came flooding in. Bittersweet memories of family members who have gone on to be with Jesus added to the sadness. It’s been a rough few days.

But in spite of all this, God continues to bring songs and Scriptures to mind which lets me know that He will not leave me here but will lift me up if I will bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). This is not easy since the negative thoughts come out of nowhere, but I choose not to dwell on them. I’m so thankful that greater is He that is in me than He that is in the world (1 John 4:4).

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.  ~1 Corinthians 10:13

I share my experiences, not to focus on myself or to draw sympathy but rather to let you know that you are not alone. Whatever you are going through, I want to remind you that you may not have this, but God does have it. Life may be a continual lesson in surrendering to Him, but one day you will look back and be able to thank Him for carrying you and taking care of things while you were too busy worrying to notice.