Whenever I am enduring something, I try to keep a Bible verse on hand. So far, I have utilized two particular Bible verses to reach me in my time of need. But, the second one is far easier to remember.
My sister had a baby this week. While it is exciting to know this new life is here, this was the week where my PTSD symptoms were off the charts. While I tried to be physically present, my mind was feeling a little bit sick and needing some self care.
What are those two Bible verses?
I want you to be free from the concerns of this life. An unmarried man can spend his time doing the Lord’s work and thinking how to please him [1 Corinthians 7:32, NLT].
I think it is easy to look at my life, and become depressed. My life, in comparison to others, is different. Most folks are either married, parents, or both. But, what is my role in society at this particular moment? While my mind and body are sick, I am exactly where the Lord Jesus Christ has planted me.
You know what, I don’t have a boyfriend or kids… but, my life still means something. And, I have to fight to believe this truth. At times, it’s quite difficult. But by being single and only an Auntie, I have freedom, time wise, that others likely don’t have. And, this time can be utilized by writing or spending time with my family (even when I am too sick to leave my bedroom).
With PTSD, I have to remind myself that I am not a failure or truly alone.
My Heavenly Father is present and working through me.
He is present in my circumstances.
He is present in the waiting room of life.
He is very present in our lives and acting on our behalf!
Even though I do fear still and am prone to anxiety, I can know He is with me.
And, I can keep reminding myself of His truths.
Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me [John 16:32b].
A sentence of God’s truth can move mountains in our hearts and lives!
The Holy Spirit has given me these specific Scriptures to fix my eyes upon. His Words are truth, regardless of my emotions.
One of the most amazing things is how the Lord can use His Word to speak His truth into our lives and pick us up when we have fallen down.
This past week, I have learned the value of 1 Corinthians 7:32 – because of what I endured last week. If it wasn’t for my “mental health week,” I cannot say that I would have become as intimate with this Scripture.
I have the freedom to be concerned only with the Lord Jesus, His Kingdom, and my immediate family. This is freedom, not everyone has. So while it may feel shameful like somehow I am not measuring up, I can make a bigger difference in the world – because I am exactly where the Lord wants me.
No amount of comparison is worthy of becoming my joy stealer. I want the joy of standing right where the Lord wants me!
As for you, what are the Scriptures that our Mighty God is carving into your hearts and lives?
Image: John-Mark Smith
Gracefully Overcoming 
One response to “Truth in Trials: Joy Stealing Comparison”
You are worthy. Worthy of God’s love and affection.
You are called. Called to carry his message.
You are destined. To live a life fully for Him.
These truths are what rang in my mind as I read your blog. A verse that came to mind was Joshua 1:9 , but my life verse is Hebrews 11:1