How would you describe yourself? Are you naturally positive, or negative? Are your decisions driven by faith in God, or by the fear of failure, rejection, or lack? Do you feel good about yourself, or do you put yourself down and feel you’re not good enough? Whatever our answers might be, this is certain: the patterns and attitudes that rule our lives and thoughts weren’t formed overnight, so if we’re looking to change in any area, it won’t happen overnight. It’ll take time. But we can make a start by following this Scripture: ‘Set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things)’ (Colossians 3:2 AMPC).

The Bible refers to the Christian life as a ‘walk’. ‘Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called’ (Ephesians 4:1 NKJV). ‘We walk by faith, not by sight’ (2 Corinthians 5:7 NKJV). ‘Let us also walk in the Spirit’ (Galatians 5:25 KJV). ‘Walk in love’ (Ephesians 5:2 KJV). Walking is the slowest way of getting from place to place. God doesn’t invite us to fly with Him, or run with Him, but to walk with Him. Just take one step at a time and keep walking day by day.

When are we most likely to slip and fall? 1) When we’re learning to walk. 2) When we’re in circumstances we didn’t create and have no control over, such as ice and snow. 3) When we feel drained, tired, and weak. 4) When we get careless and don’t keep our eyes open and stay focused. Our challenge has two parts: adopting the right mindset and maintaining it. If we faithfully keep our focus on God, He’ll help with both.

What Now?

In what ways does your mindset need an adjustment? Ask God to help you make whatever changes are needed, and pray for patience as you work through the process – don’t be discouraged if change doesn’t happen immediately. God’s with you every step of the way.