By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
Summer has faded for another year, and the warm, easy days of June, July, and August are behind us and ushering in a time of reflection, a season of the soul. We’ve experienced great memory-making moments, challenges, growth, and possibly times we’d like to forget. Every moment has been an opportunity to choose our responses. Will we glorify God as we learn from our mistakes, repent, ask for forgiveness, stand again, and move forward?
Some of us may be afraid to face our mistakes, and some of us may run from them. But evaluating our motivations and our reactions and responses to life, although painful, shows courage and faith. The process is physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy.
What does the Bible say about reflection?
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV).
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5 ESV).
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV).
Victory
Moses wrote not only for the Israelites but also for us today.
“For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory” (Deuteronomy 20:4) .
David wrote this Psalm before going into battle. He understood the Originator of our strength.
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7 NIV).
When we are victorious in our struggle against sin, Paul instructs us to respond:
“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57 NIV).
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” Romans 8:37 NIV).
Confession
The Israelites in Lamentations encourage us to face our weaknesses. They were facing the consequences of their actions and understood only God could heal them.
“Let us test and examine our ways and return to the Lord!” (Lamentations 3:40 ESV).
The Prophet Isaiah tells us we are not abandoned.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV).
Take joy!
The Apostle John shares truth:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 ESV).
“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (1 John 5:4 ESV).
James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote:
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12 ESV).
Paul fills us with joy.
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 ESV).
God knows our strengths and flaws, so acknowledge them to the One who loves us unconditionally.
Reflection gives us room to grow spiritually.
“From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people” (Psalm 3:8 NIV).
Take time to reflect on where the past has taken you. Be courageous!
How have you grown over the summer?
This summer I experienced a very unexpected serious illness. While it was scary, it also created a space for me to reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout my Lifespan, past, present, and future. What a blessing.
Cindy, Sunday you looked great! God is working not only spiritual growth but physical too!
DiAnn, I think that your box is too small. 🤓 Step by step. Little steps lead to bigger steps. How does a writer measure growth after just a few hours at ACFW and attending the early bird session of Donald Maass? Massive. Three months, and this box becomes a novel. Thank you for your terrific question.
Thanks, Jenny for your insight! And so good to see you!
Thanks for the scripture examples you used today, DiAnn.
This summer we have been able to spend more time in the Word and share God’s love. Our lives are hectic with a 97-year-old brother in hospice, but we are blessed to have him. He calls every day and gives us the latest news. He has a herculean memory. Praises for God’s gifts to us.
Author
Thanks, Jackie, memories of growing with God will be with us forever.
Yes, I believe I’ve grown over the summer. Release of a new book, launch, family visits, vacations. It’s been a whirlwind of a summer. Thank you for the wonderful verses give us all courage, DiAnn.
Author
Thanks, Ginny, and congratulations on the new book and fun over the summer!