Ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut? I do. It honestly feels like a hole, a deep dark never-ending hole. Anyhoo…I know that sometimes life can feel like we’re going through the motions—wake up, work, sleep, repeat. But what if we stepped outside of ourselves for a moment? What if we took a step back, blocked out those nagging voices of self-doubt, and allowed ourselves to live the vibrant life God designed for us? Spoiler alert: We can! And we should. It took a whole lotta prayer to get to that place this morning. I literally cried last night and had a pity party about my life. But I woke up in prayer and thought “what am I gonna do about it?” 😊 Also, what was so bad? Emotions are such a joy, aren’t they?
Anyhow. I am feeling led to step out of that old comfort zone, to live a healthier lifestyle, and lean into the joy and assurance that Jesus is with us every step of the way.
Block Out the Negative Voices in My Head
I know you know the voice. The one that whispers, “You can’t do that.” It tells you you’re not good enough, strong enough, or capable. For years I have struggled with that. I can do alot of things but I just didn’t feel like I was good enough and was scared of other people’s opinions about me. Here’s the truth: that voice is a liar. The enemy loves to sow seeds of doubt, but God’s Word tells us something different.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
Recently my pastor said that we need to look a little deeper at that verse. Apparently, we like to take things like that verse and cut them out so we can manipulate what they mean. The whole context is often quoted as a source of encouragement and strength for overcoming obstacles. However, when we look at the broader context, the Apostle Paul is writing from prison and reflecting on the challenges he’s faced. He is in PRISON and still finds positivity! Let’s look at a broader version surrounding that line- these verses reveal that Paul is speaking about contentment and reliance on God through every circumstance, whether in times of need or abundance.
“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:11-13 (NKJV)
Paul isn’t simply talking about achieving anything he sets his mind to; instead, he is explaining that he can endure all situations—whether good or bad—through the strength that Christ provides. Paul had experienced both prosperity and poverty, and his message is one of reliance on God’s strength to persevere, regardless of circumstances.
My takeaway from this passage is that with Christ, we can find contentment and the ability to endure in every situation, trusting that He will provide the strength we need.
When those negative thoughts creep in, remind yourself of the truth: you are more than capable. With Jesus, you have the strength to overcome any obstacle. I think that is when we should block out that voice of negativity and replace it with God’s promises.
Moving on…
Embracing Lifestyle Changes that Bring Joy and Health
This one is a hard one for me. I hear this all the time: One of the best ways to step outside of yourself is by making positive lifestyle changes. People say living healthily doesn’t have to be boring—it can be fun! Hmmm. I know it is a way to honor the body God gave you. I recently saw an instagram post that a health coach posted of his 80 year old parents. They eat healthy, exercise daily and are overall active and they looked and acted like they were in their 40’s! Talk about goals. This made me open my own eyes and look at my daily routine. I don’t eat badly, but I do start good but sometimes end the day grabbing a soda or chips so I know that I can improve here.
- Sleep Like a Champion 😴
Let’s start with sleep. Sleep is so underrated, yet it’s so essential for our well-being. When we’re rested, we feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. So set a bedtime, create a calming pre-sleep routine, and make sure you get those zzz’s. Even Jesus took time to rest! Okay -so what is my goal? I’m gonna shoot for 7 hours a night. I’ll have to circle back on this one for accountability. - Move Our Body with Joy 💃🕺
Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Find something you love—dancing, walking, swimming, or even a joyful stretch—and make it part of your routine. Moving your body releases those feel-good endorphins and helps you feel more alive. Let your exercise be a celebration of the life God’s given you! I have a friend that was a former dancer and she signed up at a studio to get her move on and is loving it. You will NOT find me dancing because well, you don’t want to see that! My goal is to amp up my workouts to at least 4 times per week and get some walks in with the new pup. - Fuel Up with Good Nutrition 🥗🍎
This is so overwhelming. One of my daughters recently asked me to send her recipes of healthy things she can make in college that fit her college budget. Surprisingly I was able to come up with a few recipes on the fly and made this weekly e-book for her to download! Think of your body as a finely-tuned machine. When you fill it with good, wholesome food, you feel energized and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Add more fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains to your meals, and you’ll notice a difference in your energy levels and mood. I am not a raw fruit eater so I have found that making a shake with the Nutrabullet or blender gets most of the fruit I need in a day! Over 40 peeps – you here? Gotta get that fiber in! Eating healthy is a way to thank God for the amazing body He’s given you!
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
My husband is quite the creature of habit. He has a routine and I do not. I look at my lack of routine and like to think of it as a “way to keep things interesting”! Stepping outside yourself sometimes means stepping outside your comfort zone. Trying something new is exciting! But then the voices come… “you can’t do that” or “they won’t say yes”. Here it is: COURAGE. Take the leap! I have been kind of down recently because I feel very alone and unfulfilled. My camera is dusty, paintbrushes are drying out… and I have not done a good job of nurturing or starting friendships. Growth happens when we step into the unknown. Sooo scary… But back to the Good Book: He says “don’t worry—you’re never alone.”
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
When we step outside our comfort zone, we can open the door to new opportunities and experiences. Sure, it might feel a little scary, but remember: Jesus is with you, and He’s cheering you on every step of the way.
When I started this site and put my creations out there, it was hard. What if they don’t like it? You know what? I am not for everyone. And that is OKAY!
Keep a Positive Attitude, Even When It’s Hard
Yep, I said it. Let’s be real: life isn’t always rainbows and butterflies. Sometimes it’s more mushrooms and cauliflower (sorry cauliflower lovers). There will be tough days, moments of doubt, and times when things don’t go as planned. But that’s okay! Jesus never promised us an easy life, but He did promise to be with us through it all.
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20 (NIV)
When things get tough, we need to choose to focus on the positive. I say choose because, isn’t it a choice that we make? We can sit and dwell on all the things that aren’t going great or CHOOSE to find the good. Gratitude is a powerful tool. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day, and you’ll be surprised how it shifts your perspective.
We’ve Got This!
Stepping outside of ourselves and making positive changes isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. Take small steps every day toward a healthier, more joyful life, and remember that Jesus is right there with you. You’re stronger than you think, and with Christ’s strength, there’s nothing you can’t do.
Now go out there, block out those negative voices, embrace the changes, and live the abundant life God has planned for you!
< insert big breath here>
My Plan:
Mental: Read my bible daily and get my strength from the Source. Block out the voices that are taking away my JOY! I have been loving the First 15 every day devotion. Give it a spin!
Health: Eat healthier, cleaner and avoid the bad snacky things AND try to consume smaller portions.
Exercise: Work out 4 times a week at the gym and/or run. Walk several times a week with Sully.
Relationships: Reach out to 2 friends this week. Plan a coffee or lunch with each within the next month.
Let’s Gooooooooo!
I would love to hear how you want to find joy in your routine. Send me a message!
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