{ Victim or Victor }

We all know somebody who just seems to be able to take everything that happens to them in stride, whether it be good or bad. But if those who seem to have it all together would be perfectly honest, they'd admit that they have their moments, too, when they struggle with whatever situation they're in. I'm pretty transparent, so it's difficult for me to hide when I'm going through a rough patch. Because of a situation in my own life that's been ongoing for almost a year now I signed up for the current Ladies Bible study at church that focuses on JOY.....

something I felt I could use more of!

The study is by Margaret Feinberg and is called Fight Back With Joy. 

(click on the title to purchase it on Amazon) 

I wanted to share with y'all this portion of our lesson for today that gives tips to break out of the mentality of being a victim. A few of these are uh-oh's for me.  Anything you read in parenthesis are my own emphasis.

1.  Avoid the Blame Game

Take responsibility for yourself and your behavior.

You don't get to choose the situation, 

but you do get to choose your response.

What are you doing to seek healing and wholeness?

2.  Pay Attention To Your Words

(these are my words, not hers....be SLOW TO SPEAK, like I've talked about in a post here )

Psalm 141:3

Take control of what I say, O Lord,

and guard my lips.

3.  Choose Forgiveness

Whether you've been wronged or committed the wrong,

moving forward requires forgiveness.

You may not have the strength to forgive yourself and others,

but God does.

4.  Wrestle With God

(this is based on the story of Jacob - Genesis 32:26)

When you find yourself in the dark and overpowered (this, to me, is a description of depression or feeling overwhelmed by your circumstances), wrestle with God until you embrace Him more deeply. Ask God to reveal Himself in the midst of difficulty.

5.  Ground Yourself In The Gospels

Jesus had every reason to become a victim yet He lived as a victor. 

(use His life as an example)

6.  Abound In Thanks

Remember how blessed your life is compared to people around the globe.  

Instead of thinking,

"I'm the only one",

remember the millions around the globe who are suffering.

Gratitude will change your perspective from what has been taken from you to all God has given you.

I'm in HOPE's that some of these suggestions might be helpful to somebody else reading this.

Have an awesome Tuesday, Friends!