40 Days to Awaken Your Sober MindSample

I get it, Sister. It’s easy to focus on what your partner, your friends, or your culture should change. But Sis, this work starts with you.

Romans calls us to do our part. Granted, this is a personal journey, but not a solo one. The personal part comes in by “staying in our own lane”. Having like-minded support is so valuable. Our part is to allow the Holy Spirit to guide us in being more Christ-like as he produces the fruits of the Spirit in us. I don’t know about you, but that’s enough to keep me focused on what’s going on in my life and personal transformation. It should leave me with little to no time to compare, dictate, or try to control someone else's path of sanctification.

Matthew reminds us to tend to our own eye before pointing at others. Change flows outward from within. We cannot change others, but we can be a positive influence. By obeying the Lord and walking in humility, we can be the change we want to see in the world and in the lives of those closest to us. The Lord wants to start with you.

Your life is a living invitation. When people see your clarity, consistency, and joy, they notice. But even if they don’t, you’ve changed. Remember, we live, move, and have our being through Christ, our audience of One.

Stop trying to fix others. Start tending to the fire God is lighting in you. Shine bright like a city on a hill, because God will use your story as a witness of His grace, power, and mercy.

Prayer:
God, I release the need to change others. Do Your transforming work inside of me. Help me be a light without striving to fix others. Keep my gaze fixed on You.

Journal Prompt:
Where are you trying to manage someone else’s response or choices? What would it look like to focus on your own growth?