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"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

Last Friday, I answered and explored Q2: Who do you choose to lease space to in your head and heart? Today, let's explore Q3: Do the living and working environments you expose yourself to daily bring you joy and fulfillment, or pain and regret? First, I would like to begin by letting you know that there is no such thing as a trouble-free life. No matter what we do or how much we love doing it, there will always be days filled with joy and other days filled with regret. So, let's not get confused. When I raise the above question (Q3), I'm digging much deeper than whether you're having a good day or a bad day. I'm referring to a chronic, persistent experience of regret. Persistent thoughts and feelings of disappointment, missed opportunities, and unaligned connections that can date back months and even years. If that's where you are, I have spiritual advice for you. Don't wait too long to make a change. Don't look up and find that it's 10 years later and you are still chronically devastated. It's never too late for God to redirect your path.

We are, by nature, creatures of habit to one degree or another. The thought of change frightens many people to the core, which is why people are often more comfortable with intentionally making the same mistakes over and over again, while simultaneously convincing themselves that the outcome will one day be different. Whether we believe it or not, that kind of thinking is the very definition of insanity. 

If you are chronically ill spiritually, psychologically, and/or emotionally, and it's clearly impacting your ability to experience more joy and fulfillment, and less pain and regret, especially when it comes to work and living environments, please practice the following principles: 

Principle 1 "Be Real with Yourself"

Authentic self-evaluation can lead to facing reality and forging real, lasting change. 

Principle 2 "Feel What You're Feeling (Feelings Are Messengers)"

Fear, sadness, anger, and happiness all come with messages. From the message, don't be afraid to identify your needs. 

Principle 3 "Interpret and Learn"

Acknowledging your feelings will help you understand the what, why, and when: What happened | Why it happened | The Timing of your Choices.    

Principle 4 "Life Canvas"

Stop painting your entire life canvas with a broad brush. You can leave space for different life strokes and patterns. 

Principle 5 "Letting Go"

Remember, deep emotional ties to past mistakes are as complex to let go of, and if not careful, can lead to repeating them instead of relinquishing them.  

Are you ready for an environmental change in terms of where you work and live? Do you want to experience a more consistent pattern of joy and fulfillment, and less pain and regret? Please practice the above-listed five principles, and carry this Discipleship Devotional in your spirit, heart, and mind as you prepare for what life has in store for you today.    

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