Day 9 - Today Is A Good Day

Letters to my teenage self 

A Devotional for Trauma Survivors 

Day 9 - Today Is A Good Day

Dear teenage self, 

Today is a good day. Nothing monumental is happening, but I am alive, healthy, and happy with my family. I went to the grocery store this morning, bought feed for our farm animals, and even got a hot coffee for my husband, Anthony. I have a huge pile of laundry to fold soon, and I'm looking forward to watching a silly movie while I fold the laundry.

There were years of my life where I lived in fear, and it was hard to leave the house to go to the grocery store. I was always afraid of awkward conversations, what people would think of the way I was dressed, and if I would remember everything I was supposed to buy - even with a list in hand! Fear ruled my life in so many silly ways. In fact, it ruled my life so much that I was too scared to even pick up a Bible. I was afraid the Lord was angry with me for all of my fear and anxiety, so I just avoided Him. I missed out on a lot of precious time with Him.

I sought the Lord, and he answered me;

he delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to him are radiant;

their faces are never covered with shame.

+Psalm 34:4-5 (NIV) 

When I finally learned to seek Him in the midst of whatever was going on, my life began to change for the better. My fears disappeared and I started to live more boldly. The past is behind me. The future is in front of me. I'm making new, healthier choices every day. Some days I still make mistakes, but I learn from them now instead of beating myself up repeatedly. I wish I had learned to do this years earlier, but now that I know how good it feels to focus on Jesus and the goodness of living with the Holy Spirit, I want to focus on that and keep moving forward. 

Let's Pray

Lord Jesus, You are so good. You and the Father in Heaven are always looking out for me, always placing blessings before me. Even in the mundane moments of life, I am surrounded by Your goodness and Your love. I am so thankful for all of the things I am able to do that I too often take for granted. I am so grateful that You listen to me and that I am never too much for You. I can trust You with all of my emotions, big and small. I can give my fears to You and live in boldness, Truth, and love.  I love You, Lord. Amen. 

What it looks like when I'm working on a blog post😊 

Stay tuned for another episode. See you next time! And remember, if you or a loved one is in danger, get help immediately, and don't stop talking until someone acts on your words.

National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 800-799-7233 Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish, and 200+ through interpretation service. SMS: Text START to 88788

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In Christ alone our hope is found

Run, don't walk for help! You're worth it.