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Give it Time

My husband fertilizes our yard in early spring, long before leaves appear on the trees and tulips begin to bud. At least that’s the plan. One year however, we got a late start on our lawn. The result was a plethora of not-so-lovely dandelions taking over our usually manicured lawn. The ensuing weeds seemed to appear overnight, so my husband made an impromptu trip to the hardware store, invested in a few bags of weed killer, and began spreading it across our lawn.

In years past, the results could be seen almost instantaneously. This year, however, the chemicals seemed to have no effect. We began to wonder if the product was defective or perhaps leftover from the previous year. The lawn was not greening up, and the dandelions seemed impervious to our treatment. But just about the time we were ready to head back to the store for another round of chemicals, the dandelions began to disappear, and our lawn turned a deep shade of green.

Lesson learned. The longer something is left untreated, the longer it takes to see results from our efforts to impact change.

What’s true in nature is true in life. The longer we neglect to address toxic thoughts and destructive behaviors, the harder they are to remove. Like unwanted weeds, our neglect could spread to unwanted places and obstruct positive growth in our lives.

Breaking free from long-standing strongholds is challenging to say the least, but it’s not impossible. Just remember, healing takes time. You didn’t get here overnight, so it’s unlikely you will break free overnight.

When I started on my journey towards freedom from bulimia, I had no idea how much time and effort it would require to break free. Perhaps limited knowledge of the future is a good thing, God’s blessing in disguise. It took more than a year of intense mind renewal before I was able to break free from bulimia.

Changing unwanted behaviors is a struggle to be sure, but just like it was for me, give it time. Stay the course and keep replacing worldly lies with biblical truth. Your efforts will prove fruitful in the end.

Personal Reflection

• How long have you struggled with toxic thoughts and destructive behaviors?
• How long have you been working to be free?
• How long are you willing to keep working through the healing process?

Prayer

Lord, I know that I didn’t get to this place of bondage overnight, so it’s unlikely I will break free overnight. Please help me remain strong and steadfast. Encourage me, daily, and give me the hope I need to persevere and break free. I love you with all my heart. You are faithful, and I believe you will do it. Thank you, Lord, for answered prayer. Amen.