Chasing WonderSample

Day 5: Real Life Obstacles 

I was running one day when I stepped just right on a large sharp rock. My foot turned, and pain radiated up my leg. Of course, in my typical way, I shook it off and kept running, then walking, and eventually limping. Next thing I knew, I had pretty new “pictures” of the inside of my foot, a walking boot and limitations to my activity. 

This boot made a significant impact on my personal life, and I was very surprised at how that boot changed the way I saw myself. I was an active person, an outdoors lover, an adventurer. Who was I without all these things? I got a little sad, which I rarely do, and that led to darker thinking and bigger questions. Would I really ever heal? Would I have to stop traveling, playing tennis, doing the things I enjoy most? They were ridiculous thoughts with no basis in reality, but thoughts nonetheless. I had been wounded and the boot was the physical representation of that wound. That boot was all I could see.

Some of you have more than just inconveniences coming between you and the life you want to live...you have wounds. Deep wounds that have changed the way you see yourself or limited your perception of what is possible for you. They may be the wounds of rejection, abuse, grief, or serious health issues. You too may need to adjust what you see and change the way you’re thinking. It may take time and practice but try to focus on the truth of God’s Word instead of whatever may be holding you back. Allow yourself to see past that one thing you are constantly staring at and set your adventure mentality free.

I am by no means claiming this is easy. In fact, let’s keep it honest, it can be exceptionally difficult. It may be easier said than done but it can be done! Cling to hope as your lifeline. Instead of concentrating on your wound, think on these things:

• “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3).

• “By his wounds you have been healed” (1 Peter 2:24).

• “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s” (Psalm 103:2–5).

• “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings” (Psalm 36:7).

When I committed to focusing on the truth in the Bible rather than the obstacles I saw before me, that negative mindset began to change, and I learned a very valuable lesson. My adventures were not stopped by that wound, but they did shift. God still had plenty of wonder awaiting me, even though I had to learn to chase some of it differently than before. 

What wounds do you need to give to God today? Write them down and then let the scriptures above wash over you like a healing balm.