"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference."
The Serenity Prayer
If you have any affiliation with someone who has ever entered any program for substance abuse, this prayer is something you are familiar with. It helped many in my family, and many friends of mine. It is one of those prayers that we associate with certain things, like recovery. But the key is that it is not just a few people who should be carrying this prayer around with them... we all should. Because, at times, we all need to recover from our own words.
Accepting things that you cannot do anything about means that you focus on the right things only. That speaks to the control over the mind that is needed to govern thought, and remain "sober" as you approach any possible situation. That level of mental sobriety allows for the Spirit to be all that we need, and brings forth great rewards in faith and blessing. As my wife pointed out the other day, it is not about what we can do, but rather about what God can do through us. (She is a wise woman.)
Changing what you can also refers to a level of control in the mind, because you have to make the decision to do something different, and then follow through! That process is often a painful one, as it can be quite difficult to adjust and restructure the things that need to change in life. However, if you know it must be done and you move forward with God first in your life, it can be accomplished!
Wisdom to know the difference speaks to the slowing of reactions, which takes an ENORMOUS amount of self control. Being able to look past the emotion of the moment and see into the truth of what decisions need to be made is one of the most difficult things in life (in my opinion). I have the tendency to lash out in emotion, in the moment, without thinking about the repercussions and the people around me. It's definitely not the best habit, in case you were wondering.
This prayer is a mantra for many, but it should be for all. Anyone who needs control, and we all do to varying degrees, should be praying this powerful set of words daily. The challenge I will issue, and take part in myself, is to do so for thirty days without ceasing, whenever necessary during a day, and see what difference it makes. I have a feeling that anyone who does it with me will see a change, and we will honor the Lord in doing so!
God bless you all!!!
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