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Faith-Based Resilience: Finding Peace and Gratitude in Life's Chaos this December

Liberation Lunes

December 2nd, 2024

Can you believe 2024 is almost over? It’s been a whirlwind year, full of challenges, victories, and moments of reflection. I, for one, am thankful election season is behind us. After so much division, it feels like an opportunity for healing and unity is finally within reach.


But here’s something that has struck me over the years—sometimes it feels like we’re living in two parallel universes. As a counselor, I’ve witnessed the same fears, frustrations, and even accusations (anti-Christ, fascist, etc.) repeated about political figures from both sides of the aisle. The pattern is striking, and it reminds me how much media consumption has shaped our perceptions, often creating false realities that breed division.


While this might provide job security for therapists like me, I’d much rather live in a world of healed souls and united hearts. My passion is to help others break free from these cycles and walk toward peace, unity, and gratitude.


This December, as we close the chapter on another year, let’s focus on how we can build resilience, foster gratitude, and find strength in God.


Life’s Peaks and Valleys: Embracing the Journey

Life is full of peaks and valleys. We relish the clarity of mountaintop moments, but it’s in the valleys that our faith is truly tested and strengthened. James 1:2-4 reminds us:


"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."


This doesn’t mean we should plaster on fake smiles or deny our struggles. Instead, we’re called to see trials as opportunities for growth. Like a sculptor chiseling stone, God uses these moments to shape us into His masterpiece.


Practical Step: Journaling for Clarity

When life feels heavy, try journaling. Write down your thoughts, fears, and prayers. Over time, you’ll begin to notice patterns of growth and God’s faithfulness, even in the darkest seasons.


Reframing Challenges as Opportunities

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches us that how we think shapes how we feel and act. Philippians 4:8 encourages this mindset:


"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."


This doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties but actively seeking what’s good and true, even during hardship.


Practical Step: Gratitude Reframing

Each day, identify one challenge and find a silver lining. For example, a difficult relationship might teach you patience or compassion. Write this down—it trains your brain to focus on growth rather than frustration.


Resilience Through Faith

True resilience isn’t about being unshakeable but trusting in God’s strength when ours is depleted. Psalm 46:1 tells us:


"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."


This resilience is rooted in surrendering control to Him, allowing His peace to sustain us through life’s uncertainties.


Practical Step: Daily Prayer of Surrender

Begin each day with a simple prayer: “Lord, I give You my worries for today. Help me trust in Your strength.” This anchors your heart and mind, reminding you that God walks beside you.


Finding Unity in a Divided World

Unity begins within us. When we make peace with ourselves and align our hearts with God’s truth, we can extend that peace to others. This year, I’ve seen how connection within community fosters healing.


Practical Step: Join a Faith Community

If you’re not already connected, consider finding a small group, Bible study, or supportive friend to share your journey. Unity grows stronger when we stand together in faith and prayer.


The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude has transformative power, shifting our focus from scarcity to abundance. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says:


"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."


Gratitude doesn’t erase pain, but it reveals God’s presence in every season.


Practical Step: Gratitude Journal

Write down three things you’re thankful for each day. Over time, you’ll see how even small blessings add up, reminding you of God’s faithfulness.


Facing Uncertainty with Trust

In moments of uncertainty, Isaiah 9:6 offers comfort:


"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."


God’s peace isn’t tied to our circumstances but to His unchanging nature. When we lean into this truth, we can face the unknown with confidence.


Practical Step: A Prayer for Trust

When anxiety rises, pray: “Jesus, I trust You with my worries and future. Help me rest in Your peace.”


As we step into December, let’s commit to finding strength, peace, and gratitude in God’s presence. Remember, you’re not alone. Whether you’re on a mountaintop or in a valley, God is with you, shaping you for the journey ahead.


An Invitation to Healing- If you’re seeking guidance or support, I’m here to help. At Through the Valley Therapy, I specialize in helping individuals find resilience, peace, and purpose in every season of life. Let’s walk this journey together, trusting that God holds every peak and valley in His hands.


Visit my website at Through the Valley Therapy to schedule a session or learn more about my services.


Heavenly Father, We thank You for Your guidance through life’s peaks and valleys. Teach us to trust You deeply, find gratitude in all circumstances, and seek unity within ourselves and our communities. May Your peace anchor us as we step into a new year, walking hand in hand with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Here’s to a December filled with God’s peace and the promise of healing. Join me next week for another Liberation Lunes. Together, we’ll continue the journey toward wholeness.


In Service, Faith, Hope and Love,

Diana


And now for the disclaimer to make sure you understand that YOU are responsible for YOU:

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Liberation Lunes is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. The views expressed on this blog are my personal opinions and do not represent the views of any professional organizations with which I am affiliated. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, 911, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) immediately. Liberation Lunes does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the blog. Reliance on any information provided by Liberation Lunes, others appearing on the blog at the invitation of Liberation Lunes, or other visitors to the blog is solely at your own risk.


Confidentiality Notice:

If you choose to engage with Liberation Lunes by commenting or posting and you are a client, please be aware that you may be revealing information that could compromise your confidentiality. Remember that disclosing your identity or personal details can be linked to your clinical material. As a therapist, I am bound by confidentiality and will not respond to any disclosures of this nature on this blog. I am committed to upholding the ethics and confidentiality of the therapeutic relationship, which extends to all forms of communication, following the laws and professional guidelines that govern mental health professionals. Your privacy is of utmost importance, and you are responsible for protecting it when interacting on this platform or any other public forum.




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