Originally published Monday, 11 December 2017.
www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
If you clicked onto this post, then you’re probably trying to figure out how to work through your frustration. Are you there now? Or are you just trying to prepare for when you are or maybe trying to help someone else? Wherever you are on the subject, let’s talk about how to work through it, so that you can begin moving forward again. Ready?
Okay, so for starters, what are you frustrated about? Are you working on a project that’s got you in a tailspin? Are you frustrated with your job or church environment (hey, that happens in real life)? Are you frustrated with someone or something? What is it?
Once you’ve figured out what actually is frustrating you, start praying. Because ultimately, the Holy Spirit is the one who can lead and guide you to the next steps. He’s right there inside of you, as a believer, to help you work through it. So don’t try to go it alone. You’ll just end up getting more and more frustrated.
Jesus tells us in John 16:12, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard.” He has come after Jesus ascended into Heaven, and he lives on the inside of you. So let him lead and guide you in your next steps, decisions, what to say, and what to do.
Also, take a brain break. For instance, just take a step back from the situation or the thought of the individual. Often times, when we reach the point of frustration, we’re quite naturally trying to do something or fight in our own power or strength. And we were never meant to do that, because we have supernatural help. So breathe, take a step back, and say, “Lord, lead me by your Spirit. Please show me what I am supposed to do in this situation. I can’t do this by myself.” And then wait. Wait for the next steps.
The key to overcoming your frustration is stopping to pinpoint exactly what it is and then working through it with prayer and following the direction of the Holy Spirit. Then you can be on your way again. Otherwise, you’ll continue to experience that tailspin and tension.
To put it into an analogy format, it’s sort of like getting a massage. Once the massage therapist finds that tension spot on your body, he or she can then work through it diligently to loosen the muscle. And notice, once they work through it, they can then move onto the rest of the body. Before you know it, the tension is released, and shortly thereafter you’re off the table! Done. You can go about the rest of your day.
It’s the same way with working through your frustration. The pressure points or tension is the reality that you’re aggravated about something, stunted in growth or movement, hurt, bothered, or maybe upset or confused. I get it! I’ve totally been there. That’s why I know what works. With that being said, here are a few Bible verses that I hope and pray will help ease some of your frustration.
Here goes...
1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.” (i.e. pray throughout the process and when you’re frustrated. In other words, don’t stop praying.)
Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t worry about anything, instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Ephesians 4:26-27, “And don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.” *Don’t give him a foothold, an open door to cause you to sin again God with your anger or frustration. Work through it with the Word, prayer, and self-control.
Ephesians 4:31-32, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ Jesus has forgiven you.”
James 1:5, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you…”
Before I close this post, here are a few practical things you can do. Again, pinpoint where the frustration is coming from, pray, and wait. If you’re at your computer working on a deadline, book, article, blog post, Bible study lesson, school work, etc., I encourage you to step away from the screen or notebook and follow the above. Also, walk the floor as you pray. Meaning, if you need to just talk to God about what you’re dealing with, get up and walk and pray. Or be still before Him and have a quiet moment with Him.
If you’re frustrated with a person, give that individual to God. In other words, pray for him or her, and be honest with the Lord. Tell him why you’re so frustrated with this particular person. He can take it. He’s a great confidant! ;-) Then allow Him to guide you in how to deal with the overall situation. He’s faithful to help.
I pray that these biblical and practical tools will help you get moving again. Work through your frustration, today, my sister.
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
QUESTION: Are you frustrated about something? Need prayer? If so, you can state your request here in the comment section or email me directly @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com today. I look forward to hearing from you and praying for you soon.
ALSO, my NEW 8-Week Study Guide and Video Teaching Series from my book, "IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ & Moving Forward in Your Purpose” is coming soon!!! Stay Tuned!
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