.png)
.png)
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of unmet expectations? Perhaps in relationships, career, or even your personal goals? These moments of longing, frustration, and confusion can feel isolating. But what if those very moments—the ones that seem to shatter us—are actually part of God’s plan to shape us, to heal us, and to set us free?
In my poem "It Matters," I explore the journey from longing to liberation, and how God’s love has the power to transform our perspective. Today, I want to reflect on how this poem relates to the broader themes of emotional wellness, faith, and healing through the lens of my 5 pillars: Look, Up, In, Out, and Around.
🎥 Watch the video version of "It Matters"
The Journey Through the 5 Pillars
1. Look: Adopting a Growth Mindset
In "It Matters," we’re reminded that the pain we experience isn’t wasted. Every disappointment holds the potential for growth. By shifting our mindset to see challenges as opportunities for God’s work in our lives, we begin to embrace transformation rather than resist it.
Reflection Question: How might God be using your current struggles to shape you for something greater?
2. Up: Aligning with God’s Purpose
This poem highlights the importance of surrendering to God’s guidance. Trusting Him requires faith that He sees the bigger picture even when we don’t. Isaiah 61:3 reminds us that God gives us beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, and praise for despair. When we align our hearts with Him, we discover purpose in every season.
3. In: Cultivating Inner Peace and Self-Compassion
The poem’s raw honesty reflects a desire for inner healing. It’s a reminder that self-compassion and forgiveness—both of ourselves and others—are crucial to emotional wellness. We can’t move forward without first acknowledging our pain and allowing God’s love to heal the wounds we carry inside.
4. Out: Building Healthy Connections
In relationships, whether romantic or platonic, we often seek validation. "It Matters" reflects the journey of realizing that our worth isn’t tied to others’ approval. Healthy connections begin when we root our identity in God’s love and seek relationships that reflect His truth and grace.
Reflection Question: Are your connections nurturing you, or are they pulling you further from who God is calling you to be?
5. Around: Shining Your Light
When we release the weight of desperation and embrace the freedom that comes from God, we become a light for others. The poem’s message of liberation and hope is a powerful example of how our stories can inspire others. Matthew 5:16 reminds us to let our light shine so that others may see God’s work in us.
Why It Matters
This poem is not just about my journey; it’s about yours, too. It’s an invitation to reflect on the areas of your life where you’ve been holding on too tightly, searching for fulfillment in places that cannot sustain you. God’s love is the ultimate anchor, guiding us from despair to hope, from bondage to freedom.
Poll: What Resonates Most with You?
Which pillar of emotional wellness do you feel God is calling you to focus on right now?
Look: Growth Mindset
Up: Trusting God’s Purpose
In: Healing and Inner Peace
Out: Building Healthy Relationships
(Vote in the comments or use the poll below!)
Final Thoughts: Look, Up, In, Out, and Around
As you reflect on this devotional and poem, I encourage you to pause and assess where you are on your emotional wellness journey. Look at how God is growing you. Lift your eyes Up to Him. Check In with your heart for healing. Reach Out to others for connection. And Shine Around to reflect His light.
Remember, you are God’s masterpiece, created with intention and purpose. Trust in His love and the transformation it brings.
Thank you for joining me today. If this resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Don’t forget to share this post with someone who might need encouragement.
Until next time,
Natalie
Comments