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The Best of Me

I probably sound like a broken record, but this is a very busy time for our family. I am notorious for putting too many irons in the fire. My need to please others usually overshadows logic, and I end up feeling less than best. We are an active bunch, and I stay busy. When I feel stretched as I do now, the enemy loves to creep in and make me feel less than. Have you been there? His favorite tactic is to use my emotions against me. He loves to whisper that I'm not enough. That my best isn't what people need. That all of my work means nothing.

Logically, I know this is untrue. The Word of God tells me so. But some days, my heart takes over and my emotions come out-raw and unfiltered. This week, I had such an experience. Looking back on the situation now, I can recognize that my thought process in the middle of what was happening was completely irrational. I let my heart do the thinking. Mistake number one. I allowed the enemy to whisper the "less than" lies and believed them. Mistake number two. I was tired and trying to do too much at one time. Mistake number three. It was a perfect storm for the flesh to show out in a big way.

Fortunately, I am blessed with people who love and care for me despite my moments of weakness. They forgive me when I have calmed down and realize what has happened. I'm so grateful for that. In times like this, I can relate to the words of Paul:

I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. (Romans 7:15 NLT)

The point is, I was weak because I have been too busy to feed my spirit. The best of me was nonexistent because without Holy Spirit, there is no best version of me. Christ, my Redeemer and Friend, is the best of me. When I neglect that friendship, I become less of who I am in Christ. 

In moments like this, I recognize the need to stop and let Holy Spirit just hold me. To be comforted by the ultimate Comforter. His voice counters everything the enemy has whispered and, like a healing balm, clears away the murky thoughts that have clung to me. I begin to see myself again how He sees me. I remind myself that His voice is the Truth. I shed every other identity except the one that is in Him. 

Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5 NLT)

I can definitely do things apart from Christ, but it won't be my best. It loses meaning and purpose. I would so much rather live my best with Him every day and allow others to see Him through what I say and do. He is the Best of me.

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.

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