May 1, 2006

  Puzzle Pieces

Have you every tried to go and hang out with people that are not like-minded? Have you ever tried to be like someone else? Have you done things just to fit in? The truth is we all have.

Did you feel uncomfortable or something just didn’t seem right? This is because you are a unique piece of God’s Puzzle. You have your own custom made spot. If someone were to hand you a bag full of puzzle pieces and tell you to put it together, do you know what it will look like in the end? No, that’s how our lives work. God has an ultimate picture and plan and we sometimes find ourselves in places that don’t feel comfortable.

So what am I saying, it’s time to evaluate your piece. Are you trying to fit somewhere that your not supposed to fit? Is there weight that you are carrying that doesn’t fit? It’s not all about physical weight, but weight that could be holding you back emotionally, relationally, spiritually and physically. How can you tell? I know from experience, God has called me to a more mature place than I sometimes act. He has shown me recently that I have emotional baggage from being a child that still runs my life. Emotionally, I shut down and I have suppressed feelings deep down in my stomach. Those emotions cause me to overeat because I’m still trying to suppress the feelings.

Physically that’s not healthy. Emotionally it is not healthy. Spiritually it is not healthy. Relationally I use the weight to keep myself protected. People have hurt me, so I want them to stay away from me. Spiritually I should pray. It’s hard, but it is what God has asked of me. He is my father and loves me very much. In Hebrews 13:5 says, “He will never leave me nor forsake me.” Psalm 46:10 says, “If we just be still and know that He is God we can make it.” Take the time to pray and ask God where your piece goes. As we start the 1st Annual Carolyn O’Neil Fitness Race, evaluate what part of this race you are running.

  Is your race emotional, physical, relational or spiritual?

  Weekly Encouragement Scripture

Jeremiah 29: 11-14, For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."

Contact joshlyn@mynewtemple.org or go to “Let’s Talk About It, on our message board for further discussion of this topic.