*Overthinking*

Life isn't always easy. Things happen, unexpectedly. Tragedy comes. Hard times come. It is hard not to get distracted sometimes. There have been times when I've found myself dwelling on things, situations, and circumstances. When I start to dwell on them, I tend to overthink. It is hard not to get wrapped up in thoughts. If you struggle or have struggled with this before, then you know how anxious it can make you feel.

I remember a time in my life when I struggled with feeling completely hopeless. It was a hard time for me. I began to question everything, and I started to doubt God. To everyone else who knew me, I appeared happy and carefree.....but It was all just a mask to cover up my struggle. I could not slow down my thoughts, my worries, and the "what ifs" kept coming. I could not seem to feel peaceful.

Then, I came across a verse in the Bible, and God spoke to me through it. This verse was so life-changing for me:

"Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and BRINGING INTO CAPTIVITY EVERY THOUGHT to the obedience of Christ."

 2nd Corinthians chapter 10 verse 5

I realized that I need to TAKE EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE- Have control over them so that they do NOT have control over me. I must not let them run rapid, but rather stop them in their tracks from doing so. If we do not take our thoughts captive to the obedience of God, then they can mislead us without us realizing it.

Something that has helped me is to pray this every morning:

"Lord, please protect my mind from any thoughts that are not of you."

This may seem like a simple prayer, but it is such a powerful one. We cannot do things in our own strength. We need Christ. That is why PRAYER is so important. Especially prayers about our thoughts. THROUGH HIM, we gain strength to overcome.

"I can do all things THROUGH CHRIST who strengthens me."

Philippians chapter 4 verse 13

Glory to God!!

Hope this helps and have a blessed day!!!

-Melissa