In scripture, we see that repentance from our sins leads to reconciliation with God. Ultimately, this will be evidenced by producing good fruit, including the greatest commandment of loving the Lord our God with all our hearts and loving our neighbor as ourselves

Every time a painful memory returns, we are gifted another opportunity to release it—not because the other person deserves our forgiveness, but because our own hearts deserve freedom. Refusing to hold onto bitterness allows us to reclaim our peace and joy.

Today, we use the phrase “stay in your own lane,” or “keep your eyes on your own paper,” to remind ourselves that life is not a competition. But in moments of frustration, do my eyes lift to God?

This week, reflect on how perfectionism or feelings of inadequacy may be holding you back. Ask God to reveal the depths of His perfect love and how it can drive out those fears.

C.S. Lewis is credited with what I think is one of the greatest quotes on humility. He says, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less”. This posture of “self forgetfulness” is one that I pray God helps me embody. As we engage with people in our neighborhoods, homes, schools, churches, and places of work I pray the Holy Spirit would help us to forget about ourselves and genuinely say “God,please use me. I'm here first and foremost for you and then for others.”

I have more joy when I am not focused on me. The world would say the opposite - create your own joy, do what makes you happy. But God's design is so different. True, lasting joy comes from shifting our focus away from ourselves and unto Him. Together, let us intentionally, moment by moment, remember our place. In doing so shall come peace, joy, and so much more.