Learning Patience, Self-Kindness, and the Power of Taking Life One Day at a Time
Life doesn’t always go according to our plans. For many, including me, this year has been a season of challenges and purpose-forced growth—one that has pushed boundaries, tested resilience, and forced reflection on the true meaning of strength. From heartbreak to financial struggles, from loneliness to moments of despair, there are times when life’s weight feels overwhelming. Yet, it’s often in these challenging seasons that we uncover lessons we could only learn by walking through the fire.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” — James 1:2-4
In the face of hardship, we’re given opportunities to grow in ways we might not otherwise choose. This is about finding hope when things feel hopeless, learning to be patient and kind with ourselves, and developing the courage to take life one day at a time.
Embracing Self-Kindness and the Art of Patience
When life takes a turn into difficult territory, it’s natural to start looking inward with a harsh eye. We question decisions, doubt our worth, and replay mistakes, often taking on burdens we don’t need to carry. However, one of the most powerful lessons to learn in challenging times is the value of self-kindness and patience.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.” — Psalm 37:7
Just as we would extend compassion to a friend going through a tough season, it’s essential to offer ourselves that same grace. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and growth is often slow.
“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” — Psalm 103:8
True resilience comes from learning to be patient with ourselves, to allow each day to be a step forward—even if it’s a small one—and to celebrate our wins. Self-kindness means forgiving ourselves for what we cannot change and embracing the journey, no matter how difficult.
Letting Go of Control and Trusting God
One of the hardest parts of navigating life’s storms is facing the reality that we don’t have control over everything. Anxiety about the future can easily overshadow our present, leaving us paralyzed with fear. During times of financial instability, relationship loss, or uncertainty about tomorrow, anxiety can feel like an unshakable shadow.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5-6
The truth is, we often cling to our own understanding, trying to find solutions to problems that are bigger than us. But sometimes the most liberating thing we can do is let go and place our trust in God rather than ourselves.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
Taking each day as it comes allows us to focus on what’s right in front of us, to manage the things we can control while letting go of the things we can’t. This shift in perspective brings a peace that only comes from realizing we don’t have to carry every burden alone.
Setting Healthy Boundaries and Reclaiming Self-Worth
Challenges in life often reveal where we have let our boundaries weaken. For some, this can look like sacrificing personal needs to hold onto a relationship that isn’t serving us. It’s easy to let self-worth be tied to how others treat us, or to compromise values for the sake of keeping the peace.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23
Setting boundaries is not just about keeping certain people at a distance but about protecting our own peace when we are with them. Boundaries help us remember that our worth is not determined by anyone else’s approval or validation.
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” — 1 Corinthians 15:33
Learning to set boundaries is part of the journey toward self-respect, and it empowers us to find peace, even in the face of loss or change.
Finding Peace in Being Alone and Embracing Solitude
In times of change, especially after the end of a relationship or the loss of familiar routines, being alone can feel like loneliness. But being alone and being lonely are not the same. Solitude can be a pathway to self-discovery, a chance to reconnect with who we are outside of our roles, relationships, or achievements.
God uses Moses to remind that “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14
Even Jesus embraced solitude, seeking it as a way to connect with the Father.
“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” — Luke 5:16
In these quiet moments, we can reconnect with our purpose, focus on our personal goals, and develop inner strength.
Building a Future, One Step at a Time
When life feels overwhelming, setting big goals can seem daunting. Financial instability, career uncertainty, or personal loss can make the future seem like an impossible mountain to climb. Yet, even in the face of overwhelming odds, it’s possible to build a path forward by taking things one day at a time.
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” — Matthew 6:34
Dreams and goals don’t have to be abandoned because of difficult circumstances. They may just need to be approached in smaller steps. With patience and persistence, dreams that seemed out of reach can become realities.
Holding Onto Hope and Staying Rooted in Faith
Even during the darkest seasons, hope can act as a guiding light. When everything else seems uncertain, holding onto faith—whether in oneself, or God, or simply the idea that things can and will improve—can be a source of immense strength.
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” — Hebrews 11:1
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” — Romans 15:13
Faith reminds us that the future holds possibilities we may not yet see, and that growth often happens in unseen, gradual ways.
Embracing the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Every season of life has its lessons, and the challenging ones often teach us the most. These times can shape us, refine our character, and draw us closer to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our purpose.
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 1:6
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28
By choosing to take life one day at a time, by letting go of things we can’t control, and by holding onto hope and self-respect, we become more resilient, more compassionate, and ultimately, more fulfilled.
If you find yourself in a season of difficulty, remember that it’s okay to feel every emotion, to take every small step, and to lean on faith as you go. Trust that each day brings you closer to healing and growth, and that this journey, no matter how hard, is part of creating the life you’re meant to live.
— Be blessed and be well 🤍
©️2024 Denise Kilby New Hope MHCLC Assoc. All rights reserved.
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