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Day Four: Back to School Fast & Detox

Dymond Phillips • Aug 13, 2018
Four days down two more to go. Today was actually hard for me. Today was my first off day in a long time and all I wanted to do was kick my feet up and watch tv. As you know I actually gave up tv as part of my list. I was forced to read and pray for the most part of the day. I spent my evening at a restaurant by myself listening to an old sermon by my current pastor, Dr. Craig Oliver. Going places alone is nothing new to me but going alone without just scrolling on social media and watching Netflix is. The sermon was about Advancing Through Adversities. 
 
First let me define the word adversity, it's a noun meaning difficulties. I instantly fell in love with this sermon because so many Christians believe just because they are Christians that nothing bad will ever happen to them but that's not true. One of the greatest scriptures has to be Romans 8:28, "28 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." 
 
Many non Christians always ask me, do you really believe that and if you do why even though you still have so many negative things happening to you. Things in itself may not be good but God will work them out for there good. The bottom line is that Romans 8:28 holds true no matter the hand you've been dealt. God has bis way of allowing us to go thru our seasons of suffering in order for good things to come from it. 
 
Another scripture that I think has helped me realize this was, Philippians 1:12-19 Pauls Chains That Advance The Gospel which reads, 
"12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,[a] that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[b] and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance."

This is a great scripture to read when things seem to be going wrong in life, and when your in that season of trials. It teaches us the uncomfortable situations in adversities. Paul says that even as a saint and believer things will happen in our life. At this time he speaks about the bounds that were holding him as a results of him serving christ, he's referring to him being in prison. He was in prison as a result of him doing things that are right. He is also dealing with the people who are adding infliction to his wounds. The second thing we learn in this text is the uninterrupted service during adversities. His opposition actually became his opportunity. Instead of shutting doors they opened them. God can use anything to bring his name glory. Meaning any negative situation that we have in our life, God can turn to a positive. 
 
Here's what I want you to take from todays message: Nothing just happens just to happen. Everything that happens in your life is for a greater good. Look at your life and everything negative you've been thru, think deeply about it and figure out what was the good that came from it. The next time something bad happens to you, rather than question why me God figure out what it is he wants you to get from this. God also uses our adversities for encouraging others. Whatever crisis or hardship you're dealing with, you can advance thru it. 
 
For those of you who are only detoxing I want to talk about you time. Do you ever go out by yourself. Go for a walk or out to eat even to the movies. Self time is very essential to being happy and living a positive life. Me time is great for recharging and resetting. Me time is important for happiness for four major reasons: 
1. It Reboots Our Brain and Helps Us Unwind 
After a weekend of going out and socializing with friends I look forward to my me time on that Monday. It charges my brain after all the excitement. Especially after having a long summer of doing whatever before school you need to reboot your brain before school starts. 
2. It Improves Our Concentration and Makes Us More Productive 
Do you ever feel like you don't know what to do next, or feel stuck? Me time helps you plan and figure out your decisions. Having so any voices of friends and family can be very distracting. You have to have time alone to focus. I personally work better alone. When I'm by myself I get more done. 
3. It Gives Us Space For Self-Discovery and Allows Time For Deep Thinking
We change everyday. Me time is important to find out what we like and don't like. It's essential for learning who we truly are and where we want to be. It helps us see how far we've came and all of the work we still have to do to be better. When I'm alone I get to allow 
4. It Enhances Our Relationships 
You can not have a healthy relationship or friendship without taking the proper time for your self. Even in a relationship you must carve put time for yourself. If you don't you will never be a good partner. 
Here's my challenge to you. Wake up early. I know I always talk about waking up early but it is essential for happiness and success. When you wake up at least thirty minutes early you give yourself time to focus on encouraging yourself to attack the day. The second thing is unplug from your phone, computer and tablets. When you do that you get to look up and see the roses, I know that sounds cliche but it's true. By unplugging from your phone, it allows you to look at the nature around you. Also you get to live in the moment and that's very important in the digital world we live in. Lastly, make dates for yourself. Every Tuesday I go to the movies by myself and it's essential to me having a great week. If you can't do weekly dates at least do monthly self dates watch how it changes your life. Remember that taking care of yourself keeps your from burning out which helps you be a better partner, friend, family member, boss, coworker and just. better you! 
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