Why Aren't I Thriving?: A Multi-Part Series

I have decided to try something a little different with this blog. In order to expand upon my last post about trying to thrive in God's love, I have decided to start a brief series outlining potential roadblocks to thriving that I learned about in the past year. I think it's very important to be aware of potential struggles along the narrow path and I think this "Why Aren't I Thriving?," or W.A.I.T., series is a way to explore these issues.
This year I am determined to live with a deeper awareness of my surroundings and with a deeper awareness of the people in my life. I gained some inspiration and desire to change while listening to the song, "The Redeemer," by Sanctus Real. This song is a reminder to move forward and thrive despite finding yourself down for the count. Even if it means starting over completely, it is totally worth it in the long run in order to follow the path and purpose God has planned for your life. The following is the song in its entirety:

Sometime I just wanna start over

'Cause everything looks like a wreck

And I need the courage to carry on

'Cause I can't see what's ahead

And there are places I've wished I could be

Battles I've wanted to win

Dreams that have slipped through my hands

I may never get back again

But I'm still a dreamer, a believer

Oh, I lost my faith in so many things

But I still believe in You

'Cause You can make anything new

Sometimes I just wish we could say

All the things that are easy to hear

Ignore the injustice we see

And explain every unanswered prayer

But I'd rather speak honestly

And wear a tattered heart on my sleeve

"Cause in the middle of my broken dreams

Redemption is here

And I'm still a dreamer, a believer

Oh, I lost my faith in so many things

But I still believe in You

"Cause You are the answer, the Redeemer

Oh, I've given up on too many things

But I'm not giving up on You

"Cause You can make anything new

I don't have every answer in life

But I'm trusting You one day at a time

"Cause You can make a weak heart stay alive

Forever

And this is where heaven and earth collide

I lift my hands, I give my life

This is how my weary heart stays alive

Oh, I'm still a dreamer, still a believer

And You are the answer, the Redeemer

"Cause You can make anything new

Yeah, You can make anything new

On a final note, I would like to call to your attention Psalm 37:23-24, which reminds us that the Lord will not forsake us, even when we stumble. As I launch the W.A.I.T. series, meditate on these words in order to focus on thriving: "The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand."