I spent many years after my divorce and a subsequent devastating breakup feeling rejected, pitiful and powerless. We had custody battles where I feared I would lose custody of my baby girl. I’ve had scary health issues and financial loss.
It was easy to be angry, bitter and feel sorry for myself. It’s harder when you’re in the middle of it to have an attitude of gratitude. As time went by and my daughter grew, I came to realize that my poor, unforgiving attitude was harmful to my beloved daughter and me, while my ex-husband was happy with his new wife and their children. I finally realized it would be best for my daughter, and my emotional health, for us all to get along. With God and time I have long since forgiven my ex-husband and his then wife. I’m happy to say that today I have a good, friendly relationship with my ex-husband, and with his now ex-wife, and their two grown boys. They are my extended family, and I am grateful that we put our animosity aside long ago.
For many years I felt old, unattractive, obese, unhealthy and unlovable. I felt my good years were behind me. I have no doubt that attitude about myself affected my health and my behavior with others, especially on what should have been exciting dates!!
Are you struggling today with an adverse attitude about yourself, your ex-spouse or others?
Proverbs 14:29-30: “Those who control their anger have great understanding; those with a hasty temper will make mistakes. A relaxed attitude lengthens life; jealousy rots it away.”
You may well feel justified in holding onto your anger and bitterness, considering how you have been hurt and mistreated. However, if it is true, that a relaxed attitude lengthens life and jealousy rots it away, might that encourage you to want a relaxed attitude? If so, how can you change from having a negative attitude to a positive, hopeful attitude?
Phillipeans 2:5 “Your attitude should be that of Christ Jesus.”
What is your attitude about God? Do you believe He can help you with your attitude toward yourself or others if you ask Him? It may seem impossible today, but would you consider praying for an attitude like Jesus and leave the results in God’s hand?
Romans 15:5 May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other – each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other.
Today I see how God has always been with me and used my trials and pain to bring me to where I am today. I no longer feel pitiful, and although 30 years older, I no longer feel old, unattractive, obese or unlovable. My life is full, and I choose to see myself with lots of fun ahead. I am blessed with two healthy, hilarious grandchildren, both boys, ages almost 5 and 2 and ½. We laugh and play for hours and, although exhausted, I am happy and life is good.
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