Discerning the Voices

 Funny how, in my bed at 5 AM, the first thing I think about is work. My next thought is how I need to not think about work.  Work is important, and fulfilling, but why is it my first thought of the day?

What first pops into your head in the morning says a lot about your subconscious motivations and maybe fears. Examining first thoughts provides illumination about sabotaging beliefs and habits. For someone who has cleaned their emotional closet and determined their path, first thoughts empower and fuel their fire, helping them fly past doubts and excuses.  

For me, the first thoughts of work are rooted in insecurity, driving me ruthlessly to prove myself competent and capable, even if the task or workload is unreasonable. Honestly, these thoughts come from the voice that says, "I am worth loving- let me prove it." 

Sigh.

As I shake off sleep and accept the 'gift' of another workday, the intentional, trained mind recognizes the tyrant voice. The black, lying voice that says I need to perform in order to be accepted and loved. I hear the voice but I don't listen. 

They actually remind me that I need words that are light, affirming, and most importantly, true. 
"I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life," says Yeshua. "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

So I intentionally write this blog, read my devotion, and start work at the normal time.  I choose to establish the day through meditation and reflection, including a dose of God's words. I need a roadmap for every day because I know all too well the frustration and confusion that plagues me if I don't intentionally consider the path I want to travel. 

I can't stop the first thoughts, they are what they are. But I can act counter to the ones that are lies. It's subtle, I know. But like a 3-degree drift, you will miss your destination completely. That won't be me. 

Sunrise in the U.P.