Just-If-I

For some odd reason, I woke up this morning thinking about the word justify.

My mind started plotting what I might write about and thought I might delve into my award-winning skills of rationalizing and justification.

Craving some sweets? Awe, come on, a little bit won't hurt.

Shopping for that one more thing you don't really need? Awe, come on, it's so cute, and hey, you work hard; you deserve it.

Want to go out on a weeknight when you really should get some sleep? Awe, come on, it will be fun!

I've often joked that if there were an award for a Woman of Bad Influence, I would win, hands down.

If you need a friend to help justify a sassy choice, call me; I can help.

But, knowing the spiritual vibe we are going with here, I figured that probably wasn't the right angle to go with.

I started to think about the word justify and started sounding it out. I'm sure my husband was concerned about what I was thinking as I started saying "jusss tiii fffyyyy" out loud.

Then I heard it.

Just

If

I

Just if I try

Just if I hope

Just if I trust

Just if I believe

Just if I open up to the possibility

Just if I pray

I started thinking about how we justify our decisions to stay small and avoid taking brave risks to change and move forward.

When faced with fear or vulnerability, justifying our safe choices is natural.

What could happen if we "just if I" through our fears and go for it?

What if on the other side of our fear we move into our just-if-I-cation and uncover something more amazing we could imagine?

I'm willing to give it a "just if I."

What is one think you can just-if-I try today?

And hey, if you need someone to help you rationalize and justify the big and bold move God is whispering to you, give me a call; I can help!

2 Timothy 1:7

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Isaiah 41:13

For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.