Break Free
May 28, 2024
What’s Holding You Back?
A Journey of Transformation
By EmpowHer State Coordinator, Jenny Baxter
Be inspired to step out of a personal rut and into a brighter future
Do you ever feel stuck in a never-ending loop? Caught in the same old patterns, day after day? You’re not alone. We all battle with our own ruts—whether it’s overeating (hello, chocolate lovers!), overworking (those deadlines can be brutal), or other habits which keep us from living our fullest lives.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to stay trapped in those patterns forever. Phew!
It’s a struggle that has plagued humanity for centuries. Some call it “sin”—a loaded word, perhaps, but fitting when these habits hinder our growth and well-being.
Even long ago, in the days of Jesus, people grappled with these challenges. Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians (2:1-3), described it vividly:
It wasn’t so long since you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world dictate how to live, filling your lungs with polluted unbelief and exhaling disobedience. We were all in the same boat.
My paraphrase based on The Message Bible
But here’s the twist: God didn’t lose patience with us. Instead, in His immense mercy and love, He embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. Imagine that—the Creator of the universe reaching down to lift us up, setting us in the highest heavens alongside Jesus, our Messiah.
Realizations for Transformation
As you contemplate changing your present to shape a different future, consider these two powerful realizations:
You Are a Unique Work of Art: You’re not just a random collection of cells. You’re a masterpiece, lovingly crafted by an awesome Creator. Your quirks, talents, and flaws—all part of the canvas that makes you uniquely you.
Bury the Past, Embrace the Future: God doesn’t want your past to hold you captive. Whether you’ve fully left behind old ways, still struggle with them, or haven’t yet encountered Christ, there’s hope. Your future isn’t determined by your past.
You’re a masterpiece, lovingly crafted by an awesome Creator.
Break Free . . .
. . . and Change your Future
We all wrestle with cravings—chocolate, caffeine, TV, you name it. But did you know that our desires stem from our thoughts? Change your thinking, and you can change your destiny. Creating change in your life is almost always a mind game. You are the only one who chooses your response to every situation. Paul’s advice in Romans 12:1-2 (MSG) echoes this:
“Take your everyday life—sleeping, eating, working—and offer it to God. Don’t conform mindlessly to culture; fix your attention on God. He’ll transform you from the inside out, developing maturity.”
My paraphrase based on The Message Bible
So, why not? If you break free from those ruts, embrace transformation, and live your fullest life, things will change.
It is the life that you are meant for.
TAKING IT FURTHER If you would like to move ahead in your transformational journey, Jenny is ready to work with you. To express your interest in personal mentoring or coaching, please get in touch: jenny@tasbaptists.org.au
Jenny Baxter lives in Hobart, is married to Stephen, and enjoys walking by the beach, making sourdough cinnamon scrolls, and encouraging women
GO BACK TO HEARTLANDS AUTUMN/WINTER 2024 >