Meaningful Monday: Let’s Focus on What to Do When We Feel Wobbly

When I was admitted to the behavioral health unit of our regional hospital back in September of 2014, my husband, Gary, and one of my friends each gave me a copy of Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. The first devotion I read included these words: “You are feeling wobbly this morning….”

That was an understatement. Complete hopelessness had led to my stay in the hospital, so I certainly resonated with the idea of being “wobbly.”

That word has been coming to mind in recent weeks. I’m not hopeless, but something is off. There’s a wobble in my daily life that needs to be addressed.

It’s taking me a bit longer to fall asleep at night, and there have been a few mornings when I have gone back to sleep after the alarm went off.

I’ve been reaching for snacks, games on my ipad, and other distractions when stress levels rise, instead of digging into all of the projects I say I’d like to complete.

My thoughts are spinning a little too much, keeping me from focusing on the important things in life. That’s why I missed a Focus Friday post a few weeks ago and this week I’m writing a Meaningful Monday post.

I’m not sharing this to alarm anyone or to get sympathy. I’m writing it because I know others are going through a similar season of “wobble.” I can see it in their Facebook posts and comments. I can see it on the faces of people around town and at church. I can hear it in the voices of family, friends, and people I listen to on social media. Many of us are getting quite wobbly.

So what are we supposed to do? Let me suggest a few ideas:

1. Talk about it. Don’t struggle in silence. Just admitting that we’re a little wobbly to those closest to us can help us to find our footing in these crazy times. You may feel better and you just might help someone else by voicing your feelings.
2. Do something. Figure out what helps you to stop wobbling and do those things. It’s going to be different for every person, so try some things and keep a list of what helps so you can go to it when you feel that wobble happening. (If the wobble has gotten too bad, you may need professional help. Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor or counselor and take their advice so you can get back to a more healthy place.)
3. Remember the truth. Often when we get wobbly, it’s because we’re believing lies about our situation, the people around us, or ourselves. Write down what you’re thinking and see if it matches up with what the Bible says. God’s words are trustworthy; our thoughts usually are not.

I’m not too worried about being wobbly, but I am taking notice of it. I know it will probably get worse if I ignore it. Living wobbly will keep me frustrated and sidetracked (and could lead to depression). Doing something as soon as I notice the wobble will get me back to moving steadily ahead.

“So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.” (2 Thessalonians 2:15 NIV)

Are you a little wobbly lately? What helps you stop wobbling? How can focusing on God help you to live more steady?