Meditation for Perfectionists – Tuesday June 22, 2021

A Healthy Habit

Mark 5:18-20: “…The man…begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him…” (vv.18-19).

For most of my life I avoided using the word, “no.” Sometimes it meant I participated in situations I knew were contrary to God’s will for me. Often it meant I hid my opinions or feelings when they differed from someone else’s thoughts. I neglected my own physical and spiritual needs for rest, because I could not refuse the request to work late “just one more time.” I felt used and burned up.

Eventually I realized I could no longer function effectively always giving in. I began to say “no” at appropriate times. At first it felt extremely unfamiliar and uncomfortable, but in time I developed a healthy habit.

One of my journal entries indicates my progress. I wrote: “No, no, no, no, no. No, no, no, no, no. No, no, no, no……..” No’s filled the page. The last line read: “And IT’S OK!” Musical notes lined the margins.

I am singing a new song.

Lord, help me to have the courage to say “no”
when I believe it is sensible to do so.
I want to follow your example.

Copyright Joan C. Webb

For more from Joan Webb visit www.joancwebb.com