FAITH……

The last post was about  HOPE, which prompted me to think about today’s post of FAITH. Thus, the picture of the Swiss Alps Mountains (2016) because it has been said that ‘FAITH can move mountains’ (Matthew 17:20).

The first thought that comes to mind about faith is belief in doctrines of a specific religion.  Yes, for sure that is one definition of faith. Today, I wish to write about another facet of faith…….faith in ourselves.

Faith is defined as: “a firm belief in something for which there is not proof” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary).  Achieving  our goals  or even our personal wants in life requires having faith, great faith in ourselves, that we CAN reach that goal and have that which we aspire to.  It doesn’t mean that this will happen overnight or that it won’t take some hard work and soul searching. At times during the journey, it may seem just as overwhelming as climbing the mountain pictured. If doubt plays a role for too long, we may give up, or  worse yet, not try again.  Faith  in our own strengths, abilities and fortitude is in jeopardy of being replaced by negative thoughts of weakness, lack of skills and determination to complete the process. Not a good place to find ourselves, which requires quick action in order not to get mired in this spot.

There are ways to help ourselves if we find that we are counter productive to having faith in ourselves. Here are a few thoughts:

1. Develop a personal POSITIVE short mantra that you say each morning and night out loud. Write it down and keep it with you.
2. Visualize through picture/pictures what your goal/want is. Put it up in your work area so you look at it everyday. Memorize what it feels like to accomplish this.
3. When the negative thoughts come in, immediately tell yourself to STOP and replace it with your POSITIVE mantra.
4. If you find yourself out of your comfort zone, push through it, and let your comfort zone expand.
5. Above all, give your self credit for the little steps or tasks accomplished on the journey in creating greater faith in yourself. This motivates you positively in the right direction.

“Hope is putting faith to work when doubting would be easier”  (Thomas S. Monson).

What do you need to do to increase your FAITH within yourself today?