Monday, May 07, 2007

Frustration


Unfortunately the truth is that in life we are going to get frustrated. Maybe our computer isn't working right. Or maybe we can't learn something we want to learn. Or maybe someone is causing us to be frustrated. Do you allow yourself to get frustrated easily? Did you notice I used the phrase "allow yourself"? Because the truth is that we have control over whether or not we get frustrated. We usually don't have control over those things that frustrate us, but we can control how we react.
And in those times that we are frustrated, how do we act? Maybe we become impatient. Or maybe we become angry. Or maybe we get down on ourselves or on life. There is nothing good that comes from feelings of frustration.
So what are we to do when we get frustrated? I believe the best thing to do is to seek God. One of the best ways to overcome frustration, if you have the time, is to find a quiet place and just BE in the presence of God. Imagine God giving you words of comfort and encouragement. Imagine God telling you that He loves you in spite of what is going on around you. But also, ask God to help you to focus on what is important in life. If your computer crashes, maybe you can get the job done another way, or with another computer. Think about a solution to the problem, instead of letting the event cause you frustration.
In focusing on God, we remember that we have One who can help us get through these times of frustration. As Psalm 42:11 says, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God."
But even more, we have to work on not allowing ourselves to get frustrated. Again, this is about focus. As Hebrews 12:2 says, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." By fixing our eyes on Jesus, we keep our focus on the goal of what God has us to do in life, and we don't let the things around us derail us.
How do you overcome your frustration? How do you keep from getting frustrated? Share your thoughts by clicking on the "comments" button below.