Know your triggers (CASM 6)

It’s extremely important, to be honest with yourself about what triggers you and causes your path to become crooked. Solely on our own merit, we are not strong enough to endure the unending arrows of temptation. I know sometimes we feel we can handle a certain situation or conversation, so we entertain it. Shortly thereafter we are asking ourselves how did I get here.

Pet peeves

We know what pet peeves are, it’s those annoying things that we allow to get under our skin. I really dislike shopping carts left in the parking lot. The wind gets a hold of them and slams them right into your car. How about when you think a parking spot is open, and you pull in full speed ahead to be abruptly stopped by that cart looking at you. Believe it or not, I had to take that to the Lord in prayer, sounds silly but that is wisdom. If I acted on my feelings, that situation could blow up into me arguing with someone and using filthy communication. Don’t dismiss the small or not so obvious triggers as nothing to surrender to the Lord.

Life is a constant opportunity to look to Jesus in prayer. No matter how big or small your triggers are, confess them to the Lord so he can refine you. Me wanting people to put the carts away is not bad. It shows respect for the customers and the workers who have to retrieve them. If I get overly passionate about it I could ruin my testimony and the opportunity to share the Gospel. Now, I just go get that lone cart and put it in the cart stall, and keep it moving.

Why are you annoyed

Sometimes it’s just an off day a rare occasion, nothing to really be concerned about. Other times everything rubs us the wrong way and that causes disconnect and breakdowns in our relationships. Your mood changes as often as the wind changes direction. This is the time to be concerned. Is it something from your past? Are you jealous or envious of someone or a situation? Are you involved in something you know is wrong? Did someone disappoint you? Is it the choices you made?

Write down your triggers

Take the time to go deep within yourself. Write down those things that trigger a not so good response and take them to the Lord. Seeing them will be a reminder that we need God’s mercy and grace in every situation. This is not to beat yourself up or point out another thing that is wrong with you. This is an opportunity to see what is hindering you from having peace, making connections, why God has not promoted you, why others may avoid you, etc.

Set yourself up for success

After the Holy Spirit reveals some things to you and He will. Utilize them to set yourself up for success. If He tells you don’t go there, don’t get involved with that, don’t eat this, don’t drink that, confront that, forgive this, it’s not because He is punishing you. It’s because He has seen you at your worst and does not desire that for you. Don’t allow that trigger to move you from under the umbrella of God’s plan, for a lifetime of emotional and mental baggage.

In conclusion

As a people, we can be very critical and impatient with others and ourselves. We all have those pet peeves and annoyances that cause us to become anxious. Have compassion and mercy towards yourself and others. When you get frustrated and want to pounce, remember someone was gentle with you. Most importantly remember Jesus extended compassion and mercy unconditionally to you many times over.