As performers we often beat ourselves up! We get frustrated with our inadequacies and mistakes. As a result, we obsess becoming tangled in regrets. When I findmyself headed down the path of regrets wishing I could do this or that over, or wishing I had said this or that differently, I know I am headed for discouragement. Instead, I learning that beating myself up is unproductive. Guilt and shame make me feel isolated from God’s grace. And, God wants me to enjoy His grace! So, because I have fairly hight standards and expectations for myself, I had to figure out a plan to move beyond self -condemnation.

So, here’s the plan I came up with: When I make mistakes I confess quickly. (I John 1:9) If my mistake hurt another person, I aplogize. When I find freedom from performing I don’t need to save face – It’s okay to admit I was wrong. I then immediately begin to praise God that He cleanses and forgives my sins and promises to bring good even out of my failures! I praise Him that because of Jesus Christ there is no condemnation for me because I have placed my faith in His righteousness. (Roman 8:1) I praise him that I don’t have to live perfectly to please God – I only need to live in dependence on the Holy Spirit. (John 15:4)

So, next time you are tempted to beat yourself up – Run, don’t walk, to God’s grace! Confess your failures and then celebrate that He works even your wrongs out for your good if you have trusted His grace! Try it and let me know how it works for you!