Don't Forget To Flush

As far as I know, this substance doesn't have a name, most likely because itis invisible to the naked eye. However, as does the microscope revealbacteria and germs upon a toilet, so, too, does this unseen substance leaveit's telltale signs in the form of emotional and spiritual distress. Howthis unwanted visitor enters our body's system is by neglecting to "flush" ona regular basis.

Flushing doubt, fear, worry, negative and unproductive thoughts and emotionsfrom our bodies on a daily basis is imperative if we are to function atoptimal physical, mental, and spiritual levels. But, if we neglect to flush,it is not long before hidden resentments and negative thought patterns beginto subtly weaken our characters, self-esteem, outlook on life, and evenaffect our walk with the Lord. We may attempt to cover up the bad smell ofsuch festering emotions, but not even a strong deodorizer can mask the scentof a wounded and infected soul.

Not too long ago, I had to come face to face with this same reality in my ownlife. Due to the fact I had been a Christian for as long as I can remember,pride and ignorance caused me to be unaware of how I had certain un-addressedissues in my life, even as far back as childhood, that had been worn aroundmy neck like a heavy chain. It was not too difficult to go about lifecarrying a few heavy links, but as my life progressed, and there would beanother serious stress or strain, so too, would my "necklace of iron" gain anew link. It was only until the day I realized I was so weighted down withemotional baggage that I was not even able to effectually operate as aChristian, that I fully realized the importance of regularly "flushing" yourinner "tank."

For those next few weeks, with the prayers and support of my Priest, I thusbegan a total elimination process; facing and addressing the many issuesfrom my past that I had never fully laid to rest. I began to forgive thosepeople involved who needed forgiving; no longer allowing resentment and scornto abide inside me. Of the situations I could not control, I also laid worryand fear aside, instead opting to invite in peace and acceptance.

I have heard individuals who, upon pouring out their heart to another, referto the outpouring as "cathartic." This is exactly what we must do each andevery day, several times a day, if necessary, to ensure no impure orunproductive emotion or thoughts will find a home within us. Every day wemust not only flush out those things that pull us farther away from God,rather than pull us closer to Him, but we must also do what we can to noteven entertain such negative thoughts and emotions. Stressing, fearing, orobsessing over an issue will not make the issue go away, nor will these healit. There is only one true Healer, and He alone, is the source of peace,comfort, and joy.

Today, set your worries aside, and let them rest in the hands of God.

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Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2003 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living Ecstatic Loving: How to have more peace and joy in marriage, and life in general by walking in harmony with God," and "Son Salutations: A refreshing collection of modern inspirations for those who seek God each day." For more information, visit her web page at www.angelfire.com/mi/melschurr