Going through the motions

Are you a fan of Christian music? If so then you’ve probably heard of K-LOVE radio. If not, tune it in next time you’re near a radio – 106.7 FM. They play awesome music, and in my life it has often been a direct line from God’s mouth to my ear. A perfect example of this occurred recently as I was heading down Youree Drive. I almost always have K-LOVE on in my car and Matthew West’s song The Motions came on. I’d heard it before, but this time I really HEARD it – one line in particular: “I don’t care if I break, at least I’ll be feeling something.”

This stopped me in my tracks. As someone who suffers from bouts of depression, I can tell you with certainty – that is exactly what it’s like. There have been times in my life when I’ve prayed for it all to end just so I wouldn’t have to face the monotony of going through the motions. Thankfully I had people around me that helped me to see that I didn’t have to live like that. With the help of God, my family and friends, and getting active here at Broadmoor UMC, I’ve learned how to catch myself before I fall back into unhealthy habits. I still have bad days where all I want to do is crawl into bed, but it doesn’t have the same effects as it used to.

Growing up in the church I’d heard it all – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” “Trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding.” “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” But it wasn’t until I hit rock bottom and felt Jesus right there with me that I really began to believe it. If you are tired of the same old, same old and need a change, talk to someone – a friend, a co-worker, a Sunday School teacher.

Hearing that song made me think back to the darkest times of my life and realize that I wasn’t alone and I really CAN do all things if I look to Christ instead of myself. We can’t do it by ourselves – we aren’t made to withstand the pressure. With God on our side, we don’t have to just go through the motions – we can live each day with the joy and peace that comes from giving it all to God.

– Kelie Taylor