If only I had more money; if only I were older (or younger), if only I were better looking; if only I had better parents or a happier upbringing; if only I could live somewhere else; if only I had more education or were smarter; if only I had a rich relative, etc. Then, and maybe then, things would be different and go well for me….IF ONLY.

Many of us have entertained the “if only” thoughts throughout our life and sometimes we have remained stuck in them. These fantasy and victim mentality thoughts can be a tool the enemy uses to paralyze God’s people and keep us in a state of limbo. Who would want us to doubt that things could ever change or be better, or that God could really move in our lives and turn things for the good? The devil uses our thought realm to challenge truths of the Bible and attempts to change us from people of hope into victims of despair.

For every negative “if” we can think of, God has a positive response. For every lack that is in our life, the Lord has a provision for that need. For every heartache we have endured, the Lord is our Healer. Hurtful memories remind us of the lack of nurturing or safe environment that was missing in our childhood, but we have a wonderful Heavenly Father who loves us and heals our broken heart. John 3:16, I John 4:8

Turn to God’s Word to offset the “IF’s” attacking your mind. Let’s follow the example of Jesus who when tempted by the devil, responded by speaking the written word. Begin your journey of seeking encouragement from the Lord by meditating on His Word and believing His Word above all your emotions and thoughts. Speak out loud and declare who you are in Christ and what He has done for you and what He promises to do as well.

*I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

*Greater is He that is in me than He that is in the world. (I John 4:4)

* My God shall supply all my need according to His riches in glory. (Philippians 4:19)

*God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. (II Tim. 1:7)

*The Lord has a hope and future for me for good and not evil. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Friend, with God on your side, who can truly be against you? (Romans 8:31) Let the past be the past by allowing the Lord to heal you of your wounds and go forth into your future with God. He has already been in your future and has good things for you and He promises to never leave you or forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5)

Get the “IF’s” out, refuse to be an “iffer” and get the Word in!!