As I continue my journey toward rest and life balance, I’ve come to realize that no matter how disciplined I am, there are still moments when I slip back into old patterns. It can feel like taking a step backward—demoralizing and discouraging, often leaving me with a sense of defeat and failure.

Whether it’s eating foods I shouldn’t, skipping a workout, wrestling with negative thoughts or attitudes, having an emotional outburst, or experiencing spiritual lethargy—there’s usually something that precedes these moments. A trigger, if you will. If we can identify these triggers in advance—right at the point of decision or frustration—and choose to respond rather than react, we stand a much better chance of overcoming them.

Proverbs 4:23 says“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”and in Lamentations 3:40 we read,“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.”

In my opinion, the key is self-awareness: understanding both our strengths and, more importantly, our areas of weakness that tend to spark undesired behaviors. Stress, fatigue, and mental or emotional exhaustion can all be powerful triggers that affect us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

One trigger I’ve recognized in myself is how I respond to interactions in the workplace and in group settings—especially when I or others are disregarded or treated disrespectfully. Two things that truly get under my skin are arrogance and being spoken to in a condescending manner. These situations ignite immediate frustration and a smoldering anger. When this happens, I have to ask myself: Why is this such a hot button for me? Is it pride? Unmet expectations? A desire for recognition? I must be honest about what’s driving me in that moment.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” — Philippians 2:3 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” — Proverbs 15:1

Having a strong spiritual foundation—values, routines, disciplines, and life practices—certainly contributes to greater life balance. But cultivating a deep awareness of our triggers is just as important. Turning to the Word of God, spending time in prayer and meditation, and leaning on trusted people in our lives who can hold us accountable during “trigger point” moments is essential.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105

Our Creator knows us better than we know ourselves. As a follower of Jesus, if I’m going to become more like Him, I must be willing to let Him shape and mold me. I must submit to His rule in my life, allowing Him to search my heart and root out anything that doesn’t belong.

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” — Psalm 139:23 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2 “We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 10:5 “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” — John 17:17

Transformation begins with the renewing of the mind—and that renewal comes from the truth found in God’s Word. So I challenge you: How do you deal with the triggers in your life? Are you reacting out of habit, or responding out of conviction? What steps can you take today to become more aware, more grounded, and more surrendered? Beginning Monday September 8^th join me for a 7 part devotional journey Recognizing your Triggers.

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