Counting Blessings – #006: What’s New With You? (Did you know God moves in different ways?)

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. – Isaiah 55:8

In my walk with God, there are also things I've come to notice about myself. One of them is this: when that time of the month comes (you know, girl things).

Our emotions can become so strong. We get very emotional, and if you're a girl, or if you have a sister, you can probably relate. 😵‍💫

In the past few months, I've found myself getting emotional over small things. I've felt guilty for not waking up early to read my Bible, had negative thoughts, dealt with mood swings, and so on.

At first, I just wanted to get rid of all of it. I kept thinking, I don't want to feel this.

But God helped me in a different way.

I've read some posts from fellow Christian girls, and like me, they also struggle during that time of the month. They encourage others by reminding us that what we feel is normal. Completely normal.

God still loves me. God still cares for me.

Then they'd follow up with encouraging advice.

Minsan, hindi ko na rin kasi maintindihan ang sarili ko...

But one thing I'm really grateful for is this: Aside from the truth that God loves and cares for His children, we also have a High Priest who truly understands what we feel — and His Name is Jesus. :)

Hebrews 4:14-16

[14] So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. [15] This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. [16] So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

He knows me.

He understands what’s going on inside me.

What a loving Father...

Fast forward to now, I can say that things have changed. When it's that time of the month, it feels different from how it used to be.

I even use an app now to track when it's coming, so I can prepare ahead. 😅

And these are some of the things I'd love to share with you for that time of the month:

- Spend less time on your phone or social media (the world is changing fast, so keep yourself away from negativity).

- Read some helpful or uplifting books.

- Take time to rest.

- Listen to uplifting, relaxing, or even helpful songs to boost your mood. (I usually listen to Christian songs, especially when that time of the month is approaching. If I go for something secular, I listen to OPM or jazz. Sometimes, I explore other songs too, but I choose them carefully.)

- Acknowledge what you're feeling — name those emotions (I'm still learning this the hard way 😶).

- Always remind yourself that God is with you—a God who can calm you and give rest to your heart. 💖

Aside from these, I want to try new helpful things too! If you have something that helps you, please share it, I'd love to try it as well!

This is also helping me in another way. It's teaching me to understand others more, especially other girlies like me.

For example, with my Mama, I've learned to pause and think: Why is she feeling irritated? Where is she coming from? Instead of reacting right away, I try to understand her emotions too.

I even had the chance to share with my younger brother what we girls go through during that time of the month, to help him see things from our side and understand why we're sometimes the way we are. And sometimes, I even remind him ahead of time. 😅

'Cause I feel so guilty when I get a little sungit with him. (Love you, lil bro 🥰😆)

Above all, I thank God for His grace during these moments.

And if you're going through the same thing I am, this is your siszum, cheering you on! 🤗✨

peace. love. joy.