Applying 10 themes of Rosh Hashanah to my daily life! Day 6: The Ten Days of Awe between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time when we evaluate our lives over the past year, and look for opportunities to change and improve. Traditionally, it’s a time to repent and ask forgiveness in preparation for judgment on Yom Kippur, hoping to “tip the scales” and be written in the Book of Life for another year, rewarded with a new year of happiness.
As we evaluate our lives, we need to be aware that we actually choose life or death (Deut 30:19) with every thought we think (Prov. 23:7) and with every word we say (Prov 18:21). With every thought, emotion, and word, we are either agreeing with and aligning ourselves with God (and his truth) or the enemy (and his lies). We are either releasing God’s power in our situations or Satan’s power.
Here’s just a “short list” of the types of thoughts, emotions and words that align us with the enemy and give him a handle, influence or power in our lives: being critical, judgmental, condemning or down on ourselves, others or God (Rev. 12:10); resentment and bitterness toward ourselves, others, or God (James 1:20); unforgiveness (Matt 18:34-35), dread, fear (2 Tim 1:7), stress, anger (Eph 4:26), dwelling on the negative — and that’s just to name a few! However, we agree with God and release His power in our lives when we think and speak whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, of good report, of virtue and of praise (Phil 4:8) and whatever is helpful for building others up according to their needs! (Eph 4:29).
As you hear the “wake up call” of the shofar blast this season and examine your life during these 10 Days of Awe, it’s time to “wake up” your awareness that with every thought, emotion and word — you’re either in agreement with God or with the enemy. Life or death — it’s your choice!!
L’Shanah Tovah! “For a good year!”
