Like me, you may be wondering what it means to be disillusioned with yourself. Merriam-Webster defines “disillusioned” as “having lost faith or trust in something formerly regarded as good or valuable; the condition of being dissatisfied or defeated in expectation or hope.”
We have just turned the page and started a brand-new year: 2025. Many of us resolved to do something—eat better, exercise more, limit screen time, or read through the Bible. At some point, I have made resolutions to do all those things, only to quit before the end of January! Year after year, the disillusionment with myself is palpable as disappointment sets in and my hope of staying the course is lost. Those resolutions are all good and helpful things, so why couldn’t I do it? One thing I know is that I started each of those decisions totally depending on myself to succeed, with motives that were self-centered. However, this year, 2025, I challenged myself a bit differently.
The Bible Recap is a resource I often refer to when studying the Bible or writing devotionals. It is a yearly Bible reading plan that follows the Word chronologically. The creator, Tara-Leigh Cobble, also provides a brief recap of each day’s reading. Several friends followed the plan in 2024, and admittedly, I was jealous when they posted a celebratory graphic on social media on the last day of the year saying, “Congratulations from The Bible Recap for successfully completing the plan.” It was frustrating that another year had passed and I had yet to read the Bible through from beginning to end. My attitude began to improve, though, as so many of them posted their excitement to start again on January 1, 2025!
Sunday’s message reminded us that we need to admit where we need help to overcome our disillusionment. That is exactly what I did as I determined to begin The Bible Recap plan myself. I asked a couple of friends to hold me accountable, and they not only agreed but also joined me on the plan. Twenty days in, and we are going strong!
I am praying that you know it is never too late to make a change, to start over, or to forgive yourself. Start by asking God to help you, and then gather some friends who will encourage, support, and pray for you.
