Paradigm Shift

A paradigm shift is a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions. For example, Covid caused a massive paradigm shift in the American workforce because people realized that they didn’t need to be chained to their desks in an office to complete the same amount of work; parents realized that their employers could be more lenient about childcare, and everybody realized that work-life balance was essential. Work should be done at work, and home time should be spent doing what you want to do – not checking emails and allowing work to encroach on every part of our lives.

A New Obsession

My husband loves sci-fi, and his latest obsession is Dune. He’s watched the old version and the new. More than once. A particular line in the movie sticks out: “fear is the mind-killer.” It’s an interesting concept and almost biblical. At very least – the echoes of “do not fear” can be understood in its constant recitation in the movie.

The Definition Of Insanity

So how do paradigm shifts and Dune relate? Often, the biggest obstacle to pursuing the life God intended for us, utilizing the gifts He has blessed us with, or stepping out on faith has to do with our fear of doing something out of the ordinary. We need to move beyond fear to trust to shift how we see and do things. How often have we found ourselves doing the same things – getting the same results and yet being frustrated? It’s the definition of insanity.

Challenge Accepted

So today, I challenge us to do something different, something extraordinary, something we’re scared to do. Because the only guarantee there is about not trying – is that there is a 100% chance that it won’t happen if we don’t try.

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.