Triggers To Our Rationalizing

Well today we are thinking about a something that can be uncomfortable for many of us - rationalizing

Rationalizing – that desire that’s too often in us to explain or justify our poor behaviour or attitude with plausible reasons, even if these are not true or appropriate. How I wish I didn’t recognize it in myself but far too frequently, it’s there. 

How and why do we so easily find ourselves doing this?

At the root I think rationalizing is simply a defense mechanism - a way of telling ourselves that we are victims of circumstances beyond our control. When our thoughts and beliefs don’t match we have to find a way to build a bridge – even if we use incorrect thinking to do so.  We want to avoid sadness or pain or disappointment or someone being displeased with us.

Sometimes we just can’t quite face ourselves in the mirror and so we try to rationalize the problem away.  We want to hide mistakes, deflect blame – anything to avoid embarrassment. 

Sometimes we rationalize because we just can’t accept our human limitations and or even the limitations of others so we deny reality.  Case in point – victims of abuse rationalizing the behaviour of their abuser. 

And we also make excuses for our inappropriate actions based on the hurt we have sustained.  We reason that our wrong choices are justified because of what we have experienced. 

God has a better way and He provides all we need, in every situation, so we can work through problems with truth and grace.

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 

2 Corinthians 9:8

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

Philippians 4:13

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

Philippians 2:13

Heavenly Father, You love us unconditionally and accept us even though we fail and try to hide our behaviour with rationalizing. 

In Your kindness please show us the root cause of those behaviours that continue to damage our lives and give us courage to face what we need to face and admit whatever the true situation is, knowing that You will give us what we need to make things right. 

Today, we choose to surrender our will and life to your care.  We trust You to give us the desire and power to do what pleases You.  Amen

Let’s do our best to not rationalize today but to meet things head on.  Have a great day.