Summertime is inevitably a time of spiritual dryness. There are distractions, vacations, celebrations and so many other things that tempt our time away from the things that matter most. As I pondered what this summer would be, three things immediately came to mind. These are warnings I give MYSELF first and foremost, because I’ve struggled with them before.

Hear these from my heart, friend, as a word of caution:

1. You will be tempted to compare your life to the “highlight reel” of other people’s vacations, style, fitness, and accomplishments. Don’t do it. Instead, focus on what God has placed in your life—learn from and find joy in it.

2. You will be tempted to abandon your quiet time in lieu of other more “exciting” things. Don’t do it. Staying connected to the Lord will keep you centered on the right truths.

3. You will be tempted to find your self worth in other people—new friends or a summer romance. Don’t do it. You can enjoy other relationships without having them replace the source of your true value—God. He is the One who calls you beautiful and forgiven.

These words may seem cynical, but where there is opportunity for temptation, there’s also opportunity for victory. In Christ, we don’t carry around a spirit of fear, but one of power, love and sound judgment (2 Timothy 1:7).

I encourage you to pause and pray over this summer. Ask God how He wants to use and grow and shape your heart into His likeness. It will hurt sometimes. It probably won’t meet your expectations. But it will always, always be for your good.