The Power of Reframing: Turning Setbacks Into Setups for Growth
- Cheryl Edinbyrd
- Aug 22
- 2 min read
Life often brings us experiences that feel unfair, painful, and even paralyzing. In those moments, it’s easy to slip into defeat and wonder, “Why me?” As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I’ve sat with countless individuals — women and men alike — who believed their setbacks were signs of failure. But over time, many discovered something extraordinary: what they once perceived as loss or rejection was actually redirection — a divine setup for growth.
The Psychology of Reframing
In counseling, reframing is a cognitive-behavioral tool where we shift the way we interpret a situation. For example, instead of saying, “I failed at my marriage,” a reframed thought might be, “I discovered what love should and shouldn’t look like, and I’m free to pursue healthier relationships.” The facts haven’t changed — but the meaning attached to them has.
When we reframe, we engage the brain’s neuroplasticity — its ability to form new connections. Each new perspective literally rewires how we experience reality. Spiritually, this is alignment with Romans 12:2: “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Setbacks as Teachers
What if setbacks are not punishments but teachers? Consider these:
A lost job can become the push to pursue the calling you’ve ignored.
A painful breakup may free you from cycles of emotional neglect.
A health scare may awaken you to prioritize rest, nutrition, and holistic wellness.
In each case, what looked like a dead end was actually an initiation into deeper purpose.
Setbacks as Teachers
What if setbacks are not punishments but teachers? Consider these:
A lost job can become the push to pursue the calling you’ve ignored.
A painful breakup may free you from cycles of emotional neglect.
A health scare may awaken you to prioritize rest, nutrition, and holistic wellness.
In each case, what looked like a dead end was actually an initiation into deeper purpose.
The Spiritual Dimension
Spiritually, reframing is more than “positive thinking.” It is surrender — a recognition that God, Spirit, or the Divine has a higher perspective than we do (Isaiah 55:9). When we invite Spirit into our pain, we no longer ask only “Why is this happening?” but also “What is this teaching me? Where is this guiding me?”
Practical Tools for Reframing
Shift the Language – Replace limiting statements like “This is the end” with “This is the beginning of something I can’t see yet.”
Seek the Lesson – Journal daily on: “What is this experience teaching me about myself, others, or God?”
Anchor in Gratitude – Each night, write one blessing that came from a situation you thought was negative. Over time, you’ll see the hidden gifts.
Reflection Questions
Where in your life are you still calling something a failure instead of a teacher?
What language do you use when speaking about your challenges — and how might Spirit invite you to shift it?
If you believed this season was a divine setup, how would your actions change?
Closing Affirmation
“Every challenge I face carries the seed of transformation. I choose to see my setbacks as stepping stones, and I trust that Spirit is aligning me with my higher purpose.”
About the Author
Dr. Cheryl Edinbyrd, LPC-S is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Midwife, and Naturopathic Practitioner. She serves women, men, couples, families, and organizations, providing counseling, midwifery, and holistic wellness services.
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