Yesterday I talked about recognizing when it is time to do heart work and then looking within to recognize those people who you need to forgive. Today I want to look back to the stories you have believed about yourself.
The first step in this part of the process is to ask the Lord to give you wisdom and discernment. You must be able to discern God’s truth from the lies of the enemy which you have believed.
This is where things might get messy. It can come as an emotional surprise to realize that something you perhaps grew up believing is not God’s truth. Be vulnerable before the Lord and let Him gently show you the way.
As you embark on this crucial step, let me remind you of the reward that awaits you.
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
You, Dear One, are in the process of renewing your mind! You are in the process of transforming your life. Jesus walks with you and so do I in prayer for your freedom. You are being renewed in the spirit of your mind (Ephesians 4:23). That is a wonderful goal!
Let’s proceed. Ask yourself: What are the stories that I have repeated and believed about myself?
Write them down.
Take a look at the list of stories and beliefs about yourself and ask the Lord if they are true. Some things may be embedded since childhood. Beliefs like the following:
- I’ll never change or find freedom.
- I’ve been like this my whole life.
- I can’t do it.
- I am never heard.
- I have no voice.
Simply recognizing the lies of the enemy is enough for today. Do not try to go any further for now. You have written them down. Great! You might also spend some time thinking about how the lies got started.
If you want to jump ahead (you overachievers out there) you can ask the Lord to speak the truth to you about what you recognize.
Regarding the above statements it might look like this:
- We know we have the power to change and find freedom through Christ.
- The truth is your past has brought you here, but where you go in the future is up to you and the choices you make. Change your choices and you change your future.
- You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. (Philippians 4:13)
- God loves you, holds you in the palm of His hand, and hears your cry.
- God has gifted you with a unique message that only you can “speak” to the world.
Next week I will go through the remaining four R’s. For now you have taken monumental steps toward greater freedom. Good for you! Over the weekend allow the Lord to show you how much He loves you.
Try this: With journal and pen in hand, simply ask God to show you how much He loves you. Scribe what you see and hear. I know the first time I asked this question of the Lord He gave me a picture which is still vivid in my mind today, Let Him speak to you in the unique language you share.
You were created for so much more! God has an amazing future spread before you and is here to help you gain greater freedom so that you can soar higher and faster as who He created you to be doing what He created you to do.