Monday, January 15, 2024
While speaking with a dear friend, she asked me, “Why do you tear yourself down like that?” It was the first time anyone had ever called me out on my negative self-talk. I preferred to think that my self-deprecating remarks made me funny, more relatable, and humble. But as I considered her words, I found myself speaking those negative words to myself even when no one was around.
John 10:10
“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”
I am outspoken and passionate about how important it is to believe what Jesus says about us, his followers. How had I allowed Satan’s lies to affect what I thought about myself and steal away the abundant life that Jesus promises?
Starting with silly jokes, I entertained Satan’s lies and ignored who God says I am. Over time, my behavior impacted my thoughts and actions. Because I know that my identity affects my destiny, I had to acknowledge my habit and break it!
Do I want to be a person who reflects the negativity I feel about myself onto others? No!
I want to be a person in whom the light of Jesus shines brightly, inviting others into fellowship with me and the Lord. I want to love as Jesus loves because I am one in whom Christ dwells and delights. I want to live in the unshakeable kingdom of God, who loves me.
2 Peter 1:3-4 NIV
3 His divine power has given us everything we need to live a godly life through our knowledge of him who called me by his own glory and goodness! 4 Through these, he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption of this world caused by evil desires (emphasis added).
I have learned the goal is to remain in his love and let his truth about you shape your identity. Your spiritual intention must be rooted in a daily understanding of who God says you are. Only then will you be on the right track to get to where you want to go.
Bottom line: Your identity shapes your destiny.
Questions:
Who do you say you are? Does your identity agree with what God says about you?
Next Steps:
Ask a friend or family member to observe your self-talk. Take their comments to heart and to God. Speak with him about who he says you are.
You can Google “Identity in Christ Verses” or check this out. You’ll be amazed at all the wonderful verses that remind you who and whose you are!
Listen to this song to remind yourself of the truth about your identity in Christ.
21 Days of Prayer - Day 8—My Calling
Today’s Prayer Focus: To Know my Calling (1 Peter 2:9)
Prayer:
Dear Father, as a follower of Jesus, you have given me the right to be your child. You have set me apart and called me one of your chosen people. I can now show others your goodness and be a light to them in this dark world. Help me shine so others can see you. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
2 Peter 1:3
By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.
This post was written by Lauri White, a regular contributor of the Living it Out.