When you feel defeated and you're at the end of your rope, it doesn't help to have someone tell you that everything is going to be okay. Why is that?
Because something inside you is telling you that it isn't going to be okay. In fact, that voice is screaming, "IT IS NOT GOING TO BE OKAY!" But, whose voice is that?
You may be tempted to believe what psychology has to say. You may accept that this negative inner dialog is simply coming from your ego, but you'll be left wondering why that piece of information didn't help you at all.
There is a secret to not feeling defeated. You have to learn to recognize who is speaking. When you realize the "who," you will be able to walk out of that dark place you are currently in.
Let's go back to the beginning. Way back.
After Adam and Eve ate the fruit from the forbidden tree, God came to them in the garden.
Gen 3:8
... the man and his wife heard the Lord God walking about in the garden. So they hid from the LORD God among the trees. Then the LORD God called to the man, "Where are you?"
He replied, "I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked."
The LORD asked, "Who told you that you were naked?"
Adam and Eve were naked before they ate of the fruit. Had anything changed? Sure. A lot changed. But rather than focus on the concept of sin entering the world, I'd like you to take a moment to consider the words: "Who told you that you were naked?" Because, in these words we can find freedom.
Think about your own life and ask the question as it relates to what is making you feel defeated today.
"Who told you that you need money to be happy?"
"Who told you that you need that person to find fulfillment?"
"Who told you that you're a failure?"
"Who told you that you're always going to be sick?"
"Who told you that you'll never measure up to God's expectations?"
Do you know that you have an enemy? He was in the garden with Adam and Eve and he is still active in this world. The Bible says that our adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
The next time that negative thought comes into your mind, capture it and remind yourself who is telling you these things.
God is for you, not against you. He did not bring you into this season of life to die. He fights for you. He prays for you. You are dearly loved.
Hidden in Christ, you are treasured by God. Anyone who tells you different is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
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John Michael Hileman
Author of MESSAGES
