Wish I could avoid topics like this, yet you just may find hope and freedom from awakening to this reality.
. . . I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
We love this truth. Jesus came to give us the abundant life, but that is only the last half of the verse — we tend to pooh-pooh the preceding part.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; . . .
Let’s be clear, only those who see Satan under every rock or who over-spiritualize things waste time on this. We’ve already won. There is no need to worry about an enemy, especially in our science-based 2017. He’ll be even less relevant in 2018.
Really?
We could point you to the endless darkness of our world, but look inward to see if it applies to you. What conversations happen inside your head designed to steal your joy, kill your hope, or destroy your faith in Christ? Do you see:
A pattern in your messages?
An intentionality to crush your specific desires, dreams, and gifting?
That the messages are accusations “to” you, as in “You are an idiot.” “You will never be loved,” “You are a coward’” You are abandoned.”
Now stop and ask: With whom are you conversing, and what agreements do these conversations resurrect?
I AM an idiot! I will NEVER be loved! I AM a coward! I AM abandoned and alone!
Think this is random? The thief does come to kill, steal and destroy, even in 2017.
We’ve heard this called head trash. Take it captive before it gets a foothold, and make significant strides towards the abundant life.
Realize you are conversing with something that hates you.
End the conversation. It can be that simple.
Pray in Christ’s name against the enemy — make it clear it has no place.
Remember truths spoken over you, as in I am His beloved, I have His warrior’s heart, I am a son or daughter of a King, I am free of the power of sin.
Sound crazy? Write down your inner thoughts for 20 minutes or so.
Prayer Idea: Stop! You have no place in my head and heart. Your words and accusations are lies. In the name of Jesus Christ, I command you to leave. I choose to relish in the truths my God has spoken over me. I chose life and hope.
Killing your head trash might remove more drama from your life than you thought possible.