Continuing the previous post a bit further…
When I mentioned the voices of influence in our lives, I was mainly referring to our beliefs which in turn can shape our identities. The things we believe about ourselves try to define us when God intended for scripture alone (what He says about us) to be the defining factor of who we are in Him.
Throughout our lives our identities are shaped by parents, siblings, peers, coaches, teachers, schools, experiences, environments, fears, successes, culture, society, pastors, advertisements, media, etc. They are all vying for influence in our lives to affect the thoughts we have about ourselves. Yet most of these influences are promoting a sense of false identity.
When asked to share something about yourself to someone, do you think of where those thoughts originated? If you think I am a failure, I am not good with money, I’m not as pretty as them, I’m unlovable, I have the worst luck, etc. My question is Who told you that? Was it your parents, your ex, your friends, your illness, or your own self-talk? Why do you believe what you believe? Are you holding every thought captive to what scripture has to say?
Our victories and defeats are driven by our beliefs. These beliefs also dictate the depth of our intimacy with God. Who you increasingly believe God to be and, in His light, believe yourself to be is fundamental to intimacy and victory. Cords of victory and identity are firmly tied together.
Two causes tend to lead to defeat for children of God:
1) What we have not yet learned
2) How we have been deceived
Can we spot well spun lies that have been buffed to shine by a serpent? or are we to fall victim to sin like Adam and Eve did when they were deceived? Every time we choose sin, we are acting on a lie.
Once again, Who told you?
Plant your roots in Christ and let him be the foundation for your life. Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be grateful. (Col 2:7, CEV)
But to as many as did receive him, to those who put their trust in his person and power, he gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12, CJB)
