Have you been lied to?

 

Photo credit: dlistman

Within the systems of the world we are taught to build an image for ourselves. The world sells to us ideas like "you don't want anyone to know that you don't know the answer" or "you need to have this and that to be more socially acceptable" or "if you show weakness, people will think that you are pathetic". Some things have been so ingrained in us by the media and culture that we do not even realise it. We have been taught to be fake up to a certain level to avoid rejection or shame even with our closest friends. There will always be a certain culture that your friendship circle creates and if you act outside of that 'norm' then I bet you that you would not be comfortable to share it with anyone.

It breeds certain insecurities in us which can easily isolate us from friends or family because of shame or guilt and make us feel very alone. This is exactly what the devil wants and they are all lies. When he isolates us, his lies can consume us and break us down. Telling us how little we are worth and how we are a burden to everyone. The most fundamental thing that the devil can attack is your identity. The Bible says: “Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” The moment that we forget who God has made us to be and what our identity is in Christ, it will render us defenceless. God is in us and that makes us stronger than any lie this world can throw at us.

Don't let feelings of guilt or shame destroy beautiful relationships which you have built, including your relationship with God. When we do something that we are ashamed of, it should give us even more reason to run to Jesus, because He forgives freely and takes away all our guilty feelings and shame which the devil taunts us with. He does not judge, but welcomes us with open arms.

The definition of mercy is “not receiving the punishment that we deserve”. The definition of grace is “receiving the abundance of blessings which we don't deserve”. Jesus shows us perfect mercy and gives us perfect grace and in Him there is no condemnation. Nothing can separate you from the love of God.

 “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Rom 8:1

“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Heb 4:16

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.” Rom 8:11

“The thief (devil) comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Hillsong United - Bones