Insecurity, self-doubt, and fear of failure are devastating issues that we face. It’s an ongoing battle because we are taught by media how to look, what to wear, where to go, what to buy, and what to say constantly. If we don’t do these things or look a certain way we believe there is something wrong with us.
It breaks my heart that kids and adults alike hate themselves so much because of their belief that they don’t measure up. Some end up taking their lives because they feel they can’t face another day. And it’s not just about appearances it’s about other things such as success in business, relationships, popularity, raising children, growing old, etc.
Some common lies we begin to believe if we aren’t careful:
- If I don’t have at least 1,000 followers or friends Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram then I must be a loser.
- If I don’t have a new car, a huge house, or take nice vacations then my life is boring and depressing.
- If I don’t look like the movie stars or people in magazines there must be something wrong with me.
- If my kids don’t look like they have it all together, I’ll look like I’m a horrible parent.
- If I don’t get the promotion then I will look incompetent.
The list goes on and on of things that can make us feel insignificant and insecure. You aren’t the only one who struggles with this. We all do. The enemy wants to drag us down in the dumps. He wants to make us feel like failures. When this happens we become depressed and feel hopeless. Remember this is a lie. Hope is not lost.
I’ve been reading a bible plan on Youversion by Anna Light called In_Security. Her purpose is writing her book and this devotion is to encourage others to live in security through Christ.
In one of the devotions I was reading, Anna explained, “Our perception of ourselves, what we believe about ourselves, is the reality in which we live. So in order to live in freedom, we must make sure we are living in truth and not believing lies.”
To overcome these lies we can do 3 things:
- Recognize a lie for what it is – a lie.
- Explore what the Word of God actually says about it.
- Replace those lies with God’s truths.
Comparing ourselves to others is not the answer. When we do this we can begin to covet or wish for what they have and will begin to feel depressed and eventually hopeless. Hopeless is a scary place you don’t want to tread down.
When you see pictures on social media, you are seeing a person’s best side and their highlights in life. You don’t see what goes on behind closed doors. If you catch yourself doing this, replace those lies with God’s promises for hope and a future for your life.
God designed us with a specific purpose and plan meant to bring about joy. He is madly and unconditionally in love with us! No matter what we hear or see from others, we know who we are in Christ and that He accepts us for who we are.
A Prayer For You
Lord, help me to recognize the enemies lies, overcome them, and replace them with Your truths. Thank You for loving me and having a future plan for my life of peace and blessings. In Jesus’ name, amen!