On Sunday, Shawn talked about the lies we tell ourselves. Unfortunately, sometimes in life we are taught things that are untrue. Our own families can impress upon us ideas about ourselves that are inaccurate.
I work with teenagers in a public school library. The library is a place that is seen as safe, and attracts a lot of students that struggle with lies they believe about themselves. Sadly, I have had way too many students tell me that their parents have told them such things as they wish they had never been born, they’re stupid, or even worthless. My heart hurts so much when I hear these stories. We often don’t realize the burdens people carry.
When Josh Reynolds spoke a couple of weeks ago, he mentioned that the science of the mind matches up with the principles taught in the Bible. This should be no surprise, but how amazing is it that biblical truths written hundreds of years ago apply so aptly today?! Paul’s statement in Romans 12:2 is foundational to training our brains for truth, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” We need to dwell on positive messages and speak encouragement to others, as well.
When I speak with my students, I do my best to reassure them of how I see them as beautiful humans with all kinds of qualities to offer the world. Who do you need to speak truth to? Maybe it is yourself. The Bible tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Look up some affirming scriptures like this and paste them around your home. Train that incredible brain of yours to overcome the negative with life giving words.
