“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:31b-32 (ESV)
This is not something I haven't read before...I have heard it all my life. But in the battlefield of the mind, it is the best weapon I know.
Jesus, in John 8, declares the keys to freedom:
1. Abide in Him. (now we don't use the word "abide" anymore in regular English venacular so what else can we use?) Let's try "reside" in Him or "stay" in Him. Hang out. Be joined at the hip with. I love how the Message says it, "If you stick this out, living out what I tell you..."
2. Know the truth. Wow, that's a toughy. The truth, not versions of the truth. Have you listened to cable news. You'd think we were living in different countries when you compare network news to MSNBC, CNN, and Fox. The source of truth is living and active in God's word.
3. The truth will set you free. Freedom from all that binds me today will flee...as I hang out with God and read (and apply) His word.
This has a transforming effect...but it must be a daily discipline in my life.
I know in my own life, as a highly sensitive person, I do play a repertoire of negative tapes in my head that often feel like truth...first it is my voice parroting the tapes, then my parents, and then sometimes I hear God's voice parroting the same things...
This is not truth...but landmines in my battlefield. God only seeks to build us up and encourage us, even if it is in words of conviction. Our enemy desires to belittle and verbally abuse us, to the point that we are chipped away to nothing of any use...unless we picking up God's word...the sword of the Spirit...and let Him defend me through it.
Help me today, Lord, to know the difference.
I'm following along with you as you post. I may not comment each time, but I'm adding prayer support for you, just the same.
ReplyDeleteYou are truly a kindred spirit. Bless you and yours on this journey.
ReplyDeletexoxo