All in Confidence
When we finally surrender to His love He doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve. On our own, we’re unworthy beggars before him, but through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, we're extended an invitation to God’s table. It doesn’t matter what we’ve done. Once we’ve put our faith in Christ we’re no longer beggars asking for crumbs, we’re heirs seated at His table. Do you realize that? Do you pray and live like that?
You will never have to it all together on this side of heaven. That statement either gives you anxiety or relief. I pray it’s the latter. I don’t say that to make you feel inferior or discouraged, but to help you find freedom. Freedom from the idea that perfection is the goal; from shame and condemnation each time you fall short.
I know how difficult it can be to navigate life in a society that glorifies dating and relationships and minimizes singleness. It’s taken me years to become content with my single status. I use to endure it, but now I enjoy it - and that’s only by the grace of God. If you’re struggling to enjoy being single, I want to help you. Here’s the secret that set me free: If you want to REALLY enjoy your single life, then you have to
It doesn’t matter what people say about you or to you, what matters is what you believe. A lie has no power unless people believe it, and a narrative grows in power when people repeat it. Everyday we are in a battle, one that starts in our minds and manifests through our words. Thousands of negative thoughts are planted in us by media, our loved ones, our spiritual adversary (the devil) and even our selves. Eventually we accept the lies that we aren’t worthy, loved, or good enough. We frequently profess what we can’t do, what will never happen, and what is impossible. Our beliefs shape our words, and our words define our actions. Our words also solidify what we believe.
Singleness is NOT something to be endured. But I know it feels like it sometimes. If you’re single, I’m right here with you. I haven’t been in a relationship in 6 years. I’ve gone on dates here and there, wasted time on some foolishness, but I’m still waiting to meet God’s best for me. I know what’s it like to feel like a second class citizen, to avoid social media on Valentine’s Day, and be less than happy when someone else gets engaged because it’s not me. It’s been a journey but the biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: Singleness is something to be enjoyed. This wait has been...
I am my worst and toughest critic. I can easily give grace to other people, but I’m terrible at giving it to myself. I expect perfection, not from others, but from myself.
My perfectionist nature has led me down a dangerous spiritual path. Some time last year I realized I began to base my worth and righteousness on my good deeds. Every time I did something “for” God, I gave myself a pat on the back. Every time I fell short, I tore myself down. My inner voice often sounded like:
A few months ago a friend of mine was commenting on how adventurous and confident I am. I laughed a bit and thought to myself, "How did I get here?". I started thinking about the old me, the version of myself that wasn't confident. The me who's battled so much pain and insecurity; Who felt like she didn't start living her life until she was 25. Let me tell you about her...
