Originally published Monday, 08 July 2019.
www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
I don’t know where you are on this topic, but if you clicked onto it, it’s either because you need someone to tell you to believe what God says or maybe it’s because you want to encourage someone else with this message. In either case, it’s okay. I just felt led by the Holy Spirit to tell you to believe what God says about you and about what He’s called you to do.
Sometimes you just need the reminder or to be uplifted by these words. Maybe it’s because someone told you something mean, discouraging, or against what God’s word says. Maybe it was your mother, father, sister, brother, child, friend, co-worker, church member, boss, leader, boyfriend, or even your husband who told you something that made you question your identity in Christ or what the Lord has predestined you to do. Again, I don’t know why you clicked on or who it is that bothered you in this way, but I’m glad you’re here to receive encouragement.
We all need it. Including me. Sometimes the people who are the closest to us are the ones who hurt us the most. Have you ever heard that before? And they don’t have to be a blood relative. It just has to be someone who is close enough to discourage you, hurt you, or make you feel so low that you suddenly begin to question yourself, who you are, or what you were created to accomplish here.
But don’t do it, sis! Don’t allow it to shake you or keep you down. Don’t let it sap your strength or tenacity to remain strong and steadfast in knowing who you are in Christ or what you’re here to do, because offenses will come.
Go back to God’s word. Go back to His promises. Go back to what the Holy Spirit whispered to you in your quiet time. Go back to the truth. Go back to believing what God says about you. I’m only telling you what I, myself have done and will continue to do.
And don’t get bitter or unforgiving. Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ forgave you.” I know this may be easier said than done, but we've gotta do it, sis. Trust me. There is so much release when we do this. And we can’t lose with obedience. ;-)
Also, don’t begin to hold a grudge against the offender. Because that’s exactly what our great enemy, Satan would want you to do. Rather, resist him and release any individuals who have hurt you. In other words, don’t give into the devil’s bait. Unhook yourself and flee the temptation to hold any offense or grudge, and choose prayer and love instead.
Remember what 1 Peter 4:7-8 says, “The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.” And keep in mind what Proverbs 17:9 says, “Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.” So, love others by forgiving them and praying for them. Love is HUGE to God and prayer connects us to the One who can change things.
And lastly, know that you are fearfully and wonderfully made, sis. You are His masterpiece. You were created for good works. Once you have believed and accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, you are a child of God. You are identified in Him by the Holy Spirit. So stand firm and believe in the truth of who He says you are, live according to the truth that He has written out to you through His word, and do what He has called you to do.
Be encouraged, my sister. No matter what happens, especially in the dire times that we’re living in, do not be shaken! #believeGod
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
QUESTION: Has someone told you something that you are not? Has someone discouraged you or hurt you emotionally? If you need prayer, you can email me directly and I will pray for you @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you and praying for you.
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