It makes me sad to hear that many of you, including myself have experienced a lifetime of unwarranted abuse and are struggling with uncomfortable or negative feelings about yourself.
I hear people say, “Why do I have these uncomfortable and negative feelings about myself? I believe in Jesus, but why doesn’t it go away?”
Well, for one thing. You are not alone! For many people, including me, it’s remnant damage from a lifetime of hatred and abuse.
I, like many of you, longed to be loved and delivered from it and not to be vain but to see with healthy eyes. To see that life is precious and that each person, created by God, is a unique and wonderful individual deep down.
Too often, the world and its wickedness chip away at our identity over time, and people begin to believe the lies. So much so, that we become the lie, meaning we believe that we are no good because people who weren’t good told us so.
Folks, it is the devil’s deception, and I am here to tell you that Jesus is the answer. However, you too have a personal relationship with Jesus and do the work to fix it. It takes time including a daily change of thought and habits.
At the same time, today is the time to speak healthily and share love with your neighbor, even the neighbors who don’t share the same beliefs or values. – I find no other healthier way to be better than by building others up to be their best.
Moreover, not just for the sake of vanity and self-gratifiers but to appreciate who we are in Christ yet not love our life more than loving God.
Nonetheless, it can be tricky and a little sketchy at times. Healing from past trauma and building self-esteem can be a challenging process, but it is possible through Christ.
Having said that, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in your walk of faith, and while we seek Jesus for all things pertaining to healthy sight, seeking support from those who value you is important, such as your husband or wife, friends can be valuable but ultimately too many cooks in the kitchen can also become damaging.
Remember, developing self-compassion and self-care practices are crucial in the healing process. I put together a few steps you can put into practice in your life. Feel free to tweak them to better accommodate you as a person.
Write it down!
- Identify areas that need changing: Start by making a list of aspects in your life that you feel need improvement or change. These could be physical, emotional, or spiritual aspects.
- Break it down: Once you have your list, break down each item into smaller, manageable steps. This will make the process feel less overwhelming and more attainable.
- Seek support: Reach out to GOD, seek the word of God, and meditate on the scriptures. – Listen to the Lord’s voice. What is He saying to you in your Spirit, Test the Spirits, the enemy also loves to talk and deceive.
- Prioritize self-care: Make a separate list of biblically sound activities that bring you joy, and relaxation. Then add other activities such as spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness and reflecting, reading, engaging in hobbies, or pampering yourself with exercise.
5. Create a routine: Incorporate the word of God, and self-care activities into your daily or weekly routine. Schedule time for yourself and make it a priority. This will ensure that you consistently engage in activities that nurture your well-being.
6. Be kind, loving and forgiving. Pray, A LOT! Fast, and fast some more. – Reflect on God’s wisdom and the guidance He offers, and listen to leaders who lead you to Christ, not the world. – GOD first, people second!
Have fun with your family. Dodge the “homebody” mentality. Get out there with your kids and grandkids.
—Life doesn’t end when they’re little! Take the initiative and make the plans. Just do it!
Lastly…
You are not a victim. You may have been a survivor to get by, but now, and most importantly, you are a believer in Jesus Christ!
Scripture:
“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him loved us.” – Romans 8:37
“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” – 1 John 5:4
Much love and respect,
Sister Christine.
C. Beach ©️