Category: Level: Intermediate

For the last two weeks we have been looking at overcoming shame and self-rejection. The first week is here. Last week we began a practical process for doing this. This week we continue with that process as we work through the key step of forgiving and accepting your younger self, which is step 5. Step 5: Forgive and accept your younger self. If one of the issues is that you believe your younger self committed a sin then go through the process of forgiving them outlined below. Remind yourself that everyone is sinful and needs forgiveness. Speak directly and out loud to your younger self. Common sins include: becoming involved in sexual matters (for example, “playing doctor,” or disrobing in front of friends); the child did not stop the abuse against themselves (even though this might have been impossible, the adult still holds this as a grudge against the child); Continue Reading →

The dwelling place of our heart and mind is very important to our growth. This is why Scripture teaches: “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. (Col. 3:1-4, ESV). Notice in this passage that our true life is now with Christ. We are united to him so our true life is where he is, which is at the right hand of God. We are united to him in death because we have died like he did. “One has died for all, therefore all have died” (2 Cor. 5:14, ESV). Continue Reading →

It is common for new believers to begin with a measure of faith and then develop a moderate level of love for God. After this the believer usually begins to encounter challenges that stretch their faith. Then the questions is whether or not the believer will push ahead with deeper faith. It is not so difficult to develop a strong love for God, even if it is not yet mature. But developing deep faith is a huge challenge that many never overcome. In other words, it is easier to develop love than faith. We see this in human relationships. A mother may truly love her son with all her heart but if he is leading a destructive life she may not even trust him to stay overnight in her house. Trust is something that is earned over time as a person proves themself. We will not risk our well-being on Continue Reading →