“Hope is nothing else than the expectations of those things which faith has believed to have been truly promised by God.”
-John Calvin
It is tempting to look at our circumstances to determine truth rather than look to Jesus, especially as we find ourselves dealing with unmet expectations. Our personal experiences can leave us frustrated and we’re left wondering if God really has a good plan for our lives. And there is nothing more the enemy desires than to discourage you, using your vulnerabilities, fears, and insecurities to undermine your focus.
In order to reframe our thinking, we must first ask ourselves, “Where are we looking for our peace? Who or what are we trusting instead of Jesus?” If you’re like me, you might have your defenses raised a bit when you hear this question. Of course you are trusting God, right? But I find that as I go deeper beneath the surface there are other things that I am clinging to other than God. The more I sit with the question, the more God exposes. It is uncomfortable but necessary. As we wade into the deep, these questions help us to uncover any stronghold that is distorting our identity and twisting the truth. Then we must remember what God says is true about us.
As you do some soul work this week, here are 7 promises by God that you can rely on. These promises will fill your mind with life and peace. Meditate on them. Memorize them. Declare them. Live them out because they are true.
– You are uniquely and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
– You are God’s masterpiece. Ephesians 2:10
– You are precious, honored and dearly loved. Isaiah 43:4
– You are free. John 8:32
– You have overwhelming victory. Romans 8:37
– You have been showered with kindness, wisdom, and understanding. Ephesians 1:8
– You have new life. 2 Corinthians 5:17
This is who you really are. Ask God to help your heart align with His truth. Pray that He would help you understand the confident hope you’ve been given…to understand the greatness of God’s power which is available to you…and to empower you with strength in your inner being. When you start to live into your true identity, you will experience a mind controlled by the Holy Spirit…which is filled with life and peace.
Which promise is most meaningful to you today? Do something that will help you remember His promises. Try writing it on an index card and carrying it with you or put in on the screen of your phone or computer. Take notice how you are changing by the power of His promises!