God's Mission
Luke 12:7
So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Hebrews 12:1-11
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
God Disciplines His Children
4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Pondering Point
What is hindering your walk with God? What is slowing your capacity to run the race marked out for you? While sin easily entangles us, other things hinder us as well. One hindrance can be attitudes we hold toward ourselves. They might need adjusting in order to align with God’s word about us.
Today is a good day to introduce a list gleaned from author Mark DeJesus’ book, God Loves Me and I Love Myself.
8 Practical Ways to Love Yourself
as God Loves You
- Ask: How would I approach someone else I love who is going through the same battles? What would my mindset be? Apply that to yourself.
- Create New Self-Talk. Build a new narrative about yourself, Rid yourself of harsh language and discouragement. Build self-affirmations and encouragement based in God’s Word.
- Practice Self-Acceptance: Though you don’t plan to stay where you are, it’s okay to accept and start where you are at.
- Practice Patience: Be patient with yourself (“this will take as long as it takes”). Let go of the pressure and negativity.
- Practice kindness for yourself over your life. What does God’s love and kindness say to you about your situation?
- Get clarity. Get clear on what it is that you want.
- What is the one next step? (maybe that you are avoiding)
- Take care of your temple (heart, soul, mind, strength)
Prayer
Father God, help me to identify and reject any unhealthy attitudes toward myself. Show me how to build a new biblical narrative of myself. I want to love You, my neighbors and myself well. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.