What Influences Your Self-Talk--And What Can You Do About It?
Do you ever call yourself names? Tell yourself: I can't, I'm stupid, why try, just give up?Whether negative messages have come from our parents, a teacher, or some one else, they can burn themselves into our minds and become part of our belief about ourselves. We can even be the source of our own distorted thinking.Diane convinced herself that she was dumb, no good at school, and unable to accomplish anything of significance in life. Decades later she examined what she told herself and broke free.Sandra's destructive self-talk belittled not only her intellect but her beauty. "My mother always said I wasn't very bright or beautiful," she confessed, "so I just kept on telling myself that. It never occurred to me to question what I was told."Misery inducing messages gnaw away at our personal and spiritual growth. Which ones pop up in your mind? Here's some ways to break the hold of these deeply embedded lies that keep us from living as God's confident women:1. Review and challenge your thinking:Ask yourself: Why do I think this about myself? (What/who is the source?)Is what I'm saying to myself Biblically true? (i.e. Does God say this to me?)What are the consequences if I believe this? (How does it impact my life?)If you struggle with this issue (and most of us do at some time), take time to chew over these questions. You might want to write them on a card and carry it with you. Snatch those odd moments in the day and ask God to give you spiritual insight and wisdom to overcome this bondage.Jesus said, "You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free." That means His truth about yourself, as well as the truth of Salvation through Christ alone--both bring freedom.In my next blog I'll continue giving you helps to get free of negative self-talk. These excerpts are adapted from my book, I'm Too Human to be Like Jesus--Spiritual growth for the not-so-perfect woman (Formerly titled: I Wish I Could Be More....) To read more, order your copy from my website: www.poppysmith.com