“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”- Galatians 5:1
Today Mary DeMuth (The Wall Around Your Heart) continues her presentation of four kinds of kingdoms we build on earth by discussing the second kingdom, the I- Am- Awful Kingdom.
Mary observes that one aspect of building the I- Am- Awful Kingdom is the need to reconcile with ourselves. The deepest pain we have to heal from may be self-inflicted. When we abuse ourselves with condemning words we not only hurt ourselves, but radiate that pain to those around us. It’s important that we make peace with ourselves so that we can build God’s kingdom.
The author points out that when we tell ourselves how awful we are, we’re insulting God’s creative nature. God hurts when we treat ourselves poorly. Furthermore, our self-condemnation is not fruitful action. When we talk negatively to ourselves, we are enslaving ourselves- and we’re playing right into Satan’s hands. Satan is the victor when he is able to keep us so introspective that we can’t see past our prison of shame.
God already has set us free, as St. Paul wrote in Galatians 5:1. Jesus has secured our release. We are loved and cherished by our Lord.
Today’s question (from Mary): In what way have you lived in the I- am – awful kingdom. How have you been your own worst critic? How has that mind-set hurt you? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the new Short Meditation, “The pebble in your shoe”
