” . . . research indicates that both men and women struggle with feelings of inadequacy, though in different ways. Women tend to blame themselves, assuming they don’t have what it takes. Men typically blame their circumstances, believing that someone or something else is at fault.”- Kyle Idleman
“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.”- 2 Peter 1:3 (NLT)
As Kyle Idleman continues Chapter 6 of Don’t Give Up, he talks about the first lie we believe and the truths from God that set us free.
Lie #1: You don’t have what it takes. One factor making this an easy lie to believe revolves around the many opportunities social media presents for us to compare ourselves. As a result, when we compare our normal lives to the idealized version of other people’s lives, it seems like we fall short. Furthermore, linked consequences to this lie include (> = which leads to): perfectionism > guilt > anger > fatigue > feeling trapped > escapism.
In conclusion, Kyle explains why this first lie tricks us:
“This lie is tricky because there’s some truth in it. That’s how the best lies work. If a lie was wholly untrue, you’d recognize it and reject it. But there could be some truth to the idea that you don’t have what it takes — it’s just not the whole truth, and the whole truth is what sets us free. Here it is: With God I have everything I need to do everything I need to do. . . . Stop and spend some time with it. Get to know it a little better. Because this truth is life-changing (emphasis Kyle’s).”
Today’s question: What most helps when you find yourself struggling with feelings of inadequacy? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: Downsize the problem: reassuring – and dangerous”
