“God wants to help us get to the place where — in every area of our lives and hearts — we come to realize what God has done for us is bigger than what others have done to us. Where what God has said about us is greater than what others have said about us or to us.”- Christine Caine
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”- Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)
In Chapter 2 (“How You Can Incorrectly Name Yourself”) of Your New Name, Esther Fleece Allen reminds us that a name possesses power to bless or wound us. And sometime we experience both in rapid succession. For example; one minute we know ourselves to be loved by God. But the next minute, Satan taps us on the shoulder and reminds us of old labels that no longer define us.
However, new names exists for all who trust God and identify as His sons or daughters. First, though, we must let go of the labels keeping us from that identity. As a result, Esther takes a look at six labels that limit. In the process, you discover the entry point for your false name or label. Because identifying what you’re not helps you hear who you are. Today Esther covers the first label.
1. You are not your past. Neither your past nor things done to you define you. Certainly, it hurts anytime others label you due to your actions, as if those actions form the totality of your identity. Above all, Satan tries to use your sins or strong convictions to label you. Hence, that prevents you from seeing yourself as God sees you.
In conclusion, Esther talks about how to heal and move on in healthy ways:
“Our past serves a purpose, and we need to do the hard work to heal and move on in healthy ways. Ignoring our past or ignoring our old names will provide a healing in name only – one that won’t benefit our spiritual walk or anyone who walks alongside us.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you realize what God has done for you? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Over identifying with our circumstances”
