Taking Inventory
Self-evaluation brings freedom
In order to experience freedom to the fullest, we must change the old way of thinking and responding. Many of our default responses are self-centered and lead us to selfish behavior that only have short-term benefits, leaving us empty and unfulfilled. Other responses may be because of religious teachings or church traditions. Either way, they all must be held to the biblical example Jesus gave us. He was the perfect example and His patience with the disciples in indicative of His patience with us. This is a process, and we must do it prayerfully and intentionally, not rushing ahead of where He is working with us. If we take the time to evaluate ourselves, our inner most thoughts, we will see which ones are bringing us life and which must change. We cannot do this on our own, we must have God's strength and wisdom to navigate this successfully. Paul encourages us in Romans to:
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2 (NLT)
OUR STORY
Quality, not quantity
We have made quality of our habit. It’s not something that we just strive for – we live by this principle every day.
The mind is an amazing tool God has given us, it not only controls our bodies and all of it's functions, but it comes up with beautiful creations, troubleshoots in all kinds of situations, and allows us to feel emotions to their fullest. But there can be a downside to it to when we have experienced things in our lives that have left wounds and scars. Shining a light on these areas takes a surrendered heart and being honest with yourself about your actions and responses. This is not negotiable. That is why this is a process, because when you ask God to show you how to let go of the hurt so you can heal, He will do that, but you may find yourself resisting. The Lord doesn't give up though, He continues to love you and draw you closer to the truth.
Many people are operating from default positions of self-preservation because of the things that have left them angry and wanting justice to be served on those who have wronged them. So when faced with having to let that go without the other person paying for that sin, the initial reaction of almost anyone is no. That is because they are still living with the old mindset that we will forgive when they ask us to. But in the Kingdom of God things are different, therefore a different mindset is needed. Paul outlines it clearly:
Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord.
Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.”
Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.
Romans 12:17-21
This is one of the ways you know The Kingdom Effect is working, you start experiencing positive changes mentally, emotionally and physically. Other things take more time and more willingne Many believe that freedom from the past is automatic when we surrender to the Lord, bit because our spirit and our souls are different things. Our spirit is where the Holy Spirit dwells, and the soul is the hub of our mind, will and emotions. Many times we are bound in one or more of these areas and we don't even know it until the Holy Spirit shows us.
Jesus lived a life full of freedom to be our example.