It’s week 1. You’ve made a resolution to Think Truth over the next few months. If this resolution had a spiritual equation, it would be this: when God does the work of saving, and we do the right thinking, we’re on the path to abundant living.
These next few months you’ll learn how to cling to your identity in Christ and sort lies from truth. So, here’s your assignment for this week.
MAKE A LIST — On a blank sheet of paper, list everything you’re thinking about yourself that is troubling or negative. Be as thorough as possible. Ideally, do this exercise with a trusted friend.
READ THE TRUTH — Read and internalize the bullet list of biblical truths below. Don’t move through this too quickly. Reading the items aloud will help firmly plant them in your mind. Reread them as often as necessary.
• I am loved as much as anyone has ever been loved. (1 John 4:10)
• I am officially one of God’s kids. (John 1:12)
• I am chosen by God. (John 15:16)
• I am inseparable from God. (1 Cor. 6:17)
• I am carrying the life of God inside me. (1 Cor. 6:19)
• I am a vital member of God’s bigger family. (1 Cor. 12:27)
• I am identified by God as a saint, not a sinner. (1 Cor. 1:2)
• I am free from any and all condemnation. (Rom. 8:1)
• I am a brand new creation. (2 Cor. 5:17)
• I am sealed and secured by the Holy Spirit. (2 Cor. 1:22)
• I can go straight to God with anything. (John 16:26–27)
• I am able to receive wisdom for any trial. (James 1:5)
• I am absolutely inseparable from God’s love. (Rom. 8:38–39)
SPLIT THE LIST IN TWO — It’s time to separate the list of what you’re feeling or thinking into two columns. With a fresh sheet of paper, draw a line down the center. Write “Lies to Reject” on the top of the left column and “Truth to Own” on the top of the right column. Ask God to help you know what negative thoughts go where.
HOLD ON TO THE TRUTH — Tear the list in two. Save the “Truth to Own” column for later. God will deal with that as well.
BURN THE LIES — It’s time for a ceremony of renunciation. Find a safe place to light the paper on fire. As you burn the list of lies, be sure to agree with God about who you are and that these lies are not it. Enjoy this ceremony.
Phew! That was a lot, huh? Take a deep breath. I’m so glad you’re taking this step to think truth, because what you think about today will be lived out in your life tomorrow. And guess what? After completing that exercise, I think tomorrow is looking pretty bright!
Until Next Week,
Karl
