New Study Series: “Beliefs that Destroy” an 11- week, faith-based look at how unhealthy and destructive belief systems drive our life.
We invite you to read through this introduction and consider joining our weekly conversation.
Beliefs that Destroy – Introduction
What drives our belief system? Not only in faith, but everyday life?
How is it one person can easily believe he or she has value and though not perfect, is cherished and loved and another just as easily believe he or she has no value and made to feel less-than simply because he or she is not perfect?
Perhaps it is a direct result of experience; not so much in what we have heard all our lives, but rather what we have witnessed or how we have been (or currently are) treated. One can say, “I love you” and it brings value and comfort. In the next breath, however, we are terribly mistreated. Which has the lasting impression? Which leaves a scar on our soul?
An apology and change of behavior by the one who wounded us can be forgiven and reinforce that love is the mark of the relationship and healing can happen in a reasonable time and not permanently injure us.
What happens though, when the mistreatment was/is the rule rather than the exception? It builds in our minds a belief that we have no value. When we begin to believe that thought, our behavior will follow. Our belief system in all areas of our life drive our actions. Actions drive consequences. Consequences reinforce our beliefs. It is a vicious cycle that destroys our soul.
Over these next few weeks, I invite you to join in on this conversation on how beliefs will positively or negatively control our actions and how they relate to the beauty and power of God’s grace.
Consider the following passages – They will be the basis for this series:
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”
2 Corinthians 10:3-6.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:21
We will look deeper into what this means as we move forward.
Have you ever considered your belief systems a treasure – even if they are unhealthy beliefs? The majority of us feel safe in the familiar regardless of how unhealthy it is. We come to believe the unknown is far more dangerous than the known. The unknown brings a sense of lack of control, where as the known is familiar (even though unhealthy) and therefore, controllable. This is the first and strongest false belief. Upon it, we build every excuse or justification for living in anxiety or other destructive coping behaviors.
The good news is, Jesus can deliver – Jesus does deliver, but we must change our belief system. We have to reach out to the unknown and uncertainty and we have to trust. Sounds easy to some, but to others who have been abused spiritually, physically or emotionally, this does not come easy. It is not as simple as reading a scripture or memorizing positive quotes designed to build confidence. It takes commitment to exchanging the truth for the lie.
The most incredible news is that God is merciful, gracious, patient and knows exactly where each of us come from and He willingly died for you and me because we were worth it to Him. You – me, are a treasure in His sight.
We all have wounds that need healing. Jesus invites us to learn to trust Him and do away with our hidden and unhealthy treasures and replace them with His incorruptible gifts of beauty and grace.
Each Sunday morning, I will post a new subject that will examine the truth and false belief as well as provide biblical truths for strength and the renewing of our mind.
My prayer is that you will be encouraged to Rise Up in confidence and healing.
What are your initial thoughts? Feel free to invite your friends to join us.