Stepping Stones: Condemnation Free

17 August 2009

Transformational Tip
We all have inadequacies, shortcomings. But sometimes there is a false standard we are held to that contributes to those feelings of inadequacy. That's why marketing and advertising are so successful, they point out (sometimes with embellishment) our problems and then tell (sell) us what we need to be adequate, satisfied, whole, healed, better in all areas we struggle. Actually, we are all born with an accurate sense of extreme inadequacy. Why? We are separated from God and desperately need Him...in fact designed to need Him. Our sin separates us from God and condemns us. So many of us carry the constant burden of condemnation. These feelings keep our heads down, smiles off our faces, and our lights shining with a very dim light. Does this describe you? Does it describe others you know? These feelings come from a lifetime of arrows constantly launched at us. Some of those arrows come from those closest to us...words and glances of disapproval from parents, friends, spouses, kids. We are not good enough, smart enough, strong enough...pretty enough. Know that all the arrows originate from our ultimate and only true enemy, the devil. He's the guy that hands out the arrows. He wants to capitalize on that original feeling of spiritual inadequacy, bankruptcy actually, and have us believe it will always hang around our neck and choke us. Satan is the one who wants us all to be in a constant state of feeling condemned. Remember that those who shoot the arrows are so full of arrows themselves. (And admit that you too have been an archer.) Remember that hurt people hurt people. They aren't your real enemy. But you and I and all those who are in Christ Jesus can be condemnation free from this moment onward. Scripture tells us clearly; "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
Today,watch your words and actions. Don't let Satan use you like a puppet to launch arrows at others. Guard your thoughts and words. Look to encourage and comfort first, then gently correct. If you are feeling condemned, 1. repent by confessing your wrong-doing, 2. accept God's forgiveness, and 3. stop being so prideful thinking you need to add something to God's power, grace, or Jesus' death. Receive it all, believe it, and rejoice that our heavenly Father accepts the us, the prodigal child and can truly make us whole. Believe this good news and carry this message to those you know who suffer from inadequacy and condemnation.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I believe You have freed me from all condemnation through the death of Your Son on the cross for my sins. And while I do believe, I still struggle with feelings of condemnation...sometimes for no apparent present reasons, but I know my past baggage rears its ugly head in subliminal ways. Open my eyes to issues I need to work on and apply Your instruction to. Father I come to You with an open heart and with a thankful spirit. I ask that You help me experience the full freedom You have made possible for me. Thank You Lord. I know that I need Your Spirit to help me, but I am unsure of how to fully engage His assistance. Show me the way Lord. In the name of the most adequate, purifying blood of Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2
He (the devil) was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies
John 8:44
I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants." And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.
And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate.
For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:19-24

Stepping Stones Devotional

Lighthouse Network's Stepping Stones Community
  • Stepping Stones: Loss Is Your Door to His Stability
    February 10, 2012

    Transformational Thought

    As young children, one thing we learn quickly is the reality of loss. Missing a meal, seeing others whose needs do get met, losing a mother’s attention to a newborn sibling, losing a beloved toy, losing at games, loss through divorce or job relocation. Loss of innocence through abuse or extreme life circumstances.

    Life is filled with many kinds of losses. But despite the cause, one thing is certain: all loss hurts, regardless of its size. We recover quickly from some losses … but others take months or even years to absorb and process. Certain losses are temporary while others are permanent.

    In today's economic environment in which businesses are closing and downsizing, many are facing the loss of their jobs. This kind of loss can be devastating to anyone, but especially to the breadwinner of a family. Even if it is a second job, it may represent a threat to survival, credibility, and stability for our spouse or kids.

    Job loss can produce many emotions, but fear is usually at the root of any uncomfortable response. Will I lose my home? My child is leaving for college this fall—will I have to break the news that it will be impossible? We have built up credit card debt trying to keep our heads above water … what now? Who will respect me? Will our marriage survive this pressure?

    These and many other concerns are very real and can seem extremely threatening. If we keep our eyes on the waves of hardship, we will sink into despair and hopelessness. This is a time when it is difficult … but imperative … to focus on Jesus, not on the problems. This is a time to remember that He, not our job, is our source of value, peace, security, comfort, redemption, and abundance.

    We may go through some real challenges. We may have to tighten our belts and make some sacrifices. These struggles are not easy, but with Jesus we have hope and a powerful peace. Our job may be gone and the economy may be falling apart, but God has not changed. Step back from the hardship and see your life from God’s perspective. It is because of his mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed.

    Today, dig into the areas where you struggle or have experienced some recent hardship. What is the fear at the bottom of the issue? Infuse Jesus’ teachings into your fear, let Him bring healing and comfort to your pain. Then re-evaluate your struggle through these new lenses. Remember, great and abundant is His stability and faithfulness in all things. Life is your decision, so choose well.

    Prayer
    My Father and Lord, This economy and my finances have left me feeling angry and fearful. Help me to regroup … to remember that You are here, that You love me and my family, and that You have a plan. Help me remember that this economy and my recent loss have not taken You by surprise … and that You have already made a way for me. Thank You that Your compassion never fails and that Your stability and faithfulness are abundant. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who provides my stability, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

    The Truth
    It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.
    Lamentations 3:22-23

    The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
    John 10:10
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