The Danger of Negative Self Talk

How do we see ourselves? What are the common thoughts or statements we frequently say to ourselves? Are the words we're using having a positive or negative impact on us? The way we see ourselves is often influenced by our experiences, environment, and the feedback we receive from others. People often use past failures to shape their self-identity. It's common to hear them mention a time when things didn't go according to plan and take on the persona of that situation. Our identities can be shaped by the way others describe us. Perhaps your teacher highlighted the fact that you need to improve in math. It's possible that someone familiar to us, like a friend, classmate, or colleague, has highlighted your challenges in a specific area. Often, we become attached to an identity others impose on us. Many times, we say things about ourselves that are not true. 

When was the last time you stepped out to do something new and said and “I am joined to the Lord and I am one spirit with him I am capable of anything” (1 Corinthians 6:17) ), or God leads me in triumph and knowledge of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14) for I am not alone but rather God walks with me (Matthew 11:28-30)? 

Do you frequently use phrases like I can't, I'm not skilled in that, I lack that talent? No matter how many times I've tried it, it never works. Where are these words coming from? Not from God. How can I say this? 

John 10:10 said, "The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)". 

We need to stop speaking against what God has given us. Isaiah 12:2 said “See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The LORD God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.” From this verse alone, I see five things God has given to those who love Him: salvation (“God has come to save me”),  courage (“I will trust in him and not be afraid”) , strength (“the LORD God is my strength”), a song (“the LORD God is…my song), and victory (“he has given me victory”) 

Today, I am here to tell you that you have the power to change. Stop speaking contrary to your identity as defined by God. Proverbs 15:4 told us, “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” To fulfill your divine calling, tame your tongue. 

I get it, it can be hard. But if you desire something different, you must take a different approach. If we know it will benefit us and lead to an abundant life, why don't we do it? 

We have the responsibility to communicate God's words of truth regarding ourselves. We can choose to believe what God says about us, that we are beloved children of God, that we are special, that we are capable of more than we could ever dream of. Those are the words that I would rather hear in my head and spoken over me.