The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble…(Psalm 9:9)
Recently, I was having a conversation with someone dear to me. As this person was speaking I realized quickly that what they were saying was not from God. It just wasn’t. I’m sure they meant well. In their brutal honesty its quite possible that maybe they just weren’t thinking much about what they were actually communicating. Either way, I rejected their words as from God because I know that God does not speak in words of guilt, fear, shame or condemnation. Friend, He just doesn’t, but people use them against us like that all the time.
It’s true that God will use others to speak a words of correction over us and we should heed their words when they do, but it is also true that people can speak out of their own fear. Which can cause deep confusion in us. At least, it has for me in the past. If someone I trust speaks a word to me such as this dear one did I can start to question, “Am I doing the right thing? Am I being selfish? Is this all about me?”
Friend, when you feel that way too, because of the words of someone else, take it to God. Yes, take to Him right away and ask Him what He wants to say to you. As I did that I felt a peace fall upon me and His voice spoke deep into my Spirit. Confirming in me what I believe God has been leading me in.
Friend, I don’t know what discouraging words have been spoken over you. I want to encourage you to stay focused on the words of your Father in Heaven. Don’t hang your hat on words spoken in fear, guilt, shame or condemnation. Hang your hat at the door of your Father in Heaven. Let Him affirm you. Truly, He is good to you and longs to speak His words of life into you.
Lord, you are the words of life and peace! May my heart live in that deep peace today. Through the risen Lord Jesus, Amen.
Heather Quiroz 