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I am forgotten as a dead man, out of mind; I am like a broken vessel. For I have heard the slander of many, terror is on every side; while they took counsel together against me, they schemed to take away my life. But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD, I say, “You are my God.” -Psalm 31:11-14 (NASB)

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. -John 15:16 (NIV)

We all make mistakes…and we all have a history we can look back on and regret. And being an agent of light doesn’t magically mean we don’t continue to sin or make mistakes.

The powerful lies you may believe

This is where the world and Satan tell you that you are the sum of your mistakes, and that your character and identity to your core is worthless, untrustworthy, and hypocritical. That you are no follower of Christ, no man/woman of God, because you stumble. You are damaged goods.

The truth that crushes the lies

We all fall short of God’s glory…including your accuser(s). Not one of us can keep all His commandments. This is why the new covenant came to pass…God so loved us that He sacrificed His own son for our sins and salvation! We are already forgiven!

Your identity in Christ is crucial in avoiding the trap of fear, guilt, and condemnation in which the world and Satan want to keep you ensnared, because you can’t serve Christ when your flesh is believing the lies.

Break the chains

Talk to God in prayer…even if it’s just a heartfelt groan or sobbing. Confess and repent of your sins to Him. Ask for forgiveness, and you will see that He actually has already forgiven you!

Know that God so loved you, that you are His child who cannot be separated from His love. He actually does His very best work with broken vessels, who can best receive Him, and then bear fruit. You are not to fear the fearmongers, but to take refuge in the Lord, whose truth of His love and creation of you—a branch of the true vine—can protect you from the worst the world and the enemy will throw at you.

Put your full armor of God back on. You just forgot to put all of it on! Every morning, put on each piece: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace on your feet, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (God’s Word). Remember that, with the full armor of God, you will be able to stand your ground against the lies and attacks, and after you have done everything, you will still be standing.

I’m not saying it’s easy. It’s very hard to walk with all the slings and arrows bombarding you, while you navigate the storm. But imagine how much harder it would be without God. It would be impossible. He will carry you through this to the other side victoriously.

You are an agent of light, a child of the One True King. You do not fight for victory…you fight from a source of victory!

Today’s soundtrack

Matthew West’s “Hello, My Name Is” puts these concepts into a catchy song. Enjoy!