Ministers of Reconciliation: a Christian Response to Racism

June 15, 2020 by jstults Leave a Comment

I stammered for words when my youngest son piped up behind me, “Mommy, why aren’t they helping?” If I had heard him approach, I might have been tempted to shield him from the video of protesters and police colliding.

How do I explain the brokenness in our world to an eleven-year-old boy who has very little real-life experience with racism? How do I do justice to such a complex issue with only a few words?

What is the Christian response to racism?

In past weeks we have witnessed the best of humanity alongside the worst of humanity in a poignant display of both brokenness and healing.

We read about both violent mobs met with police brutality and communities coming together in marvelous displays of unity like groceries lined up on a sidewalk, cookouts hosted for police, good officers kneeling alongside peaceful protestors. Two realities in simultaneous existence. And so many of us left wondering, how do we help bridge the gap?

What is our place as Christ-followers in all of this?

The Christian Response to Racism

We recognize sin as the ultimate issue, the culprit lurking behind the scenes. Yes, the problem is ultimately a spiritual one. After all, Scripture records we are all created in the image of God. Inherently, our dignity (and the dignity of others) stems from the Creator himself.

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

Yet even in the midst of a sin-filled world, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus!

Jesus, who healed the blind and the lame, who acknowledged the unclean, who dined with sinners, who touched the diseased. Jesus, who prevented the stoning of a guilty woman and who rebuked the false religion of the Pharisees of His day. Jesus, who addressed both physical and spiritual issues and never shied away from our messy humanity.

Jesus, friend of sinners and outcasts, who laid down His life to make us whole and free.

It’s not enough to simply acknowledge God’s truth. We should also be acting on it.

Minister’s of Reconciliation

As followers of Christ, we are commanded to act as “minister’s of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18-21) restorers of human dignity, comforters of the poor in spirit.

Just as Christ ministered to the “least of these,” so we, too, as His ambassadors, bear the responsibility of advocating for mercy and justice for all people, not just those we like, those who think and act like us, or even those who look like us.

“ Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,
with ten thousand rivers of olive oil?
Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression,
the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 (NIV)

What is required of God’s people? Not the undesired sacrifices we so often want to make in place of the things God really wants from us, but to “act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

How Christians Can Love God’s Way

“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Proverbs 14:31 (NIV)

“The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31 (NIV)

Friends, this is how we actively demonstrate the gospel to the world around us. We live it out day by day, moment by moment, remembering we are all created in the image of God.

As we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we share the Good News that we are all one in Christ! Bringing this hope to others is key to restoring their God-given dignity.

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26-28 (NIV)

Church, now is the time to be the “city on a hill,” to serve as an example to the world around us of how to treat others who differ from us. Now is the time to show a church united, congregations that who as families, buildings where all are welcome, regardless of belief, status, or looks. Now is the time to love because “He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Lest anyone misunderstand, I’m not asking believers to water down the gospel or treat sin as tolerable, but to preach the Good News that frees us from all sin, even the sin of racism and self-righteous thinking.

The Perspective on Human Worth All Christians Need

As we mourn a man who struggled for breath and a nation torn apart, let’s remember it was God’s breath that brought man to life in the first place. Let’s remember all people have worth in Him. Let’s remember the mercy we ourselves have been shown.

“Help us to remember we are all the least of these, Let the memory of Your mercy bring Your people to their knees.” (Jesus Friend of Sinners by Casting Crowns)

For Further Reading:

George Floyd and Me

“Man Down” – Built for Christian Community

March 30, 2020 by jstults Leave a Comment

The ladder crashed to the ground outside, and instantly I jumped up from the couch. Before I reached the front door, I heard my husband’s cries, “Help! Help!” I raced to the area of the roof he was working on and found him flat on his back, unmoving. Blood poured from his chin and his forehead, already pooling in his ear and behind his head. I called emergency services while our oldest son grabbed towels to staunch the flow.

As first responders arrived on scene, neighbors came from all directions to help, as well. Thankfully, my husband’s injuries didn’t appear to be life-threatening but still warranted an ambulance ride to the Emergency Room, where some of our church family joined us. In the midst of my fear, I felt so grateful not to be alone.

While we waited for stitches and x-ray results, I heard another call come over the radio. A woman had overdosed on heroin, and paramedics were bringing her to the E.R. for treatment, as well. I remember wondering if she had people to care for her like our neighbors, family, and church family did for us. I wondered if anyone was praying for her in her time of need, or if she might be all alone.

Why We Need Christian Community

When the cry of “Man down!” sounds, who shows up in your life?

Many of us are blessed with a caring community of people who step in when accidents happen or tragedy strikes. A community that works together like family is one of the benefits of the body of Christ, after all. We all need help once in a while, people to hold us up physically when life gets us down. How much more difficult might life be if you lacked people to count on in times of great need?

But friend, do you realize you also need people to hold you up spiritually?

In the days following my husband’s accident, some of his greatest needs weren’t physical. He felt out-of-sorts due to not being able to work. Discouragement was a frequent companion. His lifting and diet restrictions caused him to feel helpless. The kind words, prayers, Bible verses, and thoughtful gifts from others kept him going during his six-week recovery.

What the Bible Says about Being Built for Christian Community

The Bible tells us to “encourage the disheartened” and to “build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, 14). Scripturally speaking, there is no such thing as a lone wolf Christian. In fact, we were built for Christian community from the very beginning of time when God said it was not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18).

Our Creator set the example for us by walking in the garden with Adam and Eve, fellowshipping with them and deepening their relationship with Him.

The Greek term for fellowship associated with the early church is koinonia. We first come across this word in Acts, at the time of Pentecost when the body of Christ was first formed. The Holy Spirit came to each and every believer as God’s presence was restored to mankind for the first time since the Fall. What a day! After this time, believers practiced koinonia almost constantly!

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42 (NIV – emphasis mine)

Strong’s defines koinonia as partnership, participation, fellowship, communication, and so forth. It is a unique partnership that connects us both to the Father, and to one another, through the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 1:9, 2 Cor. 13:14, 1 John 1:3). As such, koinonia begins with God and extends to us, co-heirs with Christ.

Community – God’s Great Gift

What a beautiful gift God has given us in the form of spiritual brothers and sisters in Christ – a whole family of believers to help us along the way in our faith journey, to encourage us to focus on the work in progress, to comfort us when we grieve, to provide for us when we cannot provide for ourselves, to exhort us to “walk in the light” rather than the darkness. But like any gift, we must decide whether to make use of it or not.

As Christians, we need a strong, godly community of believers to help hold us up when we feel weak, discouraged, overwhelmed, tempted, incapable, and hopeless. The Bible cautions us not to give up fellowshipping with one another because we need the encouragement that comes from gathering together with other believers in order to stay spiritually healthy!

Remember, we were built for Christian community from the very beginning.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV

But encourage one another daily as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. Hebrews 3:13 (NIV)

The word “encourage” (and its derivatives) appears thirty-nine times in the New Testament alone, which tells us it is an important concept for believers to pay attention to. Let me ask you, friend, do you have godly people in your life to hold you accountable, to bring you joy, to spur you on in doing right, to lift you up when you feel down? Are you seeking Christian community, fellowship with believers, or have you been avoiding it?

The family of God is one of God’s greatest gifts, but often we fail to take advantage of it. We’d rather battle on alone, even though we know that the battle is spiritual in nature, not physical (Ephesians 6:12).

Why do we snub such a precious gift? Because we’re stubborn, prideful people.

We’d rather be self-reliant than admit weakness.

We see weakness as bad. We tell ourselves we don’t want to “put others out.” We don’t want to be perceived as needy or cause inconvenience to them. We’re afraid what they might think of us. Maybe they’ll think our faith is weak? Maybe our relationships can’t handle the strain? Lies. All of them. And we know who lies come from, don’t we, friend? The great deceiver himself.

Built for Community – The Church Deployed

Let me encourage you instead to let a brother or sister in Christ lend a helping hand, bear your burdens.

Ask for prayer and accountability. Ask for guidance or a shoulder to cry on. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, we might get hurt once in a while, but it’s absolutely worth the risk! Likewise, choose to be that kind of Christian, one others can trust and count on in times of spiritual need. After all, Ecclesiastes 4:9-10,12 claims:

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up…A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (NIV)

Let’s be unbreakable, especially in these dark times with society all askew and pandemic’s threatening our health. Now is the time, church, to live like we have a hope the world around us lacks! Recently on social media, I read a meme that said “The church isn’t empty. She’s just been deployed.” Friend, we are built for Christian community, and we cannot “be the church” on our own. It’s impossible!

Father God, let it be true of each one of us! Let us be both helpers and those who need help. Help us find ways to relish the gift of koinonia even as we practice social distancing for health reasons. Mold us into the beautiful Bride of Christ Your Word describes! At the same time, Lord, remind us many around us are missing this kind of community, many yearn for it. Make us bold witnesses during these frightening times. Let us show your love through community with others who don’t yet know You. All for your glory, Lord. All for your glory.

How can you live as the Body of Christ today, friend?

For more on this topic:

When Standing Alone Costs You the Victory

Whatever Happened to Community

Christian women need each other because we were built for community from the beginning! Find out why christian community is so important. #christian community #beingconfidentofthis #christianwomen Being Confident of This | christian community | christian women bible studies | community for women | importance of christian fellowship | friendship | lone wolf christianity | lonely christian women

4 Ways the Term Self-confidence Misleads Christian Women

September 30, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

“Mom, I can’t find my soccer jersey!” The oldest boy called out from his room. A frantic search party ensued as we had only 15 minutes until we needed to walk out the door for his game.

With a sinking heart, I headed for the laundry room, only to have my suspicions confirmed. I had completely forgotten to wash his jersey! Now he would have to play with already stinky pits.

I felt so frustrated with myself, but even more, I could see the disappointment on my son’s face. And just like that, I felt like a terrible mom. A complete failure who can’t even keep her kids in clean clothes!

What’s wrong with me?

But it didn’t stop there, no….the enemy of our souls used that stepping stone for the rest of the night to pummel me with reminders of just how worthless I was.

You’ve been there before, right friend? Maybe you let a friend or a spouse down? Maybe you deeply disappointed people at work or at church? You forgot an important appointment? Lost your temper? Didn’t meet your personal goal?

You failed in some way (whether major or minor), and your confidence is shaken.

You’re not alone!

4 Ways Self-Confidence Misleads Christian Women

The truth is that what the world calls self-confidence is actually very misleading in many ways. In fact, self-confidence is pretty much the opposite of what the gospel teaches us about ourselves.

First, self-confidence misleads Christian women by focusing on self.

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 (NIV)

Did you catch that, friend? To follow Christ is to deny self in favor of following Him! If we want to be confident, Christian women, then we cannot be focused on self. We must recognize that our confidence doesn’t come from who we are in this world.

We know that according to Scripture, there is nothing good in us and we all miss the mark of perfection (Rom. 3:23, Rom. 7:18). We are inherently sinful beings, prone to wander (as the hymn rightly claims). So any confidence based on the flesh is already on a shaky foundation.

Second, self-confidence misleads Christian women because it doesn’t last!

Self-confidence is often based on what we do, how others see us, how we appear – everything external rather than internal. It is rooted in comparisons, achievements, popularity with others, and so forth. Thus, we all relate to modern catch-phrases like “mom guilt.”

Confidence based on self is just one moment away from failure! It doesn’t matter how many times we’ve been patient with our children, sacrificed for our husbands, served our friends, obeyed God, and so forth. Because the one time we mess up, we’re back to square one. We’re failures. We can’t do anything right. Right?!

Again, confidence in the flesh is only temporary: one moment away from disaster.

Third, self-confidence misleads Christian women by being easily faked.

One look at social media opens our eyes to this truth! Because self-confidence is based mostly on external factors rather than internal worth, it can be easily faked. We can photoshop all we want, throw out all of the positive affirmations we can think of, stage our photos, and so forth, but still struggle with insecurity on the inside!

How often are we shocked when someone we know, someone who seemed to “have it all together,” admits to feeling depressed or lonely? Why are we surprised when seemingly happy celebrities end their own lives?

Confidence based on self is only as strong as our swagger.

Sad, isn’t it?

Fourth, self-confidence misleads Christian women by enslaving us.

When we set our sights on self-confidence, we either become content that we are “enough” already or we strive for perfectionism and the elusive “got-it-all-together” act. One extreme or another.

But even more concerning, often, as Christian women, we trend toward works – being the “good Christian girl.”

Either extreme leads us away from God’s plan for us, and guess who wins then? The enemy.

You see, friend, self-confidence is directly opposed to the gospel truth that we all fall short, we all need a Savior to redeem us and transform us from the inside out. We’re not “enough” on our own, yet like the apostle Paul, none of us have already arrived at perfection (Philippians 3:13-15).

So when we swallow the world’s self-confidence pill, the one that trains us to focus on the external, we miss out on real peace, lasting joy, secure faith, and an authentic confidence that is not easily shaken!

When will we rise up and say, “No more!”?

What does the Bible teach about growing in authentic confidence?

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

Scripture commands us NOT to conform to the pattern of this world, but to be transformed, from the inside out, starting with our minds! So, the first step toward a confidence that is centered on Christ rather than self is to change our patterns of thinking.

As Christian women, we cannot afford to approach confidence from the same perspective as the world!

This is why I’m so excited to tell you about The Confidence Journey online Bible study. With a focus on wisdom from the Word and a prayerful examination of lies we might be believing, transformation IS possible. We CAN have godly confidence!

The Confidence Journey is a Bible study workbook, a companion to the book I released last year, Being Confident of This. And I want to invite you all to join us for an online Bible study experience where we will study the root of authentic confidence together!

Class starts October 14th and runs for 6 weeks. Registration is OPEN now through October 8th – just click here for more details. And don’t forget to check out the BONUSES we’re offering for this unique experience.

My heart for you, my friend, is to see you walk in real, lasting confidence.

This world needs more confident Christian women. Women who understand their worth, who walk free, who say yes to God, who live out the abundant life He has planned for them!

Will you join us?

Jen 🙂

The Battle Plan Christian Wives Need – 31 Days of Hope for Marriage Event

August 20, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

If marriage is a gift from God, then why isn’t it easier? Have you ever asked this question? From little-girl dreams of white walking down the aisle to grown-woman desires to build a life together, most women have pretty high expectations when it comes to marriage. After all, we’ve been trained to expect a “happily ever after” ending to the search for a perfect mate, have we not?

Truth be told, unmet expectations are one of the first and most difficult hurdles for young married couples to overcome. Even mature married couples can struggle with unmet expectations as they journey through new seasons of life!

So what hope can we have when our deepest desires for a healthy marriage seem so far from reality?

The Battle Plan Christian Wives Need

We need a game plan – no, a battle plan – because whether you realize it or not, fellow wife, you are in a war for your marriage. The enemy of our souls would love nothing more than to ruin the union God has given you!

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Eph. 6:12 (NIV)

A battle plan for Christian wives prepares us for those difficult moments when love feels fleeting and war seems imminent! A battle plan for Christian wives gives us direction when the enemy comes knocking and refuses to leave!

Follow these tips for surviving (and even thriving!) the tough marriage moments:

1. Stand firm in God’s truth by resisting the enemy’s lies about your marriage!

So often women feel shame over marriage issues, whether those issues are a result of their own sin, their husband’s sin, or both. This is perhaps especially true in Christian marriages because we have that deep desire to be the godly wife we know God wants us to be.

Because we’re ashamed, we hide our problems from others by putting up a good front. We begin to believe the lie that we’re alone in our suffering. It’s the oldest trick in the book, dating all the way back to the Garden of Eden; the Enemy uses it often.

In those early years, I felt so alone and ashamed that my marriage wasn’t all I thought it would be. I feared I was doing something wrong as a wife, and that’s why we were having troubles. I assumed that other marriages were much stronger, better than ours.

If only I would have brought those lies out into the light sooner! I could have avoided so much lonely heartache. The battle plan for Christian Wives begins with truth!

2. Stand firm in God’s faithfulness by remembering His character!

In the midst of real pain and suffering, we quickly forget who God is and what He is capable of, much like the Israelites in the Old Testament.

How often did they grumble and complain (and sometimes outright rebel) just a short time after God had rescued them? He rescued them from Egyptian slavery, but they were thirsty. He gave them manna from Heaven, but they wanted meat.

We often suffer from that same forgetfulness, friend, yet God is faithful. He is true to His own character, and He comes to the aid of His people time and again even when they don’t deserve it.

You serve a God who is still in the business of redeeming marriages. If you are wondering how to fight for your marriage, begin by…

*Join me over at the Hope for Marriage online event, hosted by my friend Tiffany Montgomery of HopeJoyinChrist.com to read the rest of The Battle Plan Christian Wives Need AND be sure to enter the giveaway for my devotional book, Being Confident of This!

For more help for tough times in marriage, visit this page!

**This page contains affiliate links. For more information, please visit the About page. Thank you for supporting the ministry of Being Confident of This!

The Power of Your Choice (and Romans 7)

August 5, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

Have you ever felt caught, without escape? No way to possibly win? The power of your choice is something I have learned over years and yet in moments, all at once. One more memorable lesson came on a hot summer day years ago…

The day soured suddenly, like spoiled milk.

First came the bee sting; then disobedient children added to the chaos. In the midst of all that, I realized all was not well with my husband, either.

Disappointment, frustration, harsh words, and fear all balled up into one, a gaping wound ripped open in the midst of a beautiful day.

All thoughts of fun or enjoyment vanished into thin air. And the children were watching. And I felt stuck.

I didn’t want to go to the beach anymore. I didn’t want to spend another second within a five-foot radius of him.

Instead, I wanted to admit defeat, to go home and sob in my bed, alone. I wanted to rage against him and flail my fists and ask, “How could you??”

But the children were there, conspicuously quiet in their seats, and everyone was waiting for me. We could either go to the beach and hope for redemption or we could suffer in silence for hours on the drive home.

I felt powerless to move forward, but I couldn’t leave and give up either. A rock and a hard place. And the children were waiting in the backseats.

Silent tears fell, and an inward scream of, “It’s not fair!” But it wasn’t fair for them, the innocents in the backseat, either. And I knew he was sorry. And I knew I should be sorry, too.

Recognizing the Power of Your Choice

In the moment I completely identify with Paul, who writes in Romans 7:

So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Romans 7:21-24 (NIV)

A war wages within, but I cannot seem to call a truce. What is Paul’s solution?

Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:25 (NIV)

Then a prayer, a pleading for mercy and forgiveness, a desperate cry for joy and peace rather than chaos.

Slowly, the tears dry up as peace floods my being. He’s with us, our Comforter and Redeemer.

I recognize the power of a choice, a choice to trust my God can mend what’s been broken and redeem a day turned ugly.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

I’m ready now.

The walk to the beach is long, sandy dunes, four-year-olds floundering in flip flops, and heavy bags filled with towels and clothing. I’m tempted to go back to the struggle, but I don’t.

Instead I focus on the prize, the joy that awaits on the other end, the fun I know we’ll have if we can just get there without falling to pieces. I’m focused on the freedom and victory promised to all of us in Romans 8!

The Victory Following the Struggle – Romans 8

The sun and the sand, the waves and the seagull calls, the laughter of children happy to be at peace, happy to run and dig and splash – they were all worth it, the sacrifice of giving in when I had the “right” to fight, the obedience to trust my Father could bring joy in the midst of pain.

He is powerful when we are powerless.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2 (NIV)

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39 (NIV)

You see, friend, we serve a God who doesn’t leave us to struggle alone. In fact, He gave His own Son willingly that we might experience eternal life and freedom from sin.

Jesus’ death is what gives you the power of your choice. Infused by the Spirit, we have everything we need (2 Peter 1:3-4) to make a right choice, whether we feel like we do or not! That’s the truth as proclaimed by God’s Word for His people.

But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15 (NIV)

I pray my family won’t remember the ugly of that day, that 15 minutes that threatened to ruin it all.

I pray we’ll remember instead the wild beauty of the dunes, the slippery feel of the clay on the lake bottom, and the giant sandcastle that was bigger than any we’d ever built before. Father God, let us remember the laughter of buckets of water raining over unsuspecting heads, the rocks we collected, and the look between just the two of us as we recognize our many blessings. Let us remember the power of a choice to trust in His strength rather than our own.

It was ugly.

But then… then it was beautiful.

Jen 🙂

If you enjoyed this read, you may also enjoy:

Christian Beware – The Dangers of Greener Grass

Verses that Pack a Punch (with printable!)

10 Powerful Verses for your War Room

Six Practical Ways to Take Your Thoughts Captive

June 24, 2019 by jstults 4 Comments

It was on my mind first thing in the morning, last thing before bed, and seemingly every other moment in between. I just couldn’t seem to escape the negative thoughts that had plagued me all week long.

The negative attitude I wrestled with came out not only in my thoughts, but in my speech, as well. Every chance I had, I grumbled about the undeserved injustice to my husband and to the Lord. I felt trapped by my own sin.

Take your thoughts captive.

The Spirit nudged me time and again, yet I couldn’t quite figure out how to do what Scripture so clearly teaches and make myself obedient to Christ. The idea seemed good in theory, but much more difficult in practice!

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NIV – emphasis added)

We know that as Christian women, we are responsible for not only our actions, but also our actions and attitudes. We know we’re supposed to control our thoughts and to renew our minds, but how do we actually do that?

The following practical tips will help you take your thoughts captive!

6 Practical Ways to Take Your Thoughts Captive

1.Truth Journaling to take your thoughts captive.

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 (NIV)

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 (NIV)

Scripture teaches us that a knowledge of God’s truth brings real freedom! And that transformation takes place as we allow our minds to be renewed with such truth. When we feel paralyzed by a negative attitude, we must take our thoughts captive by comparing each thought with the truth.

You can easily do this by simply writing down a lie you might be tempted to believe or a wrong thought you’re having and then write the truth right next to it. Even better, add a scripture to back up the truth you wrote down.

If you struggle with the same negative thoughts often, you’ll want to pay close attention to the next tip because it is a natural extension of truth journaling!

2. Scripture Memorization & Meditation to take your thoughts captive.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 (NIV)

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

The Bible teaches us to think about things that are true, honorable, pure – everything that is good (rather than everything that is negative!).

One of the most practical ways to “set your mind” is to memorize and meditate on Scripture, especially bible verses that pertain to the particular negative thoughts that plague you!

Do you wrestle with Anger? Memorize and meditate on Proverbs 15:1. Unforgiveness? Memorize and meditate on Ephesians 4:32. You get the idea – find a bible verse that speaks to your specific negative thoughts and take your thoughts captive!

The more time you spend with scripture, the easier it is for the Spirit to bring those previously memorized verses to mind in the midst of a negative thought. In addition, hiding God’s Word in our hearts (memorizing it) and meditating on it can actually prevent sin and encourage obedience in our lives!

Even Jesus fought temptation using scripture when faced with the enemy in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-4)!

3. Sensory Input for taking your thoughts captive.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2 (NIV)

Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world. ~ Martin Luther

One trick for changing a thought pattern my husband and I learned through counseling is to use some sort of sensory input as a trigger to remind you to focus on truth or reality rather than fear, anger, etc.

My husband prefers a physical object (like a coin he can keep in his pocket) to touch when negative thoughts assail him, while I prefer to turn on some encouraging music.

Perhaps you need a visual reminder (like a Bible verse or a quote) placed in a strategic spot is a better form of sensory input for you. Likewise, your sense of smell could be a better trigger for truth through the use of an essential oil or a scented lotion.

Find a method that works best for you – something that will get your attention and remind you to set your mind and heart on things above!

4. Confessing your sins to take your thoughts captive.

Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper,
but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Proverbs 28:13 (NIV)

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5:16a (NIV)

Hidden sin festers like rotten food, destroying us from the inside out. However, we cannot overcome what we aren’t willing to even acknowledge.

As Christ-followers, we are called to honest confession (1 John 1:5-9) because dragging our darkness out into the light brings freedom!

Confessing sin isn’t easy, but it is necessary for real Christian growth. If you struggle to take your thoughts captive, enlist the help of an accountability partner – someone rooted in the Word and reliable enough to confront you regularly about your thought life.

An accountability partner can serve not only to help you drag sin out into the light, but they can also be a good prayer warrior on your behalf, which leads to the next tip for overcoming negative thinking…

5. The Power of Prayer for taking your thoughts captive.

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. Romans 8:5 (NIV)

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16b (NIV)

If we want to be Spirit-led women, then we must set our minds on God’s ways rather than our own desires.

Yet some days, setting our minds on the Spirit feels impossible, doesn’t it? Whether we are simply wrestling with the flesh or experiencing a spiritual attack, resisting negative thoughts is often a moment-by-moment choice.

Alongside the Word of God, prayer is our next best weapon against the lies and temptations we face daily. Prayer is powerful, friends!

If your negative thoughts have to do with your self (your flaws, your identity, etc.), then ask God to guard your mind and keep you centered on His truth (Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Peter 5:7).

If your negative thoughts concern others, pray for them (Matthew 5:44). Ask God to give you His love for them.

When you’re really wrestling with a sin or an issue, enlist other prayer warriors like the apostle Paul did (Philippians 1:19, Romans 15:30). After all, even Jesus requested the prayer of his closest friends when he faced the cross (Matthew 26:36-38). link to Divine Encounter

6. Physical activity to take your thoughts captive.

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV – emphasis added)

One final practical way to overcome negative thinking by adjusting your attitude is to get some exercise! The natural endorphins released when we are physically active can turn a sour mood into a sweeter one. I’ve witnessed this truth at work not only in my own life, but also in the life of one of our sons who always has a lot of pent up energy and emotions.

Angry thoughts, in particular, can often be overcome by working out some agression physically (go for a walk or run, punch a punching bag, etc.). Sadness and anxiety can also be helped by a brisk walk, especially if it gets you outdoors into nature!

And while you’re exercising your body, you can exercise your mind by training it to think on all that is true and lovely.

As much as we might wish for it, there is no magic pill to cure a negative attitude. Even the tried and true methods mentioned above for an attitude adjustment won’t always work alone. Many times we need a combination of scripture, prayer, confession, accountability, and other practical helps to overcome our negative thoughts!

Don’t give up, friend.

Renewing your mind isn’t a one-and-done deal. It takes real perseverance!

But as women who are new in Christ, we are no longer slaves to sin.

Choose a mind that’s been renewed!

Jen 🙂

Don’t forget to grab your FREE printable of scriptures selected to help you overcome negative thinking and take your thoughts captive! Join our newsletter list for access to our entire library of free printable resources for Christian women.

Christian Beware – The Dangers of Greener Grass

June 4, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

When we first moved to our small community, one of the things I appreciated most about our new home was the big, beautiful backyard surrounded by a brown picket fence. The security of a fence gave this mama of four much peace of mind!

At the time, our little ones could climb over the fence if they really wanted to, but we made it clear that the child who chose to breach that barrier without permission would face serious consequences.

So, the physical barrier of our fence served as a constant reminder to stay inside where it is “safe.”

But as much as I loved our fence, it could only protect my children if they obeyed me by staying inside its confines. The boundary was no longer useful should they decide to venture outside of it!

The Dangers of Greener Grass

And I’ve seen him, our littlest boy, eyeing the gate from time to time…looking for the proverbial greener grass. What would happen if he chose to leave the security and protection of our fenced backyard for the greener grass?

Perhaps nothing, at first. In fact, we may not even catch him doing it right away.

Escaping negative consequences, he would likely decide to slip out unnoticed again….and again… and yet again… until one time, he ventures far enough to find himself suddenly facing grave danger.

And like disobedient Peter Rabbit suddenly face-to-face with the Gardener, he quickly understands the reason behind the boundary, the one he crossed without permission, the one meant to protect him, not to ruin his fun.

But it’s too late.

The damage is done and now he must deal with the consequences, whatever they might be.

A Biblical Perspective on Boundaries

Does the story sound familiar? It reminds me of Eden. God gifted Adam and Eve with a panoramic paradise, a perfect relationship to enjoy, and a life of ease with all of their needs provided for.

It reminds me of Eden. God gifted Adam and Eve with a panoramic paradise, a perfect relationship to enjoy, and a life of ease with all of their needs provided for.

And he gave them one rule. One.

But you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die. Genesis 2:17 (NIV)

The scripture records that before they disobeyed, Adam and Eve walked around naked and felt no shame.

Can you imagine? Feeling no shame? Ever? We’d be like toddlers running naked after a bath, full of joy and exuberance, not a care in the world.

Total freedom and wild abandonment – that, my friends, was God’s original desire for us: to live a free and abundant life of pleasure in a world of paradise!

But we chose our own way.

When Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, the whole world changed. They abandoned the the protection of the boundary to venture out on their own, embracing the dangers of greener grass.

The consequences were immediate and disastrous: separation from God.

Imagine the sorrow of a Father God sending his beloved children away from the garden, knowing that for the time being, they would suffer and struggle, knowing also that one day, His only Son would pay a terrible price for their single indiscretion.

Imagine the despair of being forced from that beautiful paradise, and the weight of knowing evil for the first time.

One rule; one choice.

How often are we like these original sinners, or that curious four-year-old? We fail to understand the reasoning behind the boundaries God sets for us.

Instead, we seek the illusion of greener grass.

Like the four-year-old investigator, we fail to see the danger lurking at first. We might not suffer any harm, or so we think.

But each time we leave those boundaries that our loving Father set to protect us, we take a bigger risk. And one time, we’ll have gone too far.

We’ll find ourselves face to face with danger, with the serpent, with Satan.

With His lies, he ensnares.

He promises freedom, but delivers slavery.

You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He 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 (NIV)

The Truth about Greener Grass

My friends, why oh why do we choose to leave the protection of the fence? Why do we ignore God’s carefully placed boundaries?

There isn’t any greener grass; in fact, it’s a hollow deception, a mirage. What lies on the other side of that lovingly placed boundary is

t…h…i…c…k mud,

sand,

miry clay.

That movie that you really shouldn’t watch, that book you shouldn’t read, that person you shouldn’t be with, that unhealthy substance you so desire, all provide satisfaction that is only temporary at best, not forever paradise. Your choice to willingly disobey only brings you danger, heartaches and burdens, so many burdens.

And each time you venture out, you risk more. You risk a reputation, a relationship, a marriage, a child, a ministry, sometimes even your very life.

God’s Boundaries Protect Us

The truth is, the only green grass you’ll find in life, the only abundant paradise, is right within our Father God’s fence. His boundaries exist for you, not against you; for your benefit, not your detriment; for your protection, not your suffocation.

Like a parent looking after a beloved child, He gently guides you away from evil in this world, if you allow Him.

The law of the Lord is perfect,
refreshing the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the Lord are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant,
giving light to the eyes. Psalm 19:7-8 (NIV)

Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:3 (NIV)

So, the next time you think you see a prime piece of greener grass just over the boundary, remember Who built the fence and why He built it. Remember that what He most desires for you is life abundant. Remember the dangers of greener grass!

If you choose to stay inside the protection of the fence, the only thing you’ll miss out on is the Serpent’s deceit and the slavery that follows.

Choose freedom.

Choose abundance.

Choose life.

Jen 🙂

Here’s a great article with tips on dealing with temptation!

*This blog makes use of affiliate links. For more information, please visit the About page.

You just finished an excerpt from Being Confident of This: 30 Days to Discovering Your Identity in Christ. If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy the book!

When Your Feelings Deceive You

May 15, 2019 by jstults 2 Comments

I entered the large waiting room with my family in tow. We knew it would be a long wait, so we brought games with us to play. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find an open spot to set up camp.

Just as I found a table that would work for us, a woman came and began to take it apart, feeding its pieces to the flames in the nearby fireplace.

At first I felt shocked, but then anger and frustration quickly followed. It seemed we faced obstacles in every direction we turned.

To top it all off, as I looked for a space to settle in, my phone and my mom’s computer went missing – stolen while my back was turned!

I stormed around the waiting room, looking for the culprit and managed to find my mom’s computer … just before my alarm woke me.

A sigh of relief.

It was just a dream, and boy was I ever thankful!

Yet even as I walked through our morning routine, I felt the lingering effects of the bad dream. Frustration and anger clung to me even as I dropped our children off at school. I knew what happened in my dream wasn’t real, but my feelings weren’t catching up to reality!

The truth is, my feelings often get the best of me!

Exercising self-discipline over my emotions is still a work-in-progress area for me. I tend to be an over-reactor with big emotions that often feel overwhelming. But the truth is, as a follower of Christ, I have everything I need to boss my feelings around instead of letting them boss me. So do you, friend!

My weird dream was just the reminder I needed – my feelings lie to me, and your feelings deceive you, too, friend.

The fact that our emotions don’t always reflect reality is scientific.

Did you know your emotions can hijack the function of your brain? You can literally be deceived by your own feelings!

When we find ourselves in what we perceive to be a fight-or-flight situation, our internal “alarm system” essentially overrides our ability to think clearly. According to this article, your feelings deceive you most often when the powerful emotion of fear comes into play.

We’ve all experienced this truth for ourselves, even if a situation isn’t as dire as a fight-or-flight problem. We know our feelings, whether good or bad, tend to linger. Sometimes they linger long past their welcome!

Recall the last time you argued with your spouse or a loved one. Even after resolving the situation, often sadness follows. How about the last time you watched a scary movie; were you just a bit more jumpy than normal when turning out the lights for bed? Or think about the last time you enjoyed some really great quality time with people you care about – the good feelings linger, too, don’t they?

Just as with my dream above, we can easily get worked up or upset about things that aren’t even true! Your feelings deceive you more often than you realize.

That’s why the Bible cautions us to guard our hearts and to avoid trusting in our own wisdom and emotions.

Your feelings lie to you – that fact isn’t just scientific, it’s also biblical!

When God created man and woman, he created us in His image, which means we have a spirit, a mind/will, and also emotions.

Our emotions are an important part of life here on earth – they bring us joy and purpose, while also serving to protect us from danger and harm.Yet our feelings can be tricky to interpret, and even more dangerous to trust.

In our current culture, feelings have become king. We hear many phrases that encourage us to fully embrace our tricky emotions:

“Follow your heart”
“Do what makes you happy”
“Find your best life”
“Just be yourself”

The problem with elevating our feelings and emotions to the point of “absolute truth” is that our human bodies, and therefore emotions, are hopelessly flawed!

Ever since Adam and Eve chose to break the one rule they were given because they falsely believed they knew best, humankind has been prone wander from what’s best. We consistently choose our “truth” over our Creator God’s omniscient Truth!

The Bible makes our tendency to wander very clear:

The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. Genesis 6:5

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. Galatians 5:16-17 (NIV)

According to this scripture, by nature our flesh wants the opposite of what the Spirit wants. We cannot follow our own desires if we truly want to be Spirit-filled women of God!

To focus our minds on the human nature leads to death, but to focus our minds on the Spirit leads to life and peace. Romans 8:6 (NIV)

There is a way that appears to be right,
but in the end it leads to death.
Even in laughter the heart may ache,
and rejoicing may end in grief. Proverbs 14:12-23 (NIV)

Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered. Proverbs 28:26 (ESV)

Romans and Proverbs agree that what seems right to sinful man, leads to death. Proverbs also points out how finicky our emotions are, too. Trusting our emotions seems to be a risky business!

The heart is deceitful above all things
and beyond cure.
Who can understand it? Jeremiah 17:9 (NIV)

Even Jeremiah agrees that our hearts are deceitful and difficult to understand.

My work-in-progress friend, don’t be deceived by your feelings. Don’t elevate emotions above the truth of God’s Word, even if the culture around you encourages you to do so!

Choose instead to give God’s Word the proper place of authority in your life, and you will reap all the benefits of a life lived according to the Word!

5 Christian Responses to Difficult Feelings and Emotions

If trusting in our own feelings and wisdom is really trusting in the flesh, then how should a Christian woman rightly respond?

Scripture encourages us to guard our hearts.

We must be careful what we take in, much like words of the childhood song tell us “Oh, be careful little eyes what you see..”

Above all else, guard your heart,
for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

The more we think on things above, rather than earthly things (including our own feelings), the more we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Philippians 4:8, Romans 12:2)! When your feelings deceive you, examine the diet of your life – what are you taking in that may be contributing to negative feelings?

2. When struggling with your feelings, ask God to search your heart and reveal the truth to you.

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)

God is faithful! He has given us the Holy Spirit to guide us. We must be aware that our perception is often tainted, but we must be equally aware that our God is greater.

3. Be aware of the Accuser and His power play for your feelings!

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. Revelation 12:10 (NIV)

Satan is often referred to as the accuser. He loves to prey on our emotions and make us feel condemned. He desires to make us slaves to perfectionism and the kind of religious living that focuses on the outward rather than the inward. He is the great deceiver, eager to find our weak places.

Scripture teaches us to resist the Devil (James 4:7), and Jesus showed us we can do so using the truth we find in scripture (Matthew 4:1-11)!

4. Rather than trusting in your own heart, emotions, and understanding, place your ultimate trust safely in God’s hands.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

Your feelings deceive you, but God has the power to make your way straight. All it requires, according to this scripture is submission to Him!

5. Let God’s truth boss your feelings around!

Remember if you are “in Christ,” you have been given a totally new nature (2 Corinthians 5:17)! Not only are you new in Him, but you also have direct access to His throne, meaning you can pray with full confidence! (Hebrews 4:16, 10:19) Don’t let your feelings deceive you into thinking life is too hard or too scary, or that you’re all alone.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV)

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

The new spirit God gave us is not one of fear, friend! According to the verses above, we have all that we need to walk in the Spirit – power, love, and self-discipline. We also have a God who cares about even that which seems insignificant. He wants us to come to Him with our cares and anxieties!

Let me leave you with this final scripture prayer today:

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NIV)

The next time you struggle with difficult emotions, choose to respond in the Spirit rather than in the flesh. Look to the One who made you, the Author and Perfecter of your faith. Believe what His Word says is true!

Don’t let your feelings deceive you, friend.

Jen 🙂

Defeating Life’s Giants with Biblical Courage

April 17, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

Have you ever asked the Father for something big, something miraculous, and been so afraid that He might choose to say no that you avoid His presence altogether? I have.

So you hide away, like the original sinners amongst the leaves in the garden, and when He calls, you cower because what if you don’t like what He has to say? What if you don’t have the courage to face what’s coming?

Yeah, that was me a few years ago – no biblical courage to be found.

You feel this yearning to give in and stumble to His arms, yet your stubborn heart resists with questions like why? and right now?

Friend, have you ever felt like David before Goliath, wondering what happened to your army, praying for the courage to “fight the good fight” even if it means you’re doing it alone?

Yeah, that’s me, too.

And perhaps, like me, you feel more than a little lonely standing there with your simple “slingshot” in hand. Maybe you long for a superhero sidekick or two…or three.

As you stand there, wind in your face, jeers wafting through the air from the Enemy’s camp, you hear a still small voice speak, “Courage!”

That’s the message our Father God gave me all year long during that difficult time.

He sent it to me a million different ways – through a simulcast, bible study, a talk I was preparing for a MOPS group, prayer and quiet time, even through social media – you name the method, He’s used it.

At times I soared gloriously on that message, that promise. Other times I found myself a doubting Thomas, looking for evidence, asking for proof. Foolishly, I kept looking for rescue to come in human form, but He continued nudging me, “Courage.”

For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ. Galations 1:1-0

At first, I thought He meant the message for me in one specific area – that of pursuing writing and speaking. But after a while I began to see that the need for courage applied to so many other areas of my life – marriage, parenting, trusting God, finances, and especially … well, the potentially life-changing Giant we faced.

The Foundation of Biblical Courage

Here’s the thing I’m learning about biblical courage, friends: it’s not supposed to come from me or you or any human source.

Surprised? I was.

A quick Old Testament search for the word courage reveals it is often used in connection with the phrase “be strong,” especially in the early years of Joshua’s leadership.

Keep in mind that Joshua was new in his leadership role, and he had some big shoes to fill. I mean, who wants to follow Moses, the man with the burning bush experience and the credit of leading the Israelites out of slavery?! In addition, Joshua faced the enormous task of leading the people of Israel to conquer the Promised Land – hooray, right?! Well, sure that sounds good after wandering in the desert an extra forty years, but something many Christians don’t realize is the Promised Land wasn’t empty.

No. The Promised Land was filled with “giants” and well-fortified cities. Joshua faced this very land. No more Moses to look up to and learn from. He was flying on his own set of wings now with a seemingly impossible task lying before him.

I’m sure Joshua was afraid. I know he wasn’t completely confident he was up to the task. I’m positive because the Lord reassured him again and again in the first chapters of Joshua that He would be with Joshua. He commanded Joshua four times to “be strong and courageous” in the first chapter alone!

How We Get Biblical Courage All Wrong

And I’ve realized something about myself this year: I’ve taken the world’s view on Courage – you know, chin up, man up, just do it, what’s the worst that can happen, and all of the other sentiments we use to overcome our own fear.

Maybe you have taken that view, too, without even realizing it.

But that’s just not God’s view, my work-in-progress friends; that’s not what God tells Joshua. It’s not what He tells me or you, either. Consider this: when you look up the Hebrew for “strong and courageous,” you find both words or phrases (be strong, take courage) linked back to the Hebrew root chazaq (pronounced khaw-zak’).

Previously, I wrote about that root, but I was more focused on waiting patiently.

This year He’s telling me, “Take Courage!”

We must take it, you see, because chazaq doesn’t come from any human source. No, chazaq, biblical courage, comes from a supernatural act:

David’s triumph over Goliath,
Samson pushing down the pillars,
Angel armies going before Joshua as he led the Israelites in battle for the Promised Land.

Don’t you see? The courage comes from Him, sisters! He doesn’t expect us to muster courage up within ourselves. He offers it from His very nature, for our taking!

What Biblical Courage Means for Us

We can be courageous Christians because courage flows from our Father God.

It’s true. We’re destined to succeed in whatever He wills for us when chazaq comes into play.

So, I’m asking for some BIG things right now, Father. And I’m a little afraid, so I’ve been hiding out, avoiding your Presence. Hiding has only served to leave me feeling lonely and a little bit miserable. But like my friend Arabah Joy wrote, I’m asking for “rain” and I’m taking my umbrella with me. I know I’m lacking in the courage department right now and the fear seems to be winning a little bit. But I hear you say, “Courage, daughter,” and I know that means that You’ve got this. Chazaq – it’s Your Courage, not mine.

It’s Your battle, not mine. Suddenly that giant doesn’t seem so big. And I’m crying, but I’m grinning, too, ‘cause I’ve missed you, Father. I’ve missed you.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

I hear Him whisper Courage to me, and to you, too, sister.

Do you hear it?

Jen 🙂

If you’re interested in reading more about biblical courage, check out this article from Desiring God.

5 Tips for Being a Confident Warrior Wife

April 5, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

I clearly remember sitting in front of our new marriage counselor, my face burning with both embarrassment and anger. Within the first few minutes of meeting, it became clear to me that he had already assumed that I wasn’t walking with the Lord. In truth, I was a confident warrior wife, determined not to give up!

If only he knew the time I spent searching the Word for comfort and wisdom. If only he knew the time I spent confessing my own sin and inviting the Lord to search my heart, the time I spent in prayer for both myself and my husband, begging the Lord to intervene.

If only he knew… perhaps he would have been more gentle and less presumptive.

Goodness knows those hinted at accusations were true of me in the past, but praise the Lord, I had changed as a wife.

Nevertheless, I began to question myself. His suggestions played right into my perfectionism as I wondered – maybe I haven’t prayed enough? Maybe my faith isn’t strong enough? Maybe I’m really not a good enough wife and that’s why our marriage is struggling?

These are questions many Christian wives struggle with!

How can a Christian wife know she is doing her best? How can she be a confident warrior wife who perseveres, one who fights for her marriage?

Fighting for a healthy marriage may feel like an impossible task, friend, and it is if we try to fight in our own strength. But let’s not forget that we who are in Christ belong to the God of the impossible.

Lately I’ve been reading through the Chronicles, and I’m impressed with the number of times God helped his people overcome enemies, even when outnumbered! Often, God’s people didn’t even have to go into battle because the Lord went before them and destroyed their enemies in miraculous ways.

A confident warrior wife is one who remembers her strength doesn’t come from herself, but from her Almighty God!

A confident warrior wife exercises her faith daily – not perfectly, but persistently. She prepares for battle in very specific ways.

Follow me over to my friend and co-author Rebekah Hallberg’s site for 5 Tips on How to Be a Confident Warrior Wife.

I’m also sharing some encouragement for times when God doesn’t intervene and a marriage fails.

The Christian Response to Racism

Minister’s of Reconciliation

How Christians Can Love God’s Way

The Perspective on Human Worth All Christians Need

Why We Need Christian Community

What the Bible Says about Being Built for Christian Community

Community – God’s Great Gift

Built for Community – The Church Deployed

4 Ways Self-Confidence Misleads Christian Women

First, self-confidence misleads Christian women by focusing on self.

Second, self-confidence misleads Christian women because it doesn’t last!

Third, self-confidence misleads Christian women by being easily faked.

Fourth, self-confidence misleads Christian women by enslaving us.

What does the Bible teach about growing in authentic confidence?

The Battle Plan Christian Wives Need

1. Stand firm in God’s truth by resisting the enemy’s lies about your marriage!

2. Stand firm in God’s faithfulness by remembering His character!

**This page contains affiliate links. For more information, please visit the About page. Thank you for supporting the ministry of Being Confident of This!

Recognizing the Power of Your Choice

The Victory Following the Struggle – Romans 8

6 Practical Ways to Take Your Thoughts Captive

1.Truth Journaling to take your thoughts captive.

2. Scripture Memorization & Meditation to take your thoughts captive.

3. Sensory Input for taking your thoughts captive.

4. Confessing your sins to take your thoughts captive.

5. The Power of Prayer for taking your thoughts captive.

6. Physical activity to take your thoughts captive.

The Dangers of Greener Grass

A Biblical Perspective on Boundaries

One rule; one choice.

The Truth about Greener Grass

God’s Boundaries Protect Us

The fact that our emotions don’t always reflect reality is scientific.

Your feelings lie to you – that fact isn’t just scientific, it’s also biblical!

5 Christian Responses to Difficult Feelings and Emotions

Scripture encourages us to guard our hearts.

2. When struggling with your feelings, ask God to search your heart and reveal the truth to you.

3. Be aware of the Accuser and His power play for your feelings!

4. Rather than trusting in your own heart, emotions, and understanding, place your ultimate trust safely in God’s hands.

5. Let God’s truth boss your feelings around!

The Foundation of Biblical Courage

How We Get Biblical Courage All Wrong

What Biblical Courage Means for Us

Follow me over to my friend and co-author Rebekah Hallberg’s site for 5 Tips on How to Be a Confident Warrior Wife.