As we go through each day, things we see, do or say leave an impact. Sometimes that impact lasts seconds, sometimes it lasts years. Sometimes, memories come back time and again, some with good feelings and some with bad.
Internally, it’s almost like we have another voice commentating as we go. It’s the sort of voice that could be God speaking to us through words, emotions or pictures. But how often is that voice not encouraging?
I don’t know about you, but sometimes that voice can be a voice of shame or blame, a voice of anger or disappointment. And it’s persistent. It can come back when you least expect it, when you are at a low point, or when something triggers a memory and the voice niggles for weeks after. Maybe that’s just my experience, but after some conversations, I suspect not.
The thing is, that voice of blame or shame, of anger or disappointment or any other berating voice that drags you down is not God. While God doesn’t always approve of choices or actions, he does not belittle us or tear us down. It’s clear in the bible God isn’t always gentle, but God is always motivated by love. Someone who loves you doesn’t constantly point out your mistakes or wounds, at least not in a way that is designed to tear you down and keep you down, not in a way that can lead to self-hatred or giving up.
While we are not perfect and do make mistakes, God sees them all and never gives up on us. God sees who we are, who we can be and encourages/nudges/pushes/drags us to be better, to heal, to move forward and to grow.
So the next time there is an internal commentary, pause for a second and think. Is it trying to build you up or tear you down? If it’s the latter, try and ignore it. Instead, ask God what he thinks. God will always speak from a place of love, His is the voice you should listen to.
The Reason for my Hope Blog 