IT’S NOT WHO I SAY I AM

“They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.”
--Isaiah 61:3 (NIV)

Psychologist and the “feel-good” preachers and teachers of positive thinking attribute the majority of our problems to the lack of self-esteem and low self-concept. To overcome the negative conditions in our lives they say we simply need to change our negative “self scripts” to positive ones. After all they say, even the Bible says, “As a man thinks so is he.” (taken out of context when applied in this fashion).

Perhaps the Apostle Paul was unaware of the power of negative self-scripts. He called himself a "Wretched man…least of the apostles…the foremost sinner.” And these are statement made after his conversion.

Ken, are you saying that I shouldn’t think positive thoughts? Not in the least. In Philippians 4, Paul tells us to “dwell on the good, pure, and noble things.” But Paul also tells us that everything that is lawful for us is not profitable (even though it may appear to be so).

As Christians the focus should never be on who I say I am. The focus should be Christ, period. It is who He says I am that matters. It is the changes wrought by the power of His Holy Spirit that will bring about lasting, powerful and positive change in your life.

Have you struggled to find joy, peace and freedom? Do you long to have a real reason to be thankful this season? Look to Christ and listen to who He says you are!