Issues. We all got 'em.

Some call it "pushing their buttons." For others it's "a sensitive subject." If you're tuned in to counseling buzzwords it's most likely baggage or, let's say it, issues.

One person may have "rejection issues" while another has "control issues." And while a lot of women have terrible self-esteem because they are overweight, I have actually talked to several gals who were self-conscious about being too thin!


Whatever you call it, it's certain you've got one (or perhaps, more realistically, a few.) I know I do. And yet I find it strangely comforting that every single person I meet, no matter how well adjusted, sharp, successful and, yes, beautiful, has at least one area that they are insecure about. I know that may sound almost sadistic that I take comfort in that fact, but hear me out. It's not that I'm rejoicing at their pain, but rather that I find it to be a sort of camaraderie.


From the very beginning one of the tactics of the enemy of our soul (aka Satan) has been isolation. It's the tactic you see every predator use. Make your victim feel helpless and alone and they will be taken down much more easily. Isn't that what happens? The thought comes, "nobody understands you" or "if anyone knew what you're really like..." Whatever lie it takes to bring isolation and separation and then, BAM! He's got you.


But the truth is, you're NEVER alone. In the Bible we read, "The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience." (1 Cor. 10:13, New Living Translation) Now we can read that and think, "Well, okay, but that's talking about sin. What about my insecurities?" What are insecurities really, except believing someone or something else more than we believe God. Wouldn't that be sin? Tricky devil.


The goal of these "issues" or insecurities is to keep you focused on your weaknesses - keeping you self-conscious - so that you won't notice the amazing greatness of God at work within and around you and become God-conscious. While we hate our weakness and even try to hide it from others, God says, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9, NLT)


So whatever your "issues," take heart. We're all in this together and here's the good news:

"...I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns." Philippians 1:6 NLT

Maybe along the way, we should extend a little grace for each other's issues. We'll most likely need a little in return.  :-)

The Exposure of Temptation

So I was reading the first 3 chapters of Genesis this morning and it just struck me how many of the things that we deal with on an ongoing basis can be traced directly to the fall of man. For starters, the "battle of the sexes," problems with lust, and even temptation...it really hasn't changed.

The process of temptation and sin are still the same:
1)Satan makes you believe you're missing out on something
2)He shows you how beautiful that thing is and tells you how fun it will be
3)You touch the forbidden thing a little bit, don't drop dead instantly, and think you've gotten by with it.
4)The hammer falls, the truth comes out, and it costs you way more than you ever wanted to pay.

Let's take a lesson from Eve. Next time a good looking temptation is dangling in front of you, don't bite.