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.  :-)

Walking with Keith in 2010

"My eyes are dry. My faith is old. My heart is hard. My prayers are cold."

Have you ever felt this way? This morning as I was driving in to my office at World Indigenous Missions, this old Keith Green song was running through my mind. I think that as you go through life, serving God in ministry, desensitization and apathy can come at us in various forms. Of course we all face personal challenges and struggles and deal with family drama. And most of us (unfortunately) know what it's like to have a spiritual leader disappoint us or even break our heart. If we're not careful, though, these things can creep inside us and begin to cloud our vision of eternity. We can begin to feel like what we do doesn't really matter and become discouraged, bitter, withdrawn and complacent. And while these feelings may all be entirely justified, and feel like a warm blanket that we are perhaps entitled to snuggle in for a while, consider this sobering thought; complacent people don't pose much threat to the kingdom of darkness.

"and I know how I ought to be; alive to You and dead to me."

As I look forward to 2010, a big part of me is very glad 2009 is over. It was a challenging year...and not in a good way. I'm hoping 2010 will be easier, but the truth is, it may not. So, I'm starting the year the best way I know...by fasting and drawing near to God. Don't get me wrong. There were a lot of great things about 2009, and the truth is I'm thankful for the challenges as well. Without troubles, how would we grow? In fact, when viewed in light of eternity, they really only help me...they help me locate my own weaknesses and they help me rely more fully on God.

"So what can be done for an old heart like mine? Soften it up with oil and wine. The oil is You, your spirit of love. Please wash me anew with the wine of your blood."

Yes, Jesus, yes.

Thanks, Keith. I needed that. :)