Recently I shared a personal insight with a trusted person in my life, someone I allow to help me stay emotionally healthy and accomplish my goals. Her response caught me by surprise. She described my behavior using a strong label loaded with negative meaning for me.
Negative Labels
You know what I mean by a label, right? We group people into categories according to different characteristics to help us understand our world. We label spiritual affiliation, political views, body characteristics, education levels and so much more. Unfortunately, negative labels can shape a person’s view of themself and the attitudes of people who hear and agree with the label.
This individual shaped my view of myself in that moment. I felt my heart drop. I thought about how I healed my past and overcame unhealthy mindsets with Jesus as my guide. How could my changes be to no avail? Didn’t she see the difference in my life?
How Jesus Responds Then and Now
The Holy Spirit pursued me throughout the day as I meditated on our conversation. He reminded me of Jesus’ sacrifice for me – an appropriate remembrance as we celebrate His death and resurrection this week. Jesus died for me so that I could become a new person, a new creation in Him. I left my old man – my sin and soul-filled desires – at the cross the day I accepted Jesus as my savior. I reminded myself that I am loved beyond measure even when I don’t feel it.
Feelings or Truth?
Why does labelling impact my heart if I truly believe I am a new creation? When my feelings take charge, I often forget to remind myself that negative labels are soul issues. My mind, will, and emotions (the soul) feel the impact of people’s judgements. But, my spirit knows the truth!
This is why taking capture my thoughts and making them obedient to who I am in Christ (2 Corinthians 12:5) is an important habit for me. My true label is a daughter of the most high King! I want to embrace that identity and not the negativity of the world. The next time I met with my friend I understood her reasons for the label, but stated clearly that the label just didn’t fit!
Course Correction
I will continue to love and honor Jesus’ by remembering that his sacrifice was for a purpose. He is the way, the truth, and the life. When people attempt to label me or I do the same to others, I will correct my course by choosing to show love and declare His truth about who I am. Will you join me?
A Free Gift
Do you need a reminder of who God created you to be? Take capture your thoughts and overcome any negative labels by downloading my gift to you (no email required – it’s free). Jesus loves you beyond measure!
