Have you been lied to?
Most definitely. By the world. By other people. By yourself. We all have.
The following post is adapted from my recent book, Difference Maker. The lies we’ve bought into over time influence us more than we realize, including how we grieve and relate to others. See what you think…
Lies.
We all have them, somewhere deep inside us. They could be messages that were given to us. Perhaps we heard them from others around us through words, body language, actions, or absence. They could even be things that we made up, internalized, and now act on.
You get bombarded with messages every day. Not all of them are true. Some are true, but not helpful. Others might even be mean and cruel.
Your heart senses these messages. They swirl around you, seeking a way in. All of them effect you, but you get to decide which ones linger in your mind and slip into your heart. Ultimately, you choose what you’re going to believe.
When you were younger, however, you naturally believed the words and actions of those around you — especially family and others you spent a lot of time with. These messages shaped your mind and heart. They influenced you profoundly.
Though these messages came from others, over time you got so used to them that you began hearing them in your own voice. You began telling yourself, “I’m this…I’m that.”
What are some of the more common lies we believe? They usually include some version of the following words:
Unlovable.
Worthless.
Damaged.
Failure.
Hopeless.
Not good enough.
Alone.
These words, and the ideas that come from them, spear the heart. They penetrate to the core of our being. Like little viruses injected one message at a time, they can wreak havoc in every area of life.
These words form the foundation from which lies are constructed. If the foundation is flawed, everything you build on top of it will be affected. You need to make sure what you’re constructing – your life – is on solid, level ground.
It’s time for a foundation inspection. Time to unearth the lies, the enemies of your heart.
Difference Makers are on guard against the lies that have infiltrated their hearts. To the foes of our hearts: Look out. We’re coming for you.
Adapted from the newly released Difference Maker: Overcoming Adversity and Turning Pain into Purpose, Every Day.
Question: Do you sense there are some lies buried deep inside that influence your behavior or grief process? How so? What have you found helpful in combating these lies?
Related Recommended Resources:
Difference Maker – Interview on Daily Authors Podcast
Taking Care of Ourselves By Aknowledging Others – Happify
5 Tips for Having More Impact Than You Dreamed Possible – Dr. Laura
I am so hurt and disillusioned everyone has discounted me. I feel hopeless, worthless, and purposeless. I thought blood was deeper and was a support system for a grieving soul. I am a born again Christian (Christ follower) but the messages (maybe lies maybe truths) are keeping me from moving forward. Am I really that bad. I am sorry but my battle to go on is losing. I try to focus on Gods truth but the lies satan keeps me bound. The pain is so deep I can not move forward. Any suggestion. This season of storms is more than I can handle even if I know God has won and is victorious. He has won, I know. But how can He use a broken vessel that is to weak to go on. I know my strength comes from Him but I can’t fight anymore. Lies and my weakness keeps me bound. I am so weak. Thanks for listening.
Hi Shirley. Thank you for sharing. I’m so sorry. I sense the pain in your words, and the deep disappointment. Loss and grief can hit so hard and so deep that it feels like everything gets upended, including parts of our faith. Our faith and relationship with God certainly changes – mainly because nothing stays the same after a heavy loss. Please be kind to yourself in this. And please feel free to reach out here any time. It’s such a battle. Thank you for sharing. You’re not alone. Many feel this way…
To Shirley,
Yes many feel this way. ?
Thanks for sharing and supporting others, Elizabeth!
Thank you, all so true. So much to think about and learn to be free of these lies,
HI Janet. Thanks for sharing. You’re right. So much to think about. These lies weave their way in deep…in many unseen, sneaky ways…
HI Janet. You are so right. Sometimes, we have to put ourselves on alert – and remind ourselves what lies are operating in our lives so we can recognize them when they pop up. Whew! Be patient with yourself, Janet. If I can ever help, please let me know. Blessings…