I think at one point or another in our life we have strived and pushed to meet these invisible expectations. It may of felt really true to us, but caused us to be exhausted, anxious and depleted. Grateful for the honest conversation that Natalie shared today about living with anxiety and pushing past fear and letting others into her life. I was scrolling through Instagram a couple months ago and I stopped on a post from Natalie that impacted who I am at my core so deeply. Here is what Natalie wrote:
Your identity lies fully in Christ. I constantly struggle to believe this truth. I repeatedly fall into the trap of believing Satan’s lies that my worth and identity depend on my appearance, social status, academics & achievements. because of this I am constantly striving, but this does not lead to the fulfilling, Christ-centered life that God desires me to live. Galatians 2:20 states, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
The Lord has taught me this truth in this season. While I still struggle with remembering this, He keeps reminding me of His redeeming love & the fact that my identity lies in Him. if you also struggle with believing these lies, lay them all down at the foot of the cross. Jesus does not love you because of your appearance or what you can accomplish, but because you are His child. stop striving & rest in the security that you are fully seen, known, and loved by the God who created you.
Reflection Questions
How can you stop striving and rest in the security of God that created you?
What is one way you can share with someone to let them know they are seen and known?
Connect with Natalie
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression here are some resources:
Lifeline Chat - free confidential crisis service
Better Help - Professional Online Therapy
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