The truth is...

I was writing in my journal today and as I was writing, the thought hit me:

"I'm writing about Jesus..."

I would have never been writing at all (and certainly not about Jesus) only a few years ago. It was one of those reminders of how much He has transformed me.

Its good to have these reminders from time to time and to look back and see how much He has changed us. Remembering the work God has done in our lives is so important. This spiritual battle has never been easy. Satan started bombarding me with lies from day one:

"Your not really God's, you still belong to me."
"Your not really forgiven."
"You're just not good enough for God."

And the more current ones:

"God will never be able to use someone like you."
"Do you really think you're going to make a difference?"
"God will never use you for anything great."
"You just can't do it."

These lies are so subtle. They just go on and on, day after day, month after month, year after year - and we begin to believe them more and more. It's important for me and anyone reading this to make sure we don't fall into hopelessness and discouragment. Remember what God has done in your life. Remember what He has told you, and remember His word. Let those replace the lies that so easily and silently slip into your mind and heart.

The truth is:

God has changed me. I am His. I am forgiven. I am loved. I am a new creation. He has used me. He is using me. He will use me. He has a plan for my life. "I can do all things through Christ". I am going to make a difference. My life will not be wasted.