Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2 (NIV)
Long before you ever speak a word about yourself, someone else does.
A parent, a teacher, a coach, a sibling or a stranger in a moment that should be forgettable. Words not forgotten. They say something at you, about you, over you. The words take root, becoming the soil your sense of self grows in. The words are still doing quiet work today.
This is where scripture is direct. Renewing your mind is not a one-time decision. It is a daily practice of noticing which words have been planted, asking where they came from, and refusing to let any voice but God’s have the final say over who you are becoming.
Two Truths I Am Carrying
I had a conversation with conversation with Colin S.L. Mackie on words spoken over and at you. After the conversation, I keep returning to two thoughts.
First — you have the power to become who you choose to be. The script you were handed is not the final word. With God’s help, you can author a new one.
Second — uncover your own truths, so you are clear on what you believe. Have the courage to question a belief and ask: was this planted in me and what is the evidence it is built on? Some of what we carry was never ours to begin with.
This is where you have to put in the work. Not every word spoken over you comes from God. Do not put the words in God’s mouth. He speaks loud and clear on what you are to hear and receive.
Renewing Your Mind Begins Here
When the voice in your head says you’re not enough, remember that is not the voice of the One who made you. God has already spoken over you. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, called by name, set apart for purpose. Those are His words. They are spoken before the others, and they outlast every one of them.
Renewing your mind is simply learning, day by day, to believe Him over them.
A question to sit with this week:
Whose words are shaping you right now?
Listen to this week’s episode of Change Your View — Words Shape Who You Become with Colin S. L. Mackie. Listen here – https://youtu.be/DBjL1ky0g24
