stephen R Harrison

I’ve always struggled with insecurity. From the overly shy elementary kid to the now doctorate-wielding pastor, I still struggle at times. Whether it’s feeling like I’m “not enough,” “what do I have to offer,” or “I can’t compete with that,” these thoughts and several others are ones I attempt to take captive every day. Even today. Especially today. Some days, they take me captive, making me want to retreat and isolate.

Insecurity makes me doubt my calling, fear the worst, and second-guess everything. It controls my thoughts, emotions, and actions. It paralyzes, confuses, and ridicules. It slaps chains of bondage on my mind, then body, and pronounces judgment on my soul.

But the truth sets me free (John 8:32).

I’ve learned to be quiet to combat excessive talking that only tries to feed my self-worth. It’s Christ’s Word that reminds me who I am in Christ. I need to hide more in my heart.

I’ve learned to be still and not overcommit and overdo. It’s in Christ’s sufficient actions on the cross I find peace. I need to cast my mind to Calvary.

I’ve learned to listen to the right voices, especially the Spirit and those who love me like Jesus. The Spirit leads me into truth. A friend loves at all times. I need more of both.

I’ve learned not to depend on my personality. I’m not “type A.” I’m not a pull yourself up by your bootstraps guy. I need the steady voice of the Lord reminding me He’s the goal, and He’s my motivation. He’s enough. I need more of His presence.

I’ve learned to write in response to my struggles. It’s in meditating on the Word and time understanding His truth I find solace, purpose, and replenishment. I want to correctly handle His Word of truth.

A verse I’ve been running through my mind and saying aloud all day to help:

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” – 1 John 3:1

Pray for me!

“Despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” Romans 8:37