We all agree – waiting is difficult. It’s an exercise in trusting God with an outcome, a next step, an answer, etc. And you don’t know how long He will ask you to wait. One of the important steps to remaining faithful in waiting is to talk to yourself. Speak the truth. Encourage yourself. Remember the past stories when God has come through – and if you struggle to find stories from your own past, reach out to a friend and ask them to share their stories of God’s faithfulness.
The author of Psalm 42 gives us a great example in verse 5: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Be honest with yourself about how you feel and voice that in prayer. It’s no surprise to God! And then continue by reminding yourself about who God is. His character speaks for itself throughout the entirety of scripture.
Her Story:
My name is Titia, and I am a campus services student pastor at 12Stone. I know talking to yourself sounds a little crazy, but I do it all the time and I don’t think I am alone. So I guess we can be crazy together. Have you ever thought about how you speak to yourself? It matters. More than you may realize. Think about it right now. How do you talk to yourself when you’re frustrated, angry or down? Would you talk to a friend or a child like that? Here what’s true…
“Words kill. Words give life. They’re either poison or fruit – you choose. Words satisfy the mind as much as fruit does the stomach; good talk is as gratifying as a good harvest.” Proverbs 18:20-21 (MSG)
Do your words to yourself sound more like poison or fruit? This passage uses pretty powerful imagery to help us understand the power of our words. The tongue has the power to satisfy and offer provision, but also to sow seeds of life or death. That’s a lot of power! Be intentional about the words you choose.
I am convinced that the power of words extends beyond mere expression; rather, they possess the ability to shape our thoughts, perspectives, and the very fabric of our lives. In alignment with the wisdom found in Proverbs, we hold the authority to select the words that define us. It’s crucial to recognize that the language we use will profoundly influence our self-perception, how we interpret our circumstances, our relationships with family and friends, and various aspects of our lives. Don’t underestimate the transformative impact words have in sculpting a better or worse reality for yourself. So, talk to yourself in a way that honors God. No more poison.
If you consistently think and speak positively about yourself, you will literally FEEL the difference. You’ll find yourself being more optimistic. Research shows that positive self-talk can improve self-esteem, stress management and wellbeing. It can also reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and personality disorders. The tongue is powerful! God has trusted you to wield the power of your words so be careful.
Every day when I wake up, I talk to myself. I speak positive things over myself, and I pray blessings over my day. Try it this week! Find some nuggets from God’s Word and give yourself a positive pep talk. The trajectory of your day – potentially even your life – can be influenced by the words you use. This skill is SO crucial in a waiting season.
If you struggle to speak life over yourself, here are a few things you can try:
- I am clothed with strength and dignity
- I am valuable
- I am a good mother, daughter, friend, or sister
- I am chosen and dearly loved
- I will make it through the storm that I am currently in
- My low moments do not define me but, God does
