BecomingGolden

Written by Brownie Ebal

As we go through life, we face setbacks and often second-guess ourselves. It is heartbreaking to see young people struggling with mental health challenges, some even taking their own lives. This article is meant to offer encouragement and hope during dark times, reminding you that you
are not alone.

I have experienced this myself, as have many others. My deepest moments of self-doubt came when I started my master’s program. It was an incredibly challenging transition—I found myself in a new environment, struggling to adjust to a different way of life.

My classmates seemed far ahead of me, always prepared, while I felt like I was lagging behind. The coursework was intense—we had to read over 600 pages of a judgment for just one case, and each class required reading multiple cases. It was overwhelming.

During this time, I found myself questioning everything, even doubting God’s providence and guidance. But in the midst of it all, I found solace in a preaching by Joyce Meyer. Here are my key takeaways—lessons that may encourage you if you ever find yourself in a similar season of doubt.

Do not doubt yourself or God’s purpose for your life.

Security is part of our inheritance from God. He desires for us to be safe, confident, and free from fear. However, many people struggle with insecurity, constantly worrying about what others think or fearing failure. True security comes not from external validation but from knowing who we are in Christ.

Our security is not found in money, status, or other people’s opinions—it comes from God. Isaiah 54:17 reminds us: “No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper… This [peace, righteousness, security, triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the Lord.” This means that our confidence is not based on circumstances but on God’s unshakable
promises. When we trust Him, we can live free from fear and anxiety.

Many people are afraid to try new things because they fear failure. But failing at something does not make you a failure. Proverbs 24:16 says: “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.” Think about a baby learning to walk. They fall multiple times, but they do not stop trying. In the same way, we should not be discouraged by setbacks. Instead, we should see them as part of the journey to growth.

Confidence is not about never feeling afraid—it is about trusting God despite how we feel. John 10:28-29 reassures us: “No one can snatch them out of my hand.” This means that our security is in God, not in what we see or feel. Even when we do not feel confident, we can still choose to act in faith, knowing that God is with us.

The enemy often uses people—even those close to us—to bring discouragement. But our identity is not based on others’ opinions. 1 Samuel 17:23-29 tells the story of David facing Goliath. Before David even fought the giant, his own family doubted him. However, David knew who he was in God, and he did not let their words stop him. Similarly, we all have giants in our lives—challenges that try to shake our faith. But 1 Samuel 17:30 reminds us: “David turned away to someone else and brought up the same matter.” Sometimes, we need to turn away from negativity and focus on what God says about us. Romans 8:35 declares that we are more than
conquerors in Christ!

Our feelings are temporary, but God’s word is eternal. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Even when we feel unworthy or inadequate, we should remind ourselves of what God says about us.
We are loved, chosen, and victorious through Him.

One of the greatest sources of security is knowing that God is always by our side. Joshua 1:5 promises: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” And Psalm 23:3 reminds us that God restores our souls and guides us on the right path. When fear or doubt creeps in, we can stand firm in the knowledge that God is in control and will take care of every situation.

Overcoming insecurity starts with shifting our focus from ourselves to God. When we understand that our security comes from Him, we can step out in faith, try new things, and live confidently, knowing that no challenge is too great for God. Instead of living by fear or other people’s opinions, we should hold onto God’s promises, walk in His truth, and trust that He will always be with us.

For more insights, watch: https://youtu.be/8Z2qGCO6uhk?si=tct1d-zzt0VLylf-– Joyce Meyer.