Thursday, March 4, 2010

Foundations 1

We often hear about our inner critic when we talk about negative things we believe and feel about ourselves. There are many ways to deal with the inner critic such as: learning positive tools to combat the inner critic, or journaling to realize and process subconscious ideas consciously.

Today we want to look broader than just the inner critic. Think about your inner voice as a whole, not just the negative thoughts but all of the thoughts. What is that voice? Does is have a specific sound? Is it a person in your life? What kind of language does it use? What kind of tone does it use with you? What is it's personality?

You should get to know the inner voice well, as it speaks from the source of your identity and beliefs. How it speaks to you effects your attitude and abilities. Many people are afraid of their inner voice and keep life busy and noisy so they don't have to hear it. Others cherish the time they have alone with themselves to remember who they are and enjoy their own self.

Prayer: Pray that God helps you to know yourself intimately.

1 comment:

theo said...

I agree that the inner voice speaks out of identity and belief, but I also know that abilities & competencies (or lack thereof) can affect one's identity, & ultimately the inner critic. I cringe when I hear someone say "Loser!" or see kids use the L on the forehead like it's nothing. Bullying and name calling occasionally are started when one's ability doesn't match up with the "crowd". This is external & a mature person has a choice whether to hear or accept that label or criticism. But a young person just learning tools of choice is vulnerable. We as a community have a golden opportunity to be a positive reflection of good & an encourager for someone with a loud inner critic.

And why is it easier to encourage another, yet allow our own internal critical voice destroy self esteem, identity or create in us a bad attitude? We must guard our foundation that Christ provides for us of love, faith, hope & charity toward ourselves & others. But yes, we must know ourselves well.