Freedom from Domination

Establish my footsteps in Your word, and do not let any iniquity have dominion over me. Psalm 119:133 (New American Standard Bible)

God’s Word is truth and it is what I must be fixed in, secured by, directed in, prepared with, fastened to, and restored by. When that is not the case, I open myself up to be mastered and dominated by such things as sin, trouble, sorrow, perceptions, and idolatry. Today’s verse became my heart’s cry and prayer throughout yesterday. It gave me direction and hope.

Of all the things I battle, my thoughts and mindsets top the list of potential for what can become domineering. I spoke with a friend last night about this very thing and through the course of the conversation God revealed to us the pattern I habitually repeat and the way of escape He offers me.

The pattern that so often plays itself out and spirals me down is wrong perceptions which lead to strong emotions and shame based feelings. The shift that transpires is soon followed by an internal darkness that can quickly gain control of my mind, attitude, actions, and demeanor. Once I am in that mode there seems to be a paralysis to my ability to put up a fight. Rather than fight I spiral until eventually I bring it to God and He brings me out of it. I cringe at both my heart issues and the spiraling that takes place. What I came to understand last night was that I take a wrong turn when the perceptions come and issues of the heart become evident. Rather than admit them to God and allow Him to free me from the results, I self condemn and encase myself in shame and embarrassment. At that point, I don’t want to admit the truth to myself, God, or anyone else. God is once again reminding me that what I refuse to acknowledge will always have control of me.

So what is His prescription for freedom? When the perceptions hit and the issues surface, bring them to Him. Admit the struggle. Admit the weakness. Admit the thoughts. Admit the feelings. Then, like a child in need of help, ask Him for help. Ask Him to replace the sense of worthlessness, rejection, and abandonment with His truth. Then continue asking until the pull of emotions is broken. I am so use to spiraling that I find it hard to believe there is another option. God is assuring me of not only another option but of His help in bringing about that other option. I want to be established in His word and set free from that which has dominated me. I covet the prayers of others in my pursuit of freedom.

Father, my track record is filled with failure in this area, but Yours is impeccable! I admit my need of You and I thank You in advance for what You are about to do. Establish my footsteps and free me. Amen.

In Christ Alone - Brian Littrell
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7m5MU5qx7U

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.