By Nancy Virden (c)2020

Typical self-doubt may sound like these statements: My judgment is questionable; Is this the right decision?; Am I good enough?; No one takes me seriously; I don’t think I make a difference; Fears of rejection and failure paralyze me.

Step 1: Get Wisdom

Self-doubt traps us between fear and failure. Trusting God to show us what to do may seem contradictory to our goal of thinking confidently for ourselves. Of course, he did not create us conformists or robots.

Nonetheless, we cannot know more than we know! Reliance on God’s wisdom means our judgment is not our only resource. Even when we do not know the where, what, why, or how of circumstances, we never have to question God’s ability to lead.

King David was called out on his rationalizing. The truth hit David hard, and he broke down. His tears of grief were not only regret but repentance.

Repentance is a combination of sorrow over sinning (wrongdoing) against God and a turning away from those sins. David later wrote in such a way it is evident he changed direction. His prayer is one we can repeat: Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life” (Psalm 51:17).

Solomon, David’s son, became king remembering his father’s lessons. Above long life, riches, or military
victory, he prayed for an understanding mind and discerning heart. In our day, growth and discernment are natural results of a sincere and disciplined relationship with Jesus. Age and many years in the church do not guarantee this. Spiritually mature believers have a deeper understanding of sound judgment because of constant practice. There is much to be said for experience!

As in David’s case, God still appoints people who listen to the Holy Spirit to speak the truth.

The better part of wisdom is admitting when we have reached the end of what we know, and humbly asking for directions.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Psalm 119:66

Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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