We all from time to time, push for those around us to view us in what we perceive as a more favorable light. We portray one person at home, one at work, one at church and yet another on Facebook or Twitter.
So who are we really? Which person that we portray is true self?
Which one is the imposter? ….and in the end, who do we really want to be anyway?
The following six I’s are taken from a recovery based lecture called “the Big I”. In summary, the lecture suggests that no true recovery can take place until the human ego is rendered. Furthermore that the following six defensive mechanisms are used by addicts and alcoholics in an attempt to protect themselves and boost their self-worth. What actually ends up happening is that the defenses cover up a lack of self-worth.
Are you using one of the following defenses as a shield to keep everyone out? To enable you to continue to live as someone you are not?
1. Immaturity – We deal with problems by pouting complaining, throwing temper tantrums
2. Inferior – we act like a macho man/woman. We use external efforts to prove we are superior
3. Inadequacy – We have a fear of being less than, so we reject other people’s ideas. An all or nothing attitude that we must be the best
4. Insecurity – We feel anxious, unsafe. We think no one cares or understands. We need constant reassurance that we are important
5. Impulsivity – We don’t think, we just rush into everything. I want what I want, when I want it… is our motto. We desire our needs to be met now.
6. Insensitivity – We appear to not care for others. We do as we please rebelling against parents, school, the law, our boss or our spouse. Our feelings get hurt very easily.
Do any of these fit you? I know as I typed them a few of them fit me to a T.
Why do we do this? It’s not that we were made inferior or insecure or insensitive.
God made us all perfectly. Just the way he wanted.
You are flawlessly crafted for his purpose and built to carry out a plan no one else can.
If your hanging on to one of these six defenses, drop them. Get rid of it and claim you individuality today. Grab hold of your self-worth and be encourage to know that God loves you just the way you are.
If you need some reassurance, read these verse s. There great reminders.
For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you, not to harm you plans to give you a hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5
I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalms 16:8-11
