Learning Productivity - Part 2

What holds a person back from becoming successful, loving, and giving? I'm sure there are many reasons this affliction grips the lives of some of God's people. Laziness and lack of motivation could be argued as probable causes. Feelings of inferiority and inadequacy keep gifts and talents hidden behind a curtain of fear.

As unbelievable as it may seem, change is possible by confronting the feelings that stifle achieving the productive life God intended. While it's true that we can't go back and do any part of our lives over, we can make choices to alter what gives power to negative perceptions and beliefs.

Begin by rejecting a belief that you're stuck and incapable of change. Believe that you were created by God for a special purpose that will honor him and bless others. See yourself as a child of God, redeemed by Christ Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Believe you're capable of being productive with what God has given you. Keep these truths in your heart and mind until they become real to you.  

Learning Productivity - Part 1

God's desire for his people is that they be industrious and productive. Industry is a developmental task the elementary age child learns to master. The goal for a child at this age is to become skilled in reading, math, social studies, and science. Success most often depends on acquiring social skills. This learned productivity creates patterns for living that last a lifetime.

Children who are shy or feel inadequate conceal their treasures. These children need encouragement and tutoring until their self-image changes. Be alert to identifying a child's strengths and positive attributes. Feelings of inadequacy and inferiority are difficult to overcome, but with determination and God-given courage, change is possible.

The temptation is to linger in the shadows of your capabilities. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness." With every temptation, God provides a way to escape. So please be encouraged, and strive to be the person God created you to be.  

A Challenge to Change - Part 2

Growing up as the youngest child in the family was not a positive experience for Linda. The last thing her father wanted was another child. She would be a financial burden and another distraction for his wife. Linda grew up feeling pushed to the outside, getting whatever was left over, or no longer wanted by others. She still feels the same way.

Change for Linda would mean changing her self-perception and the  expectations she has for herself. Linda has unique gifts and talents that have lain dormant because of her low expectations. Being last in the family doesn't mean being last in fulfilling God's purpose and design. Our self-perception can be contrary to God's perception and his plan for us.

Change can begin by believing with God that it's possible to reverse a negative self-imposed destiny. Jesus said, "The first shall be last and the last first." Psalm 75:7 declares, "It is God who judges. He brings one down and raises up another." Letting go of old perceptions and taking hold of new expectations make change possible.