The Plague

I dont know of anyone (myself included) who hasnt experienced the sickening feeling of the plague known as "not-good-enough-itis." Speaking from my own experiences with this troublesome bug, its symptoms can last for hours or even days and can include feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, hurt and overall discontent. It can come in many forms: "My house isnt big/nice enough-itis," "My clothes arent cute enough-itis" "My job isnt good enough-itis OR it's counterpart "I'll never do a good enough job-itis" I think you get the picture.

So what is the remedy for this malady?

Let me be clear in saying that I am not referring to the gentle tugs at our hearts that are meant to encourage us to do good. Doing good, as outlined in Titus 3:1-3 is one of God's commands to us! Friends, what I am referring to is the feeling that eats us up inside and makes us feel altogether unworthy. The lies planted in our minds by satan which are repeating but untrue. And the hard to swallow truth that *gasp* we sometimes dont believe that Jesus IS enough.

First, let me remind you (and myself) that desires for things (see: House/Car/clothing/bank account-isnt-good-enough) is dangerous and destructive. 1 Timothy tells us "But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.(6-9)" The desire to be rich is ultimately unfulfilling. Our culture doesnt just whisper- it SHOUTS that we need more and more and more. In the fall, every car manufacturer will unveil its new 2011 models, rendering the 2010's obsolete. Next week, a house down the street will be put up for sale with more square footage and more amenities than my own. It will never be possible to completely meet the demands that our culture throws in our faces. Giving into this belief will eventually lead to ruin.

Let me jump back to a previous statement and encourage you to rejoice and be thankful that Jesus IS enough -- And wants to be your soul source of contentment! Give Him your cares and desires and allow Him to meet your needs. Look to Hebrews 13, where it says, "Be content with what you have, for He has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper, I will not fear; what can man do to me?'(5-6)" Hide God's word in your heart so that when these feelings of discontentment come, you will have a defense. Remember that God has designed us all to fulfill a specific purpose and lets not allow fleshly desires for fancier things or flashier occupations steer us away from that divine purpose. Seek out the heart and mind of a servant; for assuredly, there is no faster route to personal contentment than sharing an afternoon with someone less fortunate.

Over time, through trials and blessings, I will continuously become more secure with who I am in Christ. I do not need a Land Rover or the corner office because Jesus IS enough. God's provision is indescribable and worth so much more than anything fleeting that the world could offer. Paul said it best: "I rejoiced in the Lord greatly...not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him...and my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:10-13, 19)"

Hollie