Have you ever felt like you were losing yourself? Like the vibrant, confident woman you used to be was slipping away in the chaos of life? If so, you’re not alone. At some point, many of us find ourselves questioning our identity, wrestling with self-doubt, and grappling with fears and worries that seem to chip away at our sense of self-worth.
Let me share a story with you…
A Listening Heart
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Self-Doubt: The Darkest Hour
Not long ago, Emily (not her real name) found herself standing in the middle of a bustling city, surrounded by towering buildings that seemed to echo the overwhelming thoughts in her mind. As a professional woman, she was well aware of the achievements that should have given her confidence. Yet, she had this gnawing feeling like she was fading into the background of her own life.
Self-doubt was a constant companion and a nagging whisperer that made her question every decision and every step. The more success she achieved, the louder it became. Here is the paradox— Emily was highly educated and accomplished in her career, but somewhere along the way, she lost the essence of who she was.
A Divine Interruption
In the midst of her internal turmoil, Emily ran into an old friend. That encounter turned into a divine interruption. The friend referred Emily to me for coaching. Over a cup of coffee, Emily shared her story with me. We discussed her identity in Christ- who she is at the core, regardless of external circumstances, success, or failure. I shared 2 Corinthians 2:14 and broke down the verse to help Emily understand more deeply what it means to be a child of God who is already victorious.
But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 2 Corinthians 2:14
Breaking Down the Verse
“But thanks be to God” — This is a powerful acknowledgment that our source of victory and transformation comes from a place beyond ourselves. It’s a gratitude that recognizes we are not alone in our life’s journey.
“Who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession” — Imagine you’re in a joyful and victorious procession with Christ leading. We are not just led as captives to our doubts or fears but captives to Christ’s triumph. The very struggles that threaten to overwhelm us become part of a greater victory march.
“And uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere” — This is the real purpose. In our brokenness and victories, we become vessels carrying the fragrance of Christ. Like a sweet aroma, our lives have the power to spread the knowledge of Him to others everywhere we go. God does not waste our pain but uses them for our good and His glory.
The Turning Point: Unpacking 2 Corinthians 2:14
Unpacking this verse became a turning point for Emily as she found a new perspective. She signed up for coaching and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal. It wasn’t an instant transformation, but rather, it was a series of small, intentional steps. She delved into the Word of God daily, seeking to understand more about her identity in Christ and her role in his triumphal procession.
As Emily immersed herself in scripture, a beautiful truth unfolded. She was not losing herself but was being found in Christ’s victory. Over time, her fears and worries began to lose their grip as she embraced the reality that her identity was not defined by her accomplishments or failures but by being a cherished part of God’s victory through Christ.
3 Lessons from Embracing the Triumphal Procession
1. Embrace Your Captivity in Christ
It may sound counterintuitive, but true freedom often comes through surrender. Embracing our captivity in Christ’s triumphal procession means letting go of the need to control everything and trusting that God is leading us toward victory.
2. Transform Your Struggles into Strength
In the victory procession, even our struggles play a role. They are not signs of defeat but opportunities for transformation. Like a flower pushing through the soil to reach the sunlight, our challenges can lead to our growth and victory.
3. Spread the Fragrance of Christ
Imagine being part of a grand parade and carrying the sweet aroma of Christ’s love, grace, and redemption. Every interaction and moment becomes an opportunity to spread this fragrance. It’s not about religion but about living in a way that leaves a lingering scent of hope and love.
Becoming A Trophy
As Emily continued this journey, she no longer saw herself as a victim of circumstances but as a trophy of Christ’s victory- seeing herself as He sees her. She imagines Christ holding her high up as a trophy and showing her off to everyone in the victory parade. Emily says, “The struggles that once defined me now serve as a backdrop to a story of redemption and triumph.”
The fears and worries that once held her captive have become stepping stones toward a deeper understanding of God’s grace. Her self-doubt is now transformed into a reliance on the One who is always faithful.
How about You? Can you relate to Emily’s Journey?
You are a Trophy – Here’s Your Victory March
Friend, know you are not alone if you resonate with Emily’s journey—the struggles you face, and the doubts that plague you are not the end of your story. You are, in fact, in the midst of a triumphal procession led by the victorious Christ.
Take a moment to embrace your captivity in Christ. Allow him to lead you. Ask him to help you see your struggles as opportunities for transformation and to live in a way that spreads his fragrance. You are not losing yourself but being found in the grand narrative of God’s triumph.
As you walk this path, remember the words of 2 Corinthians 2:14. Let them echo in your heart and guide you.
May you, dear friend, become a living trophy of Christ’s victory, a testament to His transformative power in the midst of your doubts and struggles. You are not just a participant in the victory parade but a cherished and celebrated part of it.
In Christ’s Triumph, You Are Victorious.
PS: If you have any questions or need further guidance on your journey, feel free to reach out. You are not alone in this pursuit of victory and self-discovery.
You may be interested in Renew Your Vision, Renew Your Life to Live More Fully.
Weathering Storms: Finding Treasures in the Ruins is a powerful book full of encouragement and hope for those facing the storms of life. It’s available on Amazon and other book retailers.
