How do you fit in God's plan?
This question can be a struggle, even a stumbling block for Christians. Sometimes it seems like you have your hands full just getting through life and taking care of yourself. It can feel overwhelming and intimidating to figure out how God could possibly use us as part of some intricate and interdependent plan. Knowing yourself can be difficult but it’s such an important part of discovering purpose and meaning in life.
Our Lifeblood curriculum helps people who are trying to overcome incarceration see themselves in a new way. The group session on Understanding Identity challenges participants to make a choice about the way they see themselves, rather than just accept the labels created by their feelings or the world. It can be helpful for any of us to examine who we are in a new way. Rather than focusing on the things that you understand about yourself, think about the things God understands about you:
- The days of your life are also God’s days. Your story is also part of God’s story.
- You have been gifted I’m specific ways. Take the time to discover the special ways God has wired you.
- God is able to use ALL of your gifts and experiences (even those you think of in negative terms) for his good purpose. Reflect on ways God has used your experiences to help others.
Take some time to use these questions from Lifeblood and reflect on the way you understand who you are:
- In the past, has your view of yourself caused you to assume limitations or self-expectations?
- Has the way you see yourself changed? How?
- Has anyone noticed a change in you? How so?
- Is there anything about your old life that seems far-removed or unrecognizable? Why did those things change?
If You'd Like To Support the Lifeblood Reentry Ministry
We’d love to know that you are praying for our efforts to change the lives of men and women inside correctional facilities and through community-based reentry facilities. We’d also appreciate your financial support. Thank you for your consideration and generosity!