Breaking Free from Labels: "That's Just Not Me"
I want to discuss how people often label themselves and use these labels as excuses to stay within their comfort zones. Whether it's claiming to be too introverted, not smart enough, or too timid, these labels can become shields, hindering us from embracing the person God calls us to be.
Society has increasingly embraced the concept of labels, often using personality tests like the Myers-Briggs personality types to categorize individuals. However, I challenge the idea that people are purely one type of personality or another. Introversion vs Extraversion for example, I challenge that we are always extraverted, or always introverted. We as humans are so complex and multi-faceted and we often change how we are depending on who are around, what has happened recently in our lives, and how we view ourselves.
Labels should not limit us or make us feel like we must always behave a certain way. What started as a way to describe ourselves has become a box we place ourselves in. Someone who identifies as an introvert, are you hiding behind a label and saying , "Oh that's just not me. I'm not good at talking to strangers. I'm not good at public speaking." We can choose which part wins out in the war of your actions - do you identify more as an introvert, or as a child of God? Do you allow the nudge of the Holy Spirit to win out, or allow the comfortability of your fleshly desires?
The focus in all we do should be on God's calling for us, and not hiding behind labels because it is more comfortable or 'safe'. God calls all of us to be a light, sharing His gospel and loving His children in the world.
Mental Health Labels
Acknowledging the validity of the struggles of health conditions, it's important for us to distinguish our experience between going through a challenging time, and having a clinical condition. Labelling ourselves as having depression, rather than saying we are feeling depressed or going through a depressing time, can cause a subconscious shift away from a temporary experience, into a permanent shift in mindset. We may fall into the trap of using mental health labels to avoid stepping out of our comfort zones into things that challenge us, and can hinder our personal growth and God's plan for our lives.
A diagnosis of a chronic condition may become a larger part of our identity than God, and we may never seek God's support in growing and learning how to be all God created us to be. But recognising that God sees all parts of you, not just the parts that are healthy, helps us feel empowered and secure. You are so much more than your mental health struggles - there is so much light and love and goodness within you that can come through when we walk through our mental health with God.
Aligning with God's Identity for Us
To break free from limiting labels, it's essential to compare them with what God says about us. By holding up each label against God's word, we can identify the aspects of our identity that align with His truth. He views us a His child, someone He loves, someone He has plans and a purpose for, someone who showcases His love to the world, and someone who has gifts and talents He wishes to use to reach His people. Does this label support that identity, or undermine it?
It can be challenging to rebuild our identity based on God's perspective instead of our worn-out habits of how we see ourselves. But it can lead to a release of negative behaviors and the development of bravery and courage. The possibilities of the future becomes re-opened to us when we look at the complexity of our lives and see ourselves how God sees us. Who we were 10 years ago does not dictate who we will be in 10 years time. The labels we identify ourselves by does not capture the full essence of who we are.
Dreaming Big with God's Plan
I encourage you to dream big, recognising those dreams in your heart are not unrealistic or 'silly'. God places these dreams within us, intending to partner with us in their fulfillment to share His light within the world in our unique way. Whether we are shy, bold, anxious or confident, God's calling and purpose to share His love in the world is larger than any feeling or label. While the journey may not unfold overnight, partnering with God to outwork His will, will lead to impacting lives along the way and leaving a lasting legacy.
Let's question the labels we place on ourselves and others, ensuring they align with God's view of our identity. If we embrace our true selves and step out in faith, we can unlock the potential God has planned for us. Remember, your dreams should scare you, but with God, they are achievable.