LIVING A VICTORIOUS LIFE - PART 2

Last week I talked about LIVING A VICTORIOUS LIFE. I really felt the Lord say to continue with these articles because there are a lot of people who read this blog who could benefit from them.

We left off with talking about shame and its hold on our lives. We also saw one of the ways to wage war with shame. Coming into an understanding that not only does God love me (which we all know) but that He actually likes me and enjoys me, even in my weakness. This reality may seem incredible and may loosen the grip of the enemy on our lives a little bit. But it requires great discipline and constant reminding to LIVE in this reality.

One of shame’s counterparts is LONELINESS or the feeling of isolation. This not only relates to the drug addict, or the husband who is trapped in the grip of pornography, but to pastors, prophets, mothers, CEO’s, practically everyone. We all have a longing for intimacy and the need for fulfillment of those needs. Here are 10 intimacy needs that we require. In my next post I will discuss how to get out of the trap of loneliness.

1.) Acceptance – the reception of a positive response (Rom. 15:7)
2.) Affection – the communication of care of closeness (Rom 16:16)
3.) Appreciation – to communicate with words or feelings personal gratitude (1 Cor. 11:2)
4.) Approval – expressed commendation, to speak well of (Rom 14:18)
5.) Attention – to take thought of another and convey appropriate interest and support or to “enter” into someone’s world (1 Cor. 12:25)
6.) Comfort – to come alongside with words, feelings, and touch; to give consolation with tenderness (Rom. 12:15)
7.) Encouragement – to move forward and positively persuade toward a goal (1 Thes. 5:11; Heb 10:24)
8.) Respect – to value and regard highly; to convey great worth (Rom. 12:10)
9.) Security – confidence of harmony in relationships; free from harm (Rom. 12:16a)
10.) Support – to come alongside and gently help carry a load (Gal. 6:2)

The next time you begin feeling depressed, lonely, or shameful think of these intimacy needs and see if one or more of those needs aren’t getting met. The KEY is communication though. Communicate it to a friend a spouse, or someone you feel you can trust. Most of all communicate it with God. He really cares and can help you out more than you think.