Have you ever asked why we envy others? Do you compare yourself, your kids, or your house to those of others? Do you have envious thoughts when you view Facebook or Instagram? Do you secretly wish that, (well, you fill in the blank)? Are your thoughts wrapped and consumed with what others think of you more than the things of God?

Rejection is one of the most painful emotions that we as humans can feel or experience, in fact rejection can send shivers down our spine.  As a counselor I hear so often from women for whom rejection has become part of their story. Their “view of self” - has been shattered because they have believed lies that they are unworthy, not-accepted, and often even unloved. When we view ourselves from a such a low place, these internal beliefs affect our behavior all because we believe that we are not good enough! Have you ever believed this narrative about yourself?

Each of the seven negative words in this acronym FREEDOM typifies a chain that shackles us, keeps us locked in our prison, and holds us back from experiencing His freedom and love.

Now, let's ask ourselves these questions: “Am I allowing fear rob me of my freedom? Do I feel isolated because of my fears? Do I think that I can never be free? Am I shackled to a chain of my own making?”