Let us lay aside every weight and sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1
We’ve been commanded to get rid of the heavy stuff holding us back—the things that threaten forward movement—so that we can continue to move toward the good life. But, in order for you to do that, you must first know what’s holding you back.
Please understand: I’m not trying to insult anyone’s intelligence here; but to be honest, some people have no idea that their own negative emotions are holding them back. Many people believe that the cause of their setback is external—something outside of their control. If you are one of those people, you are not alone. It’s very common. It’s a natural defense mechanism.
The problem is that it’s a lie we’ve come to believe. I too remember feeling that way. I just didn’t know any better.
So here we go:
1. Fear/Depression/Despair-Even though fear is the cause in this category, fear was never meant to hold us back. Fear is part of our natural alarm system, but we shouldn’t live in “alarm mode.” Alarms are designed to alert us to a possible threat; but living in this space continuously is too heavy a burden for healthy living.
2. Guilt/Unworthiness – These two operate on the same level. Guilt breeds a constant feeling of wrongdoing, and feelings of unworthiness won’t allow you to receive good in your life. You just don’t feel worthy.
3. Jealousy – This is where we’re resentfully envious of others. “Thou shalt not covet.”
4. Hatred/Rage – Hatred is when we have very strong feelings of dislike, to the point of physical affectation. It shows on your face, in your actions. It becomes part of us.
5. Revenge – Always wanting to retaliate. In other words, we develop a vindictive spirit. This is where we want to inflict pain, damage, punishment or injury in return for the same. Remember God’s words in Proverbs: “Mercy triumphs over judgment.”
6. Anger – The emotion is so constricting. It stems from a feeling of mistreatment, injury, or opposition. It’s when we drag around a lot of inner pain and inner turmoil.
7. Discouragement – This is a state of being hopeless where you have no inner courage or confidence to move forward. The state of discouragement prevents you from moving. Joshua 1:9 says, “Have not I commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be you dismayed: for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
8. Blame – To accuse or find fault with. This one is sneaky because it’s so subtle. It’s when you take the responsibility off of yourself and place it on another person, place or thing.
9. Worry – When you have a constant feeling of uneasiness. It’s mental harassment that causes you to feel troubled and burdened.
10. Doubt – the state of being a skeptic. You feel distrustful, hesitant more inclined to disbelief.
These emotions are heavy. God knew that we would not be able to bear them alone. You can’t move forward and carry these at the same time. Trying to is a sure recipe for disaster.
Coaches Request:
1. Identify any negative emotion that shows up in your life on a daily basis. [These emotions have a way of lodging themselves in our emotional memory. They must be cleared out]
2. Write it down AND ask yourself, “What this negative emotion costing me?” What am I missing out on?
3. What would you be doing instead? [In other words, if you weren't scared, or angry what would you be doing differently?]
