Litmus Tests

Why do we use them, and how does it affect us? Let's examine what it signifies for us today. A Litmus Test is a definitive factor that determines the true nature of something or categorizes it accordingly. It often pertains to an opinion on a political or moral issue that serves as a criterion for judging the acceptability of someone or something.

We have an ideal Litmus Test to evaluate everything in our lives: Does it bring life, or does it bring death? This is akin to Marie Kondo's "Spark Joy" method of decluttering. However, the test I'm mentioning dates back even further. In the biblical book of John, chapter 10, verse 10, Jesus said:

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Let's dive into this. Today, we begin with the first one - Steal.

The enemy's top tactic is to steal, starting with your identity. Let's discuss labels.

Over the years, we have confidently recognized that the words spoken to us as young children significantly shape our self-identity. We tend to label ourselves based on these words, which heightens our sensitivity to related behaviors. For instance, if labeled as stupid during childhood, you might internalize that false belief. If you are a fighter, you would strive relentlessly to disprove this lie and demonstrate your intelligence. In either scenario, sensitivity to situations questioning your competence and intelligence is heightened, leading to potential offense over seemingly minor issues.

The enemy is strategically using labels against us, targeting our sensitivities to make us question ourselves, feel offended, and react based on false beliefs. This tactic is robbing us of our true identity, not the one we were designed for, but the one shaped by these deceptive lies. He compels us to impose the label on others. When we act, we are defined as one thing; when we refrain, we are defined as another.

Why do people steal? Greed. Envy. Lust.

The enemy envies our true nature and covets the power we possess. Driven by greed for power, relationships, authority, and honor. We've become so focused on OUR rights that we've fallen into a trap. Our pursuit of power, relationships, authority, and honor has made us greedy.

What can we do now? Flip the script. Flip the table over. Be the opposite.

Embrace generosity. Practice selflessness. Cultivate benevolence. Exercise restraint and self-control. Harness self-discipline. Discard labels and hashtags. Avoid imitation. Stand out from the crowd. Refuse to contribute to the noise. Remember, the enemy relies solely on smoke and mirrors.

Until Next Time,

DJ