Self-esteem rises as we acknowledge our feelings and our own dysfunctional thinking.  Feelings are not facts.  Self-confidence and God-reliance comes when self-centered lies dissolve.  It was time to separate fact from fiction.  My counselor asked, “Do you react to what you think, want or feel…or do you respond to the facts (what you know?)”  I hadn’t a clue.  He said,  “With God’s help, you will learn to respond to the truth.”  He gave me some examples.  I have listed a few that are relevant in my life.

I think I am recovered from my eating disorder (lie); I know recovery is contingent on working the program one day at a time (truth).

I think I am alone.  No one loves me.  I am unlovable (lie); I know I am never alone.  Jesus loves me, and He has made me in his image—lovable (truth). 

I want to be normal.  I want something to eat (unhealthy thinking); I know I am a food addict, and excess food is not an option (truth). 

I want more control around my children (unhealthy thinking); I know God is taking care of them, better than I ever could (truth).

I feel hungry even after a full meal (unhealthy thinking); I know my food plan is nutritionally well-balanced and it is enough (truth). 

I feel justified to be inconsiderate.  I want to yell and scream, as was my familiar way of handling feelings (unhealthy thinking); I know Jesus asks me to be kind and loving.  It is okay to feel angry.  It is not okay to lash out and hurt people in the midst of my emotional turmoil.  I need to pray for God’s guidance, accept my responsibility or contribution to the situation, and make amends for my actions or attitude if they are inappropriate.  Sometimes I have to “God bless” my counterpart and accept that life is not always fair.  When I let go of my self-centered ego and follow Jesus, I am well.  I am directed, and I find peace (truth).