Scripture tells us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). Our words shape our reality, and what we declare over ourselves directly impacts our identity. It burdens my heart to see so many Christians unknowingly speaking defeat over their own lives. Imagine every word you say about yourself as a banner hanging over you. Some people, even with good intentions, don’t realize they’re trapped in their struggles because of the words they continue to speak. We must take our thoughts captive, submit them to Christ, reject lies, and declare His truth over our lives.
Are You Claiming a Struggle or an Identity?
We live in a world obsessed with labels. But too often, these labels are rooted in lies. People cling to identities that reflect their struggles rather than their identity in Christ. I understand how easy it is to do this, but as a believer, I want truth—God’s truth—to define my life, not the enemy’s deception.
When I was in my 20s, I sought counsel from a woman regarding personal struggles. At our very first meeting, she told me, “It appears that you are clinically depressed, and I probably won’t be able to help you.” I left feeling worse than when I arrived, devastated by her words. But in that moment, I turned to God and declared, “Lord, You call me Your child. I am not depressed—I am going through depression.” That distinction mattered. I refused to let a struggle become my identity.
Yes, I faced depression again, but because I had rejected that label, I was able to discern the true causes—nutritional deficiencies and spiritual attacks. Had I accepted that identity, I might never have sought the real solutions.
Walking by Faith, Not by Sight
We often rely on what we can see and try to “fix” things in our own strength. But many solutions are just band-aids that fail to address the root cause. As Christians, we are called to walk by faith, not sight.
“for we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” – Romans 10:17
If faith comes from hearing God’s Word, why do we rely more on people’s opinions than on Christ? God does speak, but we must be still enough to listen. Sadly, many churches don’t teach believers how to hear God’s voice. Some pastors even imply that only they can hear from God, but this is not biblical.
If You Want to Hear God, Here’s How to Start
If you want to hear from God, here’s where to start:
- Read the Word.
Romans 10:17 says faith comes by hearing the Word of God. John 1:1 tells us that “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” If you want to hear God, start with His Word. - Pray.
Matthew 26:41 reminds us, “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Prayer aligns us with God’s will and strengthens our spirit. - Meditate on Scripture.
Biblical meditation isn’t about emptying our minds but filling them with God’s truth. Philippians 4:8 tells us to focus on what is true, honorable, and praiseworthy. We must empty ourselves of fear, worry, and lies, replacing them with God’s promises.
As you practice these disciplines, the Holy Spirit will bring Scripture to mind in moments of need. That is how God speaks to us—through His Word, His Spirit, and His truth.
Stop Speaking Lies Over Yourself
Once you learn to hear God’s voice, you’ll stop declaring the enemy’s lies over your life.
- You are not anxious—you are experiencing anxiety.
- You are not depressed—you are going through depression.
- You are not sick—you are experiencing sickness.
Yet many continue to say things like, “My anxiety won’t let me…” or “My depression has me in a funk.” No! This kind of speech reinforces bondage. Instead, declare:
- “Anxiety has no place in my life. There is no shame in struggling, but I will not claim it as my identity.”
- “I feel down today, but God will lift me up. His promises are true, even when I don’t feel them.”
- “I may be sick, but by His stripes, I am healed. I stand on His Word.”
Your Words Shape Your Reality—Choose Wisely
This is faith in action. If I could tell you one thing to pierce your heart, it would be this: There is power in your words.
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” – Proverbs 18:21
“From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” – James 3:10
My encouragement to you is this: Speak truth over yourself, your home, and your family. Even if you’ve walked with Christ for years, ask Him to reveal where your words need to change. He will show you.
There is freedom in Christ for every area of your life. I know because I’ve experienced it. I’m not speaking from theory—I’m speaking from victory.
