Health, a very high priority topic of concern continues to be the reason why many aspire to set weight loss or "healthier living" goals each new year. From frequent headaches, to insomnia, to digestive problems, you name it! Every irregular function is being scrutinized and the bad behaviors that trigger them are forced to the elimination pile. But a question to consider is, what happens when the impaired element is not as tangible as an ear infection? Like having an "I" disease, I'd propose.
There are so many cloudy "I's" roaming around. "I's" In need of the visine of the Holy Spirit to clear the redness, soreness and irritation that has left them inflamed and infected; even infectious and contagious. As you may suspect, contaminated "I's" are individuals that have become gravely diseased, simply due to contentment with where they are despite the obvious need for recovery. They have no desire to improve or to fully become who God has called them to be. A place that calls for ridding oneself of oneself.
The severity of this "convinced" nature of wellness stems from the fact that mild cases undetected quickly metastasize with detrimental impact. Some injuries and offenses, life experiences and setbacks, have been claimed warden over the heart organ, leaving the "I" to function as Soul over Spirit and Body governed by Soul. So how do I know if I'm in need of "I" surgery you may ask? Well the good news is, although it appears to lie dormant, it has a way of showing its face through recognizable symptoms.
For example, diagnosis can be determined when you ask yourself the following: What has caused my overall demeanor to change? What or who have I given power over my countenance? What has transformed me into a bitter and/or resentful individual? What has stolen my joy and rid me of my peace? What do I often revisit; although ancient in nature, it still has a presence? What can I not get over to the point that I can't function as I have in the past? What have I used to excuse my behavior, to justify my sin as acceptable? What have I tried to convince others of as it pertains to the reason for my new stance? Please note, many times the answer will point to a common denominator or interrelated themes. If any of the above sounds familiar, ask yourself, how long will I not only deceive others, but how long will I deceive myself? My "I" is suffering in the process.
Can a surgeon repair an area that he hasn't been given access to? Can a physician repair an infirmity that the patient denies exists? This "I" disease often hides behind pride, religiosity, entitlement, greed, phoniness, denial, unforgiveness, competition, skewed comparisons, isolation or false progression (outward acts of improvement, but inward bondage). And although easily masked, if you're sick internally, it greatly affects your external performance.
Do you need an "I" appointment? Is an "I"- wash or purging necessary? Although regular checkups help to maintain "I" health, there are still instances where an issue develops and given the right circumstance, it escalates. And you realize "I" am not doing well! Allergic reactions to foreign agents (anything Anti-God) ensue and the lack of immunity with God's Word that ensures growth and maturity leaves you vulnerable. When detected early it is best and in those cases it simply takes a self referral. But in some instances, the issue can get real bad. And those cases usually require others to drag you to the emergency room.
It's so important to examine what has gone awry. The hopeful side of what seems to be an epidemic and stubborn disease is that there is a cure. But it will take many doses of prayer and fasting; declarations of freedom and walking in what has been declared. You don't have to live with this disease. Say to yourself "I" want to be healed! I want to feel and more importantly 'be' better. It all starts with a decision.
Disclaimer: If you see any sign of this disease that can cause traumatic repercussions to your spiritual, emotional, relational and physical health, get tested!
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