February 22, 2007 9:58 AM
Women and resentment
Barbara,
Really quick, on a serious note...I so enjoyed the book Captivating by John and Stasi Elderedge, especially a chapter entitled "Warrior Princesses"...
One section that ministered life to me was concerning how the enemy loves to attack relationships:
"Another common enemy that often is at work in women's relationships is a spirit of accusation. In our friendships, in our relationship with peers at work, and especially in our marriages, we often feel that we are a disappointment to others, that they disapprove of us. We feel in their presence that we are not enough, or that we are too much. After we leave a time with them, we're plagued by a deep sense of failing. We feel frustrated and irritated and shamed that we feel that way. Our hearts often land in shame and isolation, or we go to resentment...and isolation."Do you know what I am talking about? Do you recognize this in your own life? That replaying of conversations you've had with people, that sense of having blown it, or that other sense of just being really irritated at them? Have you noticed how the feelings grow as you continue to mull it over? Now, who do you suppose would have a vested interest in ruining your relationships?"
Later, the author concludes how she fought this accusation spirit:"Together, we took a stand against it and commanded it to leave. This can feel a little wierd at first, talking to the air and saying stuff like, 'I bring the cross of Christ against you. In Jesus' name I command you to leave.' Sometimes you have to be firm and pray several times. As Peter said, 'firm in the faith' (I Peter 5:9). But leave it does!"
Just thought I'd pass this on from a reader. This part really struck me:
"Have you noticed how the feelings grow as you continue to mull it over? Now, who do you suppose would have a vested interest in ruining your relationships?"
Yes, women do mull over stuff - way too much. In bringing up boys and girls, I've seen the difference. And the author's so right - we play right into the Enemy's hands when we allow it. Let's pray for each other that God would free us - or we would allow him to free us, because He can, you know!
Posted in Inspiration | Permalink
Comments
I have read this book as well as John's "Wild at Heart" which is a similar book geared towards men and the women that love them. I thouroughly enjoyed and grew because of reading "Captivating" It shows the feminine side of God's nature in a way that I have never seen expressed before.
Posted by: Christina | February 22, 2007 11:43 AM
I've got to get this book. It is so me! Thanks for posting this.
Posted by: Laurie | February 22, 2007 1:24 PM
I had an a-ha moment about resentfulness recently. Well, it wasn't so much an a-ha moment as it was a "God just whacked me upside the head" moment.
I recently had a hysterectomy (5 weeks post-op). My husband is in the military, a commander for his unit. Not a single person in his unit, no spouses, no soldiers, came to the hospital, picked up the phone, or inquired about me. They KNEW I had surgery, as my husband took 2 weeks off.
But several people, practically strangers (my daughter's kindergarten teacher and 2 of my daughter's friends' mothers) prepared meals for us. Several people from my church called and checked up on me - only one of whom I am familiar with. A woman I only recently met at a stamping group came to see if I needed anything. But I was still resentful of those who should have but didn't do anything.
Anyway....the 2nd week, I made it to church. We were singing a song, just one single line, over and over - You are all I need, Lord.
I sat down, as the pain was taking over. As I sat down, I was overwhelmed by God. He asked me over and over again - Why are you resentful of those who did nothing? Be GRATEFUL for those who did SOMETHING! The many in church who prayed for you, unknown to them. The well-wishes of family and friends who CARE about you. Because they were led by ME. Because all you really need is ME.
Talk about WOW. I'm trying to live with that grace in my heart. It's rare that I take the time to listen to what God says...but this is once that I will keep it close to my heart.
Posted by: Linda | February 22, 2007 3:17 PM
