Over the years, we collect filters through which we process life. These filters determine how we respond to everyday life… both the little stuff and the really huge stuff. These filters determine how we relate to people… how we make decisions… how we think. The things we let influence us and speak into our lives make up these filters. These filters will quickly build walls in our lives.
Here are some common walls that we build around our life which are usually the opposite of what God's Word teaches.
1. A Wall of FEAR
- Do I fail to realize that God is in control?
- Do I want God to be in control of my life?
- Am I afraid of what God might ask of me?
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:6–7
2. A Wall of DIRT
- Have the things that I once considered filth become the source of my entertainment?
- Does what once made me blush now make me laugh?
And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Phil. 4:8
3. A Wall of ACTIVITY
- Has church activity become a substitute for an intimate relationship with Jesus?
- Have I filled my life with endless, meaningless activities?
- Am I trying to earn God's love?
Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:9
4. A Wall of COMPLAINING
- Do I think God has given me the short end of the stick?
- Do I compare myself to others?
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. Phil. 4:10–12
5. The Wall of DEFEAT
- Do I believe the Bible is God's Word?
- Am I willing to trust His promises?
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Phil. 4:13
So the real question is this: Are you ready to tear down some walls in your life?
