Not Just a River in Egypt

It’s a great place to live.

There are no problems there… or at least it seems that way.

The only feeling experienced here is one of numbness.

Nothing is felt when you live here because you’re insulated.

Progressing and moving forward doesn’t happen anymore because in this place you’re living growth and positive change are not possible.

It’s lonely here. Not many friends, none who really get you.

On the positive side though, no one can hurt you here, only you can.

Connection to God? Sketchy. Here and there, nothing consistent.

You’re allowed to live here as long as you want. You’re also free to go if you’d like to.

This is the land of Denial.

Yes, it’s much more than just a river in Egypt.

Many people choose to live here. Others live here and don’t even realize it.

Denial has the allure of self-preservation, but more often than not leads to self-destruction.

Family expectations and pressure, the need to be perfect, a past full of hurt or regret are a few of the reasons people seek out the land of Denial.

Once you’re here it’s difficult to leave. It feels like it’s impossible actually.

Yet in truth leaving is as simple as one small decision.

Admit it.

You have flaws. You are not perfect. You don’t have ultimate control over every area of your life.

I’ve lived in the land of Denial before.

I think most pastors do from time to time. We probably vacation there every now and again even after leaving.

I don’t want to live in Denial any longer. I don’t want others to live there either.

The only way I know how to move out of Denial is to fess up. Own it. Be real.

I have problems controlling my anger.

Not just on the football field or while driving, but with the people I love the most, my family.

I still have trouble with lust. I thought it would be just a “teenage phase,” but I guess it’s more of a, “I’m a dude and I’m wired that way,” kind of thing.

It doesn’t excuse it, but it helps me take courage and work through it.

I am a stress eater. I eat too much food or just plain junk because it helps me feel better.

Does admitting I have problems automatically solve them?

No, but it’s a step in the right direction.

It’s the first step on the road out of the land of Denial.

I don’t want to live there anymore. I’m looking for freedom. For me. For my family. For others.

When I admit my weakness it frees God up to be strong.

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. (2 Corinthians 12.9, NLT)

Don’t live in the land of Denial any longer.

Find someone you trust and fess up.

Admit it. Own it. Take the first step on the road to freedom.

D-isables our feelings

E-nergy lost

N-egates growth

I-solates us from God

A-lienates us from relationships

L-engthens the pain