defensiveness

Find the Peaceful Common Ground

/ Martha York / Leave a comment

It can be hard being at odds with others. Having deep differences of opinion and judgment causes division sometimes. No matter what is going on in your relationships with others, I am always at your side, and at theirs. Keep this in mind: I live in all kinds of spaces. I know it is easy to feel offended when you’re put on the defensive by others. Instead of honing in on your differences, try finding the peaceful common ground where you can both walk in My perfect light. It might only be a sliver of brightness, but I assure you it is there. Look for it. I will meet you in that dimly lit place and help heal divides.

#nomoreanxiety; #goinpeace; #betheLight; #healingdivides

Soften Up

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Take time to relax and remember that I have you in the palm of My hands. Cling to Me as I work on washing away old hurts, making you impervious to them over time. I’m not One to ask you to “toughen up”. Rather, I want you to soften up on yourself. As you learn to cut yourself some slack, you will find it easier to accept others are they are, as well. You won’t be as susceptible to the sting of off-handed remarks that tend to hurt or offend you. There’s no need to feel defensive when your confidence and assurance lies with Me.

#lightenup; #cutyourselfsomeslack; #Iamworthy; #nomoreanxiety

Practice Love and Acceptance

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So much of the world is presented in extremes: “right” vs. “wrong”; “my way” vs. “your way”. I am much more tolerant of frailties and misgivings. My will is for what is full of Goodness and Love, – the extreme Light of the world. I desire for you to practice that kind of love and acceptance of others even in their places of darkness. People get overshadowed by pride, ego, fear, and defensiveness. These get cloaked in anger, retaliation, gossip, and vengefulness. The best way to combat darkness is with LIGHT, – My Light. Picture yourself cloaked in shining garments, radiant with peace. You can be an element of Grace and Light in the world. Even if it’s only in one corner today, you can light up a room. I will equip you as you ask for help. Let Goodness triumph over darkness today; do not fear, for I will give you safety and reassurance.

#Godwillhelp; #betheLight; #youaregood

No Need To Be Defensive

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You are tired. I need you to quiet your thoughts and listen to Me. It is time to replenish the well. Doing so will help your anger dissipate, too. There is no need to be on the defensive. Walk with Me. Bring Me into each encounter. Find that My Presence holds the stillness and calming you need. As you use My gentle eyes, you will be more compassionate and forgiving with others, recognizing that behind their aggression is fear and insecurity. I am watching and involved. My Goodness will permeate here.

Slights and Offenses

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You are more loved than you may realize. The tiniest slights and offenses that happen in daily life can skew your recognition of how likable you are. Don’t let these tiny, false claims get to you. Any thought that you are somehow unworthy of attention is a lie. I am the One who knows you and loves you. Ultimately, this is all that matters- but I know how you long to be close to others and not excluded or misjudged. For now, let Me in to soothe the hurt and provide reassurance. Confidence will return as you trust Me with your relationships. Ask Me to help remove any defensiveness from you so that others can draw closer. It’s OK to be vulnerable now and then.

To Handle Tough Situations

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I’ll give you all that you need to handle tough situations. While it may take extreme courage to walk through the door, remember that I’m the One opening it and accompanying you in, every step of the way. Look to Me for your confidence. If you need a protective stance, I’ll be the barrier to help deflect things that aim to hurt you. You can be peacefully present even among others who are engulfed in their own hostility. Hold My Hand tightly under the table. I’ll get you through.

Give Me a Chance

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You can put your hope in Me. I know you are leery, though. Life circumstances and hurtful encounters have made you retreat into self-protection. When you distance yourself from others, though, you actually distance yourself from Me. Give Me a chance to love you again, – even through others. Draw near and see what happens. My mighty hand of healing and love can work miracles. Start with an ounce of hope and mix it with a splash of belief that things can get better. Allow Me the opportunity to work in your life like that. I am a trustworthy God.

Facing Dark Forces

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At times it can feel like there are dark forces all around you. I equip you for battles when you must face or contend with them. Sometimes it requires words and actions. Other times the mere act of prayer, – inviting the Light in, – is enough to make darkness retreat. Love overpowers and peace rules when it is for My purposes and Good outcomes. Call upon My protective power and the army of saints will be available to assist you. My armament may require a humble stance at times, too. Let peace reign in your heart toward all. Be slow to judge and quick to forgive FIRST. If I call you to further action beyond that, you will know. Choose love as your sword and faith as your shield. 

Presume Positive Intentions

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Focus on good intentions behind other’s awkward words even when you are inadvertently hurt or offended by them. Know you are loved and I care for you, deeply. Others do, too. It’s hard to recognize that sometimes, I know, but it’s the truth. Try presuming positive intentions, then tell them you recognize and appreciate that they care instead of getting defensive. That’ll do for now. You can still keep your guard up until you feel safe, but until then, bring Me your tears. Return to Me and find consolation, comfort and rest.

Speaking Truth

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Speaking truth can be a lonely place. You have eyes that see and a heart that longs for acceptance and belonging, but sometimes the ones you want to be close to cause hurt and disappointment when you speak truth. I will send supportive people to you along the way, giving you refuge for your soul in these encounters. Stay strong, facing bitter winds of rejection. Know that I will hold you upright even in the roughest challenges. I am always with you, hemming you in before, beside, and behind you.