Why is it so difficult for us to receive good messages and so easy for us to receive criticism or negativity?
Recently in my kindergarten class at Los Angeles Christian School I started my normal routine of “Encouragement Monday” where I tell them things I like about them, reasons I'm glad they're in my class, etc. I went around telling each of them kind things about themselves: “I’m glad you’re in my class because you always bring so much joy with you wherever you go. I’m proud of you because you are a hard worker and a kind friend.” The students beamed as they heard these words spoken about each of them.
Sadly, as I reached one student she covered her ears with her hands and looked down once I began talking about all of her amazing qualities! It opened up a good discussion about being willing to “open our ears” and receive truth and love but being willing to “cover our ears” to any negativity or mean messages around us. We will be constantly bombarded throughout our day with messages from the enemy of our souls about how we don't measure up. Why not “open our ears” to the love and acceptance that God offers us?
This is one of the many reasons that I continue ministry here with World Impact in Los Angeles. I have absolutely loved the voice it has given me into the lives of so many young children who need to know they are loved by God and significant in His kingdom. This has been an incredible opportunity to experience deep inner healing from the Holy Spirit and then to share that with others within our community.