My Chains DO NOT Define Me

By Carrington B.
Teen Ambassador for The Beauty Project 

Broken, hurt, not good enough, bitter, and isolated were all words that described me at the beginning of the year. Although I was one who truly believed in God and encouraged others in the Word, I felt empty. I had panic attacks multiple times a day and struggled with depression. The past few months have been some of the most challenging that I have faced in my 17 years, but it has truly shown how God is the ultimate Healer. 

God will absolutely restore every broken piece of your heart. 

I recently went through a very severe battle with anxiety and depression, which could have been fatal, but it is so incredible how God met me where I was and completely restored and molded me into who He created me to be. It says in his Word, “no weapon formed against you shall prosper” Isaiah 54:17. Our God is one who loves and cares for us deeply and He is our protector and healer. I want to encourage you; there is nothing that you will go through that God does not see. Although things may be difficult, we serve a God who is working out all things for good. 

Although I may have been in so much mental pain, resulting in some time spent at the hospital, it is so evident that God had His hand on my life through it all. Although things may not be how we picture them, know that your Father loves you and is with you despite your current circumstances. Throughout my struggle, I was encouraged and uplifted by angels that God has placed in my life. During my time in the hospital, I had nurses come and pray for me, I’ve had friends, family, and mentors from Her Life Speaks speak life into me and be a continuous reminder that God is still with me working things out for good. I have also been blessed with an incredible therapist to help me pray through and seek God’s healing. I find it incredible how even at our lowest points, God provides complete comfort and healing. 

Romans 8:28 says, “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him”. Take this as a confirmation that God has incredible plans for you that will work 
out in His timing. Your current situation is not permanent and God’s glory  will be shown throughout. He makes beauty from ashes like it says in Isaiah 61. Throughout my time focusing on my mental health, I have meditated on Psalm 91 which is a chapter that continues to remind me that although we may face difficulty, we have a God who is on our side. Doesn’t that give you comfort? 

Negative situations do not define you, God does. ​

The only reason I have overcome my struggle with mental health was because of Jesus. He not only met me where I was, but he saved my life and made me all together better than I could have ever been. My identity is; a daughter of the King, forgiven, set free, accepted and so much more. 

If you are struggling with anything, how can you look towards Jesus instead of your negative circumstances? How can they point to His glory? 

Who has God brought as “angels” into your life to give you comfort? Comment below! 
xoxo Carrington

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