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Scripture References
• John 6:37 (AMP)
• Hebrews 13:5, 6
• Jeremiah 29:11
One day, as I was surfing the Web, I came across an article about an enraged
man who killed five people before being killed by police. At first, I
was angered; then, I was saddened. I found myself pondering, what could
cause a person to be brought to such a low? What could've driven this
man to commit these murderous acts?
Before entering the ministry, I worked as a therapist in a mental health
facility. I spent a lot of time working with patients suffering from depression,
psychosis, and other mental illnesses. During that time, I discovered
every human being has four basic needs: acceptance, security, identity,
and purpose. When these needs aren't met, a person goes through life desperately
seeking to fill a void, and in a worst-case scenario, eventually harm
themselves or others. Yet, when these needs are met, they create a foundation
for a full and happy life.
Acceptance is knowing you're loved and needed. If you've ever been the
kid begrudgingly chosen last for the baseball game, you know what it feels
like not to be accepted. Nevertheless, the primary source of acceptance
is God. His acceptance and love for you is what will bring about change
in your life.
Security is knowing you're cared for and protected. Imagine a carefree
child playing, with their parent watching nearby. That child is free because
he or she is being watched over and protected by a loving parent. God
is the same way. If you've ever felt uncared for or unprotected, understand
God has promised to protect and care for you. He's just waiting for you
to put your trust in Him.
The last two basic needs—identity and purpose—are closely related. I think
about the scores of men who've ended up in prison and other adverse places,
because no one was there to tell them they had a purpose. Identity is
what makes you individually significant and special. It's empowering to
realize God created you unique from every other person on this planet.
You are special, and God created you to fulfill a specific purpose. No
matter where you are in life, you're never beyond God's transforming power.
He eagerly desires to meet all your needs—spiritually, emotionally, and
physically. Make an earnest effort to acquaint yourself with Him by understanding
His Word. Get on the road to a full and happy life, starting today. Your
best days are yet to come!
— Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
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