“Fride” is my word for pride that comes from fear. Fride demands answers and retribution for anything that has offended, scared, or hurt you, as well as all you think is wrong or missing. It is insecurity masked with arrogance. That mindset is exhausting, and does indeed leave your heart and mind fried. Getting a bigger, and better, picture of your life means letting go of the fride, and letting God fill up that space with His presence, and with His view of your life.
Read the “I ams” and the scriptures out loud, if possible. Take time to answer the questions with God, and let Him take you from fride to free.
I am angry.
I am offended.
I am stressed.
What is your state? Don’t just accept the reality you are presented with as truth. Your circumstances and how you feel about them are important, but they shouldn’t be allowed to define your identity.
“In his heart a man may plan his way, but it’s only the Lord that can establish his steps.” (Proverbs 16)
I am afraid.
I am confused.
I am overwhelmed.
Why do you feel the way you do? What is the truth behind your mindset? Where did those statements come from? Why do you believe them?
“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1)
I am…pausing.
I am breathing.
I am open to hearing You, God.
What is He saying about your situation? What is His perspective? What is the truth about why you feel the way you do? Are you picking up on other people’s emotions and accepting them as your own? Are you listening to the lie that says you have to live up to everyone’s expectations? Are you falling into the trap of only focusing on what could go wrong instead of being grateful for all that’s right?
“May the God of hope fill you all with joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15)
I am thankful- for so many things.
I am healing.
I am becoming whole.
Who does God want to be for you right now? Who does He say that you are? What do your circumstances look like from His presence? What are the opportunities around you and possibilities in front of you?
“It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way complete. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the high places. He trains my hands for battle…You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; your incredible kindness upgrades and increases my identity. You broaden the path beneath me, so that I won’t slip.” (Psalm 18)
I am in Your hands, Jesus.
I am who You say I am.
I am your child, and full of Your grace, love, peace, joy, goodness, faith, hope, wisdom, and favor.
I am happy.
I am powerful.
I am excited about my life!
I am…
Equip Your Spirit 