This isn’t the type of book I read in one sitting. Or even five. This is the type of book that I work through word by word, prayer by prayer. Through it, God is shoring up my heart.

“Have you ever agreed with the whispers of doubt and found yourself living with a sense of discouragement and defeat? Have you felt paralyzed by insecurity, and let it stop you from living confidently? If so, you are not alone.” p. 22

I’ve had an autographed copy sitting on the shelf for two years. I didn’t read it because I didn’t want to face my self-doubt. Strangely, hiding behind certain insecurities felt safe. But when God began beckoning me to grow as a Bible teacher, I had to come face-to-face with my insecurities. (Remember all of those fears I listed? They were steeped in insecurity!) One day in September, Renee Swope’s A Confident Heart, practically jumped off the bookshelf at me. I knew it was time to dig in.

“Those of us who struggle with insecurity and find ourselves in the shadow of doubt often get there because we are seeking our validation in people’s opinions, our worth in accomplishments, and our identity in excessive commitments. It can only go on for so long before something breaks.” p. 52

The message of Renee’s book is based on the daily practice of identifying our insecurities and replacing them with the truth of God’s Word. Not a new approach, just a new and personal application for me.  It’s truly relieving.

“We become secure as we know and rely on His love more and more. It is a moment by moment, day by day experience where we process our thoughts, emotions, and decisions with God, positioning our hearts to let His perspective redefine ours.” p. 62

Renee thoroughly addresses the common self-doubts of “I’m not good enough,” “I’m such a failure,” “I don’t have anything special to offer”, “I can’t stop worrying,” and “I can’t follow God consistently.” I am basking in the scriptures that she highlights… God is so good at soothing the frail Christian soul. At the back of the book, Renee includes a list of 31 Doubts-Replaced-By-God’s-Truth (my title, not hers). These are like gold to me because I do shut down when I feel weak, embarrassed, or inadequate. I desperately need the relief of God’s Word for my heart and mind.

It just so happens that A Confident Heart is the Proverbs 31 Ministries’ book study right now. They just started and would be delighted for you to join in, too!