False SelfSample

The False Self and Missing the Mark

C.S. Lewis said, “It does not matter how small the sins are, provided that their cumulative effect is to edge the man away from the light and out into the nothing.”

The Greek word for sin, “hamartia,” means to miss the mark like an archer missing their target. Our sin is usually not a result of an intentional rebellion against God, but rather a failed attempt at meeting our own needs. The sins of humanity drove God to the point of wanting to annihilate the entire human race in the times of Noah.

We desire to be wanted, so we pursue impure relationships rather than running into the arms of Jesus. We yearn for respect, so we push others down instead of resting in the honor that comes with being called a child of God.

The false self is a result of our own “hamartia,” and our own missing the mark moments. This is the definition of sin: anything we say, do, or think that goes against God’s heart and desires.

Because of sin we have become like chameleons who adapt to our environments as we become slaves to desires. We trade our eternal freedom for temporary contentment.

Psalm 103 says “you satisfy my desires with good things.” Adam and Eve stopped believing this and so they sinned. We stopped believing this and so we sin too. Like Adam and Eve, our sin separates us from God and His presence.

Enter Jesus, the One who never missed the mark. Even though He was tempted in every way, Jesus never waivered. God’s love swept the world through the life-changing sacrifice of His Son.

But it is up to us to put down our masks and accept His love. And through the Spirit’s guidance, you can “...let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” (Romans 12:2)

The spiritual battlefield is the mind, and in order to gain the advantage in our war with the enemy we must allow God to renew our minds and hearts. In doing so, we can reset our focus on what we were created to do: know, love, and serve God.

Reflection: How have you missed the mark? What need are you trying to meet instead of finding fulfillment in God? What thoughts or habits need to change in order for you to get back on target?

Prayer: God, I am in the fight of my life. I need Your help. Show me what lies I am believing, and lead me to the light of Your love. Amen.