Removing the Roots

Now that we have gone through the previous phases of Finding Her:

It is time to begin removing the roots and bad fruit to make space for growth and the fullness of God. Just like a gardener or a farmer who removes weeds as they can stunt the development good crops. In fact, weeds compete with crops for one or more growth factors such as mineral nutrients, water, solar energy, and space and hinder crop cultivation operations. Thus, weeds have to go as do the roots in your life.

And like anything in life, it can take time but, don’t grow weary in the process of removal. Even if you get tired, trust in God to give you continued strength and if you get derailed, get back on target, and keep moving towards the mark. I employ you to invite God into this process {and any process, for that matter}. If you seek Him, He will give you the strength and capacity to dig up those traumatizing roots as we journey through this weeding process.

SEEKING JESUS

Jesus is our healer, deliverer, our refuge, an ever-present help in trouble. He is the pillar of our strength, so we must seek Him in all areas and tasks in our lives. He wants a personal relationship with us if we would just let Him in (Rev. 3:20). He loves us! If we meditate on the Word day and night (Joshua 1:8), and abide in Him. Seeking Jesus will become unceasing and paramount in the weeding process. – John 15:4

THE PRUNING

The process of pruning is the removal of damaged parts – twigs, branches, buds, or roots - to encourage new growth. In the context of Finding Her, it’s the removal of toxic, damaging roots and fruit in an effort to increase spiritual growth and soul care. During a google search, I came across the following that resonated with me: “Avoid pruning too late in the growing season. Doing so will encourage tender new growth that will die in winter weather.” Wow. That there is a testament that if the removal doesn’t occur when necessary, new but unstable things arise that are destined to perish. – John 15:2

THE DROUGHT

If you don’t feed a thing, it will eventually die. And if you don’t water a crop, well, it will die too. Therefore, in a conscious effort to kill a root, we have to stop feeding the lies - that derive from the root - and allowing the symptoms or bad fruit (such as fear, unforgiveness, shame) to take residence in our being. Instead, let them wither and stay in the pit where they belong. -Romans 12:2

THE YIELDING

Some of what causes toxicity or perpetual triggers in our lives are things that we’ve allowed access. This isn’t always entirely our fault, but it's time to close that door. It could be due to family dysfunction or trauma, which could inadvertently lead to the dependency of a thing or behavior. All tied to side effects of the root. Our minds condition us to think that we need it, when in actuality, it’s draining, dangerous and produce the same results. For instance: Addictive behavior or dead-end relationship(s) that we entertain to mask the pain or treat the root. They may feel good in the moment, as our emotions falsely tell us we need them, yet they hinder our growth. Surrendering and turning to Jesus is another vital part of the removal process. - (1 Cor 6:19).

Again, these are just a few examples of what may be required as you dig up those roots. But ultimately, as you continue to seek Jesus, I believe the Holy Spirit will direct your steps. So, don’t give up, stay the course and begin removing those weeds for you. You are worth it, and it will be so rewarding in the end. This whole journey to finding her is to help you identify your pain roots so that YOU can begin to do the work, remove the mask and the band-aids, be set free from the emotional bondage and trauma, and freely walk towards wholeness. Though parts of this process may feel like a loss and can be hard {trust me, I get it}; you will gain in the long run. You could be a generational curse breaker if you do the work…this is bigger than you! Trust the process and stay the course, and you will see good fruit produced in the harvest season.

Here are some take-away actions to help guide you in this process:

1. Refocus your thinking – If/when it gets difficult, try not to focus on what you {think you} can’t do. Instead, please focus on the prize (freedom) and your worth because you are worth it!

2. Affirm your strength – Continue to tell yourself that you can and you will. Try this by placing words of affirmation sticky notes in your frequently visited places around your home (bedroom, kitchen, bathroom). Or by looking in the mirror and speaking life into yourself. A little pep talk from time to time is good for the soul.

3. Identify Check - Remind yourself of who you are and whose you are. Knowing your identity in Christ will be essential in turning away from the lies and bondage. You are a queen and don't you forget it. You were uniquely created by Him, on purpose, and for a purpose.

4. Journaling – Journaling is therapeutic, and capturing your feelings also helps to reflect and track progress. I often journal as if I'm writing a letter to God.

5. Community Engagement – Having an accountability partner or a community of encouragement can assist in this journey. When/if you feel down or discouraged, they can help to uplift you. Additionally, it can be a blessing by holding you accountable and reminding you of your why as you aim to stay on track.

I’m so excited for you, and I’m praying for you! You are not alone. We are in this together. Be blessed...Love you!