Power Over Praise and Persecution

Hey friends,

I hope to find you well as you navigate the end of this year. As we think about the year to come, there's often a lot of desire for growth and freedom as we imagine a fresh start. What if this next year you could be free from the distractions and the power that persecution has had over you? I’d love to share the insight I’ve gained while navigating this in my own life. 

Throughout my life, I have encountered both praise and persecution, and the weight of these experiences has often affected my flawed and fragile heart. On one hand, being called a “made for stadiums” type of teacher and witnessing the lives I've seen changed can hold incredible significance. On the other hand I have been called a false teacher and have seen people try and assault my character. I have come to realize that I must hold loosely to the words of others, whether they bring praise or persecution. Instead, I look to Jesus as the author and finisher of my story.

My broken places led me to desperately seek approval and perform in order to obtain a sense of value. This pursuit nearly consumed me, as I became lost in the pursuit of worldly recognition. Man's words began to dictate my days and govern my actions. I came to understand that this type of bondage, even when performed in the name of Jesus, is a form of idolatry that would ultimately lead to my downfall.

I can share the honest and vulnerable places within my fragile, broken heart, and in return, He tends to my wounds and heals my brokenness. It is He who validates my true identity. This healing process has taken many years, and even now, hurtful words from others can still pierce my heart while praise continues to be expressed. However, I have experienced a profound shift in my perspective. The stones of criticism are now shielded by the protection of God's words spoken over me, and praise remains where it should, as an acknowledgment of the gifts God has bestowed upon me.

I want to encourage you, my friend, by reminding you that the enemy will employ every tactic to distract you from taking the next right step on your personal healing journey. He may cloak distractions in praise or be outright with persecution. But here is the truth—YOU DON'T HAVE TO PICK UP EITHER ONE!Instead, may the reality of who God says you are outweigh any persecution seeking to harm you, and may the praise that attempts to distract you be relegated to its proper place—the ground—as you confidently walk over each one.

I pray that you find strength, peace, and unwavering faith in the face of praise and persecution. May you always remember the power of God's love and the truth of His words spoken over your life. You are fearfully and wonderfully made, and your worth is not determined by the opinions of others. May you find solace and affirmation in the One who created you.

It’s with this mindset that you can step into the new year with HOPE as your path is dictated by the ONE that has come to set you free. 

With heartfelt blessings for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, 
Karrie Garcia
Founder of FREEDOM MOVEMENT