Having a poverty mindset greatly impairs a person's life in Christ. This wrong and enslaving mindset doesn't necessarily exist among those who are impoverished or lacking in terms of finances. It can also afflict those who are rich and able to afford all things money can buy. Don't believe me? Read on.
Defining Poverty Mentality
Although "poverty" is defined as "the state of being extremely poor," it's also "the state of being inferior in quality or insufficient in amount." Based on these two definitions, we can safely conclude that a poverty mentality means "the mindset that believes one is inferior in quality, inadequate in capability, a magnet for failure, and lacking in resources."
I used to own such a mindset before, believing that I was a person of no worth. I had money at times, but didn't think of myself worth it. I had skills and talents, but felt inadequate for the task God gave me. My poor view of myself greatly affected my relationship with God, my wife, and myself. But I got better after realising this one important thing: I am a child of God.
Checking for Signs
Do you want to know if you're a victim of this disabling mindset? Here are some signs and symptoms you should watch out for.
1. Constant Worry or Anxious Thoughts About Lack or Loss
It's common for people to worry over uncertainties, but worrying over your shoes getting broken and destroyed just two weeks after buying is just plain wrong. Get the point?
If you fear using your belongings, eating what's in the fridge, or sharing your things to your friend because you might end up losing them, lacking, or not having anything left, better ask yourself why the worry.
2. Insecurities
You don't need to be poor to have this mindset. Have you ever seen rich people envy the poor for being carefree? Or have you seen people strive to look good because they're insecure of others who appear to have no problems at all? Are you like that?
Insecurities are obvious signs of a poor mindset. If you find yourself getting insecure over another person's looks, manner of speaking, or skills, you're basing your confidence on the wrong thing.
3. A Very Low View of Self
How do you see yourself, my friend? Do you value how much God loved you, enough to send His one and only begotten Son to die for you, so that you could become His child?
Think about it. You're a child of God. How do you treat yourself, see yourself, and respect yourself? Do you believe that you'll never amount to anything, and will always attract troubles, mishaps, and failures no matter what you do? That's an obvious sign of poverty mentality.
If you think you're worthless and need to prove that you're something, you're in trouble.
We're Rich in Christ
Friend, if you're in Christ, there's no reason to believe all the lies that such a mindset brings. You're a child of God, and the Holy Spirit lives in you. In Him we have all that we need. We have all the provision, the skills, the support, the mercies, the protection, everything we'll ever need. He's got us covered so that we could live for Him.
