Can you think of something in your life that you might do, a generally good thing, but you don’t do it because you believe things about yourself that hinder you?
For me: I’d like Muslim Connect to go from it’s current 3400 subscribers to ten thousand. But I don’t ask for podcast gigs because I think I’d be a boring guest, and I don’t write a book because I doubt I have sufficient “expert” status to do so.
These ideas are known in some circles as “limiting beliefs.” A limiting belief is a state of mind or belief about yourself that restricts you in some way.
I suppose this could have a little pop psychology feel to it, but it bears, sometimes heavily, on our interaction with Muslims and our efforts to encourage others as well to love them.
Do any of these ideas ring a bell?
- I don’t have what it takes to talk to Muslims. . .
- I can’t answer their questions or concerns about the Bible. . .
- I can’t find any to talk to. . .
- I don’t have the time to cultivate relationships with Muslims. . .
- Christians don’t even like me, why would Muslims?
What are some other limiting beliefs about yourself that keep you from befriending Muslims?
Of course, identifying and tackling these beliefs takes serious introspection, vulnerability, and humility. For starters, consider this 3-B approach:
What does the Bible say about your limiting belief? Name it and you'll find verses speaking directly to it. And in general, all but one of the main characters pulled some bone-headed moves and God still used them.
What do your buds say when you share a limiting belief? (There’s the vulnerability!)
And finally, set a budget: Decide to spend a certain amount of time, attention, and money identifying and slaughtering a couple of your limiting beliefs. (I’m going to figure out if I really am a boring podcast guest!)
Be sure to catch next week’s Muslim Connect when we’ll look at things we think about Muslims that hinder our connection.