Today I am going to bare my soul and reveal to you a secret about myself. You may ask, “Now why would she want to go on and do that? That’s crazy.” But I am doing it for a few reasons: 1. Because I feel compelled to 2. I will be obedient to this urging of the Holy Spirit 3. I am confident that in doing so that someone will be abundantly blessed And 4. There is freedom in the release of toxins from this body in which the Holy Spirit dwells. So, as you can see it is a win-win-win-win situation.

My friend, I have lived with a lie. And this lie had replayed itself over and over in my head like a tape recorder. I viciously guarded it with as much maneuvering and tenacity as one possibly could. And as you might imagine keeping this lie under wraps was extremely exhausting and secretly weighed heavily on me as I attempted to muster one smile after another. Please, let me explain…

In the movie Clueless, a clever 90’s flick about pampered teenagers, there is a scene where two characters are talking. One points and says, “Do you think she’s pretty?” The other replies, “Oh no, she’s a full-on Monet. Like the painting – From a distance she’s all that but up close she’s not at all that put together.” I hung my head and whispered to myself, “That’s me.” You see, for many years I had placed great emphasis and importance on what others thought or felt about me; constantly seeking approval, acceptance, worthiness, and validation. And although GOD had blessed me with numerous people who have poured great things into me, what was always on heavy rotation in my head were the words that spoke disapproval. Deep inside I was never smart, pretty, shapely, successful, special, or talented enough. Regardless of the number of awards and degrees I achieved or material possessions I obtained I felt empty, void, insecure, and unworthy – nearly buckling under the weight of maintaining the ‘she’s got it all together’ image. And I lived with the fear of people finding that out. That I, Tanny Alicia Garcia was a Monet. And, my friends it hurt deeply to live that way.

I wish I could say that I had a supernatural experience that instantly changed this inaccurate way of thinking but I can’t. It has been an ever-developing, ongoing process of exchanging the world’s lies with the truths of GOD. While in prayer GOD revealed to me that the standards under which the world dictates success are erroneous, elusive and shifty. (As Heidi Klum of Project Runway says – “One day you’re in, the next day you’re out.”). To identify your worth under earthly standards and at the mercy of man’s opinion is foolish. Because this, my friend is your walk, your journey, your mistakes, your growth, and your personal relationship with Christ. And the GOD we serve isn’t concerned with how you measure up to earthly standards! So hush the world and get alone with GOD and let Him download His truths into you.

And the truths of GOD are: He is absolutely head over heels for you (1 John 4:10). He promises that He will make all situations and circumstances work out for your good (Romans 8:28). He considers you the apple of His eye (Zechariah 2:8). He woos you to Him (Hosea 2:14). Nothing can separate you from His love (Romans 8:38-39). He has extraordinary, mind-blowing plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11). You can go boldly to the throne of GOD (Hebrews 4:16). He calls you His friend (John 15:15). And He found you ever so worthy that He died a horrible, painful, and lonely death just for you (John 3:16).

And these truths, my friend are solid, unshakable, and steadfast. So, you never ever have to feel insignificant or insecure again. How exciting is that! And under GOD’s standard of worth I can now recognize that I am gifted enough, bold enough, anointed enough, spiritually-led enough, purpose-driven enough, and passionate enough. And with every encounter with GOD I am changed from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).

So, I ask you dear friend whose standard of worth will you judge yourself under? The heavy burdened weight of the world with it’s elusive approval and acceptance? Or through the eyes of GOD, who even in your worst state deems you worthy of His love, mercy, grace, favor, peace, protection, forgiveness, and sacrifice (Romans 5:8). What a powerful choice and to think… The choice is all yours!

I truly hope this messages blesses you. I see you as GOD sees you. And my heart is ever so full knowing that in your trading in the lies you have put on the robe of truth. And boy does it look good on you!