Introduction
Imagine you're about to send your child off to college, and they ask for your best advice. You might be tempted to say, "Just be yourself." But is that really the best guidance we can offer? Steven Furtick's book "Do the New You" challenges this common wisdom, suggesting that simply "being yourself" can actually hold you back from growth and transformation.
In this eye-opening book, Furtick introduces a powerful concept: the "new you." This isn't about becoming someone entirely different or chasing an idealized future version of yourself. Instead, it's about aligning your self-perception with God's higher vision for your life. It's a journey of discovering your true identity – one that encompasses both who you are now and who you have the potential to become.
Furtick reminds us that God has known us intimately since before we were born. He understands every aspect of our personality, every struggle we face, and every triumph we'll experience. This divine perspective sees not just who we've been, but who we're becoming – the authentic, evolving "new you" that emerges as we make choices that bring us closer to God's plan for our lives.
"Do the New You" offers practical guidance on how to facilitate this transformative journey. By adopting new mindsets and perspectives, you'll find yourself better equipped to handle life's challenges, make decisions with confidence, and interact with others in more meaningful ways. Let's explore the key ideas that can help you step into the "new you" that God envisions.
Progress is a Journey, Not a Destination
Furtick begins by challenging our understanding of progress. He uses the vivid image of a wrestling match, where an underdog is pinned down by a much larger opponent. The crowd shouts, "Get up! Stand up!" But from beneath that crushing weight, simply standing up seems impossible.
This scenario perfectly captures how we often feel when facing life's overwhelming challenges. We know we need to make progress, but the weight of our circumstances makes even the smallest step forward feel insurmountable.
The first mindset Furtick introduces is "I'm not stuck unless I stop." This powerful shift in thinking acknowledges that progress isn't always about dramatic leaps forward. Sometimes, it's about small movements, a refusal to give up, and a willingness to seek help when we need it.
Consider a common situation: realizing you need to get your finances in order for a more stable future. At first, you might feel trapped by your lack of knowledge and fear of making mistakes. But the moment you decide to reach out to a financially savvy friend for advice, you've taken your first step out of that stuck place. Your friend doesn't just offer tips; they share their own journey – the missteps and the victories. Suddenly, your frustration transforms into a sense of possibility and direction.
This example illustrates a crucial point: progress often begins with admitting where we need help and being willing to learn from others. It's about understanding that while God doesn't simply shout instructions from afar, He does step into our struggles with us, providing the strength and guidance we need to move forward.
Furtick emphasizes that committing to progress means accepting where you are right now, while refusing to stay there. It's about recognizing that you're not alone in your struggles – God is right there with you, illuminating the path forward one step at a time. This partnership with the divine is what empowers us to keep moving, even when the weight of our circumstances feels crushing.
Choosing to move forward – understanding that you're not stuck unless you stop – reflects a deep trust in God's provision and guidance. It's a commitment to lean on grace and look for the next step God has for you, knowing that His power flows through you. When you truly grasp that Jesus makes you sufficient, you unlock a new level of security, confidence, and self-acceptance.
This realization lays the foundation for the emergence of the "new you": a more mature, patient, and expansive version of yourself, continually nurtured by God's grace and your willingness to grow. It's about embracing the journey of progress, understanding that each small step forward is a victory in itself.
Be Whole and Sufficient Knowing That Christ is Within You
To illustrate the power of embracing our sufficiency in Christ, Furtick shares the story of Olympic wrestler Helen Maroulis. As Helen prepared to face a formidable opponent in a career-defining match, she anchored herself in a simple yet profound truth: "Christ is in me. I am enough."
This mantra wasn't just a motivational technique; it was a declaration of Helen's identity and strength rooted in her faith. Her subsequent victory wasn't just about athletic skill – it was a testament to the power of believing in her God-given worth and capability.
Furtick encourages us to apply this same mindset to our daily struggles, whether we're battling anxiety, financial stress, or deep-seated feelings of inadequacy. By embracing the truth that Christ dwells within us, we tap into an inexhaustible source of worth and capability. Our challenges, while real and often daunting, don't define our capacity to overcome them. Instead, they become opportunities for us to discover the depth of our strength, rooted in Christ's presence.
This shift in perspective moves us from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance. The journey toward the "new you" involves reevaluating our resources and viewing time, love, and energy as gifts that multiply when shared. It's about waking up each day believing that we'll have enough for whatever God has called us to do, moving beyond the "never enough" mentality to embrace a life of abundance and grace.
Of course, this journey of self-acceptance and growth isn't without its challenges. We'll face the temptation to compare ourselves to others or doubt our worth. But Furtick reminds us that our value isn't up for comparison or trade. Like Helen standing firm before her Olympic challenge, we're called to stand secure in our God-given identity, unswayed by the fleeting judgments of the world.
Embracing who we are in Christ means recognizing that we're works in progress, destined for growth and transformation. It's about making peace with being perfectly imperfect, knowing that our sufficiency stems not from our achievements or failures, but from Christ's life within us.
Furtick encourages us to let this belief in our divine sufficiency shape our actions. Whether it's extending forgiveness, pursuing a long-held dream, or simply offering kindness to a stranger, these deeds become the fruit of our deep-rooted belief in our worth through Christ.
He suggests using the mantra "Christ is in me. I am enough" as a daily guide, transforming how we face each challenge and opportunity. As we internalize this truth, we begin to embody the reality that with Christ, we're more than enough – we're empowered to step into each day with confidence and grace, reflecting His light in every action.
Your Faith Unlocks Endless Opportunities
To illustrate how faith can open doors we never imagined, Furtick shares the inspiring story of Rick Beato. At the age of 54, Rick took a leap of faith into the world of YouTube – a platform typically dominated by much younger creators. Despite his initial doubts, Rick's willingness to embrace change transformed him from a behind-the-scenes music producer to an influential online music educator with millions of followers.
Rick's journey embodies the third mindset Furtick introduces: "With God, there's always a way, and by faith, I will find it." This perspective challenges us to reframe our approach to new opportunities and potential failures. Instead of asking, "What if it fails?" the "new you" asks, "What if it succeeds?"
Furtick draws wisdom from the book of Ecclesiastes, where Solomon advises: "Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well." This isn't a call to relentless work without rest, but rather an invitation to embrace the full spectrum of possibilities that faith in God unlocks.
The author encourages us to sow our seeds of effort and ambition generously, in every season of life. We're reminded that even when the destination is obscured, God is establishing our path. Our faith becomes the key that unlocks endless opportunities, transforming the mundane into the miraculous.
This mindset empowers us to venture forward with courage, moving purposefully toward the future God has promised. Furtick acknowledges that this journey will be marked by both triumphs and trials. However, he emphasizes that each step we take is a testament to the power of our faith to find a way where there seems to be none.
The "new you" recognizes that our story isn't defined by the moments we falter, but by the times we rise, driven by the conviction that with God, there's always a way forward. Whether we're breaking through barriers of self-doubt or navigating uncharted waters in our personal or professional lives, our faith becomes the compass that guides us toward the endless possibilities God has in store.
Furtick encourages us to cultivate this faith-driven perspective in our daily lives. It might mean taking that first step toward a long-held dream, reaching out to mend a broken relationship, or simply approaching our daily tasks with renewed enthusiasm and trust in God's guidance. As we do, we'll find ourselves more open to the unexpected opportunities and blessings that God places in our path.
Forge Your Path in Harmony with God
To illustrate the power of overcoming our internal barriers, Furtick shares the story of Abbey, a young girl learning to swim. Abbey faces the daunting challenge of crossing a vast pool in one breath. This physical feat becomes a powerful metaphor for the universal struggle against what Furtick calls the "lizard brain" – that part of our mind that screams fear and doubt when we're on the brink of our capabilities.
As Abbey takes each stroke, she embodies the transition from the "old you," governed by fear and doubt, to the "new you," defined by courage and faith. Her victorious swim, despite the loud protests of her lizard brain, becomes a vivid example of overcoming internal barriers and embracing the abundant life God promises.
Furtick draws a parallel between Abbey's story and that of the prophet Jeremiah. When called by God to be a prophet to the nations, Jeremiah's initial response mirrors Abbey's trepidation: "Alas, Sovereign Lord," he says, "I do not know how to speak; I am too young." God's reassurance to Jeremiah, "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," echoes the encouragement Abbey receives – highlighting a shared journey of overcoming self-doubt through faith and trust in God's presence.
These interwoven stories illuminate the broader theme of forging our path in harmony with God. They underscore the importance of walking in confidence, not in our own strength, but with the assurance that God is with us, working through us, and fighting for us. This journey isn't without its challenges; fear, doubt, and the voices of our own insecurities will often seek to deter us. Yet, as Abbey's swim and Jeremiah's call to prophecy reveal, we are all equipped to face these challenges by holding onto the truth of God's promises and the reality of his unwavering support.
Furtick emphasizes that what we tell ourselves matters immensely in this journey. He encourages us to shift our perspective, silence the doubts and fears that threaten to undermine our confidence, and embrace the path ahead with faith. We're called to guard our hearts against negativity and choose to see our circumstances through the lens of God's truth and promise.
The "new you" recognizes that while the lizard brain may never be fully silenced, its influence can be diminished through consistent faith and action aligned with God's will. This might mean taking small steps of courage each day – speaking up in a meeting when we'd rather stay silent, reaching out to someone in need despite our own insecurities, or pursuing a God-given dream even when the path seems uncertain.
Furtick encourages us to practice reframing our internal dialogue. Instead of dwelling on our limitations, we're invited to focus on God's limitless power working through us. When faced with challenges, the "new you" asks, "How can God use this situation for His glory and my growth?" rather than succumbing to fear and doubt.
By forging our path in harmony with God, we begin to experience the freedom and confidence that comes from knowing we're not alone in our journey. We learn to trust God's guidance even when the way forward isn't clear, and we find strength in His presence that surpasses our own capabilities.
Make Joy Your Mission
Furtick shares a personal anecdote that sparked a profound realization about joy. While on vacation, he engaged his family in a conversation about happiness, asking them, "Who's the happiest person you know?" To his surprise, the discussion turned introspective, and notably, no one mentioned him as the happiest person they knew. This moment became a turning point, prompting Furtick to reflect on his own expressions of happiness and how they're perceived by others, especially his family.
This experience led Furtick to a deeper understanding of joy and its pursuit. He draws inspiration from the psalmist's declaration, "This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it." Through this, he realized that joy isn't something that just happens to us; it's something we need to actively pursue and cultivate. This epiphany was transformative, highlighting the role of personal responsibility in nurturing joy. It wasn't just about finding joy but about making it a mission – a daily job that requires attention and intention.
Furtick's journey taught him that emotions, including joy, aren't only natural but necessary, given to us by God. He discovered that owning his emotions and actively choosing joy was an essential step toward spiritual and emotional well-being. This realization was underpinned by the belief that while everyone is responsible for their own joy, God remains the ultimate source of peace and happiness.
The author encourages us to embrace this "new you" mindset by understanding that happiness comes from within, cultivated by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit within us. This perspective acknowledges that while we're emotional beings, we're not defined by our emotions. Instead, we're called to take authority over our attitudes – recognizing that our joy, satisfaction, contentment, gratitude, forgiveness, freedom, and confidence grow within us because of God's work in our lives.
Furtick offers practical suggestions for cultivating joy in our daily lives:
- Start each day with gratitude: Before getting out of bed, list three things you're thankful for.
- Practice mindful joy: Throughout the day, pause to notice and appreciate moments of beauty or kindness.
- Serve others: Find ways to bring joy to those around you, which often boomerangs back to us.
- Engage in activities that bring you joy: Make time for hobbies, creativity, or simple pleasures that uplift your spirit.
- Surround yourself with positive influences: Choose to spend time with people who encourage and inspire you.
- Celebrate small victories: Acknowledge and rejoice in your progress, no matter how small.
- Practice forgiveness: Let go of grudges and resentments that rob you of joy.
- Engage with Scripture: Regularly read and meditate on uplifting passages that remind you of God's love and promises.
The "new you" understands that while circumstances may not always be joyful, we can choose a joyful attitude. This doesn't mean ignoring or suppressing negative emotions, but rather processing them in healthy ways and actively cultivating a joyful perspective.
Furtick reminds us that this journey of joy is deeply personal and unique to each individual. What brings joy to one person may not resonate with another. The key is to discover what genuinely uplifts your spirit and make those things a priority in your life.
By making joy our mission, we not only transform our own lives but also become beacons of light to those around us. The "new you" recognizes that a joyful spirit is contagious and can have a profound impact on our relationships, work, and overall well-being.
God Provides You with Everything You Need to Embrace Your "Now"
To illustrate how God equips us for our current season, Furtick shares the inspiring story of Trenton, a 23-year-old with cerebral palsy who serves on the greeter team at Furtick's church. Trenton, known for his infectious energy, shared how a sermon and a song titled "More Than Able" had deeply encouraged him. The sermon spoke about leveraging your inherent strength, as exemplified by the biblical figure Gideon who was told by God to "go in the strength you have."
This message resonated profoundly with Trenton. He realized that despite his disability, which often defines how others see him, he could see God's ability to work through his life in powerful ways. Trenton noted that adding "go" in front of "disable" forms "God is able," transforming his view of his limitations into a testimony of God's limitless power.
Trenton's story underscores a pivotal truth: God equips everyone with exactly what they need for their current season. This principle embodies the "new you" mindset of embracing every moment, knowing God has prepared you for it.
To further illustrate this point, Furtick recounts the biblical story of Ehud, an unlikely hero who delivered Israel from Moab using his left-handedness. Ehud's story, not commonly taught due to its graphic nature, illustrates God's penchant for working in unexpected ways.
Despite being from the tribe of Benjamin, which means "son of my right hand," Ehud was left-handed – a detail that would prove crucial. Disguised as a tribute bearer, Ehud crafted an 18-inch dagger, hiding it under his cloak on his right thigh, where it wouldn't be detected during a weapons search. This allowed him to assassinate King Eglon of Moab, leading to Israel's deliverance from 18 years of oppression.
These stories of Trenton and Ehud serve as powerful reminders that God's provision and strength are perfectly aligned with each season of life. They encourage us to embrace our "now," leveraging our unique abilities and perspectives, no matter how unconventional, to fulfill God's purpose.
The "new you" mindset invites us to:
Recognize our unique gifts: Like Trenton and Ehud, we each have qualities that may seem like limitations but can be powerful tools in God's hands.
Embrace our current season: Instead of wishing for different circumstances, we're called to see how God has equipped us for this specific time and place.
Trust in God's provision: Even when we feel ill-equipped, we can trust that God has given us everything we need for the tasks before us.
Look for unexpected opportunities: God often works in ways we don't anticipate. Stay open to unconventional paths and solutions.
Use our "weaknesses" as strengths: What the world sees as a disadvantage, God can use as a unique advantage.
Stay faithful in small things: Like Ehud's attention to detail in his plan, our seemingly small acts of obedience can lead to significant outcomes.
Cultivate a growth mindset: Understand that God is continually shaping and equipping us. Be open to learning and developing new skills.
Find purpose in our challenges: Like Trenton reframing his disability, we can look for ways our struggles can become testimonies of God's power.
Step out in faith: Ehud's mission required great courage. Similarly, we're often called to step beyond our comfort zones, trusting in God's provision.
Celebrate our uniqueness: Instead of comparing ourselves to others, embrace the distinct way God has created and equipped you.
Furtick emphasizes that embracing our "now" doesn't mean settling for less or ignoring areas where we need growth. Instead, it's about recognizing that God has purposefully placed us in our current circumstances and equipped us with the tools we need to navigate them.
This mindset frees us from the paralysis of feeling unprepared or unworthy. It empowers us to step into each day with confidence, knowing that God has already provided what we need. Whether facing a challenging work project, navigating a difficult relationship, or pursuing a long-held dream, we can trust that God has equipped us for this moment.
The "new you" understands that our sufficiency comes not from our own abilities or resources, but from God working through us. This perspective allows us to approach life with a sense of adventure and purpose, eager to discover how God will use our unique blend of experiences, abilities, and even limitations to accomplish His will.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of the "New You"
As we conclude our exploration of "Do the New You," it's clear that embracing God's vision for our lives is a transformative journey. Steven Furtick's insights challenge us to move beyond simply "being ourselves" to actively aligning our self-perception with God's higher purpose for us.
The "new you" mindset is about recognizing that in Christ, we can shift from a perspective of scarcity and limitation to one of abundance and possibility. It's understanding that progress isn't a single destination but a continual process of growth empowered by God's grace.
Key takeaways from this journey include:
Progress is ongoing: Embrace the mindset that you're not stuck unless you stop moving forward.
Find sufficiency in Christ: With Christ within, you can fully accept yourself as enough, overcoming comparison and self-doubt.
Faith unlocks opportunities: Reframe fear and limitation as uncertainty and possibility, trusting that faith opens doors.
Walk in harmony with God: Overcome inner voices of doubt by trusting in God's presence and strength.
Make joy your mission: Take responsibility for cultivating your own happiness while recognizing God as the ultimate source.
Embrace your "now": Trust that God equips you perfectly for each season of life.
The journey of becoming the "new you" acknowledges that God isn't finished shaping us yet – our best days are still ahead if we allow Him to continually refine us. Tuning into His voice above all others is key to stability and growth. We're encouraged to replace limiting mindsets with empowering truths from God about who we are and all He has planned for us.
Furtick's message reminds us that transformation is both a gift from God and a responsibility we actively participate in. It's about daily choices to align ourselves with God's vision, to step out in faith, and to embrace the fullness of who we are in Christ.
As we close this book, we're left with a powerful invitation: to step into each day with the confidence that comes from knowing we are deeply loved, fully equipped, and continually being shaped by a God who sees our ultimate potential. The "new you" is not a distant ideal, but an ever-unfolding reality as we walk in faith, embracing both our present reality and the limitless possibilities God has in store.
May this journey of becoming the "new you" be filled with growth, joy, and the deep satisfaction of living in harmony with God's purpose for your life.