Stolen Identity

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

Sooo my identity got stolen this weekend.
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Yeah…

And believe me, the irony was not lost on me that this happened right after I revealed my identity on this blog.

And after spending countless hours on-hold on the phone with various credit card companies and banks and computer troubleshooters, and online accounts, I was…emotionally exhausted, to say the least.

I was feeling utterly defeated.

And as someone who habitually doesn’t carry cash, I literally had 12 dollars to my name this weekend, with all my credit cards stopped and my bank account put on hold.

Thankfully, by the time you’re reading this, my new cards should have arrived, but let’s just say I learned the value of a dollar this weekend for sure.

I learned that real fast.

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And I was texting with my mom, and she said something that really made me think.

She said, that when you’re trying to do God’s will, that road blocks and obstacles will often find their way into the mix.

And, I don’t want to get all…weird on here. But I do think there’s something to that.

Whether it comes in the form of sleepless nights, flat tires, days where nothing goes right, or even identity theft, sometimes you can feel as though the world is working against you.

So what’s a girl to do? Abandon ship? Succumb to defeat? Accept that what I’m trying to do  is just not in the cards for me?

No way. That’s what the world wants you to do.

And you know what that also means? It means that what you’re trying to do is important.

It matters.

 

I know we’ve all heard it a thousand and one times, but we’ve been given a guidebook, and wearing the Armor of God (Ephesians 6) really addresses this head on.

“Stand firm then, and take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows.”

I’m going to be honest, I don’t really like thinking about this kind of stuff. Truly.

In fact, I will be sleeping with the light on tonight…

But there is nothing more powerful than God. And faith is exactly that: our shield. Our protection. Our defense.

When we know Who we belong to, there is nothing to fear. No road block or obstacle too big.

But we’ve got to be ready for the opposition. We’ve got to realize that as soon as we step out in faith, and try to be His hands and feet to the world, there’s going to be road blocks that pop up.

But living from a place of strength in Him – prepared and ready to stand our ground, an obstacle will be simply that: something that we overcome.

Sure, getting my identity stolen sucked. Royally. And I’m still having to deal with the repercussions. But there are worse things in life.

And I’m not going to let this derail my mission to share His light and love with people.

I will stand firm in faith. I will wear the belt of truth – knowing that God is in control.

Because you can steal my legal identity, but you cannot steal my identity in Christ.

That’s written on my heart. And that’s a password-protected area that no hacker can infiltrate.


 

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beautybeyondbones

BBB: Because we're all recovering from something. // For speaking/business inquiries: beautybeyondbones@yahoo.com

357 thoughts on “Stolen Identity”

  1. Hey Kiddo….one of the adversaries most effective weapons is discouragement. He is not creative but he is persistent and observes our reactions. Having been through more spiritual fights than I can count, this scripture has given hope and strategy to ward off devilish strategies meant to derails us…” Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” 1 Peter 4:12-14 NASB

    Attacks always feel strange because they seemingly come out of “nowhere”…but keep rejoicing and worshipping. It is the perfect weapon against the adversary because it is a tangible demonstration of where our trust lies. Prayers for grace and peace! Blessings…TA

    Liked by 2 people

  4. You are awesome for turning something so negative into such a beautiful positive.

    When I read this part of your post -> “And I’m not going to let this derail my mission to share His light and love with people. I will stand firm in faith. I will wear the belt of truth – knowing that God is in control.” I just wanted to stand up and shout, “You go, girl!”

    May God’s blessings be with you always. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

  6. Reblogged this on femidadaadedina and commented:
    As you rightly said, they can only steal your ‘your legal identity’ but your identity in Christ is hacker free. This is awesome and the way to go girl. If those who throw stones and blocks in our way thinks they can stop us, then they have missed the way because HE who is in US is greater than the WORLD. Forget the stealing and go forward. They will not amount to anything those who stay in darkness to throw stones at those in light.

    Liked by 1 person

  7. As someone who has had his identity stolen twice, I feel your pain! =)
    But I think you are right about this being a spiritual attack. The Enemy loves to do things that get us wondering if we did the right thing. Love your post.

    Liked by 1 person

      1. Well, if there is anything I’ve been learning it’s that once you get rid of the problems you have, they get replaced with new problems. So I’m holding on to the ones I’ve got, cuz I know what’s coming next! =)

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  10. God bless you for your blog and sharing. My first book just came out: Life is a Faithwalk – Navigating is Easier with Jesus. So happy, but yes, the devil is pouncing on me too. He never goes on vacation.
    Just going through the final purge of getting my ex husband out of my life. God’s been telling me for a while. He finally got my attention once I discovered the ex stole thousands of dollars from me. Sigh. Yeah, unequally yoked. I even have a story called 1+1=2,099. Sigh.
    Don’t give up. God has a 100% perfect record and He is not about to ruin it!!
    Be strong and continue on!

    Liked by 1 person

  12. well I’m taking an opportunity to read your blog if I’ve said it once I’ve said it a thousand times you’re the best lover that I’ve ever come across. You write Shakespearean plays better than Shakespeare himself. Let’s get to the bottom line here truly in all the Earth I’ve never seen greater Faith than the one showcased here tonight with your words. I tell you the truth you and I thinking one mind and one Accord and I’ll tell you why tonight as I was reading a ministry books tonight I ask for wisdom I asked the Lord to teach me a particular subject according to his will. The subject that I learned about tonight what is the subject of money. It’s very important that people know how to manage their pennies if they can manage their pennies they can manage nickels dimes and dollars if they can manage a little bit then somewhere down the road God will give them more to manage. the particular subject of Financial Freedom is an important one because I don’t know if you know this but I’m returning to School to study radio. in that time I was given a lump sum of money but I must manage wisely also before I return to school next Tuesday I will be going to the states for church service. I have a lump sum of money that I must manage wisely. if I can handle a little bit of money on my travels that will give me the knowledge and wisdom to handle the big money when I return to school.. I also asked you as a friend for a favor don’t worry it won’t cost anything. I’m hoping you can add me to your prayers for my safe travels it’s a 16 hour bus ride. thank you CarolynLook up Matthew 6:20 to let it really sink in if that doesn’t do anything for you ask God to bring to your remembrance the story of Elijah and the widow woman meal barr

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    2. That is one of my prayers too – that my meal and oil don’t run out. I put in my monthly newsletter all the time that the Bible stories are real and they really happened: no fairy tales here! God will bless me just like he blessed the widow, her son and Elijah

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      1. Well back from the US 16 hrs by bus. I thought I saw you in one of the services Sunday night. However I was mistaken and I’m glad I didn’t say hi. I would have looked like an idiot. Girl standing in front of me and she was really getting into the music. I love the music to but I’ve never seen anybody react so strongly to Southern gospel music her big hat was just a waving away to the beat.

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  17. Remain strong in your faith. We are Christisn soldiers and we are armed and prepared for combat in an battle that is already won! You are highly favored and annointed. No weapon formed against you shall prosper! There are a dozen more scriptures that prove that you are already a victor, but your faith alone is proof enough.

    Liked by 1 person

  18. Sigh! Trials in this world are really exhausting sometimes. But God works miraculously for unexpected solutions that we didn’t realize.I am so glad I landed on your blog site and read your inspiring write ups. You always bring good aura to your readers. More thumbs up! God Bless!

    Liked by 1 person

  19. What you say is so simple yet so profound. I felt very defeated by my chronic illness today. But then I decided to read your blog. Your words encouraged me not to give up but to keep fighting. Those road blocks can’t keep me from doing God’s will: and that’s heal.

    Liked by 1 person

  21. Our credit/bank card numbers always seem to get stolen the moment we enter the US for vacation. It has happened 3 times now – which is really, really fun. For how much we travel all around Europe, it has never happened here.

    Liked by 1 person

  22. You could not have said it better. I think it just shows the strength and willingness you have to keep going. To fight for YOURSELF. And that is beautiful and inspiring. I am so sorry you had to go through that but perhaps God did have a plan with it, perhaps he wanted to SHOW you how important it is to fight for you, and show you the inner strength you really have. xx

    Liked by 1 person

  24. I’m so sorry this happened to you! I’ve never had my identity stolen, but I totally understand the concept of spiritual warfare. My dad recently sent me an email reminding me of this: ““I remember what Pastor Bob used to say to believers who said they were enduring fierce spiritual warfare. He would say something to the effect of, ‘Good. That means Satan is working against you. If you weren’t effective, he would leave you alone.’ The Lord is standing between you and Satan right now. In effect, He is telling Satan, ‘Get lost. She’s with me.’” Pastor Bob went to be with the Lord six years ago, but he was a very wise man in the Lord! And my daddy has good advice, too, haha.
    Your voice is effective and the evil one is working against you because of it. But put on your armor, girl! You’ve got this!

    Liked by 1 person

  27. Great post! Our identity in Christ is secured by the One who paid for it. It, and we, are eternally safe in him! But I am sorry for what you went through. Feels so invasive, I’m sure.

    Liked by 1 person

  28. Your blog friends stand with you BBB! Way to turn that potential obstacle into a speed bump 🙂 Unfortunately, the darkness of this world will continue to try and knock you down. I love your Ephesians reference. I also focus on this verse…”I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome this world.” John 16:33
    (One additional note, since I am a big movie fan I think I also heard the theme to Rocky while reading your post 🙂 ) Peace be with you!

    Liked by 1 person

  29. I’m really sorry you had to go through that. It is a trying time when you feel like everything has been taken from you. I am glad you took it as a learning experience and didn’t let it get you down. That speaks of your strength as a person and the strength of the One you lean on. I hope everything works out and you can move on from this. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  30. Thanks for liking my post…. you have a wonderful site. I know someone who this happened too last weekend but as you say they can’t take everything.

    Let’s hope KARMA come swiftly for those who did this. Don’t let this beat you up too much, move on and I’m sure prayer will help 😉

    Liked by 1 person

  32. I can relate your thoughts. I have experience credit card scams and computer virus a number of times. Sure wish the scammers would get a moral life.

    Regards and goodwill blogging.

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  33. Unfortunately, it’s not “IF” but “WHEN” anymore as to whether your identity is stolen! I’m sorry you’ve gone through that. Both my husband and I have had our identities compromised and then WE’RE having to jump through hoops to get things back in order!

    You’re right, when we’re serving the Lord, the enemy isn’t far behind! I love your closing statement. ❤ Stay strong sister!

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    1. Yeah that’s very true, Darlene. Ugh that’s awful! I’m so sorry that you know first hand about this nightmare. Thanks for stopping by and for taking the time to read! Big hugs to you friend! Xox

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  36. I couldn’t agree more! Everything happens for a reason. We may not understand everything that’s happening to us but trust that he has a plan. We just have to trust that and know that everything will fall into its proper place in the right time. I’m sorry you had to go through this though.

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  38. I’m so sorry that happened! I would be terribly upset if it happened to me too. 😦 I hope everything works out and you can get it back. It would be awful if you didn’t. Love and hugs! ~Mary Louise

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  40. This reminds me of that old adage “God only gives you what he can handle” and the more recent addition of “I wish he didn’t trust me so much”. Hopefully this is just a minor headache and you caught it in time… Keep staying positive. It’s so refreshing in today’s world. xo

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  41. Sorry to hear about this, but glad you seem to have got it under control. I once had to stop my card when a replacement went missing in the post, and it is scary to realise that all you’ve got is the cash in your pocket.

    Actually, the first thing the guy at the bank said to me was – “You’d better go out to a cash machine now and draw out as much cash as you need – then I’ll stop your card.”

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    1. Thanks James. I appreciate your encouraging words. You’re right! It definitely makes you sweat. I wish the teller would have advised me to do the same! Haha thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

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  42. An identity in Christ that cannot be stolen. Beautiful. ‘ Our lives are hid with Christ in God’. Perhaps in the providence of God your identity was stolen so that you could use this powerful analogy. He works in mysterious ways

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  43. Sucks that you’re identity was stolen but so awesome to see that you are holding firm in, trusting and proclaiming you’re identity in Christ! Wonderfully written x

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      1. He does indeed! Can you tell I was tired when commenting – my grammar is appalling .. *your (both times). Hope you feel safer and all is completely sorted out for you soon x

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  45. You noted your mom’s comment about when doing God’s will, that roadblocks and obstacles getting in the way. I’ve experienced that too and have often thought Satan was trying to slow me down.

    That may be true but lately I’ve been wondering if that when we’re doing God’s will we become much more aware of our surroundings and everything that goes well or badly. If we do God’s will we become better tuned to God’s desire for us and everyone else and we see all that is wrong. And right.

    Great words and great work.Thanks for keeping the faith.

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  47. Glad to hear that you recovered quickly. It’s funny how fast things can to from good to bad when certain plastic cards go missing! I really liked how you linked putting on the armour of God on from Ephesians to what happen to you. It certainly helps when you can lean on His word for your specific situation.

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      1. Ouch! There’s some really nasty video viruses, as well as the usual ads that take you into the valley of the shadow of virtual death. If you haven’t had it analyzed, you might want to take it in to a computer shop. If the infection is still present, you may be gain your life only to lose it again.

        Wait – that seems familiar somehow. Did I say it backwards?

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      3. Oh – and how about your cell phone? I’m hearing that those are becoming points of attack as well. If you do social media from your phone, that could also be a source of trouble.

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