I wonder, do you expect good or bad things to happen? When a scenario begins to unfold, do you first see all the negative that could occur, or do you stop and focus on Him?
Our knee jerk reactions are often very telling of where our faith lies.
Do you have more faith for the negative or positive?
We can’t really do anything about our initial adrenaline response, but we can reign it in, take every thought captive, and invite Holy Spirit into every situation. When a problem presents itself, I step back and invite God, then I ask Him for a solution. He promises wisdom to those who ask.
Aren’t you exhausted with responding to life with fear? It takes such energy to allow fear and anxiety to run rampant. But if we face it all with peace, and the knowledge that He is big enough to deal with all circumstances, things will be much easier. I truly believe we are the ones who overcomplicate our lives.
God is bigger. Bigger than every single thing. Big enough to face your day-to-day issues. He is.
Not only is He big enough, He also cares. He searches around looking for those willing to partner with Him in all things. He wants to be included. He wants to be trusted. He is so near.
Once upon a time, I panicked a lot. Now, I expect God to provide solutions. From this position I find so much rest. There is nothing He can’t do. We also must allow for whatever way He decides to provide in each situation. I’ve learned this the hard way. Often, He provides in ways that truly humble us. It’s a good thing though. We should always stay in a posture of receiving, and humility. When a problem presents itself…never say no to the answer. Remain expectant of His breakthrough and allow Him to answer in whatever way He pleases.
It’s not unlike childbirth. When we only see contractions as painful, then we miss the point. Each contraction is sent to do a job. It is moving the baby, working in our body to move and stretch things…yes, they are uncomfortable…but they are doing a good work. Trials in our lives may be very uncomfortable and seem extremely painful, but they have a job to do. They are helping us birth greater faith and maturity. They are making us mature and complete…lacking nothing.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
We shy away from most forms of perseverance these days, but I see it as invaluable. I am willing to walk through the hard things if it means I’ll mature and be complete. If it means I will grow closer to Him. His presence is worth it. My God and King, oh how I love Him.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore, I will hope in Him.” Lamentations 3:22-24
365 Days in the Presence 