God has been moving in our family. I mean, a miraculous series of events. Each hinged on the other. A succession of decisions that have linked together, over time, to create an atmosphere conducive to these events. These decisions have been part of God rewiring the way we think and respond to life, individually and as a family. We are growing so much every day.
While we no longer allow how we may be perceived by others to affect the way we make decisions. Now we have begun to finally forge our own path forward. It’s as if we first had to detox our old ways, before we could begin forward motion. We have dared to decide that God’s plan, which looks different from what the world calls success, is all we will follow. No matter what.
In essence, we are beginning to see the next portion of this long season of change occur. And this morning, I realized that there have been several times when I’ve/we’ve been tempted to curtail the process and force our way forward, simply because of what others think.
When it’s typed like this it seems so obvious that we shouldn’t do that, but if we’re all honest, we’d admit that much of what we do is for approval, or the perception of what others think.
The single greatest thing that’s changed in our family over this last three or four years is this, we don’t respond to life based on our perception of other people’s opinions. Instead, we stop and ask God and then lean into whatever He says. Waiting if necessary. Being misunderstood, if needed. Confusing others, possibly. Frustrating many, I’m sure. But mostly, just honoring God and what He has planned for our individual family.
He’s separating us now, so we can better serve others in the future.
If I only ever teach my family for the rest of my life, is that enough? Yes.
If I only ever lead worship in this home for the rest of my life, is that enough? Yes.
If I only ever worship alone for the rest of my life, is that enough? Yes.
If I only ever influence my children, is that enough? Yes.
These are just a few of the questions that God has provoked me with over the last three years.
We decide each day, and in every situation, who we serve…God or fear of man.
It’s literally that simple. Here’s the test…
When you get an idea or hear from the Lord about something, what’s your first thought? Is it about what others will think or is it a “Yes” to God? That’s an easy way to begin…
We all struggle with fear of man on some level. There’s always room to improve. But those we admire most are usually those who have broken free of it’s hold and live unapologetically surrendered to God. That’s what I want to be known for, don’t you?
I encourage you to notice your own responses. Be honest with yourself. If you find that you first think of other’s opinions before making decisions, I encourage you to lean into the Father and ask Him to remove that fear of man and increase your fear of Him. Fear, as in, reverence and awe. Realizing how great and good God is has transformed lives for centuries. Let Him be your compass. Let Him be your yes.
Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills. Therefore, pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. From their callous hearts comes iniquity; their evil imaginations have no limits. They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth. Therefore, their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance. They say, “How would God know? Does the Most High know anything?” This is what the wicked are like- always free of care, they go on amassing wealth. Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments. If I had spoken out like that, I would have betrayed your children. When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. Surely You place them on slippery ground; You cast them down to ruin. How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors! They are like a dream when one awakes; when You arise, Lord, You will despise them as fantasies. When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before You. Yet I am always with You; You hold me by my right hand. You guide me with Your counsel, and afterward You will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Those who are far from You will perish; You destroy all who are unfaithful to You. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all Your deeds. Psalm 73
365 Days in the Presence 