In my Christian walk, I find it easy to become discouraged. My discouragement is fertile soil for Satan's attacks. As he plants seeds, picks at me, drapes weights on my back and slaps me around spiritually, I stumble. Sometimes it seems I am stumbling, landing or rising up from a fall more than I am walking in strength and confidence on the path the Lord has laid before me. So, what gives? I know that is not God's plan for His children. His grace provides what I need to live in joy, peace and fulfillment as His child.
As I contemplated this and whined before Him, He (once again) gently helped me look with transparency at my life (usually not a pleasant experience). It would seem, for me, that discouragement comes when I am trying to move forward while looking back over my shoulder. I look back, and long for what has been, what I've lost, what I want that He has moved me past already. My desires. When I do this, it is impossible to see the remarkable life He has spread before me.
If I stand with my arms outstretched, like He did on the cross, I can only look at one hand at a time. I look to my left and see things grasped there that only discourage me. Satan's tools. I focus there, fearful, regretful, sad . OR. I look to my right and I see His loving grace, freedom, purpose. I cannot focus on both hands at once....it is a choice.
In my selfishness and weakness, my attention is drawn to my accomplishments (good or bad), my experiences, and my desires. My goodness. It does not bring me peace, joy, purpose, love. As I kneel before Him and relinquish myself and all my plans, my past, my desires, my weaknesses and fears, He lifts me up with His strength, His love, His wisdom, His humility, His purpose.....it is a choice.
Where do you stand today, my friend? Which direction are you facing? If you are struggling, that is your answer. You are not walking with the Lord....it is a choice.
Jeremiah 29:11...."For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
My dearest Robyn,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your thoughts, struggles, victories and God's Word. I have always looked up to you, and secretly not minded that people thought I look like you, you're my oldest sister. It is a real encouragement when you can look around on this Christian journey and see others having the same struggles and victories, but it seems to inspire stick-to-it-iveness, when your eyes fall on the face of someone you deeply love, not giving in or giving up!!! I do, dearly love you!!!