“Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor; never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit, enthusiastically serving the Lord; constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength], contributing to the needs of God’s people, pursuing [the practice of] hospitality. Bless those who persecute you [who cause you harm or hardship]; bless and do not curse [them]. Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing in others’ grief]. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself. Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:10-18 AMP
Every now and then, I sit back and consider how this blog came to exist. For several months, I would write lengthy notes and prayers to my sister. More times than I could count, she would ask, “So, when are you going to start putting these into a book?” She felt very strongly about the notion of me sharing my writing with people other than just her. When I am trying to do something that has any kind of an artistic spin on it (writing, drawing, puzzling, etc.), I’ve needed a sort of spiritual motivation. These kind of things are such a part of me, of my heart and soul, that it isn’t always easy for me to tap into whatever gift God has given me.
The day after Thanksgiving last year, I felt compelled to start writing this blog. I wanted a way to share my thoughts on faith and the struggles of life with other people, just as my sister always said I should. Interestingly enough, when I sit down to write a new post, in my mind, I’m sitting down and writing to her. She is the gift God gave me that serves as a consistent key to unlock the words and thoughts buried deep in my heart. I believe it is an anointing God has given her. We are all anointed for multiple things in this life. If you have children, you can be sure that God anointed you, specifically, to be their parent. You have what they need to help them become the people God intends them to be.
Recently, I’ve been searching for a way to know whether or not I am living a surrendered life. Over the last couple of days, I’ve started to scratch the surface of the answers I’ve been seeking. The key concept for me is to make sure I’m always seeking God first. When I am upset or confused, I must always FIRST ask God for comfort and guidance on what to do. He uses us all to do His work in this world, but we must go to Him before we go to anyone else, because He has already anointed someone to help us in whatever way we need.
I may feel conflicted in what to do about a situation in my life, and yes, I can choose to discuss it with my husband or my sister first…but that’s not putting God first. Instead, I need to take it to the Lord in prayer, and then allow Him to guide me on what to do. He may give me inspiration or answers directly, or He may point me towards a specific person who has already been prepared to help me figure out what to do. Living a surrendered life doesn’t mean we shut out everyone else, or try to carry it all on our own. It means that we seek God’s guidance before we do or say anything to anyone else, and then be at peace in the knowledge that He will provide what we need.
“Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way]. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil.” Proverbs 3:5-7 AMP
Something we cannot fail to remember is that Satan is EXCEPTIONALLY patient. He will take any opportunity to rip blessings from our lives through anger, fear, pain, an unforgiving heart, and any other negative emotions he can take advantage of in the moment. Over the last couple of months, I have been inundated with pain, fear, and a darkness unlike anything I’ve ever known. Satan has had his hands on one of the most powerful weapons he’s ever had to use against me, and because I lost my way and wasn’t keeping my focus on turning to God, he has used that weapon quite efficiently. I’ve been choosing isolation over fellowship, allowing myself to be drawn into hiding instead of shining light into the oppressive darkness.
The last few days, I’ve started to gain some long-awaited insight, and today I stood up and sang with my beloved choir family, once again. Today, I have felt that peace that can only come from the love of Christ through the gift of the Holy Spirit. Today, I felt the love and connection with our church family, and as I felt it, I was struck hard by just how much I’d closed myself off. God has blessed my life beyond measure, and just as the Israelites had to fight to take possession of the promised land, I am willing to fight for the blessings God has given me. He never makes mistakes, and I know whatever we must endure will be used for our growth and the strengthening of our spiritual welfare.
We cannot hide from what is hard. When we do, we are choosing to remain stuck. When we hide, we are giving the enemy power. Life in this world will always come with hardship and pain, but when we choose to live a surrendered life and accept the invitation Christ has extended to each and every one of us, we will be given everything we need to get through whatever comes our way. Every time we choose love, we rob the adversary of his hold on us. Every time we turn to God, and accept the blessings he brings to our lives, Satan’s grip is loosened. Every time we consider that we may not know what is best, and choose, instead, to rely on the help and guidance God provides, our relationship with Him grows stronger.
“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right–the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.” Matthew 6:33 AMP
Love the Hand of God 