I'm a long way from perfect. In fact, I am totally flawed. I make mistakes, I would say probably daily. I over analyze everything. I talk a lot, (too much most of the time). I want it a certain way. What? Whatever. Everything. I'm critical (of myself mostly). I'm opinionated. I'm controlling. I don't always do the right thing (sometimes, intentionally). Knowing these things about me and wanting to be a better person compels me to fall to my knees daily to ask for the help that only God can give.
I'm a planner. Taking things one day at a time scares me. It always has. I read somewhere a long time ago to write the plan, but give God the eraser. I think I said that right. I have seen, especially here recently, where it was my plan to do something a certain way but because I'm practicing surrendering and submitting to the will of God, He comes right on in and makes it more than I could have ever thought possible. "Exceeding abundantly above all that we could ask or think". This is what He does. He just needs us to move; to do something. He will bless the work of your hands. "In all labor there is profit". You don't have to know how it's going to work, you just have to work!
It's not faith if you can see it or touch it. Faith is calling those things that be not as though they are and waiting with expectation on the manifestation of it. Everyone has moments when their faith is shaken. Faith comes from having that personal relationship with God. The reason it's easier to have faith in people or things is because we have developed and established some type of relationship with them. We've had experiences that we've grown to trust, and know what to expect from them. If this is possible with people and things that are conditional, imagine what our experiences would be like with the only One who loves, gives, and blesses unconditionally. Someone Who is not a respector of person, but a respector of faith!
I never thought about fear in this way before seeing this quote! Total truth. Totally something to check yourself with. I would venture to say, the reason I don't try more things than I do is because of fear. Fear of rejection. Fear of failure. Fear of being criticized. Fear of being successful. Yeah, that last one sounded kinda crazy, huh? If you don't know what I'm talking about, then you would be shocked to learn the number of people who limit themselves because they are afraid of what success will bring. You're reading the words of one of such person right now. As I said in the very beginning, I am totally flawed, but I'm getting better.
I have to repeat this to myself when I am faced with challenges that push me to the edge. Usually it's in the area of dealing with others. Specifically those who are just not "good" people with less that admirable intentions. Wolves in sheeps clothing. It is always my desire to not let my behavior be determinded by the actions of others. Do the right thing because it is the right thing. Behave as if the world is watching. I repeatedly say this to myself. I would like to say I'm always successful with this. It would be a lie. I do try and will keep trying!
When my heart is heavy and my mind is confused, I meditate on scriptures that pull me through. When that's not enough and there are quite a few times when its not, I have my prayer partners that I call on that have been annointed to say just what I need to hear to set me back on the path. Let me say this, just because people say they will pray for you, doesn't mean they will. There are three women I believe God has given charge over helping to keep my spirit filled with His word. Seek out those who will lift you up and edify you. Those who will correct you and love you knowing that you are God's perfect work.
The only way to trust in God is to have a relationship with Him. The only way to have a relationship with Him is to study His word. I'm sorry if you thought I had some magic thought on how to trust in God. It's not something that comes easily and without it's challenges. You have to spend time with Him. No time = no trust!
I enjoy my prayer time with God. It's nothing earth shattering and profound. It's just a time when I talk to him in much the same way as I do my dad. A conversation where I say all things that are on my heart and then get quiet so that I am able to hear from him. Sometimes, I don't hear anything! But let me tell you, during the course of my day, I know that He heard me because something that I prayed earlier is revealed to me! It's the most incredible experience ever!
It may not be where you want to be, but there are no mistakes where God is concerned. He will turn something that was meant for bad to good. The key is to believe and rest in knowing that He is who He is and He has it all worked out. He just needs you to stay the course, be faithful, stay prayerful, and know that He is God.
My faith and belief in God is not something I do when I'm in trouble, depressed, or confused. It is a way of life for me. It is my life. No, I don't walk around quoting scriptures to everyone that I meet and you won't find me carrying a Bible when I go shopping or about my daily routine. However, spend some time with me and you'll see the glory of God radiating through my smile, my personality, and who I am as a person. When you walk in the favor of God, people may not recognize it as His Glory that shines in your life, but what they will recognize is that you're not like everyone else and there is something about you that draws people to you. I'm not thinking more of myself than I am. I'm just owning all that God has blessed me with so that I can be a blessing to others.
Make it AMAZING!
Rhonda
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