Even If
Hi friends! How was your week? This Saturday there was a conference at my church that I attended. If you know me at all you know that hanging out with a bunch of women and teens is my jam. It’s one of the areas I thrive and love participating in. Observing so many women, from all walks of life, statistically going or having gone through some pretty hard things all in the same room hungry to grow and learn. Words cannot express my heart song.
The underlying tone of the conference was “Even IF.” The concept that God, with a capital “G” will sustain us. Even if he doesn’t take away our sickness, he will sustain us. Even if he doesn’t heal a loved one, he will sustain us. Even if we are going through hard times, he has and always will sustain us. God does not promise us an easy road once we become a Christian. In fact, it’s the opposite. He warns us that we will have trials but that through those he will sustain us and shape us. Beloved, don’t you see. We are not defined by our past or present but rather these things mold us to be more effective in reaching others in the future.
One of my biggest challenges this year has been hurry. I struggle with slowing down. My husband asked me the other day what the opposite of hurry is and I’m ashamed to admit I said “lazy,” LOL. But I was serious. As our conversation continued, I realized this was more of a learned behavior rather than a truth. The truth is God rested. He would take time away after serving, preaching and laboring to rest and abide with the Father. Our ability to rest has to be planned. Our world today pushes productivity, be more, do more, with a don’t stop until you drop, mentality. It is almost considered a sign of weakness to admit you need rest.
However, as a Christ follower. If we look at Colossians 1:16-17 “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. Beloved, ALL things. That includes you and me! If we believe that Jesus is before all things, then we can let go of all the things. We no longer have to worry or be constantly in a hurry or in control. Sisters, we are free to be who we are called to be in Jesus. Let’s start looking at the life of Jesus as a biography of what we strive to be rather than reading the bible as feel good story. What revival could happen if we look within.
I want you to ask yourself this week, where are you on your faith journey? Are you playing it safe, living in your circle of friends, keeping to yourself because you don’t want to cause anyone to feel uncomfortable. Or are you living out what God has called you to, relying on Him to be your anchor.
Dear Lord, create an unrest in our souls. Father, we trust you. Help us to pursue others with a fierceness that undeniably radiates your truth and love. Be with us this week and open our eyes to the opportunities you have for us. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.